South Caicos, Turks and Caicos—A Laid-Back and Peaceful Island

Everything you wanted to know about living in South Caicos

Known as the Big South and the scuba diving capital of all the islands in Turks and Caicos. Authentic Caribbean still exist here in this laid back, peaceful island where the donkeys roam freely. Big South was the foremost sea salt exporter in the country when the industry was in operation and at its height, exported nearly two million bushels of hand-raked salt. Today, a lot of the salt ponds are still visible and a small amount is raked and bottled for the tourism sector. South Caicos offers a unique vacation experience as the island is still untouched by tourism and large developments. Sailrock resort is the premier and only luxury multi-faceted resort development on the private and secluded Long Beach and The Cove.

Where is South Caicos located in Turks and Caicos?

Located southeast of Provo in the archipelago group of islands and a short 20-minute scenic flight from Provo flying over the very shallow and crystal-clear Caicos Banks. There’s also a daily ferry service from Provo leaving from the dock at Leeward.

What to do and see in South Caicos

Scuba diving is one of the most popular things to do on this island. The migration of humpback whales passes through the waters of the Columbus Passage on this island and is a spectacular sight to experience. The eastern beaches and coastal cliffs offers great hiking and landscape photography. With the peaceful and laid-back environment, this island offers an untouched experience with world class bonefishing. Kayaking and stand up paddle boarding through the wetlands of Bell Sound Nature Reserve and the small northern cays is a must. Cockburn Harbor in the small village is the only natural, deep-water harbor in all of the islands and maintains the charm and mild pace from bygone eras. Tranquility and beauty abounds on this island with its rich marine environment, bird life and secluded beaches.

Beaches in South Caicos

The world’s third largest barrier reef protects the shores and blesses the TCI with some of the most brilliant, calm, turquoise waters and most stunning beach coastlines in the entire world. The beaches of Cove beach and Long Beach at Sailrock and East Bay are great for swimming with a few others on this quiet island offering excellent snorkeling and more weather beaten than the beaches on Provo.

Population of South Caicos

The population of South Caicos is approximately 1,139 people.