Vrbo Property

If you’re looking for somewhere charming, historic, cute, comfortable, quiet, relaxing, and off the beaten track, while still close enough to town, you’ve come to the right place. Ocean views and sunsets can be enjoyed from the upstairs veranda, expanding past the historic Government House to the ocean on one side to views of the sleepy Salt Salinas on the other. If you enjoy bird watching, Charming House is a few minutes walk to the creek. This is where we regularly see large flocks of flamingos and enjoy the sounds of waves crashing against rocks while often spotting whales in the distance. Dunscombe point, a popular swimming and snorkeling spot, is also a short walk or bike ride away across the Salinas. This is a nature lover’s paradise where you really will enjoy all that Salt Cay has to offer. ARCTIC CAT BUGGY AVAILABLE FOR RENT Salt Cay is the island that time forgot. It’s very different to Grace Bay Beach on Provo and you won’t find many tourists here. Donkeys, whales and locals will keep you entertained while you relax and forget all about your former life! Charming house was built circa 1900, but no one really knows exactly when.; it might be even older. The Government House, which sits right next door, was built in 1790. Charming House was originally the family home of Felix LIghtbourne, a well known boatbuilder. The house was built of hand-cut stone at the rear, with timbers from old ships at the front, which were reproduced during its restoration in 2008. Sadly, all the old timbers were too far gone to save, except for a few used in the bathroom ceiling. The floor plan is the original size and shape, including the kitchen, which was rebuilt with extra height but otherwise as was. The present bathroom is where the old one had also been fitted, although very primitively. Furnishings are Shaker and in keeping with the house. The house had just been finished when Ike blew through in 2008, doing lots of damage to many buildings but none at all to the freshly rebuilt Charming House! The house also stood up remarkably well to the 2017 hurricanes, although sadly the old shed which had been re-clad on original timbers, was destroyed. If you decide to choose Charming House for your stay, you will undoubtedly enjoy being completely immersed in the historic charm that makes Salt Cay so special. Please note that the upstairs veranda and a well in the garden make Charming House hazardous for young children. If you decide to come with children, they should be closely supervised at all times. Gorgeous beaches are a 5-10 mins golf cart drive away and 2 restaurants are less than 5 mins walk from the house. (Meals should be ordered ahead of time). Renting a golf cart for at least 1 day in order to see the whole island is recommended, although walking and riding bicycles is definitely possible. If you have a love for nature, history, diving, whales or donkeys, Salt Cay is the place to come. Salt Cay is a bit like living on a farm and you will meet donkeys, cows and chickens while walking down the street. The island attracts divers, whale watchers and eco tourists or those who want to experience how life was during the Salt Industry. This truly is the gem of Turks and Caicos. A boat trip to Cotton Cay or Great Sand Cay should definitely be included in your itinerary while here. These cays are stunning and remain untouched. December to March or early April, sees scores of humpback whales come to the Silver Banks to mate or give birth, and the Columbus Passage between the islands of Grand Turk and Salt Cay is on their migratory route. This stretch, shallow and warm, is an ideal training grounds for momma to teach baby about breathing and other whale-life basics. This really is a sight not to be missed if you are planning a trip to Turks and Caicos. When searching for accommodations on VRBO, ensure you are choosing a lodging on Salt Cay and not Grand Turk, if Salt Cay is where you want to come, as this isn’t always clear. There are very few accommodations listed for Salt Cay. Grand Turk is also interesting to visit and is where the cruise ships come in. If staying on Grand Turk, it is possible to visit Salt Cay for the day, but in my opinion you need longer to really get to experience all this sleepy place has to offer. At least 2-3 nights would be my suggestion and longer if you are diving, snorkeling or whale watching. Providenciales has many options for hotels and villas on Grace Bay Beach, which have made Turks and Caicos famous in recent years. To get to Salt Cay, you must fly into Providenciales from your destination, and take another flight to Salt Cay on InterCaribbean Airways. Flights run daily to Grand Turk with connections in and out of Salt Cay currently on Monday and Friday. There is a ferry that comes from Grand Turk on Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday, so you can transfer to Salt Cay via ferry or plane. Private boats are also available and a good way to get over is by booking a whale excursion from either Grand Turk or Salt Cay and asking them you to drop you off in Salt Cay. I also manage a property on Providenciales if you wish to split your holiday between both places. Message me for more information or search Sunrise Ridge Villa. North and Middle Caicos are also great options and easily accessible from Provo by ferry. I can also help you with flight arrangements, itineraries etc. I will do whatever I can to help you choose an exciting island hopping vacation if that is what you want!