The most popular and the best developedof the Turks and Caicos Islands is westerly Providenciales. Around threequarters of the island chain’s total population resides here. Plus, thanks to aconstruction streak in the 1980s, most of the resorts and hotels are locatedhere as well. Enjoy the well-developed resort towns before heading off to seethe island’s natural wonders: its massive north shore coral reef and its ruggednational park.
The entirety of Providenciales’ northcoast is taken up by a nearly uninterrupted stretch of beach. A 19.3-kilometre(12-mile) portion of this comprises GraceBay Beach. Rent a snorkel and explore the nearby coral reef, which linesthe entirety of the beach. The blue-green water around the island stays fairlyshallow for nearly a mile (1.6 kilometres) offshore, so there is plenty of reefto discover. After your time out at the beach, head to Turtle Cove in the centre of the north shore, where popularrestaurants crowd around a bustling marina.
While much of Providenciales isdeveloped, the national parks at the eastern and western ends show off theisland’s wild terrain outside of human influence. Princess Alexandra National Park encompasses the marine landscapeto Providenciales’ northeast, including a group of three small, uninhabitedislands where iguanas roam. After visiting, head to the northern extreme of theisland to find Northwest Point NationalPark, which is comprised mostly of dense rainforest. Trek through the forestto see a rocky shoreline and a wetland region that commonly hosts tropical birdspecies like the flamingo.
Have at least one seafood meal duringyour stay on the island to taste the bounty of the surrounding waters. Snapperand tuna are popular regional fish.
Take a 1.5-hour-flight from Miami to reach the ProvidencialesInternational Airport at the heart of the island. Once in Providenciales, renta car, since public transportation is non-existent on the island, and yet it istoo large to get around on foot.
