Taylor Bay is a peaceful beach on the south coast of Providenciales, near Chalk Sound and west of Sapodilla Bay. According to the tourist board, the beach is about 600 meters long and is sheltered from the southeast trade winds by the small Ocean Point peninsula. The water is described as very shallow, calm and clear, typically a bit warmer than the north coast beaches, and almost always free of currents or underpulls. That makes it especially good for small children, and the tourist board adds that it is quieter than Sapodilla Bay and that the sand patterns are interesting at very low tide. It has a free beach with limited parking for about eight vehicles, and no lifeguards, so swimmers should know their limits. It is a rewarding stop on a south-coast drive that includes Chalk Sound, and a calm, low-key alternative when the north shore is windy.
Getting there: turn onto Ocean Point Drive from Chalk Sound Drive, about 0.8 miles from South Dock Road. The small parking area is on the right after roughly 300 meters, and a short walking path of about 134 meters leads down to the beach. Because parking is tiny, arrive early or go in the late afternoon, and be prepared to walk if the lot is full. The western access near Silly Creek is not an established route, so stick with the official one.
Why it suits families: the very shallow water extends a long way out, so small children can paddle and play with little risk of deep water, although the usual supervision still applies. The water can be warm, and there are interesting shells, conch and small rocks hidden in the sand, so water shoes are helpful. With no facilities listed, bring shade, water, snacks and a bag for your rubbish, and an umbrella if you forget shade.
Cautions: biting midges, known locally as sand flies, can be present around dawn and dusk, so bring insect repellent and consider timing your visit for the middle of the day. There are no lifeguards. The beach is a residential area, so keep noise and litter down and respect the neighboring villas. Taylor Bay works nicely as the beach half of a south-coast day, combined with a paddle on Chalk Sound and a quick look at Sapodilla Bay.
What to expect
The experience
A free, quiet beach with very shallow water, a small parking area and a short footpath to the sand.
Best time
Midday for calm, warm water; avoid dawn and dusk when biting midges can appear.
How long
One to three hours, depending on how long the children stay in the water.
Tips
Bring shade, water, snacks and insect repellent, wear water shoes, and arrive early because parking is limited to about eight vehicles.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Families with small children and anyone who wants a calm, uncrowded swim.
- Families
- One of the best beaches on the island for toddlers, thanks to the shallow, sheltered water.
- Couples
- Peaceful and private, though with no facilities, so bring a picnic.
- Pair with
- Chalk Sound for a paddle and Sapodilla Bay for a look at the next beach along.
- Time needed
- One to three hours, plus the drive from Grace Bay.
Good questions
Is Taylor Bay good for children?+
Yes, the tourist board describes the water as very shallow, calm and clear, with almost no currents or underpulls. Adults should still supervise closely, as there are no lifeguards.
Is there parking?+
A small lot holds about eight vehicles, and a short footpath leads to the sand. Arrive early or expect to wait.
Are there facilities?+
The tourist board does not list any facilities such as shops or restrooms, so bring everything you need and take your rubbish with you.
What about insects?+
Biting midges can be present at dawn and dusk. Bring repellent and consider visiting at midday.
How does it compare to Grace Bay?+
It is quieter, shallower and warmer, with no resorts or beach bars. Grace Bay has the long white sweep and the services, while Taylor Bay offers peace.