East Caicos

East Caicos is an 18sq mi/46sq km uninhabited island best known for its plantation ruins and cave artwork. Swamps and mangroves engulf most of the island.

Sea turtles use a splendid 17mi/27km beach on the north coast of the to lay their eggs. The area is home to flamingos, wild ducks and pigeons.

There are many ponds and lakes on the island, and at White Top Pond grow the Palmetto thatch palms, which are still in great demand for making hats.

Jacksonville, the northernmost point of the island, was the center of administration of a 50,000ac/20,000ha sisal plantation.

East Caicos will be a hub for cruise ships when a new cruise port is completed in 2003.