Det skyddade vattnet i Northwest Point National Park knäpper den nordvästra kanten av Providenciales kust.
Parken skyddar också världens tredje största korallrevsystem, så det är ingen överraskning att undervattensunderna här inkluderar några av territoriets bästa dykdykning och snorkling. Havssvampar, pastellkoraller, sköldpaddor, strålar, skimrande tropiska fiskar - du heter det, du kommer att se det i denna havspark som är berömd för sin mångfald i havslivet.
På stranden sträcker sig den orörda sandbågen som kallas Malcolm Beach i 10 km (6 miles) och parken omfattar även saltvatten som Pigeon Pond som är hem för vattenfåglar som kommer hit för att föda upp.
Parken ligger i öns outvecklade och avlägsna västra sträckor, och vandring, fyrhjulsdrift eller båt är det enklaste sättet att komma hit.
The Northwest Point Marine National Park is made up of a protected section of ocean and coast, plus an inland marine wetland area. The shore within the park is mainly made up of limestone rock, known locally as ironstone, and at low tide the rocks reveal tidal pools. The waters can be quite rough around the point with submerged rocks, so swimming is not recommended.
For swimming, snorkeling, or scuba diving, visit nearby Malcolm Beach, where the water is calmer and you can explore the vibrant barrier reef. Head to the wetlands just inland for excellent birdwatching—you can see ospreys, flamingos, great blue herons, and if you’re lucky, red kites.
Consider wearing water shoes if swimming off Malcolm Beach, as the water is known for having coral and sea urchins.
The area around Northwest Point is quite secluded, so don’t leave your belongings unattended or loose in your car.
There are few amenities in the area, so do bring water, reef-friendly sunscreen, and snacks with you.
Northwest Point is at the very tip of Providenciales (or Provo) island, and is best accessed by car along Millennium Highway. The road is narrow, so if you're driving a bigger car, you may have to park further up and walk the final mile.
Northwest Point is particularly impressive when there’s a big ocean swell—but do remember that swimming may be unsafe at these times. When the tide is out, the rocks reveal tidal pools teeming with sea urchins and other sea life. The best time to visit Turks and Caicos is between December and March.
Voted the “best beach in the world” several times over, Grace Bay Beach is the epitome of a Caribbean paradise—a wide white-sand coastline lapped by bright turquoise water that’s ideal for swimming and water sports. The beach is lined with a number of resorts with beach bars and restaurants. End your day with a walk along the sand before stopping for a cocktail and watching the sunset.