Most visitors who come to the Turks & Caicos spend their time on Providenciales, where the majority of the hotels, restaurants and other attractions are. Even during its busiest times, Provo is an uncrowded, unhurried place. But a day trip to some of our other islands is really a way to get away from it all and enjoy a Caribbean experience you won’t find in many other places.

This past weekend, I spent some time on North Caicos, my favorite of the ‘family islands’ (and which is now connected by a causeway to Middle Caicos, another great place to visit).

First, getting there is simple: There’s a ferry service that makes runs five times a day from the eastern end of Provo that will get you to Sandy Point Marina in North Caicos in 20 minutes. It’s a safe, comfortable boat that whisks you past the scenic islands of Big & Little Water Cay (watch for Iguanas), Pine Cay, Fort George Cay, Dellis Cay,  and Parrot Cay. Round trip tickets ($40) can be purchased at the Caribbean Cruisin’ office in Walkin Marina located at the very eastern end of Leeward Highway (past the Conch Farm).

Upon arrival in North, there is taxi service available (best to book ahead - ask your Discover TCI agent how), or you can arrange for a rental car which will meet you at the dock. Either is recommended since North is a much bigger island than Provo area-wise, and if you want to make the trip to Middle, it’s an even longer walk!

North Caicos is known as the garden spot of the TCI and you’ll notice right away the green and more lush vegetation there. This is because they tend to get more rain there. You’ll also notice far fewer people, cars and shops than you see in Provo. But the people you do meet in North are the friendliest in the Caribbean, and don’t be surprised if they invite you back their home for a meal or a drink.

Make sure you stop by the Flamingo Pond to see these graceful creatures in their native habitat. Some days the area where they feed is a sea of pink.  Visit the National Heritage site of Wade’s Green Plantation, the remains of what was once the most productive plantation in all of TCI. Tour through the settlements of Kew, Whitby and Bottle Creek (the main town) and see a quieter side of life in the Caribbean. From there you can make a run over the causeway to Middle (about a 40 minute drive), where the famous caves await - great for exploring and seeing interesting creatures and rock formations.

The main attraction in North is the beach - just like Provo, it’s miles of unspoiled white sands rimming crystal clear turquoise waters - only less people. This past weekend I saw grand total of 6 people in two full days on the beach in North! It’s the perfect place to get away from it all. Tip: bring your supplies with you - water, food, sun screen, bug spray (yes, it’s a tad buggier in the outer islands).

Visiting North or Middle Caicos is bit like stepping back in time, or going to a small country town. You won’t find any big hotels or condos,  (there are a few smaller accomodations available), or fancy restaurants -  but you can’t help but relax!