Villa Esencia
- 27 Long Bay Beach Drive, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands
- 1 (561)-935-3365
- 1-649-941-5605
- [email protected]
- www.villaesencia.com
- 5/5
- 4/5
- 3/5
- 3/5
Gentle winds, shallow sea, warm waters, safe and secure, long wide beach, low density of riders – this is Long Bay, Turks and Caicos – a paradise-perfect destination for beginner and advanced riders, for foilers and non-foliers alike.
Directly on the beach, hidden in the lush plants and trees, you will find Villa Esencia – a low density resort with only 11 rental units, offering first-class amenities.
The foil center offers gear rental, air compressors on the beach, storage and more. And on low wind days there are plenty of activities available such as SUPs, ocean kayaks, and snorkeling.
THE LOWDOWN
The Turks & Caicos Islands (TCIs) should definitely be high on your bucket list – this is a high-end destination for foilers and non-foiler alike. The island of Providenciales has become one of the most desired winging, kiting and foiling destinations on the planet… with two world-renowned beaches, Grace Bay and Long Bay, offering cross onshore winds, almost no crowds, and plenty of perfect, shallow, crystal clear waters. All this is just over a one-hour flight from Miami and easily accessible from all over the US.
FOILING SET UP
Long Bay is the big go-to spot, a three-mile white sand beach on the south side of Providenciales. Shore or side onshore winds, warm shallow waters, and fairly flat water with little chop, no rocks or rip currents means this beach is made for wingfoiling. At the centre of Long Bay you’ll find Villa Esenica, along with the main kite and wing schools that have set up here so it’s ideal for the learners amongst you. For those more advanced riders, head to Grace Bay to catch waves on the reef and sandbars but expect deep water launches and strong northerlies here.
Two more nearby spots to check out depending on conditions are Leeward and Five Kays.
WHEN IS BEST TO GO?
Hit here from mid June until the end of August for the best kiting conditions, but there are consistent trade winds almost all year, except for September.
If you’re looking for bigger waves and stronger winds, head here in the winter season from late November through to April.
NO WIND?
The TCI’s are considered one of the world’s best-kept secrets. Pristine beaches and spectacular coral reefs make it perfect for snorkelling and diving, and there’s always the option to SUP, kayak, sail or go fishing too. Jump on a horse, take a guided nature tour or simply relax in the natural environment. Alternatively, indulge in a little luxury and rejuvenate your mind and body in one of the world class spas on offer.
Fly to Providenciales (PLS), easy from the US and European airports. Then take a shuttle or taxi to your resort, or book ahead for a rental car.
Check Windguru and pack accordingly, from 3.5 to 5.5m. The wind is usually stronger than forecast at the end of the day. Recommended mast length is 70cm for both low and high tide, or 90cm for high tide or further south.
Long-sleeve rashies, sun hat and plenty of sunscreen. In winter, a thin wetsuit top or maybe a shortie.
Fish, lobster, conch, jerk chicken, rice and peas. Many restaurants for fine dining.
For a busier party scene, head to Banny Buoy’s or Ricky’s on the beach in Grace Bay, or live music, bbq’s and bonfires at Da Conch Shack, Bugaloo’s restaurant and Sharkbite.
