Boaby Rock Point
Grand TurkBoaby Rock Point is the southernmost point of Grand Turk, and a decent and secluded beach that’s within walking distance of the Grand Turk cruise port. The coast here offers patches of white sand and turquoise ocean water interspersed between low rocky outcroppings. Casuarina trees line the coast, providing welcome shade.
Swimming conditions at this beach are not quite as nice as at the Cruise Center Beach and Governor's Beach, yet the beachcombing is far superior due to ocean topography and waves, the coast sees fewer visitors, and there’s some beautiful snorkeling. The point is a 0.34 mile (0.5 km) walk from the Grand Turk Cruise Center. After the point (Boaby Rock Point), the beach continues on as White Sands Beach.
Snorkeling
When conditions are calm, two of the best shore snorkeling spots on Grand Turk can be found 700 feet (213 m) and 900 feet (274 m) up the eastern coast from the point.
Here, two mid-sized reef systems start in very shallow water and extend out about 300 feet (91 m) from the beach. There are quite a few different types of coral thriving on the reefs, as well as yellow sea fans and vibrant fish life.
The area isn’t usually very inviting from the beach, due to rocks, large amounts of seaweed, and flotsam. Also, due to the copious volume of seaweed, the water in the area directly off the beach can have a greenish tint. However, if it isn’t too choppy, the rewards are well worth the effort.
Boaby Rock Point Beach Accesses
It’s possible to walk the 0.34 miles (0.5 km) south (right if you’re looking at the beach from the cruise ship) from the Grand Turk Cruise Center to Boaby Rock Point.
If driving, there are two beach accesses that are easy to get to and have parking near the ocean. The Snorkeling Reef Access is located near a small reef off the beach. The South Point Access is located near the point itself, where ocean conditions are typically a little calmer on windy days than on the windward side of the beach.
Although the roads can be a little difficult to find, it’s also possible to drive to this beach. An unpaved road follows on the west side of Hawkes Nest Salina (the large salt flat not far from the Cruise Center) to the beach. You’ll know you’re on the right road if you pass the abandoned Mountain Air Helicopters helipad.