The Caicos and the Cays

Very few visitors to the Turks and Caicos venture out from Provo, but when they do, they discover a whole other side to islands. Most of the outlying cays are uninhabited, yet offer much for the adventurous explorer. You can also find cays that were pirate hideaways in the 17th and 18th centuries, now with resorts that take up the entire island. Most cays can be explored on day trips from Provo. The cays have endless beaches that you might have to yourself, with hidden coves where you can picnic while watching the boats go by, and many have small limestone cliffs with endless views of the ocean. Many are inhabited by friendly iguanas and circled by stingrays; if you are lucky, JoJo the dolphin might even swim with you. Surrounded by coral reefs, these waters were made for snorkeling, and the many reefs keep waves from crashing on shore, keeping the water calm like a lagoon. You can find cannons under the water and sand dollars to bring back home. South, North, and Middle Caicos offer a step back in time to rustic, lazy days in the sun. Pine Cay is rustic yet refined, laid-back yet charming. Parrot Cay was made for pampering, a day in the life of a movie star.