Just south of the Bahamas, less than two hours by plane from Miami, the best beaches in the western hemisphere lie largely undiscovered. Beaches in Turks and Caicos features sands like fine, white sugar lapped by brilliant blue water and frequented by surprisingly few vacationers. The famous Grace Bay Beach is a twelve mile arc of sparkling sand at the eastern extreme of the north shore of the island of Providenciales, or “Provo.” The area immediately behind the beach is lined with resort hotels, but all beaches in Turks and Caicos are open to the public.
Underwater Scenery at Turks and Caicos
Grace Bay is a prime snorkeling venue. The Turks and Caicos Islands are home to the world's third largest barrier reef, and reefs are close enough to shore to be reached from the beach. All a swimmer really needs to enjoy the underwater scenery is a mask and snorkel. Smith's Reef, Bight's Reef, and Coral Gardens all provide first class snorkeling, but if beach snorkeling only whets your appetite, then boat snorkeling operators can make more distant areas easily accessible. For more experienced divers, scuba diving reveals an entirely different view of Grace Bay's underwater landscape.
A truly romantic beach activity available on Provo is horseback riding on four-mile long Long Bay Beach. Canter along the white sand or actually ride into the surf on docile horses familiar with the beach environment. Riders of all levels from rank beginners to highly experienced will find something to enjoy in the experience. Morning or afternoon beach rides can be booked for one hour or ninety minute durations.
Watersports on Grace Bay include everything from exploring with a motorboat to windsurfing. In between activities like kayaking and paddleboarding, you should take advantage of the calm blue waters. An afternoon of sailing and enjoyment of the wind and water will give you a deeper understanding of the environment of early settlers, or at least provide a relaxing jaunt with friends. The truly adventurous may wish to try parasailing above the bay for a memorable view of the reefs, the bay, and the beach.
Of course many visitors will choose to simply relax on the flat expanse of sun-drenched beach or take a swim in the warm tropical water. Turks and Caicos beaches are perfect for these activities as well. In fact travel publishers like Fodor's and magazines like Condé Nast have recognized the excellence of Grace Bay Beach. It was named the World's Best Beach in a British Sunday Times readers' poll and was #2 among MSNBC.com's top ten beaches. For the waterfront vacation of your dreams, try the glorious beaches in Turks and Caicos.
