Looking for heaven-on-earth? Welcome to the islands of Turks & Caicos. Home to “the best beaches in the world" and some of the best diving bar none; these little islands-in-the-sun boast the highest returning visitor ratio of any other Caribbean destination (an impressive 65%) and it is so easy to see why.
The Turks and Caicos consists of 40 different islands and cays. Only 8 of which are inhabited, and these islands are as diverse as its people. From the main tourist centre of Providenciales (or Provo), and the quiet and tranquil islands of North and Middle Caicos, to the historic capital island of Grand Turk; each one offers a different experience and a unique character but all offer year round great climate, superb beaches and legendary underwater activities.
With the third largest living coral reef system in the world, the class of scuba diving and snorkeling here is second-to-none. But this destination isn't just about what lies beneath; the beaches here receive just as much acclaim as its underwater wonders, with the sands along Grace Bay being the crowning jewel in this destination's already star-studded cap.
You can arrange for a private charter to a remote location and make a fun day out of it. Try a sexy private swimsuit modelling session or a fun family portrait and capture a memory.
Customize your chartered boating adventure just for you and your group. You can choose to fish, tube, snorkel or simply swim and take in the sun. You can have your yacht or boat party catered; with live music to set just the right ambience. Anything you desire is available upon request.
Providenciales is the place to go for larger event venues. Perfect for holding exclusive functions such as reunions or conferences. If you're planning an intimate celebration such as a wedding or an idyllic beachfront ceremony, you couldn't find a more breathtaking locale.
Its international inspired approach to cuisine makes for one of the best dining experiences in the Caribbean. Seafood specialties include grilled lobster, conch prepared in a variety of ways and soft-shelled crab. A few island grown tropical treats include fresh sapodillas and sugar apples.
The traditional island music echoes throughout the islands and residents are welcoming hosts that have a lust for life that you'll find infectious.
For superior dining options, Providenciales is where the majority of choice restaurants and nightlife can be found. Sample the islands delectable Caicos cuisine which features strong Caribbean influences and spicy twists on traditional Italian and Japanese fare. When on the go, there's nothing better than a Caicos beach shack serving up fresh grilled seafood specialities and curried goat appetizers.
Casual beachside taverns and live music tend to take centre stage on Providenciales, as well as throughout the smaller islands. And if you're feeling lucky, there are several small casinos in the area as well.
Surrounded by the world's third largest coral reef system, the Turks and Caicos Islands are known for their extraordinary diving and snorkeling. For snorkelers, Smith's Reef and Bight Reef (both located on Provo) are home to long stretches of coral reefs known as snorkeling trails, that lie just beneath the surface and are easily accessed from the beach. For divers, the options seem endless, with more sites than you could possibly explore in one vacation.
You will want to check “dive" off your bucket list, near Grace Bay. Rather than swimming around coral reef, you hang out in the deep vastness of the ocean with absolutely no point of reference. Safely attached to the boat but drifting in the middle of the ocean, waiting to see what just may swim by. Equal parts unnerving and amazing; this is unlike anything you've experienced before.
The islands also offer many terrific land-based activities to explore the rugged terrain horseback-riding on the beach and dune-buggy races. On the right night (this only occurs a few nights after the full moon of each month), head over to the shallow waters of the Caicos Bank and watch as thousands of glow worms light up the waters in an amazing display of bioluminescence.
The Islands are undoubtedly renowned for their remarkable powdery white beaches and pristine, calm, warm and crystal clear, azure waters. Legendary scuba diving and snorkeling can be had throughout Grand Turk, Provo and the other islands and cays that make up Turks and Caicos.