Although centrally located, this location doesn’t see many visitors. The beach is rather nice, and the water tends to be shallow. Interesting snorkeling can be found further out.
3-star rating for Babalua Beach by Visit Turks and Caicos Islands
The beautiful Babalua Beach, Providenciales.
Located between Turtle Cove and Thompson Cove, Babalua Beach (sometimes referred to as Blue Mountain Beach) is often overlooked. The ocean here doesn’t offer as pristine swimming conditions as Grace Bay, The Bight, and Leeward do, but the area is a bit more secluded while still easy to access.
Babalua Beach is about 3,000 feet (900 m) long. Because it’s bordered by the channel into Turtle Cove Marina on one side and sea cliffs on the other, it’s not possible to walk along the coast to other beaches.
Great snorkeling can be found 1,400 feet (425 m) down the beach west from the main access, but the easier to find and more expansive nearby Smith’s Reef probably makes more sense as a snorkeling site.
The water depth in the area is generally quite shallow, and seagrass beds occupy much of the water off the beach. In addition to the small reef near the Babalua Beach access, another larger reef system can be found a bit further down the coast near the ocean cliffs of Blue Mountain.
Above: Babalua Beach, Providenciales.
Top right: Top left:
Bluehead wrasse at Babalua Beach, Providenciales.
Bottom right: Top right:
A bluehead wrasse at Babalua Beach, Providenciales.
Dangers
Turtle Cove Marina is located on the eastern end of the beach, and there is a threat to swimmers from vessels entering and leaving the marina and vessels operating snorkeling tours of the Babalua Beach reefs. Be very cautious if you're swimming near the channel and while snorkeling along the reef.
Warnings & Regulations
Lionfish
Watch out for lionfish. Lionfish spines are venomous. Touching spines causes a painful, sometimes dangerous, sting.
Watch for Boats
Boat strikes kill. Observe swimming and boating zones. Always watch for boats, especially at sunset when there is less light.
No Fishing
It is illegal to fish and collect conch and lobster in a National Park. Violators will face large fines and jail time.
Do Not Take Shells or Coral
It is illegal to remove shells, corals, plants, animals, and sand from a National Park without government permission.
Do Not Touch Fish or Coral
Keep well away from all marine life. Certain fish and animal species are venomous, and touching them may result in serious injury.
Dogs Must Be on Leash
It is illegal to have unleashed dogs on the beach and in public. Keep your dog leashed and clean up after it.
No Lifeguard
There are no lifeguards present in this area. Swim at your own risk and know your own limits.
No Littering
It is illegal to litter or dump waste. This includes cigarette butts, bottles, cans, and plastic. Take trash with you.
Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Many sunscreens kill coral. Use zinc oxide or titanium dioxide sunscreen, or wear sun-protective clothing.
Babalua Beach Access
Babalua Beach has the public Main Access, which is found by following Cherokee Road from Leeward Highway to its end. The access is hidden behind the massive rock at the end of the road, on the far side of the last large villa.
