There’s a prevailing idea that exotic beach locations and kids don’t mix well- but nothing could be further from the truth in the Turks and Caicos! This is a luxury island destination with a difference, and there’s plenty to keep kids of all ages having fun all day long. From exciting locations to explore to thrilling water sports, the only problem will be saying goodbye! Here’s just a few of the fun things you can do with kids in the TCI with the help of the Big Blue Collective team.
A Placid Land
If you’re looking for a family beach holiday, the Turks and Caicos make the best destination. The islands are super-kind to visitors, with no dangerous reptiles or insects to worry about, and only a few plants to avoid. Plus, as an island, we have no large wildlife to concern you- though the whole family should be respectful of nature, of course! So load up on your favourite kid-friendly and reef-safe sunscreen, and bring the whole family!
Beautiful Beach Time
Of course, one of the biggest drawcards for the TCI is the beautiful beaches, unlike anything else you will find in the world. Did you know that some of Provo’s top beaches are also incredibly kid-friendly?
Sapodilla Bay and Taylor Bay not only lie right by the famous Chalk Sound National Park, but they offer shallower, warmer water than you’ll find at Leeward Beach or Grace Bay Beach.
Many of the Provo beaches also offer horseback riding, sure to appeal to the whole family.
Strap on your Snorkels
While diving is only open to older teens with the know-how and responsibility to complete the basic training needed, snorkelling is a great family-friendly activity. Especially in the TCI, where we have some exquisite reefs just off the beaches, so there’s no song-and-dance to get there, either.
Bight Reef has long been a popular snorkelling destination. Packed with jazzy tropical fish, turtles, stingrays, and even the occasional curious dolphin, it’s a perfect microcosm of the wider reef system. If you look closely, you may even spot turtles, starfish, and possibly eagle rays!
If you’re already enjoying the Turtle Cove beach, then the greater complexity of the reef and coral system here makes for a fantastic adventure too. While outlying areas may only be accessible with older kids, there’s plenty to see for people of all ages, so don’t be shy!
Snorkelling isn’t the only family-friendly water sport on offer, either. Kids of all ages will enjoy learning to sail, kiteboard, kayak, and even try out Stand Up Paddleboarding. There’s even a few swim schools on the island, for children still getting to grips with their water wings!
Charter a Boat
Private boat charters aren’t just for adults! With the right boat and skipper- which the expert Big Blue Collective team can help you match with- there’s plenty of fun to be had exploring the ocean from your very own ‘ride’. Not only does the whole family get to enjoy the waves, but you can explore the more deserted beaches on the back islands, too. Plus, all the water sports to enjoy!
In fact, a private boat charter in the TCI pairs beautifully with some of our more accessible eco-tours, too. There’s so much natural beauty for children (and adults) to explore here, that it could well be a whole trip in itself! Chances for youngsters to experience a pristine marine environment like that in the Turks and Caicos are rare. From exploring nature’s watery bounty in the marine nature reserves, to hiking the incomparable and untouched tropical landscape of the back islands, it’s an adventure in nature like no other.
Don’t forget to add the Iguanas of Little Water Cay to the list, too! Better known as ‘Iguana Island’, these large, but rather gentle, vegetarian lizards are surprisingly approachable, and will make for a fantastic learning experience, too.
Enjoy Local Events
Depending on when you visit, the islands have a wealth of fun family-friendly events to enjoy, too. The Valentine’s Day Cup sailing race (for model sailboats) sees exquisite handmade miniature ‘Caicos Sloops’ compete in shallow water, making it perfect for all ages.
New Year’s Eve always sees a fantastic fireworks display over Grace Bay, and while the wine is strictly for adults, the Caribbean Food and Wine festival lets you sample delicious local dishes and learn more about the talented cooks who make it. Youngsters will also enjoy the flash and excitement of the Boxing Day Maskanoo parade. For those visiting in late November, there’s also the Conch festival to look forward to, where you can sample dishes and learn more about this vital part of the local economy.
Parasailing
Not as scary as it sounds! There’s parasailing hubs at Bight Beach and Grace Bay, and the local parasailing boats are set up for three passengers, so older kids can come along for the ride. See the sights from a new perspective, enjoy an unparalleled view of the water and reefs, and possibly spot a dolphin pod at play.
Join a Kids Program
The Big Blue Collective is proud to offer a range of kid-specific programs for youngsters to enjoy, too. From eco-tours to cruise adventures, we offer a little bit of everything for smaller people. Our most popular kids-only program runs every July, and lets little ones explore the beauties of the Turks and Caicos and try their hands at activities like cliff jumping and snorkelling, too.
There’s so much to do and see in the Turks and Caicos, and it makes for a fantastic family destination everyone can enjoy. Burn off that youthful energy, and let the kids go home with stories that will shape their life for years to come. If you’re looking for an action-packed active vacation for the whole family, the Big Blue Collective will help your dreams come true.