Get a feel for the seafaring history of the Turks and Caicos Islands with a trip to see the rock carvings made by shipwrecked sailors at Sapodilla Bay. The inscriptions on the rocks range from names and dates to carvings of ships and buildings. The unfortunate sailors chose Sapodilla Hill as their lookout as it affords a wide view of the ocean beyond.
With carvings dating from the 1700s to the mid-1800s, the rocks at Sapodilla Bay paint a picture of sailors shipwrecked on Providenciales Island, awaiting a passing ship which might rescue them. Nowadays, you can climb the hill to enjoy unspoiled views over the bay in one direction and Chalk Sound in the other. To learn more about the history of the sailors of Turks and Caicos, consider joining a guided tour of the island that includes Sapodilla Bay.
- Make sure you wear sturdy shoes if you’re planning to climb the rocks to the top of the hill.
- Nearby Sapodilla Bay Beach is a pleasant place to stop for a swim and a picnic.
- Help to preserve the area for future visitors and do not step on the carvings.
- Bring your camera to capture the panoramic views.
To get to Sapodilla Bay, drive south from Providenciales Airport along South Dock Road, passing Chalk Sound lagoon along the way. There’s no public transport on the island, so you’ll need to rent a car, hire a taxi, or join a guided tour that includes transportation.
Sapodilla Bay is a popular sunset-watching spot, although it’s possible to visit at any time of day. High season in Turks and Caicos runs from December to March. Outside of these months you may find that some tourist amenities are closed.
With incredibly bright turquoise water (thanks to the fine limestone seabed), the lagoon at Chalk Sound is one of the best places on the island for kayaking or paddleboarding. On a calm day you can potter around the rocky islets on your watercraft and try to spot the rock iguanas that live there.
