Nature & Wildlife

Iguana Island & Half Moon Bay: Wildlife and Wow

Iguana Island (Little Water Cay) is one of the most unique stops on a Turks & Caicos private charter—home to the endangered Turks & Caicos Rock Iguana, found nowhere else on Earth. Just next door, Half Moon Bay is a shallow, lagoon-like sandbar with powdery sand and calm, turquoise water—perfect for wading, relaxing, and easy swimming.

When to Go

Year-round access. For the brightest aqua color and clearest views, aim for mid-morning to early afternoon on calm days. Weekdays are typically quieter; weekends can be busier.

What You’ll See

• Rock Iguanas basking along sandy trails and low scrub.
• Shallow lagoon at Half Moon Bay with gentle, waist-deep water.
• Birdlife including pelicans and herons across the flats.
• Marine life like rays and juvenile reef fish in the shallows.

Pair It With…

• Snorkeling nearby reefs alive with coral and tropical fish.
• Sandbar stop for that “standing in the sea” photo moment.
• Noah’s Ark floating bar to add a social, beach-club vibe after wildlife spotting.

Tips for Visiting

• Use reef-safe sunscreen, bring a hat, and hydrate—shade is limited.
• Wear water shoes if crossing seagrass or rocky patches.
• Do not feed or touch the iguanas (protected species).
• Pack a camera—both wildlife and lagoon are incredibly photogenic.

More Info

Learn about conservation efforts from the Turks & Caicos National Trust.