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Turks Caicos Information

Turks and Caicos Family Resort News

As October draws to a close, Providenciales is gearing up for the start of the holiday season. Soon the island will be filled with many tourists trading the cold and the snow for warm and powdery white sands. Turks and Caicos Family Resort News is a rundown of what’s currently trending in our beautiful islands.

Southwest Airlines Announces New Flights to Turks and Caicos

Popular low-cost air carrier Southwest Airlines has announced a new direct flight between Baltimore/Washington D.C. and Provo, set to begin March 8, 2020. This is in addition to the non-stop flight between Fort Lauderdale and Provo announced in 2017. This new flight is part of Southwest’s broad expansion into the Caribbean and reservations for both direct flights are already available on the company’s website.

You can read more about Southwest’s new direct flight to Provo here.

Turks and Caicos Plays Host to the Caribbean Food and Wine Festival

The island is gearing up to host to one of the Caribbean’s hottest culinary events. For nine years, the Caribbean Food and Wine Festival has brought together local and global culinary geniuses to celebrate food and drink. The event is set to take place October 31th to November 3rd.

This year’s featured guests are Chef Ryan McCaskey of Chicago eatery Arcadia and Chef Atul Kochhar. Rounding out the special guests are Alberto Chiarlo of Michele Chiarlo Winery and Michael Polenske of the Bespoke Collection. Buy your tickets now before they sell out!

Read more about the Caribbean Food and Wine Festival.

Turks and Caicos Film Festival Celebrates the Environment

The island is set to host its inaugural international film festival next month. The festival’s theme for this year is “Green & Blue” and all share an environmental focus. Opening night will feature producer Ru Mahoney’s conservation film Sea of Shadows.

Featured guests include Red Nose Day co-creators Emma Freud and Richard Curtiss and BBC Natural History Unit Producer Jonny Keeling. The festival is set to take place November 15-17.  Guests will be treated to open-air viewings of these films on Grace Bay beach.

Read more about the Turks and Caicos International Film Festival.

An Expert Guide to Lotus-Eating in Grand Turk

The Telegraph’s Robin McKelvie describes Grand Turk as a “bijou” island that offers cruise ship visitors a relaxing island experience. For the curious, bijou is a British term meaning small and elegant.  McKelvie describes the small and elegant Grand Turk as a great place for lotus eating or taking it easy.

The travel writer offers a guide to making the most of a visit to Grand Turk and includes guides for four hour and eight hour island stays. Recommended activities in Grand Turk include snorkeling, walks across the beach or simply spending time in the Grand Turk Cruise Center.

Read McKelvie’s expert guide to Grand Turk.

Plan Your Getaway to Turks and Caicos This Holiday Season

What do you think? Ready to enjoy trade the cold for warm temps in Provo? Let the Sands help you plan your perfect Turks and Caicos vacation. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us!

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Announcements Comments From Our Guests Just For Fun

ALS Sufferer Douglas Shares Thank you Message for Auction and Fundraising Efforts

Last month, the Sands at Grace Bay in Turks and Caicos hosted a charitable fundraising auction where you all had the opportunity to bid on a One-week stay in a Three-bedroom Ocean Front Suite at our award-winning Grace Bay Beach resort to benefit an ALS sufferer. We are thrilled to share that the effort was a resounding success!

Less than two years ago, a man named Douglas was diagnosed with ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease). This fundraiser in his name helped the family with costs for medical equipment and raised the funds for an “eyegaze computer,” a device that now enables Douglas to continue to communicate with his family even though his voice fails him.

All proceeds went directly to the family for purchase of the eyegaze computer and the special computer will subsequently be donated to the ALS Society of Nova Scotia for other patients.

Douglas and his family wish to thank all who participated in the auction as well as those who donated to the Go Fund Me page created for the effort.

Click to see the message from Douglas and thank you again to all who participated!

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Turks Caicos Information

How to Spend Christmas in Style in Turks and Caicos 

Dreaming of a tropical Christmas? Consider spending the most wonderful time of the year in beautiful Turks and Caicos. The island enjoys warm, balmy weather year-round. Trade the cold and the snow for warm, white sands and crystal-clear waters. Here are a few ways you can celebrate the holidays in style in Turks and Caicos.

Christmas in Providenciales

The holiday season lasts from late November to New Year’s Day and is a festive time on the Island. Visitors are treated the dazzling Christmas displays all over Grace Bay Beach. It is not uncommon for a resort to have a glowing Christmas tree in the main hall or decorations in your hotel room.  In the spirit of the season, some restaurants offer a special Christmas dinner service.

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Maskanoo Street Festival

Maskanoo is an annual street festival traditionally held on December 26th (Boxing Day). The event features colorful masks and heart-pounding rhythms. A fusion of masquerade balls and traditional African culture, Maskanoo is loved by both locals and tourists. Drink and be merry with live music and delicious food sold by local vendors.

The parade takes place on Grace Bay road between Regent Village and Salt Mills Plaza. Please be advised, as Grace Bay road is closed between these location for the duration of the event.

Post-Christmas Beach Party

Still in a festive mood? The Post-Christmas Beach Party on December 28th is right up your alley. Enjoy sailboat and kayak races while noshing on local dishes offered by restaurant vendors. Listen to live music while checking our local artisan wares for the perfect souvenir.

Old Year’s Night

Old Year’s Night occurs on New Year’s Eve.  The event features Christian (mostly Catholic) locals attend late night church services. After the service, churches and attendees ring out the old year with bells. This done to encourage good luck and prosperity for the new year.

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Jump Up Junkanoo

The Junkanoo festival starts right at the stroke of midnight when revelers take to the streets to celebrate the new year. Junkanoo has its origins in the 16th century, when enslaved workers tending to the salt ponds of Salt Bay and South Caicos were allowed one day off during the Christmas season. Like Maskanoo, the event is enjoyed by locals and tourists alike.

Junkanoo is a colorful festival of sights and sounds as groups compete against each other in wild, outlandish costumes. Enjoy traditional African music and dance until the wee hours of the morning. There are Junkanoo events happening all over Turks and Caicos.

Plan Early for Your Christmas Vacation to Turks and Caicos

Ready to escape the cold? There is no time like the present to start planning for your holiday vacation to Turks and Caicos. With temperatures averaging around 80F, Provo is the best place to escape the dead of winter.

If you have questions or would like to get started planning, please contact us!

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Beach Weddings Turks Caicos

How to Enjoy a Perfect Honeymoon in Turks and Caicos

Imagine celebrating the start of your happily ever after sounded by the beauty of crystal-clear waters. Or imagine relaxing by the beach, dipping your toes in powdery white sands and you look forward to the arrival of a new baby. There is no better place to enjoy your honeymoon or babymoon than Turks and Caicos.

Wondering where to start the planning process? Need ideas on how to make the most of your time in paradise? Here are a few ideas to consider while planning your getaway to the island.

The Sands at Grace Bay Ocean Front Deluxe Master Bedroom

Enjoy the Comforts of Your Hotel Room

Consider staying at a centrally located hotel that offers desirable amenities. An ideal location will offer all the perks of an island vacation steps away from your hotel room. That way, you and your partner can enjoy quality time together without the hassle.

The Sands is an all-suite resort centrally located on Grace Bay beach, voted year after year as one of the world’s best beaches. Each room offers stunning views of the ocean and the lush tropical beauty of Providenciales. Amenities include modern kitchens, and in-suite washer and dryer, and fully furnished large balconies. With all these perks, you will never want to leave your room!

Enjoy a Massage Together

A couple’s massage is the great way for couples to reduce stress while deepening their bond through a shared experience. Spa Tropique offers a variety of treatment options and will be happy to help you select the right one for your needs.

Massage offerings include hot stone, deep tissue, Swedish and a His-and-Her Massage. With two treatment rooms located in Building 1, relaxation and rejuvenation are only steps away from your room.

Enjoy an Intimate Dinner by the Beach

A candlelit dinner is a timeless way to spend time with your significant other. Sharing a delicious meal in an intimate setting invites romance and merriment. Add a spectacular view and you have a wonderful experience you and your partner will never forget.

Hemingway’s Beachfront Restaurant is an award-winning restaurant offering stunning views of the ocean and Grace Bay beach. Enjoy your meal under the stars on the restaurant’s deck. Nosh on island favorites including conch fritters and rum cake.

Babymooning in Turks and Caicos

A babymoon is the perfect way to relax and celebrate your love before your new arrival makes their grand entrance! Usually taken during the second trimester, a babymoon is a good opportunity for a couple to enjoy one last romantic getaway.

There is no one way to enjoy a babymoon at the Sands resort. Care to relax in your room? Go for it. Want to recline on the beach or float in one of three infinity pools? We’ve got your covered!

Let the Sands Help Your Plan Your Honeymoon and Babymoon

Eager to plan for your honeymoon? Need a vacation before the baby arrives? The Sands would love to help you plan your perfect Turks and Caicos vacation. Please contact us to get started!

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Announcements Awards Comments From Our Guests Just For Fun Sands At Grace Bay Reviews Turks Caicos Information

The Sands at Grace Bay Wins 2019 TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence Award – It’s The Eighth Year the Resort has Earned this Acclaimed Distinction!

The Sands at Grace Bay Receives 2019 TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence AwardThe Sands at Grace Bay in Turks and Caicos is pleased to announce that it has once again been named a TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence Award winner. Now in its ninth year, the achievement celebrates businesses that are consistently excellent, having earned great traveler reviews on TripAdvisor over the past year. TripAdvisor’s 2019 Certificate of Excellence recipients include accommodations, restaurants, and attractions located all over the world that have continually delivered a quality customer experience.

The Certificate of Excellence accounts for the quality, quantity and recency of reviews submitted by travelers on TripAdvisor over a 12-month period. To qualify, a business must maintain an overall TripAdvisor rating of at least four out of five, have a minimum number of reviews, and must have been listed on TripAdvisor for at least 12 months.

As a TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence award winner, we’re always looking for ways to give our guests the best possible experience at The Sands at Grace Bay. We are thrilled to share that we recently completed upgrades and renovations on the small and middle waterfall pools. Additionally, we are moving the retail shop from across the parking lot, to inside the lobby. The prior sales office, and property manager office are being transformed to the new retail shop. Further, The IT office adjacent to the lobby will become two unisex restrooms with one of them being handicap accessible.

Thanks to all of our guests, friends, and fans for you reviews and congratulations to our enthusiastic team whose hospitality and service create the opportunities for us receive these acclaimed awards on an ongoing basis.

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Turks Caicos Information

Turks and Caicos Restaurants Host Best Food Event in Caribbean

Turks and Caicos restaurants have recently gained a reputation as top Caribbean culinary attractions. Local chefs create dishes that are a tantalizing fusion of land and sea and marry local staples with international flavor.

If you are looking for a way to enjoy the best in gourmet Caribbean cuisine, look no further than the annual Caribbean Food and Wine Festival from October 31 to November 3, 2019.

About the Caribbean Food and Wine Festival

The Caribbean Food and Wine Festival was established in 2011 and is considered to be the island’s “culinary event of the year”. The festival, now its ninth year, celebrates the culinary creativity of both local and international chefs.  Every event during the festival pairs food and wine together to highlight the island’s sublime gourmet cuisine.

Featured Ambassadors of Food and Wine

In addition to highlighting local culinary talent, the festival also welcomes four honoree ambassadors of food and wine. All festival events will feature wine selections from the Bespoke Collection and Michele Chiarlo Winery.

This year’s event will host two award-winning international chefs. Chef Ryan McCaskey, chef and proprietor of the Chicago eatery Acadia, describes his cuisine as both “classic and contemporary”. Michelin- Star Chef Atul Kochhar marries Indian flavor with British ingredients to create a modern take on Indian cuisine.

Featured Providenciales Restaurants

There are several local restaurants participating in this year’s Food and Wine Festival. The following is a small list of restaurants where events will take place.

Parallel23 at the Palms Resort

The Palms Resort is home of fine dining restaurant Parallel23. Lead by Executive Chef Lauren Gallighan, Parallel23 marries Caribbean flavor with elegant ambiance. The restaurant’s hi-tech display kitchen allows diners to partake in the spectacle of their food being prepared.

Cobaya Restaurant

Cobaya has offered fine dining in Providenciales for over nineteen years. The restaurant fuses European influences with Caribbean fruits, spices, and seafood to create a unique fusion of flavors. The restaurant’s Signature menu is always changing, keeping things fresh and exciting.

Solana Restaurant

Solana offer a refreshing culinary experience with views overlooking the ocean and the pool. The restaurant offers creative culinary experience in a relaxed environment. In addition to fine dining fare, Solana offers teppanyaki (grill-cooked meals) and sushi.

 

Don’t Miss The Caribbean’s Prime Culinary Event!

caribbean food and wine festival providenciales

The Caribbean Food and Wine Festival takes place October 31 – November 3, 2019 and tickets are on-sale now. Tickets are purchased individually for each event, meaning you can pick and choose events to attend. Be sure to buy as soon as possible, as tickets sell out fast!

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Announcements Just For Fun Things To Do In The Caribbean

Help Us Help Douglas ~ You Can By Bidding Now For Your Dream Vacation!

Douglas is an ALS sufferer, and needs our help to communicate with his loved ones again. You can change his family’s life by placing your bid on a fabulous dream vacation! Your bid gives Douglas the much needed computer equipment he needs to be able to speak to his family. As a father, it would mean the world to Douglas to be able to communicate with his children and family – your bid can help him do this.

Help Douglas, an ALS sufferer, communicate with his loved ones again…

  • Douglas is a 40-year-old father who has ALS
  • He has lost his ability to speak with his family and loved ones
  • Amazing computer technology exists by a retina driven software that allows communication
  • The computer costs approximately $7,500 USD / $10,000 CDN – Our goal is to get him one now while he has time
  • The computer will be later donated to the ALS foundation once Douglas ceases using it so it will help others for many years

If you are as passionate about good causes as you are about getting a great deal on your next tropical beach vacation here at The Sands…

Bid today and Help Change this Familly’s Life!

The SanThe Sands at Grace Bay Ocean Front Deluxe Master Bedroomds at Grace Bay in Turks and Caicos is hosting a charitable fundraising auction. You have the opportunity to bid on a One-week stay in a Three-bedroom Ocean Front Suite at our award-winning Grace Bay Beach resort valued at $10,000 USD ($13,000 CDN).

This luxury vacation will be offered for auction from now – September 7, 2019. Bids will be accepted from 9am to 5pm each day. Bidding rules are detailed below. The starting bid for the auction is $3,500 – a savings of more than 65 percent off the retail value of this resort stay.

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Bid on this Fundraising Auction Benefiting…

Less than two years ago, a man named Douglas was diagnosed with ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease). Today, we are rallying together to help Douglas and his family in their battle. This fundraiser in his name will help the family with costs for medical equipment that can easily surpass 100K each year. For this particular effort we are seeking to raise funds for an “eyegaze computer,” a device that will enable Douglas to continue to communicate with his family even though his voice fails him.

Make a bid for a stay at The Sands at Grace Bay to enjoy time at our celebrated family-friendly resort and help support this family in their fight against ALS. All proceeds go directly to the family for purchase of the eyegaze computer and the special computer will subsequently be donated to the ALS Society of Nova Scotia for other patients.

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How to Bid:
There are three ways you can participate in the auction from August 24 – September 7, 2019 – bid will be accepted from 9am-5pm each day:

1. Bidders can call The Sands at Grace Bay reservations number at 1-877-777-2637 and complete their bid directly with a Reservations agent.
2. Bidders can direct message The Sands via the brand’s page on Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/TheSandsTC/
3. Bidders can simply write the amount they are bidding in the comments section of our Fundraising Auction post on The Sands at Grace Bay’s page on Facebook or below this blog post
4. The first verified bid of $10,000 USD ($13,000 CDN) to reach the fundraising goal will automatically win the bid

NOTES:
• Bids must be increased by increments of $10 to qualify.

• The highest bid within the time period will win the vacation package detailed in the Prize List section below.

• The Auction will close at the earlier of the following: 2 weeks from launch or with the first verified bid that reaches the fundraising goal of $10,000 USD ($13,000 CDN). The Sands will communicate that the vacation package has been sold with post on their page on Facebook.

• The vacation package prize offered is subject to availability in specific, contracted class of service. Once reservations are confirmed or certificates are provided they are NON-REFUNDABLE AND NON-CHANGEABLE. Reservations cannot be changed or endorsed in any way after issuance.

• The Sands at Grace Bay reserves the right to set minimum bid and to withdraw the item from auction at any time, for any reason. Bids must be raised by the posted bidding increment of at least $10. The Sands at Grace Bay reserves the right to postpone, delay, interrupt, or cancel any auction for any reason, at any time.

• Bidders must be of at least legal age of their state of residence. Persons who are “minors” must use an agent such as a parent or legal guardian who is of at least legal age for the purpose of bidding.

• The auction winner will be announced on September 15, 2019. All bids are final – the bidder will be held accountable if they win the auction. Winner should contact The Sands Reservations team toll-free at 1-877-777-2637 to remit payment for final bid. The auction bid must be paid in full by 5:00 pm EST on the day after the auction is won. Failure to do so results in loss of the auction and a new auction date will be announced.

• Upon receipt of payment, auction winner will receive an email with the vacation package travel voucher in Adobe PDF format worth the value of their bid, including any taxes.

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  Prize List:
The Sands at Grace Bay – Turks & Caicos, a resort of The Hartling Group
7-night stay for up to 8 guests in a 3-bedroom Ocean Front Suite
(no meals or transportation included)

Includes: complimentary use of watersports equipment (kayaks, stand-up paddle boards, snorkel gear and Hobie Cats); free bicycle use for nearby island exploration; a poolside Manager’s cocktail party every Tuesday; three free-form swimming pools; and tennis courts.

Additional Details:
Reservations based on space availability at time of booking blackout dates apply including major holidays.

Auction winner has twelve (12) months from end of auction to complete travel — October 1, 2019 to September 30, 2020.

Retail Value: $10,000.00 USD ($13,000 CDN)

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More on Douglas’ Story and ALS…
ALS is a fatal, motor neuron disease that causes progressive degeneration of nerve cells in the spinal cord and brain. It is a devastating disease that affects voluntary control of muscles, leads to trouble speaking and breathing, and eventually death. There is currently no cure for ALS and no effective treatment to halt or reverse the progression of the disease.

Just two years after being diagnosed, Douglas now uses a wheelchair full time, has lost his ability to speak and has little use remaining in his arms and hands. ALS does not affect your intelligence, thinking, hearing, or vision.

Douglas is a loving father of a daughter, Claudia, who faces her own challenges with her diagnoses of muscular dystrophy, she also uses a wheelchair full time. He is a devoted husband to his wife, Amberlie, who is the sole caregiver to both.

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Please consider making a bid for this stay to enjoy time at this award-winning family-friendly resort and help support this family in their fight against ALS.

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Turks Caicos Information

How to Have Fun Shopping in Turks and Caicos

Turks and Caicos food festival
Turks and Caicos food festival Image source: https://flic.kr/p/8q9RRW

As your trip to winds down, it’s time to start thinking about souvenirs. Instead of buying the usual touristy t-shirt, why not consider handmade jewelry, clothing or even a painting? Shopping in Turks and Caicos means exploring the creations of local artisans who offer unique, one-of-a-kind items.

As a result, there are plenty of opportunities to buy the perfect souvenir. Here is a guide to shopping for the best gifts in Turks and Caicos.

Fine Arts Gift Ideas

Photographs are lovely mementos, but what about a painting? There is a wide variety of art galleries in Providenciales, including Anna’s Art Gallery and Brilliant Studios Gallery. These galleries feature oil and watercolor paintings that showcase various aspects of island life. Of course, the island’s signature crystal clear waters and powdery white sands are always on display. In addition to being unique souvenir, a painting is a fabulous way to remember your trip to the island.

Local Artisan Offer Unique Souvenirs

Provo has a vibrant community of local artisans who sell their wares in local gift shops and boutiques.  Need a souvenir that screams “authentic”? Handwoven crafts such as baskets, mats and dolls are your best bet. For foodies, Provo offers a fine selection of edible souvenirs, including caramels topped with salt from Salt Cay, Turk’s Head Beer and island-roasted coffee.

Designer Clothing Gift Ideas

Need a gift for the fashionista in your life? Boutiques such as Sea Sage and Femme Apparel offer island-inspired fashion. Gift suggestions include silk and printed scarves, dresses and swim wear. If your heart is set on buying a t-shirt, consider picking up a t-shirt from popular island brand Konk Apparel.

Where to Shop in Turks and Caicos

Ready to shop? Shopping for gifts in Providenciales is as easy as taking a leisurely stroll.  Most gift shops and boutiques are located steps away from resort areas, including the Sands Resort.

The Salt Mills Plaza

The Salt Mills Plaza is a very popular shopping complex in the Grace Bay Tourism area. It is conveniently located within walking distance of Sands Resort. With restaurants, art galleries, gift shops, and clothing stores all in one place, it’s the perfect place for a shopping trip.

The Regent Village

The Regent Village, located near Salt Mills, is another great place for shopping in Providenciales. Home of the Provo Golf Club, Regent Village is also home to various shops and restaurants. There is no sales tax on purchases, so there is ample opportunity to buy fine jewelry, liquor and designer clothing at discounted prices.

Thursday Island Fish Fry

The Thursday Fish Fry at the Bight Children’s Park is an exciting way to get some shopping done in Provo.  Sample the best in Island cuisine while perusing the wares of local artisans.

The Bight is some distance from the Sands resort, so families are encouraged to book transportation to the festivities. Ask our concierge for more information.

Local Cuisine of Turks and Caicos
“A pile of conch shells on a beautiful Bahamas beach. Stocking Island, Exumas.”

Let Us Help You Plan the Perfect Stay in Turks and Caicos

What do you think? We would happy to help you plan the perfect vacation to Turks and Caicos. Please contact us and we’ll help you get started!

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Sands At Grace Bay Reviews

Reviews of the Sands Family Resort

The Sands Resort is a proud holder of the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence. The award is given to properties who consistently receive good reviews and recommendations from travelers. Our guests have no shortage of good things to say about our resort. But don’t take our word for it. Here are a few notable TripAdvisor reviews.

reviews of the sands resort

“A Perfect Family Vacation”

“We have been going to the Sands for 15 years! Our children, now 18 and 19, have grown up at The Sands.  If you are looking for a great place in the sand to play with your family, snorkel, swim, eat well, get some sun, relax and be joyous with the sun on your face…then this is your place.”

Read the full review by TripAdvisor user fredmcclaine here.

“Wonderful Beach Resort”

This was my first trip to Turks and Caicos and The Sands at Grace Bay was a great choice! The property is impeccable, and the accommodations were beautiful, spacious and very clean. It was appointed with a kitchenette, living room area, washer/dryer and screened balcony. It was located right on Grace Bay beach– voted one of the best in the world!”

Read the full review by TripAdvisor user Karen B. here.

The Sands at Grace Bay Ocean Front Deluxe Master Bedroom

Sands Resort is on “Beautiful Grace Bay Beach”

The Sands lived up to our expectations and more. We arrived and had an ocean view room. Unfortunately, my dad is in a wheelchair and the room wasn’t handicapped accessible. Thankfully, the Trainee at the front desk worked with us to switch us to a building with an elevator, which made things much easier and allowed all of us to enjoy the trip!”

Read the full review by TripAdvisor user BrettCle here.

“Another Great Stay at the Sands” on Grace Bay

The place is beautifully landscaped, has two pools, lazy river and a magnificent beach access with tons of umbrellas for the sun. The water is crystal clear, and you can walk or borrow bikes to go into a small town that has nice restaurants and shops.

Read the full review by TripAdvisor user 410frances here.

The sands at Grace Bay waterfall pools

“Best Ever” Turks and Caicos Vacation

“Can’t say enough about the accommodation and the staff. Our new second home. Food is awesome and so are drinks. Clean. Friendly. Perfect vacation for family. Beach and water is pristine. Pools are the best.”

Posted by TripAdvisor user James F.

Start Planning the Perfect Family at the Sands Resort

Turks and Caicos is the perfect place for a getaway with your family. Located on Grace Bay beach, recognized as the world’s best beach, the Sands Resort has been in the business of providing guests with a blissful experience for twenty years. If you are ready to plan the perfect family vacation to Turks and Caicos, please contact us. We would love to help you!

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Turks Caicos Information

Experience Snorkeling in Turks and Caicos

Smith's Reef, Turks and Caicos Islands
Smith’s Reef, a great location for snorkeling in Turks and Caicos Islands

Snorkeling is a popular activity on the island Providenciales. The clear waters surrounding the island make visiting with its vibrant marine life very easy. Since is located on the leeward side of the islands, it is sheltered by trade winds. The calm waters of Grace Bay and other locations are the perfect place to go snorkeling in Turks and Caicos.

Whether you go it alone or with a fun-filled tour excursion, snorkeling in Turks and Caicos is an experience you will never forget. Here are a few notable snorkeling spots in Turks and Caicos.

providenciales snorkeling tours

Coral Gardens at the Bight Reef

The Bight Reef, also known as Coral Garden, is Provo’s most popular snorkeling spots. There is a diversity of marine life in this area, including colorful varieties of fish. Coral Gardens has well-defined boundaries and safety markings, making it a prime spot for beginners to snorkeling.

turks and caicos snorkeling map

Coral Gardens is located 20 minutes away from Grace Bay beach. It’s an ideal site for families as it is easy to wade into the shallow waters. Families with younger children may wish to consider taking a shuttle or taxi to Coral Gardens.

Smith’s Reef

Smith’s Reef is a quieter, less populated spot for snorkeling. The reef, located on the north coast of Providenciales near Turtle Cove, is isolated and difficult to find. While the reef is accessible via walking, consider taking a shuttle or taxi to the location.

Smith’s Reef is recommended for novice and experienced snorkelers. Unlike Coral Gardens, there are no safety markers and the area is less populated. Smith’s Reef features a large variety of marine life, including parrotfish, angelfish, yellow snapper, green turtles and stingrays.

Explore Hidden Worlds with a Snorkeling Excursion

Tour excursions allow guests to visit prime snorkeling spots away from Providenciales. Caicos Dream Tours offer a large variety of excursions that allow you to experience more of the island. In many instances, a tour is the only way to access other parts of the island.

Bight Reef Snorkeling

The Snorkel and Conch cruise is a popular half-day excursion option for families and individuals. The four hour cruises allows guests to get up close and personal to the world’s third largest coral system. The cruise departs twice daily.

Three Mary Cays

Three Mary Cays is in North Caicos. Like Smith’s Reef, the area is largely uninhabited, making it a good spot for swimming, beach combing and walking. Be sure to check the wind forecast beforehand as strong winds (10 knots and above) make the area unsuitable for snorkeling.

Reef Peepers Offers A Snorkeling Adventure Tour

Three Mary Cays does not have as large a marine life as other areas, but it still has its fair share of colorful coral and fish.

Snorkeling in Middle Caicos

There are three main snorkeling locations in Middle Caicos. Mudjin Harbour and the adjacent Conch Bar Beach have a rugged feel due to its proximity to the subterranean undersea wall of the Caicos Island plateau. When waters are calm, the area is a great for snorkeling. For days when there is a swell in the water, consider visiting the nearby Conch Bar Caves.

family vacation

Bambarra Beach, on the other hand, is a calmer beach located in the central north coast of Middle Caicos. Like Coral Gardens, this is an ideal spot for families with small children. The water is shallow, making it ideal for wading or swimming.

Ready to Plan Your Snorkeling Excursion in Turks and Caicos?

The Sands would be more than happy to help you plan the perfect snorkeling excursion.  Guests staying at the Sands may use our complimentary snorkeling gear. Exploring the ocean has never been easier.

Please contact us now to get started!