North of the Caribbean Sea and just 575 miles off the South Florida shore, you’ll find Turks and Caicos, a stand-out island getaway in the Atlantic Ocean. Turks and Caicos offer a unique vacation experience, surrounding guests with luxury and serenity for an unmatched tropical oasis. The islands boast a vibrant tourism industry while also providing visitors with a sense of seclusion and emotional connection to this paradise.
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As an Overseas Territory of the UK, US visitors are required to show a passport when visiting the Turks and Caicos. But if you have one, the islands are accessible by both plane and cruise ship. US airlines offer direct, inexpensive flights nearly all year. Cruises can take you to the center of the action on the main island of Providenciales (often referred to as Provo) while maximizing fun!
If you’re interested in learning more about things to do in Turks and Caicos, check out this list of attractions and activities, or contact one of our expert travel advisors to plan your island itinerary!
Best Beaches in Turks and Caicos
Grace Bay Beach
No itinerary is complete without the world-famous Grace Bay Beach, considered by many to be the best beach in Turks and Caicos. A sight to behold, it is a nearly three mile long stretch of unblemished and serene white sand. The beach’s large size means that there’s plenty of space for you and your family to enjoy fun and sun, even on more crowded days. Although among the best reasons to visit Provo, Grace Bay Beach is also near many other Turks and Caicos activities and attractions.
More often than not, visitors here are spoiled with clear blue skies and impossibly warm and calm waters. The islands’ exceptional climate and the large barrier reefs just off the coast mean subdued waves and safe swimming for all ages. Enjoy a picture perfect afternoon soaking up rays and taking a dip in inviting waters on this must-see (and do) of the Turks and Caicos experience.
Leeward Beach
Leeward Beach is considered by many to be a more low-key beach experience and a bit more private, especially during the Turks and Caicos’ off-season. Leeward is no less beautiful than Grace Bay Beach, containing a number of scenic locations unlike those found elsewhere in Turks and Caicos. Mangrove Cay, Little Water Cay, and Blue Haven Marina are three of the top Leeward Beach attractions that capture the island getaway experience, with safe areas to explore and take incredible photographs.
Each offers opportunities to explore fascinating island formations including caves, lagoons, and reefs that can require a boat, kayak, and/or tour guide to see fully. Catamaran cruises, snorkeling, and shipwreck viewing are all available in and around Leeward Beach.
Things to Do in Turks and Caicos
Snorkeling
Snorkeling is among the most popular activities in Turks and Caicos, with several highly-recommended sites right on Provo. With diving experiences ranging from beginner (and family-friendly) to intermediate difficulty, you can witness the beautiful and, in some cases, endangered reefs teeming with sea life. Reefs off of Grand Turk island, the remote but pristine Salt Cay, and the exotic French Cay, home to a mysterious underwater shipwreck, are a few favorites.
Golfing
Turks and Caicos may not normally be thought of as a golf paradise but the islands contain several beautiful nine-hole courses and one highly rated 18-hole course, the Royal Turks and Caicos Golf Club. You only need one when the course is this good!
This beautiful championship course maintains a regular place on annual lists of top Caribbean golf courses. Located on Providenciales just minutes from Grace Bay, the target-style course is open to the public and provides an exciting challenge for intermediate golfers while remaining accessible to more novice players.
The Platinum TE™ Paspalum turf covered fairways are the gold standard for ocean courses and have optimal playability any time of year. Eleven of the 18 Royal Golf Club holes feature water hazards for an experience that’s as visually captivating as it is fun!
Shopping
As an archipelago known for its luxury resorts, Turks and Caicos also offers a range of shopping experiences for those who want to indulge in a little retail therapy. Many of the best shopping options are on the island of Providenciales, with stores ranging from locally-owned gift shops to boutique galleries. Shop fashion, art, gourmet groceries, and island-themed jewelry, and take much of it home duty-free.
Many of the resorts offer their own retail options with chic and comfortable clothing from brands and lines only available on the islands. You can find something for any occasion in case you regret leaving a wardrobe item at home or are ready for something new. Many of the brands here feature eco-friendly, fair trade, and mindfully-produced clothing and accessories.
