Turquoise Waters in the Turks and Caicos Offer Romance and Privacy

Shores fringed with miles of pristine, turquoise waters. Soft, white sand beaches that stretch for miles. And turquoise clouds. How can that be? The breathtaking aqua water color is reflected ...mirrored...on the bottoms of the clouds. Yet another affirmation as to why the Turks & Caicos Islands are one of my favorite beach destinations.

Nestled between Miami and Puerto Rico, the Turks and Caicos Islands have often been called "the forgotten islands". But not easily forgotten are the miles of uncrowded white sand beaches, abundant reefs, excellent diving wrecks and some of the oldest coral communities known to man. Over thirty islands make up the Turks & Caicos, with only about eight of them inhabited.

Providenciales is a British territory, known by many as just "Provo" and has become one of the premier diving spots in the world. Hotel accommodations in Provo are secondary to the incredible scenery, water and beaches. After years of being somewhat unknown, Provo has grown and offers a wide variety of places to stay. Couples will relish Club Med, The Palms, and the two Ocean Clubs nestled on a picturesque, crescent beach of Grace Bay. Most of the hotels share Provo's signature stamp of powder white beaches that stretch for miles against striking aquamarine-colored waters.

Provo is a destination wonderful for all ages, due to its mild climate, safe and friendly accommodations, and calm, beautiful waters. But the adventures and sights beyond the hotel made will make you want to come back for more.

After settling into your hotel, head to Scooter Bob's Jeep rental located at the Turtle Cove Inn. Trekking to remote beaches on rough-terrain roads is a bit adventurous but will offer you the most magnificent sites of Provo. Some snorkel gear and local directions to the most scenic and remote spots on the island and youﾒre on your way to two of my favorite places in the world:

Chalk Sound
A glimpse of Chalk Sound on your flight to Provo looks like a turquoise mass of water dotted with tiny islands. The three-mile bay looks mystically tranquil...not a ripple and not a wave. This shallow blanket of azure water is at the most 20 feet deep, and studded with perhaps a hundred tiny islets, some the size of a house and some only the size of a beach towel. The bottom of the Sound is completely visible through the clear water and is an unblemished white. The vast lagoon is surrounded by majestic cliffside villas that overlook the calm water.

Not the easiest place to find but this is a definite must-see if you are staying in Provo. There are no waves in the calm water and the white coralline sand feels like velvet under your feet. Even wading out about 100 yards the water still only laps at your waist. Homes with moored sailboats surround the protected cove and a romantic walk to the east will take you to Sapodilla Hill where old carvings of sailors' names still exist from the days they were shipwrecked.

Northwest Point
What many call Malcolm's Road Beach, this route takes you high on hills overlooking the ocean. Although partly paved, the rocky road dips and turns more than it should. Large broken boulders block your way as you drive between scrub brush and cacti to get around the rocky obstacles. But when the ocean comes into view and the turquoise clouds map out the line of the beach, you have arrived. The breathtaking seascape is below and it is a worthwhile reward. Down a small hill of rolling sand dunes lies a stunning beach with crystal clear water that is remarkable for snorkeling and is abundant with white rock coral and small, colorful fish. The beach and view are wondrous, and you can feel like you are on the edge of the world.

These islands aren't as much of a secret anymore. More hotels are building - but despite the new hotels and increasing popularity, the magnetic blue waters and uncrowded beaches still remain. The captivating privacy and romance of these beaches are perfect for honeymooners. And youﾒll want to come back to gaze again at the turquoise clouds, and the incredible waters that give them their hue. I don't believe there is anywhere like it in the world.

Explore your dreams...
Christine