The Electric Blue Waters of Chalk Sound

Feb 24, 2015 0 comments

Chalk Sound is a beautiful natural lagoon located on the southwest of Providenciales, an island belonging to the Turks and Caicos Islands, a British Overseas Territory in the North Atlantic Ocean. The waters of this 3-mile long lagoon is sparkling blue and studded with countless tiny rocky islands. While shallow bays with turquoise water are not unheard of but Chalk Sound is almost totally landlocked, which makes its dazzling electric-blue color all the more unbelievable. The water here is clean and algae free. Chalk Sound’s National Park status prevents the use of motorized watercraft in these waters which helps to maintain the pristine nature of the place.

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Photo credit

Most of the hundreds of islands merged here have a decent amount of vegetation with Caicos Rock Iguanas and Turks being the main occupants. These big lizards survive by feeding on cactuses, occasional insects, plants and foraging fruits. The waters are inhabited by bonefish and barracudas, while stingrays and small lemon sharks can occasionally be sighted.

Unfortunately, there are no designated scenic overlooks, public parking, or launching areas for kayaks in Chalk Sound, so it can be difficult to really appreciate the area. For now, the main attraction for most visitors is sightseeing by road on the southern side.

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The tiny cays of Chalk Sound. Photo credit

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This inlet is the only clear connection Chalk Sound has with the ocean. Photo credit

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Most of the water in Chalk Sound is quite shallow, often less than five feet. Photo credit

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Much of the coastline in Chalk Sound consists of sharp limestone formations. Photo credit

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Islands in Chalk Sound without iguanas often serve as nesting grounds for Laughing Gulls. Photo credit

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The west end of Chalk Sound has mangrove networks and expansive shallow areas. Photo credit

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The narrow strip of land on the south side of Chalk Sounds that separates the lagoon from the ocean has many villas and private residences. Photo credit

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This twin engine airplane wreck is another interesting feature in Chalk Sound. Photo credit

Sources: Visit TCI / Uncommon Caribbean

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