A Dreamy Vacation in the Turks and Caicos

A trip to Turks and Caicos simply isn’t complete if it doesn’t include a stop at the iconic and famous 12-mile stretch of Grace Bay Beach. Whether you’re looking forward to simply enjoying the clear waters and pristine shoreline of the beach or exploring the rich aquatic life that thrives below the ocean’s surface, Grace Bay will definitely not disappoint. Visit Chalk Sound to the south or head west to visit Malcom’s Beach after you visit Grace Bay. Truly, there’s so much to enjoy in just this stretch of paradise in Turks and Caicos’ Providenciales. Need another reason to visit? Providenciales, or Provo for short, was awarded the title of Best Beach by both the World Travel Awards and Conde Nast several years in a row.

Did you know that one of the most popular attractions to visit in Turks and Caicos was actually originally built in the UK? The Grand Turk Lighthouse was constructed in 1852 and later moved in pieces to its final home at the northern tip of the Grand Turk. It stands tall as a historic site that is revered and beloved by all locals as well as protected by the National Trust. Enjoy an afternoon picnicking under the lighthouse’s shade or sitting atop the lighthouse’s hill to view the whales off the coast in February and March. The lighthouse is also the perfect spot to take in the gorgeous body of water that is the North Creek, which many historians claim to be part of the first island that Columbus encountered in 1492.

Lighthouse Road, Cockburn Town TKCA 1ZZ, Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos

Situated in the serene Princess Alexandra National Park, Leeward Beach is an absolute gem and paradise, especially for those who enjoy long tranquil walks along the beach. In fact, you can start your walk at Leeward Beach and then cross over into Grace Bay Beach, Bight Beach, Smith’s Reef Beach and, finally, Turtle Cove. The entire walk is 7 miles of indescribable beauty. Apart from the fantastic strolling opportunities, Leeward Beach is also a great place to enjoy a dip in the ocean and even snorkeling, provided the ocean’s conditions are not too rough. If you’re up for some physical yet leisurely activity, paddleboats and kayaks are also available.

Explore a serene area of coastal coppice woodland at Bird Rock Point Heritage Field Road. Bordered by a residential community, the coppice is roughly 111 acres large with a conch farm and the Caicos Banks within the immediate vicinity. There is a simple 1.3-mile-long trail that leads to a spectacular area just opposite Bird Rock and allows visitors to really appreciate the last remaining underdeveloped portions of the Providenciales’ east end. Explore the mangrove habitats, walk along the sandy coves, or enjoy the sea grass beds just a few feet away from the shore. Trust us, if you’re a nature lover, this spot simply must not be missed.

Want to explore the best-preserved plantation-era ruins of Providenciales? Cheshire Hall is exactly where to find this, and as the most important cultural heritage site in Turks and Caicos, it’s definitely a must-visit location. The Cheshire Hall Plantation was founded in the 1700s by Thomas Stubbs and was, at its largest, 5,000 acres in size. Hundreds of slaves were employed at the plantation in buildings that were constructed out of local limestone. Apart from the history, visitors can also take in all the great nature that the site has to offer thanks to a thriving and biodiverse ecosystem.

Phone: 649-941-5710

There’s nothing quite as awe-inspiring and humbling as walking through the largest cave system in Turks and Caicos. Located in the middle of a thriving ecosystem, the Conch Bar Caves National Park has over 2.4 kilometers of underground caverns and safeguards one of the Caribbean’s largest cave systems. Make sure to explore the chambers found in this heritage site, some of which feature beautiful tidal lagoons and peaceful colonies of bats. The cave is also home to impressive stalagmites and gorgeous stalactites in addition to other mesmerizing features. Something unexpected about the park is that it’s actually home to some rare plant and animal populations, while the caves themselves are home to plant and animal species that are unique to caves, including some isopods and crustaceans.

Airport Road, Conch Bar, Middle Caicos, Turks and Caicos, Phone: 649-941-5710

Fondly referred to as Iguana Island, the Little Water Cay Nature Reserve is found on a gorgeous little island and is the easiest place in the world to visit to see the curious rock iguana. Endemic to Turks and Caicos, the rock iguanas thrive at the Little Water Cay’s 116.2 acres of wildlife habitat, where the scientific and local community hope to reverse their status as an endangered species. Not only is Little Water Cay great for animal lovers, nature lovers can also soak up the several habitats that are found in the area, such as the buttonwood and mangrove communities, tidal flats, coastal scrubs, and more.

Little Water Cay, Turks and Caicos Islands, Phone: 649-941-5710

Interesting, educational, and worth a visit, the National Environment Center of Provo is right across the Children’s Park Bight Beach and features exhibits of natural and cultural interest to the islands. The main draw of the center is a scale elevation model of the unique underwater plateau that serves as the support of the nation’s islands. Although it’s a relatively small center, there are still great and informational tours to enjoy at the National Environment Center, which are led by knowledgeable members of staff. Additionally, since it’s located just a short drive from Bight and Smith’s Reefs, it’s a great place to make a quick stop if you’ve got the time to spare.

Lower Bight Road, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands, Phone: 649-941-5122

Navigate and explore the best that Provo has to offer on the back of gorgeous ponies with Provo Ponies. Trot down the beachfront on your own or navigate the entire stretch of the shore with a group of friends. No matter what you decide to do, make sure you bring your camera or smartphone (or both!) with you to capture every beautiful moment you’re bound to experience. The best part about riding with Provo Ponies is cantering through the water. These ponies absolutely love frolicking through the ocean, so you can look forward to having a great time splashing around in the water with them.

32 Dolphin Lane, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands, Phone: 649-241-6350