Turks and Caicos

Calm, azure waters. Golden beaches. Stunning coral reefs and the world's best diving. The Turks and Caicos is perfect for travelers more interested in hearing the wind rustle through Grace Bay's casuarina trees than thrumming steel drums, and for visitors more interested in seeing Bight Reef's multicolored fish and coral than fancily-costumed show girls. Watch the glowworms light up near Caicos Cays, identify wildflowers on an island hike or just take in the ocean view. The Turks and Caicos are naturally stunning.

Things to Do
Even in an archipelago known for its fabulous beaches, Grace Bay stands out for its beach -- lovers dig their toes into crystalline sand, soaking up the sun or relaxing under the shade of a casuarina tree. Smith's Reef and Bight Reef are home to the Turks and Caicos' snorkeling trails, long, fragile stretches of psychedelic coral reefs that lie just beneath the surface of the sea. Avid divers have long been drawn to these waters, and the most stunning site is the mile-high undersea Wall off Grand Turk.

Shopping
Happily, the islands remain untouched by Western chain clothing stores. Instead, tropical, watercolor beach paintings, strappy leather sandals, locally-woven textiles and iridescent seashells line store shelves at boutiques and shops scattered throughout the Turks and Caicos. Look for trendy beachwear at shops near Grace Bay and other beach towns. Designer clothing and jewelry fill the shop windows at resorts near Providenciales, and art galleries are located in Provo and Grand Turk.

Nightlife and Entertainment
The best entertainment in the islands arrives at sunset. Boat cruises head to the Caicos Cays daily, but shortly after a full moon visitors see millions of glowworms light up the night on their voyage. Throughout the Turks and Caicos sunset bathes the sky and sand in orange and pink tones Grace Bay is one of the popular for romantic sunset beach strolls. If you're in the mood for a cocktail, settle into the beach chairs at the oceanfront bar, Lounge, to sip locally-made Turks Head Beer or Bamberra Rum.

Restaurants and Dining
Barefoot diners take in views of a Blue Hills beach and dig into plates of freshly-caught conch cooked to order at Da Conch Shack in downtown Provo. At Turtle Cove Magnolia Restaurant and Wine Bar sits high above the marina, overlooking the sparkling waters of Grace Bay. Toast your traveling companion with a glass of wine and dine on fresh seafood -- the seared raw tuna is a house specialty.