Just below the Bahamas and east of Cuba, the pristine Turks and Caicos Islands attract nature-lovers and those looking for a quiet tropical getaway. Only eight of the 40 islands and cays that make up this British Crown Colony are inhabited. Its sparse population and eco-friendly outlook have made Turks and Caicos Islands vacations increasingly popular with divers, anglers, birders, beach-lovers and high-end travelers.

A vacation in Turks and Caicos usually starts in Providenciales, or Provo, home to the main airport as well as many fine hotels, restaurants and attractions. Visitors can fly or take a boat to the other islands, including Grand Turk and Salt Cay, known for their excellent diving (one of the most extensive coral reef systems in the world surrounds Turks and Caicos); Middle Caicos, home to the biggest cave network in the Caribbean; North Caicos, an up-and-coming resort destination; and South Caicos, home to a thriving fishing industry. Exclusive resorts occupy the private islands of Parrot Cay and Pine Cay, while luxury resorts and communities will soon debut in West Caicos, Ambergris Cay and Dellis Cay. Wherever a Turks and Caicos vacation take you, you’re sure to encounter fascinating wildlife. The islands’ turquoise waters are a haven for marine turtles, migrating whales and dolphins, while rare birds can often be spotted on land. During a Turks and Caicos family vacation, children delight in an encounter with JoJo the Dolphin, who has lived and played in the islands’ waters since 1980. As one of the few dolphins in the world that voluntarily interacts with humans, JoJo has been proclaimed a National Treasure.

U.S. citizens traveling by air to the Turks and Caicos require a valid passport and must present a roundtrip ticket. Visitors are allowed stays of up to 30 days, renewable one time only. Car rentals are available, and a U.S. driver’s license is an acceptable qualification to drive for up to 30 days. The average temperature ranges from 85°F to 90°F from June to October, and from 80°F to 84°F from November to May. Hurricane season runs from June 1 to Nov. 30. English is the official language, and the U.S. dollar is the official currency. For more information on Turks and Caicos vacations, log on to www.turksandcaicostourism.com, the Turks and Caicos Tourist Board’s website.