General Information The Turks and Caicos Islands aptly proclaimed “ Beautiful by Nature”, are famous for their unspoiled white sandy beaches, which cover more then 230 miles and also the turquoise crystal waters that surrounded them.  These Caribbean Islands are situated 575 miles southeast of Miami, 39 miles south east of Mayaguana in the Bahamas, 90 miles north of the Dominican Republic and 90 miles east of Cuba.  The Turks and Caicos Islands are a British Dependent Territory and comprise of eight major islands and over 40 cays, pronounced "keys."  They are Salt Cay, Grand Turk, South Caicos, East Caicos, Middle Caicos, North Caicos, Providenciales and West Caicos.  Only East Caicos now remains uninhabited. Today the tourism industry gives the Turks and Caicos about 1/3 of its revenue.  Scuba divers and wildlife enthusiasts alike can enjoy the wonders of the reefs and marine life that are found here in the Turks and Caicos. In addition to this, the islands are also a major offshore tax free financial center. There is a small traditional fishing industry that continues throughout Turks and Caicos.