The Daily Vanguard

The Best Things to do in the Turks and Caicos Islands

Located in the Atlantic Ocean, the Turks and Caicos Islands are an archipelago that’s simply beautiful, and the ideal destination if you want to vacation somewhere exotic. Once you’ve sorted out your Turks and Caicos vacation rentals you can start to plan what you’re going to do on your time away, and get ready to have a great time somewhere really special.

Let’s take a look at some of the best things to do in the Turks and Caicos Islands:

Visit Grace Bay

With its white sandy beaches and blue waters, Grace Bay is perhaps one of the most beautiful beaches on earth. If you really want to feel like you’re somewhere quite exotic, this is the place to be. Lounge in the sunshine as you listen to the waves crash against the shore, and watch speed boats cross the ocean as you feel the sand between your toes. Surrounded by palm trees and with villas and hotels just a stone’s throw away, this Grace Bay is nothing short of paradise.

Don’t forget to take your sunscreen with you, along with plenty of fluids, and appropriate footwear.

Rent a Yacht for Half a Day

You simply cannot visit this part of the world without spending some time on the water. There are many opportunities for visitors to this incredible part of the world to get on board a yacht and enjoy a private luxury cruise. Take your family and friends with you, and take a trip to Little Water Cay also known as ‘Iguana Island’ and see the stunning wildlife for yourself. Now take a snorkel and goggles, and enjoy time in the water watching the inhabitants of the deep go about their day.

Time for lunch? Dine on board the yacht, and tuck into the meal that is provided for you, making your time aboard even more special. Don’t forget that you’ll also have the chance to sunbathe on a deserted island, and enjoy feeling many miles away from the rest of civilisation as you feel the sun’s rays beat down on you. Bliss.

Please note: you may need to book your mini-excursion in advance as they tend to become very popular during the summer months.

Take in a Spot of Art

Why not make your way to the Paradise Arts Gallery, located at Grace Bay Road, Providenciales, and view the many textured paintings, jewellery and pieces of pottery that can be bought, or simply enjoyed while you’re there. If you want to take a few souvenirs home with you, this is the place to come to. Showcasing the work of local artists and only selling handmade pieces, if you’re a lover of art, why not take a trip to the Gallery, and support local artists.

Visit Caicos Conch Farm

The only commercial Conch farm on earth, and situated on a 10-acre plot of land, the farm breeds Conch, a staple part of the local diet for at least 1,000 years. Learn about the Conch’s life cycle, compare large and small conch’s and understand how the farm is working hard to bring the local conch population back to a more sustainable level. If you’re a fan of wildlife and you simply want to take a break from sunbathing for a short while a trip to the Caicos Conch farm that’s located in Providenciales.

Enjoy a Spot of Horseback Riding

If you love horses or you would love to take a tour that’s just a little bit different, you may want to consider a spot of horseback riding. There are many different tours available, and most of the tours involve riding along the sand, in the sea, and under the shade so the horses can rest and grab a bite to eat. The sunset rides are particularly lovely, taking you on a ride along the beach as the sun goes down, what more could you want? You may have to book your ride in advance as they do tend to get quite busy at certain times of the year, so make sure you book a place for everyone so no-one is disappointed.

Take Time out at Cottage Pond

If you want to step away from the beach and visit somewhere really special, you may want to think about heading to Cottage Pond. Found in North Caicos, and down a gentle gravel path, the pond is a peaceful retreat from the busy beach, hotels, and apartments. Although the water here is clean and it is safe to swim, you should avoid doing so unless you’re a good swimmer. Spend a few minutes by the water’s edge, and listen to and watch the lesser grebes (A species of duck) go about their day. A pleasant trip if you want a few moments to meditate and spend time away from the rest of the world.

Marvel at the Conch Bar Caves

If you love nothing more than to visit geological formations, or you want to make the most of your time here, take some time out to visit the Conch Bar Caves. With appropriate footwear and sufficient clothing to keep you warm as you make your way through the chilly caves, you will have the chance to see bat colonies, and learn all about the history of the cave, and why it is protected.  With flora and fauna that you’re unlikely to see outside the cave and home to both isopods and crustaceans, you can get a real glimpse of what life was like for the cave dwellers who called this place their home dating back to pre-Columbian times.

The Turks and Caicos Islands are ideal if you’re looking to stay somewhere very special. Spend some time at Grace Bay, ride horseback, take some time out at Cottage Pond, and make your way into a cave that is set to astound you. Enjoy your time in this wonderful part of the world that offers you the chance to have a vacation you will never forget.