Turks and Caicos Islands: Where Turquoise Seas Entice With Watery Adventures

A tropical paradise of family fun and discovery, Turks & Caicos (TCI), is a British Territory located in the West Indies just south of the Bahamas and known for legendary diving, snorkelling, fishing, luxurious hotels and the “Best Beaches in the World”. TCI consists of seven main islands and 40 smaller uninhabited isles.

Discover the finest powdery sand beaches surrounded by one of the world’s largest coral reefs in the most ethereal turquoise seas – this is Turks and Caicos. There are so many beautiful beaches, such as Grace Beach, 12 miles of pale pristine sand or Pelican Point Beach (North Caicos) where you can find conch shells of every size.

Explore the Beaches

Long Bay is a quiet beach with calm, shallow waters – perfect for young children (they can even ride Provo Ponies on the beach).

Governor’s Beach has incredible picnic spots, and the beaches of Salt Cay have some of the best snorkelling in the Caribbean. But not just beautiful, these beaches are also peaceful and uncrowded – perfect for family picnics and relaxation. The vibrant colours of the thriving coral reef ecosystem are an azure dream with pristine dive sites and colourful marine life.

Salt Cay is a top spot for viewing migratory humpback whales or exploring the wreck of a British warship. Snorkel through an underwater gallery of 100 statues and wave at the kids checking out the watery world from a glass bottom boat.

Get out in the Water

With so much to do and see it may pay to book a guided tour or snorkelling trip for the kids.
Head out on a kayak tour with Jill Swann of Total Adventure Co.; glide through the mangroves along the Leeward Channel and Princess Alexandra Nature Reserve. At the reserve, you can view wildlife including birdlife, marine animals and the famous Turks and Caicos Rock Iguana. The kids will be amazed by the baby sharks in the shallow waters. If you’re lucky, you may spot a turtle or two.

Snorkel at your resort or take the family on an excursion. Island Vibes Tours can take you on half or full day snorkelling tour to uninhabited islands. All equipment is provided along with snacks, fresh conch ceviche and drinks. Guests are led to the best snorkelling areas, where you can spot some of the most colourful fish.

If you prefer, they’ll customise a charter just for you – a full day BBQ Adventure, private Sunset Tour, Catamaran Tour or Parasailing.

Where to Stay

Ocean Club Resort is an all-suite resort sitting directly on the fine white sands of Grace Bay Beach (Provo Golf Club is across the road). This award-winning resort has complimentary bicycles, windsurfing, stand-up paddleboards, kayaks and two freshwater pools, a Spa and impeccably maintained grounds. Accommodations vary from 1, 2 and 3-bedroom condo-style suites with modern amenities including TV, air conditioning, comfortable beds and full Kitchens equipped with everything you might need to prepare some of your own meals. Dining out in Turks and Caicos can quickly get expensive, so having a full kitchen at your disposal is a huge bonus for the family.

Ocean Club Resorts is comprised of two beachfront properties, Ocean Club and Ocean Club West, located one mile apart, offering a “Stay at one, Play at both” opportunity for guests to enjoy the combined services and amenities. A shuttle navigates between the resorts – optionally it’s a 10-minute walk along the beach.

Getting Around The Island:

– There’s no public transport in the Turks and Caicos.
– Be aware of the price when taking a cab; Taxis can get expensive because rates are based per person rather than per trip.
– Rent a car to get around and visit shops, best beaches, sights, and restaurants.
– Parking is free and generally available throughout TCI.

 

 

By Parmjit (Parm) Parmar
A recognized and well-published lifestyle writer based in Toronto, Parmjit (Parm) Parmar specializes in Travel and Food. Her articles can be found on the web, in print, and on her blog www.planetblueadventure.com/