|
Bird Watching
The salt ponds and inland marshes serve as excellent feeding grounds for resident and migratory birds. Search for Great Blue Herons, Flamingos, Osprey and Pelicans alongside Egrets, Terns, Frigates, Boobies and other water birds. As part of the National Parks system more than twelve small cays have been set aside and protected for breeding grounds. 170 species of bird can be found in the Turks and Caicos Islands from Pelicans and Flamingos to Osprey and Cuban Crows. The variety is staggering and the photographs that have been taken here have been published across the world. On North Caicos in particular the tidal flats on the South side of the island attracts scores of birds including wild Pink Flamingos that regularly inhabit the aptly named Flamingo Pond. A book written by Richard Ground was recently published and is packed full of information and photographs about the amazing variety of birdlife here on the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Sky Watching
When you can look up at the startling bird-life during the day at night you can admire clear night skies. Each month the magazine ‘Where, When, How” features a Stargazing special with the constellations and latest information on what to look out for. The Moonrise is a spectacle not to be missed if you are lucky enough to be here when there is a full moon. Two to six nights after the full moon glowworms begin an elaborate mating ritual that results in luminescent spirals on the surface of the sea usually about an hour after sunset. Another natural phenomenon often talked about in local bars and restaurants is the Green Flash which occurs just as the sun dips below the turquoise ocean horizon. If you are fascinated by Space you should also visit the Turks and Caicos National Museum to find out how Grand Turk played a role in the Space Race. The 40th Anniversary of Splashdown is this year.
Cycling
All of the Turks and Caicos Islands offer a wide variety of terrain for hardened mountain bikers and more relaxed cyclists – most of the islands are quite flat and so cycling is in general not too taxing. Cyclists can enjoy excellent views and can explore more off-road tracks that lead to secluded bays, creeks and coves throughout the country. Most hotels and some dive operators offer bike and scooter rentals.
Golf
Golfers can enjoy one of the best places to play in the Caribbean in Provo. The eighteen hole championship course designed by Karl Litten opened in 1992. The course features Fairways bar and grill, tennis, a pro shop, driving range, professional instruction and a four tee position system that offers a formidable test to all golfers. The course watered by state of the art irrigation system combines lush greens and fairways, rugged limestone outcroppings and freshwater lakes.
Hourse Rides
Beaches trimmed with turquoise waters look especially beautiful when you are riding along them. Guided horseback riding, trail riding, pony rides and even sunset riding can be enjoyed in the Turks and Caicos Islands. Riding lessons can also be arranged and all ages are welcome. Provo Ponies offers morning and afternoon rides for riders of all levels. Reservations are essential.
Tennis
Tennis is a popular sport for visitors and residents in Provo. Many hotels and resort have excellent courses some with floodlighting for early evening play in cooler temperatures. In Provo the Provo Golf & Country Club, The Sands, Club Med, Grace Bay Club, Beaches and Treasure Beach Villas have tennis courts.
| 
