Deserted island…that might enchant or horrify you depending upon what you think it means. When you hear the term “deserted island” in Turks and Caicos, though, you should be utterly enchanted as it means your Turks and Caicos luxury vacation is about to take one step closer to luxurious, and more towards exquisite! Even if you have a Turks and Caicos luxury villa, a day spent exploring the different cays and deserted islands of the area is tough to match.
Of course, it helps to know the geography first. Turks and Caicos is comprised of eight major islands and a large dusting of the small, uninhabited (i.e. deserted) islands or cays. The waters are noted for their particular clarity and beauty, and described persistently as turquoise blue surrounded by stunning white sands.
You can enjoy these white sands and turquoise waters from the terrace of your private pool or your own stretch of waterfront at your Turks and Caicos villa rental, but we suggest you consider these suggestions for a day or two of exploring the cays of the island.
Salt Cay
If you would like a chance to do some seasonal whale watching or just to enjoy some easy and utterly amazing diving in those gorgeous waters, then the island of Grand Turk and its charming Salt Cay is for you. The famous humpback whales that migrate past the islands each year tend to pass through this cay, and whether you see them or just hear them, you will be astonished.
You can also explore sunken ships in the waters of the Salt Cay, and you will see all kinds of sea life in addition whales. You may even see the impressively sized sting rays that inhabit these waters.
This is one of the southernmost spots in the chain, and that makes it a good place to spend time picnicking, diving, and just taking in the scenery. Private charter is a great way to make the most of this one.
Parrot Cay
If you are more into celebrity watching than whale watching, then Parrot Cay is really your place. You may see Donna Karan (the fashion designer) who owns a home here, but you can also catch glimpses of such celebrities as Ben Affleck or Justin Timberlake.
This is actually an island resort, and you can book time in the restaurant or the world famous spa (Shambhala Retreat – which we highly recommend). Or, you can learn for yourself why the beach here is described as one of the finest in the world. The silken white sands, the clear and remarkably placid waters and the option for a drink or meal overlooking it all…enough said?
Iguana Cay
You might here it called Little Water Cay, and it is close to Grace Bay. If you are not a whale or celebrity watcher, but wouldn’t mind seeing some wild iguanas in action, head here. It is actually the home of an endangered type of iguana and it is protected. You can enjoy it even more when you reach via kayak rather than by boat, and you can even walk among them when you bring your kayak up on one of the beaches. Some private charters can also take you here.
It is entirely understandable that you might hesitate to tear yourself away from your Turks and Caicos luxury villa. Whether it is one of the beach houses or a family getaway, it will offer plenty to enjoy. However, the cays of Turks and Caicos are a rare treat and the only true way to experience the island chain is to visit a few of the islands that make it so unusual and unique.