West Caicos Island
Uninhabited island in Turks and Caicos, marine habitats
West Caicos lies west of Providenciales in the Turks and Caicos archipelago; the largely undeveloped island attracts boaters and divers to its reefs, bays and offshore cays.
West Caicos at a Glance#
Address: West Caicos, Turks and Caicos Islands
About West Caicos#
West Caicos is an uninhabited island in the Turks and Caicos Islands, lying to the west of the more populated Providenciales. It is best known for its nearshore reefs and quiet beaches.
The island has not supported a permanent large settlement in modern times; like other islands in the group, it has been part of the broader colonial and maritime history of the Turks and Caicos.
West Caicos lies immediately west of Providenciales and is part of the Turks and Caicos archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean, within the British Overseas Territory.
- Marine recreation: The island is largely undeveloped and is noted for offshore reef systems that attract snorkelers and divers.
How to Get to West Caicos#
West Caicos is reached by private boat or charter from Providenciales (PLS). There is no regular ferry service. Skippers familiar with local currents and reef channels are recommended; itineraries are weather dependent.
Tips for Visiting West Caicos#
- Charter a small boat from Providenciales and plan for a skipper who knows the reef channels; currents can be strong.
- Explore the western shores for saltpan ruins and shallow reefs - snorkeling near the fringing reef reveals sponges and nurse sharks.
- Bring cash and supplies; there are no tourist facilities on the island.
Best Time to Visit West Caicos#
Visit in the dry season for reliable sea conditions and clearer water.
Weather & Climate near West Caicos#
West Caicos's climate is classified as Tropical Savanna - Tropical Savanna climate with consistently warm temperatures year-round. Temperatures range from 20°C to 32°C. Moderate rainfall (759 mm/year).
| Month | Comfort | Temp | Feels | Rain | Sky | Humidity | Wind | UV | Daylight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | - | 20° - 28° | 24° | 57 mm | - | - | 3.5 m/s | - | - |
| February | - | 21° - 28° | 24° | 41 mm | - | - | 4.0 m/s | - | - |
| March | - | 21° - 28° | 25° | 38 mm | - | - | 3.8 m/s | - | - |
| April | - | 23° - 29° | 26° | 45 mm | - | - | 3.8 m/s | - | - |
| May | - | 24° - 29° | 27° | 67 mm | - | - | 3.8 m/s | - | - |
| June | - | 24° - 31° | 28° | 49 mm | - | - | 3.5 m/s | - | - |
| July | - | 25° - 32° | 28° | 30 mm | - | - | 4.8 m/s | - | - |
| August | - | 25° - 32° | 28° | 51 mm | - | - | 4.4 m/s | - | - |
| September | - | 25° - 32° | 28° | 76 mm | - | - | 4.5 m/s | - | - |
| October | - | 24° - 31° | 27° | 114 mm | - | - | 3.6 m/s | - | - |
| November | - | 22° - 29° | 26° | 120 mm | - | - | 5.0 m/s | - | - |
| December | - | 21° - 28° | 25° | 71 mm | - | - | 4.4 m/s | - | - |