Valley Bay Beach
South Caicos
This wild and rugged coast is found on the east coast of South Caicos and fronts the Turks Islands Passage (the deep marine channel which separates the Caicos archipelago from the Turks Islands).
Much of this coastline is limestone ironshore cliff that ranges in height from about 10 to 30 feet (3–9 m). Several secluded beaches can be found hidden at the base of the cliffs in places.
Valley Bay Beach is an amazing hiking destination. On the beach and at the low points on the cliffs, interesting flotsam can be found (much of which has traveled the long distance from across the Atlantic).
The swimming conditions are not up to the standard of Grace Bay Beach and some of the other top coasts in the Turks and Caicos, but many patches are nevertheless beautiful.
Two ridges—Two Sister's Hill and Tatem Field Hill—follow the coastline a short distance inland. The view from the summits overlooking Bell Sound and the South Caicos salinas is spectacular.
Snorkeling
When ocean and wind conditions are calm, great snorkeling can be found at the many coral heads off the beach here. The southern end of Valley Bay where the coast meets Highlands Bay tends to have the best sights.
Getting Here
Access to Valley Bay Beach is difficult. A few unpaved and rather rough roads can be found nearby—however, it’s not possible to drive directly to the coast.
The closest road access is the tracks leading to the Highlands House and Highlands Bay. Another option is an abandoned network of overgrown roads from a development project. It’s best to simply follow the unpaved road east of the expansive main salina and explore until you find an appealing spot to stop. This entire region of the island is uninhabited.
The sun and heat are typically intense. Bring plenty of drinking water.