Calm, Clear, Shallow Waters Make This Turks And Caicos Beach An Idyllic Paradise For Families

Nestled in the same swathe of the Caribbean as the Bahamas and Puerto Rico, Turks and Caicos is a cluster of over 40 small islands whose sparkling beaches and calm aqua waters are perfect for relaxing sea excursions like snorkeling, paddle boarding, or gliding through mangroves on a see-through kayak. Taylor Bay Beach, which hugs the southwest coast of Providenciales, the main island of this tropical nation and home to Bight Reef, one of the world's best barrier reefs and a snorkeling paradise, is apart from the settlements that carpet the eastern side of the island. 

A visit to the locale during low tides reveals intricate patterns on the sand left by gentle rippling waves. Families can rest easy on the shore, as there are typically no undercurrents. The greatest danger is the possible appearance of sea fleas, or biting midges, that can annoy guests in the mornings and evenings. 

Only a 15-minute drive from Providenciales International Airport, a scenic route takes you past Five Cays Settlement. This settlement is home to local establishments like Bugaloos Restaurant, a must-visit haunt known for its conch specialties that visitors to Turks and Caicos should know about. Your tranquil oasis awaits down a 400-foot walking path that leads to serene sea and sand, resting between Chalk Sound National Park and Taylor Bay.

As soon as you step foot into the water at Taylor Bay Beach, you'll notice how shallow it is. There are no drop-offs and you can wade for quite a while before levels even reach your waist. As there are no hotels or beachside resorts directly on Taylor Bay Beach (the closest villas are a 20-minute walk away), you should bring any supplies you may need, such as a beach umbrella and chairs, reef-safe sunscreen, and floats. Bring snacks and beverages to enjoy, and spend the day splashing around and peacefully floating as you watch the sun sink below the horizon.

Although the beach is a peaceful haven away from most tourists and the attractions that draw them, there are some annoyances, one being the possible appearance of sea fleas. Stray dogs have also been spotted in the area. Although visitors to the beach reported that they don't bother you as long as you don't bother them, you should keep an eye on any small children accompanying you just in case.

Providenciales is one of the world's most spectacular beach destinations, and for a closer glimpse of the vibrant sea life that the island has to offer, you'll need to venture to other parts of it, like Grace Bay, a 25-minute drive east from Taylor Bay Beach. Here, $125 on Viator gets you a four-hour catamaran tour, which includes swimming in the turquoise-blue water, snorkeling, and careening down an attachable slide into the aquamarine depths. The tour includes a stop at Iguana Island, a cay where docile rock iguanas lounge and sunbathe. 

Sea turtles also reside in the region, and you can experience a unique look at these wonderful creatures by booking a mangrove tour, which navigates the clear waters on a kayak with a see-through bottom. Juvenile sharks, groupers, and stingrays can also be spotted as you paddle above the vibrant underworld. Not to worry if you haven't kayaked before, as the tour guides are friendly and patient, and can help you with the technique.

For a change of pace, consider booking an exhilarating $90 parasailing ride for a 12-minute bird's-eye view of Grace Bay as you suspend from your parachute. This small-group tour (no more than 10 at a time) allows guides to give you personalized instruction and attention as you float above the gorgeous bay.