Things to see and do in Turks and Caicos Islands

Birdwatching is widespread as rare birds and butterflies are found throughout the islands.

Largely pristine coral reefs and excellent underwater visibility have brought diving fame to the islands, especially Providenciales, West and South Caicos, and the Turks Islands. Marine species that can be observed include turtles, spotted eagle rays and manta rays, as well as numerous colourful reef fish.

For committed sports anglers in search of an adrenalin rush, there's deep-sea fishing for species such as tuna, blue marlin and tiger shark. Rather gentler options include bottom and reef fishing in the shallow areas inside the reef.

Central to the islands' culture is the attractive Cockburn Town, with its charming Bermudan architecture lining the waterfront. Don't miss the Turks and Caicos National Museum, which tells the story of the Molasses shipwreck and exhibits rare prints and manuscripts from all of the islands.

Known for its population of the endangered Turks and Caicos iguana, and a variety of birdlife, this small cay is protected as a nature reserve. The boat ride from Providenciales offers the chance to see mangroves and other natural vegetation.

The fertile soils and water of North Caicos, known as the 'Emerald Isle' of the Caicos, provide good farmland. It has miles of deserted white sand beaches, along which hotels provide luxurious and peaceful accommodation. Flamingos, ospreys, iguanas and various other wildlife can be seen at the island's nature reserve.

Pine Cay is inhabited mostly by tropical birds and iguanas, and has one of the most beautiful beaches in the Caicos Islands, if not the whole Caribbean. The northern end has many freshwater lakes with species of saltwater fish brought here by Hurricane Donna in 1960. Part of the Caicos Cays National Underwater Park is located here. The reefs of the Caicos bank, with their rich variety of corals and vividly coloured fish, are a must-see.

This island is the centre of the country's major tourist development. There are beautiful white beaches, a coral reef and an abundance of aquatic life. The main tourist centre lies around Turtle Cove, with its peaceful yacht basin, and Grace Bay. Grace Bay has a 12 mile beach and the Princess Alexandra Marine Park; also popular are the Sea Centre, Bamboo Gallery (an art centre) and the Ports of Call shopping area. Explore Blight and Blue Hills, the two main and oldest settlements on the island. Chalk Sound is a large turquoise lake in the south of Providenciales. Once a month the waters around the island light up with glow worms; take a cruise along the waters to see this magical display.

The town of Cockburn Harbour is situated on a small ridge at the extreme southwest of the island of South Caicos. It was once the chief port for the shipment of salt from the islands. The town is a quiet and pleasant place to potter around in the evening. During the day, there are numerous beaches to explore and, as everywhere in the Turks & Caicos group, there is superb diving, yachting and big-game fishing.

All manner of boats seek out the peaceful harbour at Turtle Cove, where several restaurants offer the perfect spot for a relaxed meal. Keep an eye out for nurse sharks as they cruise through the shallows.

The westernmost island has an abrupt coastline leading to deep water that is ideal for fishing and scuba-diving. Uninhabited, it is currently only visited by sailors, fishermen and thousands of seabirds. An ideal place to see a variety of birdlife is Lake Catherine. Ruins of Yankee Town, a railroad and a steam engine are remnants of the time when the island was habited.