Coral Gardens Reef — Providenciales, Turks & Caicos

A Few Tips about Coral Gardens Reef
4 of 5 stars There are probably plenty of children and adults that have learned to snorkel around Coral Gardens, also known as Bight Reef. This reef is excellent for beginners.
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A great place to snorkel, particularly for beginners.

Located not far from Beaches Resort and right opposite Somewhere Café, this reef is easy to find and explore. A parking lot exists at the Coral Gardens Resort.

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Coral Gardens is another name for Bight Reef

Due to its popularity, a large “ring” of rope circles a major portion of the reef. This is the no swim zone, and they do enforce this. I have also read where “fines” have been given out to snorkelers who cross over to the protected area.

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You must stay out of the ring circle.

There are underwater “plaques” to educate a snorkeler about the area. They were there in 2007 when we first visited. The plaques are getting a bit crusty.

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One of several crusty plaques

If you are looking for more of an advance reef, I highly recommend “Smith’s Reef,” just a little ways north off of Turtle Cove. Both reefs are part of the Alexandra Marine Reserve.

If you get hungry or thirsty, we highly recommend “Somewhere” Café a few steps away from Coral Gardens. They have excellent Conch Ceviche, tasty ribs and cool Pina Coladas.

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Looking outward from Somewhere Café.

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