The Turks & Caicos Islands feature crystal clear turquoise seas, white sand beaches, and unspoiled Caribbean tranquility.
Located 575 miles southeast of Miami, the Turks & Caicos Islands constitute a small archipelago of eight major islands and numerous cays. The islands are relatively flat, covering 193 square miles, and only eight are inhabited. On the north side, facing the Atlantic Ocean, a long barrier reef protects the islands while providing superlative scuba diving and other water activities.
Turks & Caicos has long maintained a relationship with the British Crown; it became a British Commonwealth Colony in 1962. The country is now officially termed an ‘Independent Overseas Territory.
The highlight of the island is beautiful 12-mile Grace Bay Beach, which is dotted by hotels, upscale vacation homes, and upscale condominiums.
In contrast to some better-known Caribbean islands, the Turks & Caicos benefit from a pleasant low-humidity climate and off-shore winds. Providenciales is especially temperate and comfortably dry year-round. Temperatures average in the mid-70s in winter and mid-80s in summer.
Providenciales lies just within the Atlantic Ocean beside the Caribbean Sea, overshadowed for years by its celebrated neighbors. This has resulted, fortuitously, in a refreshingly untainted coast and hinterland. The Turks & Caicos Islands appeal to vacationers looking for a secluded and serene Caribbean destination, as well as sports fishermen and divers who appreciate the crystal-clear waters, spectacular reefs, and rich sea life. The absence of a cruise port on Providenciales and the island’s low-key nightlife preserve its exclusivity.
Travelers to Turks & Caicos can enjoy a full range of water sports and aqua leisure activities in one of the Caribbean's most naturally beautiful settings, where the turquoise water is always warm and inviting. Although Providenciales is the most developed of the islands, it is still a destination for those who want to escape their busy schedules and relax.
On the north shore of the island, near Grace Bay, you will find the most beautiful beaches, as well as a long coral reef rich in aquatic life. This main stretch is home to Grace Bay Club, one of Turks and Caicos luxury hotels in the Island. On the far western end is unspoiled Malcom's Beach, just adjacent to the magnificent Amanyara Resort.
Thirty-five minutes away by a speedboat ride though Parrot Cay in the Turks & Caicos is the northern Caribbean's pre-eminent private island. This 1000-acre island now hosts the ultra-luxurious and very private vacation hideaway Parrot Cay Resort and Spa, called by some the world's most exclusive resort. Movie stars enjoy its solitude and anonymity.