The Beautiful and Secluded Beaches of Middle Caicos
The Beautiful Coasts of Middle Caicos
Rugged and remote are the defining features of the beautiful beaches of Middle Caicos. Home to the tallest ocean cliffs in the country, much of this island’s northern coastline is located quite close to the deep water off the edge of the Caicos Islands' underwater plateau.
As is also the case with adjacent North Caicos, almost the majority of the west, south and east sides of Middle Caicos are mangrove wetlands and shallows, which edge the shallow Caicos Banks. Because of this, all of the island’s beaches are found on the 17-mile north and northeast coast.
In addition to the rugged and majestic north coasts, Middle Caicos also hides several amazing channel beaches, where clear water flows between uninhabited cays, creating picturesque shallows, sandbars, and lagoons.
Amazing Beaches and No Crowds
The scenic Mudjin Harbour and Bambarra Beach are the best beaches on Middle Caicos, yet even considering the general popularity of these two coasts, the number of visitors to Middle Caicos is so low that you likely won’t have to share a coast with anyone else. The other lesser-known yet still beautiful beaches on the island can go weeks or months without seeing a soul.
As is the case throughout the Turks and Caicos, all beaches are public to the high tide point, with free access. Discover your own piece of secluded white sand paradise on Middle Caicos.
Snorkeling
During calm wind and ocean conditions, the snorkeling at Mudjin Harbour and Conch Bar Beach can be quite good. Spur and groove reef formations, coral arches, and yellow sea fans are abundant, and the occasional grey reef shark can be spotted as well. The two coasts are the only beaches in the Turks and Caicos where it’s easy to snorkel spur and groove features from shore.
The shore snorkeling quality on North Caicos and Middle Caicos is highly dependent on the weather. If it’s windy or if waves are breaking, we recommend postponing the activity.
Waves and Surf
More so than any other coast in the country, Mudjin Harbour and Conch Bar Beach can have an impressive swell and break at times.
For general swimming and snorkeling, we recommend avoiding the water when the waves are large. If such conditions are present, the typically sheltered Bambarra Beach is a great alternative.
Key Points
- All beaches are public and free, including beaches in front of private residences and rental villas. The law does not guarantee access across private property.
- Fishing without a license or in a protected national park or nature reserve is illegal and carries significant fines and possible jail time. This includes harvesting conch, lobster, or shellfish.
- Secluded beaches carry an increased risk of crime. Don’t leave valuables in your car or on the beach unattended. Read our Safety & Crime section for more information.
- Some beaches are very remote and there may not be any other people around to provide assistance in an emergency. Exercise caution and be aware of currents, surf conditions, and hidden hazards. If you’re interested in discovering remote beaches, we advise renting a 4x4 vehicle.
- Ensure that you have plenty of drinking water, especially when visiting remote locations.