Dubbed the Coral Gardens of the Caribbean, Bight Reef is an atypical snorkeling Mecca in Turks & Caicos. Easily accessible from the beach, this engaging diving space has been revered as the most popular and congested diving site in the Providenciales area for decades. Frequented by novice snorkelers and expert divers alike this breathtaking underwater wonderland is a must-see highlight for all marine life enthusiasts vacationing in Turks & Caicos.
Spreading 350 feet outwards from the beach to a deeper seabed, Bight Reef is made up of one cohesive coral reef unlike the nearby Smith’s Reef, which is a network of coral reefs collectively identified by a singular name. Accessible from not one but two beaches, the reef is well-known as an oceanic organism containing hundreds of sea creatures. Docile marine animals such as school of reef fish also occupy the reef, while those who are hoping to spot the true icons of the sea will also not be disappointed exploring what lies beneath Bight Reef. Divers can in fact hope to come face-to-face with barracudas, Lion Fish, and stingrays, while lobsters and turtles also call this underwater garden home.
Swimmers can also enjoy the enclosed swimming zone cordoned off by rope around the reef where speed boats are not allowed and indulge in a snorkeling expedition in an area far removed from the boats crisscrossing the area. As a protected site within the Princess Alexandra National Park, Bight Reef is a safe snorkeling and diving area for beginners as strong currents and dangerous tides are a rarity. However, snorkelling vests are available for those who wish to take precautionary measures against challenging wind conditions. Divers are also advised to leave the reef as they found it and avoid picking up lobsters or conch shells as souvenirs as the practice is strictly prohibited. Every effort should also be made to explore the captivating coral garden without disrupting or destroying its integrity as corals are living organisms and brushing against elements within the seabed can cause irreparable damage and harm the marine creatures inhabiting its confines.
Travellers in search of Turks and Caicos luxury resorts with easy access to prime divine venues should consider the charming option courtesy of the Parrot Cay Turks & Caicos. Offering guests the best in modern comforts on a picturesque beachside location, this breathtaking Turks and Caicos beach resort pulls out all the stops when it comes to vacationing in paradise.
Angela Fernando is an impassioned travel writer who composes pieces under the pen name Sumaira Narayan. She loves writing about new and exciting places around the world and hopes to visit them all someday.