What To Do in the Turks and Caicos Islands
Where When How Turks & Caicos Islands March / April 2011
In the Air, on Land & by Sea!
The big attraction here in the Turks and Caicos is our crystal–clear and shockingly turquoise sea, coupled with our powder–soft white sandy beaches. The quality of our sand is actually a large factor in the clarity and colour of our water; because the sand is so white, and our inshore waters are so shallow, the sun reflects off the bottom helping to light the sea from beneath.
The year–round comfortable temperatures of both air and sea make the Turks and Caicos Islands an ideal beach and water sport destination. We are also in the enviable position of having a North Shore and South Shore that seldom are impacted by the same sea and weather conditions. If it is too rough on the North side for dive or excursion operators, the South side is nearly always an option, and vice versa. Although it does happen from time to time, only on very rare occasions will your excursion or dive trip be cancelled due to weather.
Jet Skiing on a Sea-Doo — Photo provided by Sun + Fun Seasports
We are a family destination, and most of our excursions are kid friendly. If you are unsure whether you can bring children or grandparents, don’t hesitate to ask the tour operator. If they feel any member of your party will not be able to enjoy the day’s activities they will definitely be able to recommend an alternative.
Sailing is a great way to enjoy the water, see the coastline, and maybe even check out some of the deserted cays. Who can say they’ve had lunch on an uninhabited desert island? I can! And after this vacation you can, too if you want to! Half day, full day, sunset, dinner cruises, Sunday brunch, “glow worms” and private charters are available aboard a variety of boats, with a host of itineraries to choose from. Many resorts also offer Hobie Cats, a nice option if you are keen to sail around Grace Bay on your own.
Pontoon Boats and Pedal–Boats are also available for rental and are quiet ways to explore Chalk Sound and its many tiny ‘islets’. The Sound attracts turtles and juvenile sharks that can be seen more easily from a quiet craft.
Power Boating or Jet–Skiing are more great ways to explore! The waters surrounding our islands are shallow, reefy and sprinkled with coral heads. For this reason powerboats are generally chartered with an experienced captain who is familiar with our underwater geography. Excursions will take you to neighbouring cays to photograph iguanas, beachcomb, snorkel, beach bbq, and explore. If you are an experienced and confident Captain, it may be possible to rent a small boat to play Columbus on your own. In most cases, when you are chartering any type of watercraft, you will be able to personalize the cruise to your own desires. That usually applies to your meals, as well, which can be catered to your specifications.
Fishing aboard Gwendolyn — Photo provided by Grand Slam Fishing Charters
Fishing is very popular in the Turks and Caicos Islands and we have a variety of fishing options. Bottom, bone and blue water fishing are all available from various fishing charter and guide services. Most of the tour operators will organize a fishing license for you, but you can get a license from the office at Turtle Cove Marina.
There are three types of fishing you will commonly see in the Turks & Caicos Islands. Bottom & Reef Fishing are the easiest variations and most likely to produce plenty of bites and a large catch – especially fun for children. Bonefishing is an exciting sport that can be done by spin casting or with fly rod. This fish is said to be far feistier in the smaller version and feels like a monster on the end of your line! Blue Water Fishing in the Turks and Caicos is said by many to be the finest in the Caribbean. The Atlantic’s premiere big game trophy fish – the Blue Marlin – is plentiful all year, but caught in record numbers during the summer season.
And hey, sometimes Shopping is a sport! Here in the Turks and Caicos, it’s tax–free and phenomenal! High–end jewellery, on–trend fashion, resort wear, beachwear, surf wear, games, toys, books, and every souvenir imaginable can be found on Providenciales. Additionally, many of the resorts have great shops and boutiques, some are high end and others quite reasonable, it pays to visit the resorts to see what their shops carry.
You’ll find the highest concentration of shops and galleries in the Grace Bay area at The Regent Village and The Saltmills and Ports of Call. Check out our shopping section for more information on what to look for and where.
For the genuine Adrenaline Junkie, there are many options to choose from while visiting the Turks and Caicos! Whether it’s high in the sky, skimming the surface of the water at high–speed, getting up close and personal with a shark or two... there’s a very good chance you will find the high you’re looking for!
Get a birds-eye-view of the Turks and Caicos with TCI Helicopter Tours
Seeing Providenciales, and some of the outer islands and cays while experiencing the excitement of a helicopter ride is something you will never forget! TCI Helicopters offers a variety of tours depending on what you want to see, how long you want to ride and what your budget is.
Parasailing is another way to check out Grace Bay from above. Rides usually last about 15 minutes and you can fly up to 450 feet! Experienced and safety conscious crews can be seen on Grace Bay every day. In particular, look for Sky Pilot’s orange and black parachute and flag them down from the beach, or call them to book in advance and they’ll pick you up in front of your resort.
Kiteboarding is an adrenaline packed sport that finds an ideal training location in the TCI. Our shallow, calm water combined with our nearly year–round tradewinds mean that kiteboarders can get out there nearly every day. If you have wanted to try this sport, there’s no better place to learn and if you’re a kiteboarder already, the Turks and Caicos is a destination of choice.
Like kiteboarding, Windsurfing has found a comfortable home here. You will often see windsurfers on Grace Bay making the most of the breeze and maybe plying the waves out near the reef.
Kayaking in the mangroves is a fantastic way to see the shoreline and witness the delicate eco–system at work. Baby sharks use the shallow waters as a nursery, as do turtles and a host of other marine life. Kayak rental outfits will provide instruction, equipment and even guides, if you’re interested.
Stand–up Paddleboarding is new to Providenciales and is a great way to get an in depth look into our clear water without disturbing the marine life therein. The calm waters here make this sport relatively easy in the Turks and Caicos, but it will provide a pretty decent core workout too.
Waterskiing here is among the best in the world. 7–10 mile runs are reported, and the water is glassy and great for learning as well. Operators will provide captains experienced in whatever sport you’re interested, and there are boats with coaches and booms for first timers or those wanting to upgrade skills. You might even want to learn to Barefoot Waterski while you’re here.
You can also try Wakeboarding, Wakeskating and Wakesurfing. All three of these sports are in the same realm but require different skills and techniques. If you have tried one, maybe it’s time to learn another?
Most boat tours include snorkelling, beachcombing and a stop at Iguana Island
There are a few Snorkelling spots you can hit right off the beach on your own. In front of Coral Gardens, you will find a large area of coral reef where it’s easy to spot rays, turtles and all manner of reef fish. There’s also Smiths Reef just off Turtle Cove. If you’re trying to snorkel in other locations, look for dark patches in the water or head for jetties and docks where you will be more likely to find something fun to look at. You can pick up guidebooks and identification cards at Unicorn Books or any of the dive shops.
In order to preserve our underwater world for others it is important to avoid killing any corals by touching or standing on them. If you are not a strong swimmer floatation devices can be used. Nothing may be removed from the marine parks and reserves and nothing should be left behind. Underwater cameras are a popular way to record your sightings. “Take only pictures, leave only bubbles.”
If you’re not quite ready for SCUBA yet, why not try SNUBA! It’s the next step from snorkelling and is fun for ages 8 and up. SNUBA stands for surface nexus underwater breathing apparatus, the air tank that you will be using stays at the surface while you get to explore the sea at a depth of 20 feet.
The waters of the Turks and Caicos Islands are world renowned for their clear visibility, comfortable temperatures, and the abundance of marine life, including the proliferation of large pelaegics such as dolphins, sharks and whales. This makes us a fabulous scuba diving destination. You can actually get started as a SCUBA diver with just a few hours to take a Discover SCUBA course or you can take a few days of your holiday and get certified as an Open Water Diver. If you’re interested in taking the certification course, it’s a great idea to sign up on the PADI website and do some of the course work online before you arrive on island. This will save you time and money.
The Turks and Caicos Islands are part of the Lucayan Archipelago. From our shallow inland waters, there occurs a dramatic change in depth from around 60 feet to an estimated 6000 to 7000 feet. The sudden drop provides fantastic opportunities for what is undeniably some of the planet’s best Wall Diving. The third largest barrier reef system in the world protects the north shore of Providenciales and it, along with many patch reefs, give divers and snorkellers many opportunities to view the myriad creatures who make their homes among the living reefs. Marine parks and nature reserves have been established to protect the reefs and walls and a mooring system is in place to protect the reef from anchoring damage at popular dive sites.
The Ocean Outback Adventure Cruise includes snorkelling, pirate cave tour and miles of isolated beaches to explore along the south side of Providenciales
If you love the fish but hate the water, not to worry! You’re in for a treat as Providenciales is home to the Undersea Explorer, a Semi–Submarine that will allow you to check out the reef and all the reef’s residents from a perfectly dry seat, in air–conditioned comfort. The added bonus of the semi–sub is that a guide is along to entertain you and to describe everything you’re seeing, as you’re seeing it.
Not every vacation activity has to be about furthering your education, but in paradise, even learning is fun! History, Science and Culture are important in the Turks and Caicos, and we are blessed with some of the most interesting opportunities for education you could expect from a holiday. We have pirate carvings and messages marked in stone from shipwrecked sailors, real live glowworms, historic loyalists plantations and forts, and endangered giant lizards – just to name a few things you and your kids will think are pretty cool. Excursions to experience all of these wonders are easily found within our pages, and we do recommend seeing the sights with a guide to make sure you don’t miss anything.
Eco–Tourism is increasing in popularity in our tiny nation. There are now a handful of companies offering eco–adventures in the Turks & Caicos Islands. You can book tours or plan private guided excursions that allow you to explore historic sites, remote landscapes, geological rarities and natural wonders. Birders will especially enjoy the chance to view species seldom seen elsewhere.
Aerial view of the Provo Golf Course
There are sports to be played on Providenciales! Consistently rated as one of the best golf courses in the Caribbean, our 18–hole Provo Golf Club course was designed by Karl Litten. The course is not an easy course to play, but according to the pro, it’s a fun one. The club record is a 65 shot by the club professional from Deepdale Golf Club in Manhasset, NY. An added bonus of playing a round at our golf club is the chance to see some of our native water birds in action on the course’s lakes.
Tennis is another great way to stay in shape while on island. The golf course, and many resorts, have tennis courts and usually provide racquets and balls. You can also rent gear from Island Sportique, located in The Regent Village.
How many kids dream of hopping on a horse and heading off on an adventure? Horseback Riding with Provo Ponies will put you on a well–behaved island pony who will carry you along quiet country roads, along canals and back bush trails in the picturesque Long Bay area until you find yourself on a stretch of deserted Long Bay Beach, which is three miles long and off the beaten track.
Ride along the beach with Provo Ponies
Cycling is gaining popularity and you can now rent touring bicycles and mountain bikes in the Grace Bay area. Many of the resorts also have loaner bikes for guests. The Grace Bay area is flat and easy to cycle on. It’s acceptable to ride on the wide paved sidewalks in the main tourist area, as long as you are mindful of pedestrians. Please be sure to pay close attention to traffic, we drive on the left here!
Team Sports are an important part of island culture, and we have several fun leagues as well as more serious teams who play within the Caribbean and beyond. Rugby, Football (Soccer) and Cricket are all popular sports to play and watch, and the Canadian contingent has made a concerted effort to keep Hockey alive, albeit on roller blades rather than skates. If you’re a die–hard sporting fan, or if you’ve never seen a Cricket or Rugby match, you might enjoy seeing a National event, should one coincide with your time on island.
Nightlife on Providenciales is abundant. If you’re a gourmand you will enjoy Dining at one of our World–Class Restaurants and sampling the Caribbean creations of our International stable of lauded Chefs. Many of the resorts and restaurants feature Live Music. Schedules tend to change regularly; check around when you reach the island to find out who is playing. Choices vary with performers in traditional island Rake & Scrape, acoustic, Rock n’ Roll, and smooth Jazz. Casablanca Casino is great fun if you’re a high–stakes poker pro or if you’ve never set foot in a casino before. Casino staff will point you in the right direction whatever your experience level. If you’ve never had an opportunity to try your hand at Blackjack or Craps this is a great place to learn. There are also Women’s Poker Nights where you can get a lesson and then play in a tournament. We now have Comedy nights, and several resorts and pubs feature live satellite feeds of major Sporting Events. We also have a very active Arts organization on Providenciales: The Turks & Caicos Friends of the Arts Foundation puts on several high quality shows annually. Check out their schedule to see if you can catch one the very popular locally produced Pantomimes or one of the professional touring shows brought in to entertain residents and visitors.
Try your hand at Craps or Blackjack — Photo provided by Casablanca Casino
As you can see, there are many things to do under the sun in the Turks and Caicos! Get out there, get busy but pace yourself and do what you can, if you miss something... there’s always another chance on your next visit!
ReTreat!
The Turks and Caicos Islands, in terms of tourism, were first discovered by SCUBA divers. And interestingly enough, the next wave of travellers to start making regular visit to the white sands of our little archipelago were superstars. Big names like Dick Clark, Donna Karan, Bruce Willis, Keith Richards, Christie Brinkley and more were drawn to this tiny nation and built homes here. Of course with them come the perks... like world class dining and... Spas.
If you’re not on the Golf Course or hanging from a parasail or doing one of the other fun and active things to do while on vacation... it’s perfectly acceptable, one might say necessary even, that you should partake of a spa day. You deserve it.
Here I will recommend my favourite treatments at some of our top spas, but don’t take it from me, try them out yourself!
The Regent Spa at The Regent Palms. On arrival at the Spa Shop, guests are greeted and escorted to the spa area. A plush, white, Kimono style robe and cushy white slippers will be waiting in the beautifully serene changing room that also functions as a perfect transition area from the world outside, to the one you are about to enter. When guests have slipped into something more comfortable, they are ushered through a door that opens, almost magically, onto a Secret Garden style paradise that one would never have guessed existed. It’s here, in the relaxation area, where clients are encouraged to unwind before a treatment. There is both sun and shade in perfect measure and you will be seated with a cool drink on a lounge chair in front of a reflecting pool reminiscent of the Taj Mahal. Adjacent lounge chairs can be obscured with flowing white curtains to protect privacy and so one can be alone with the symmetry of the garden; fountains gurgle, dragonflies frolic, and you can just be you. All too soon, your practitioner will arrive to lure you away to one of the very pretty, individual treatment rooms that flank the pool.
My interest in facial treatments has spiked over the past couple of years; the rapid onset of my forties is likely the culprit. Consequently, my new favourite treatment at The Regent Spa is the Red Carpet Facial. The treatment takes about 90 minutes and delivers immediate results, you will walk away with fresh, clear, vibrant looking skin and with a noticeable decrease in fine lines and imperfections.
Relax further with a Spa Treatment — Photo provided by Regent Palms Spa
Spa Tropique – Six Convenient Locations, or let them come to you! This independently owned spa began operating on Providenciales in 1998 and has grown and changed with the island. They now have an impressive array of in house created and packaged product using local ingredients such as Salt Cay salts. Spa Tropique has a multitude of way to meet the needs and desires of their spa clientele: a newly instated Bridal Registry allows honeymooning couples to add treatments from Spa Tropique to their wish list and a large well–trained staff allows the spa to cater to groups. You can organize a spa party for your wedding guests, bridal party, family reunion, or girl’s weekend.
There are a variety of fabulous treatments at Spa Tropique, my favourite is the Margarita Body Glow, which is a great way to freshen and invigorate skin after you’ve put it through some sun, sea and sand abuse. If you’re staying in a phenomenal condo or villa, you may not want to leave to enjoy your spa treatment, which is fine because Spa Tropique will come to you!
A villa on Chalk Sound was the stunning location for my experience. Overlooking those indescribably blue waters, on a stone terrace by the mosaic tiles of the swimming pool, our Massage Therapist set up her table, draped it with crisp linens and proceeded to deliver an unparalleled decadent treat. I think it’s safe to say that in these circumstances, in this place, the beauty and serenity of a spa are achievable just steps from your island living room. Meryl, the owner of Spa Tropique, is proud of her staff and their ability to bring a genuine spa experience to her clients. “Don’t worry about anything, we’ll take care of everything.”
Beauty & The Beach at Maxime Le Salon in Caicos Café Plaza. Another fantastic massage on island is available at Maxime Le Salon from the talented Mercy. Not massage for relaxation alone, Mercy is popular for her ability to help her clients recover from a variety of muscular complaints, whether residents or tourists. Mercy will also come to you for an additional charge, and it’s best to book as far in advance as possible.
Ann of Beauty & The Beach is an island legend. She provides fantastic skin care advice and service as well as a variety of aesthetic treatments, including waxing. Although I’ve yet to try it, she now offers eyelash perming, which is the next on my list of must–dos. The eyelash perm lasts around four to six weeks (the natural growth cycle for your eyelashes) and makes an amazing difference in the look of your eye without the need for those eyelash curling do–dads. Also, if your eyelashes are curled and looking full and lovely, you won’t need to worry about mascara melting while you’re enjoying the beach!
Ann, along with her colleague Geraldine at Maxime’s, provides bridal hair and make–up services. Geraldine is one of the island’s premier hairstylists and the two make a great team. Ann’s dedication to continued education in new products and trends mean that she has top of the line make–up that will stand up against our tough Caribbean sun.
Teona Spa at The Villa Renaissance & The Regent Grand, Regent Village. Teona Spa a lovely little day spa located adjacent to The Villa Renaissance. They offer a variety of aesthetic services and massages. Edmonde, the owner and also an aesthetician at Teona, is a genius at some of the more delicate depilatory needs of the average beach go–er.
Among the extensive Spa Menu at Teona that features massages from around the world, there’s a hidden little gem. If you’re looking for a quick and effective de–stressing treatment, I can recommend the De–Stress Back Massage, which takes 30 minutes and will absolutely change the trajectory of your day. The massage focuses on the shoulders, neck, face and head and it is a great way to slip from real world to holiday land if you’re having trouble making the leap to relaxation. If you’re not a fan of the traditional full–body style massage, this is also a great way to enjoy the spa.
Spa Sanay at Grace Bay Court. Spa Sanay is an independent day spa located near Ocean Club West, at Grace Bay Court. They offer a range of services covering all the traditional spa options such as massage, skin care, aromatherapy and reflexology. They also feature the most reasonable prices for manicure and pedicure on Grace Bay Beach! If, like me, you’re someone who likes to change your colours to match your flip–flops, this is value! In addition to full massage and aesthetic services, they also house a hair salon and are able to provide a variety of braids, twists and weaves if you would like to minimise the time you spend on your hair while on holiday. Spa Sanay also has a great menu of services for men and a great array of products for sale from hair care to nail colour.
Exhale Spa at The Gansevoort. Exhale is a branded spa with a glorious reputation. Famous in New York for their signature treatments as well as their innovative fitness classes, (Core Fusion Cardio was voted Best Workout in the Best of New York poll for 2010) Exhale has several locations across the United States and has taken the spa experience to a whole new level on Providenciales. Their Core Fusion fitness classes are a fabulous way to stay in fit on holiday or a great way to kick off a brand new fitness routine. But before you invigorate, it’s important to plan some relaxation and rejuvenation.
Exhale Spa is a high end spa with all the trimmings; clean crisp and modern you will appreciate the minimalist atmosphere as it allows you to discard unnecessary thoughts and focus on the task at hand which is to allow yourself to be pampered with not a shred of guilt! Their soon to be expanded Relaxation Garden is a nice place to relax before or after treatments and the environment lends to a feeling of focused peace.
There are many great treatments at Exhale, and I have managed to try a few, but their Fusion Massage is the massage I would recommend if you will only be having one treatment. This massage combines a variety of different massages from around the world to create the perfect massage. Accented with herbal and aromatherapy oils this massage can be geared to uplift, detox, or relax, depending on your own needs.
Care was taken to ensure correctness of information at press time. Information is subject to change without notice. Ad Vantage Ltd. accepts no responsibility for such alterations or for typographical errors or omissions. Entire contents of this page may not be reproduced in any manner without written permission of Ad Vantage Ltd. © March / April 2011 Where When How - Turks & Caicos Islands.
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