Going to Turks and Caicos? These Are the Best Things to Do

Linger at Grace Bay Beach.

There’s no shortage of beautiful beaches in Turks and Caicos, but it’s worth noting that Grace Bay Beach is one of the best in the Caribbean, if not the world. While there, “relax on the soft sand, take a dip in the crystal-clear turquoise waters, and soak up the sun,” says Whitt.

Eat conch in its many forms.

“Turks and Caicos is known for its abundant conch population, and many restaurants serve freshly caught conch,” says Whitt. “Whether it comes in the form of fritters, salad, ceviche, fresh off the beach, or fried, every visitor needs to try this island favorite.” Her go-to spot? Da Conch Shack.

Wayne Hall, owner and operator of Ocean Vibes & Grand Turk Shore Excursions, recommends “the local conch fritters at Mr. Groupers [and] some conch salad at Froggie’s.” Kalliecharan, on the other hand, says that the coconut-cracked conch at Bugaloos is a must-try dish.

Take a boat tour.

To get another perspective of Turks and Caicos, you’ll want to schedule a boat tour. “This is a great way to appreciate the beauty of the coastline, visit secluded cays, and even spot wildlife like dolphins or migrating humpback whales,” says Whitt. The tourism board recommends several charter companies, including Moana Charters, Sail Beluga, and Island Adventure TCI. 

Explore island caves.

Hall, who’s originally from Grand Turk and spent most of his childhood on Middle Caicos, suggests “[visiting] the twin islands of North and Middle Caicos and [exploring] the natural, unspoiled beauty and the caves.” Conch Bar Caves and Indian Cave—both dry cave systems—are open to the public.

Plan a spa day.

Relaxation is paramount in Turks and Caicos, so consider a spa day. “Many of our islands’ experienced wellness therapists combine global wellness practices with the traditional healing practices of the islands, and natural ingredients sourced from the surroundings and the Caribbean,” says Kalliecharan. For example, The Spa at The Palms offers treatments that incorporate a Mother of Pearl scrub, “which uses a precious blend of hand-crushed local queen conch shells and aromatherapy to gently revitalize and soften skin,” explains Whitt. “It’s a true island-inspired escape.”

Explore one of the world’s largest barrier reefs.

Turks and Caicos boasts a large barrier reef, measuring about 340 miles long, and both Hall and Whitt have it on their must-do lists. “It [provides] some of the best snorkeling and diving experiences, showcasing a vibrant ecosystem with colorful fish, coral formations, and even the chance to spot sea turtles and dolphins,” says Whitt.

Book a photo session.

A photo will last a lot longer than your Turks and Caicos suntan, so you’ll want to ensure you get a few amazing shots during your trip. Instead of taking them with your phone, schedule a quick session with a photographer (check out Brilliant Studios or Paradise Photography). Kalliecharan says that scheduling your shoot “about 1.5 hours before sunset” will guarantee excellent lighting.

Spend a day on Grand Turk.

Grand Turk, the second-most populated island in Turks and Caicos, has plenty to see and do, including Cockburn Town, the capital. “You can explore its colonial past, see pink flamingos up close, and swim with Atlantic humpback whales (when in season),” says Hall. The Grand Turk Lighthouse, built in 1852, is a historic landmark, and there’s a chance you’ll see flamingos while you’re there.

Swim with humpback whales.

If you want to see humpback whales, the best time to visit Turks and Caicos is from January through April, during the annual migration. Grand Turk and Salt Cay are prime places for whale sightings, but remember to keep your distance when swimming or snorkeling.

Visit the Turks and Caicos National Museum.

Travelers can familiarize themselves with the islands’ history during a visit to the Turks and Caicos National Museum. There are two locations—Grand Turk and Provo—and both offer tours, events, and classes. The Provo museum also has a “Heritage House,” which recreates how the region’s islanders lived in the past.

Try your hand at kiteboarding.

Whitt says that Long Bay Beach on Providenciales is best for kiteboarding; the island’s “consistent trade winds and calm, shallow waters” lend themselves beautifully to the sport. If you’ve never tried kiteboarding before, book a lesson with Big Blue Collective or Kite Provo.

Go on a horseback ride.

“For an unforgettable way to explore Turks and Caicos, I recommend booking a tour with Provo Ponies,” says Whitt. “The company offers guided horseback rides along the beautiful beaches of Providenciales. Guests can enjoy a leisurely ride along the shoreline, taking in stunning views of the turquoise waters and white-sand beaches.”

Have a cocktail at sunset.

“As the sun begins to set, head to a beachfront bar or restaurant to enjoy a refreshing cocktail or a cold local beer,” says Whitt. “Many places offer sunset views, live music, and a festive atmosphere. And, if you’re lucky, you might see the orange-colored sky and the green flash,” says Kalliecharan. The latter is a rare and stunning phenomenon that occurs when sunlight is refracted through the atmosphere into different frequencies.

Shop around Middle Caicos Co-op.

If you want to take home a handcrafted souvenir from Turks and Caicos, explore the offerings at the Middle Caicos Co-op. Visitors will find more than 30 island artisans selling their wares here, including straw and sewn work, as well as conch shell crafts, paintings, model sailboats, and jewelry.

Attend an island fish fry.

“Travelers should visit the local Fish Fry, which [has] a good variety of Caribbean restaurants, as well as authentic Turks and Caicos cuisine,” says Hall. Held every Thursday at 6 p.m. at Diamond Plaza in the Bight, the weekly event brings local food vendors and musicians together for family-friendly fun. Admission is free, but you’ll need cash for many of the stalls.

Indulge in the catch of the day.

If you can’t make it to the weekly Fish Fry, that’s okay—but you’ll still want to add freshly caught fish to your lineup of meals. Hall’s top suggestion? Grilled or fried fish paired with peas and grits at Crackpot Kitchen.

Kayak through the mangroves.

Immerse yourself in nature on a kayak tour of calm waters. “You can kayak from Providenciales straight into the mangroves, which are the breeding ground for marine life and birds, as well as a protective barrier for coral and other marine ecosystems,” says Whitt. Many operators have clear-bottomed kayaks. If you have a keen eye, you might spot “juvenile turtles, sharks, rays, and other small sea creatures,” adds Hall.

Look up at the stars.

Sundown may signal the end of a beach day, but it also means it’s time to stargaze. “The clear skies of Turks and Caicos offer incredible views of the stars and constellations,” says Whitt. “Take a moment to appreciate the tranquility and beauty of this island paradise before calling it a night.”

Keep an eye out for Turks and Caicos rock iguanas.

Hall recommends visiting Half Moon Bay to see “native rock iguanas in their natural habitat.” The three-quarter mile beach is found between Little Water Cay and Water Cay, and the iguanas are known to come out onto the dunes.

End your trip with an elevated dinner.

“We have an incredible array of culinary experiences here in Turks and Caicos,” says Kalliecharan. Dinner at the Chef’s Table at Provence by Eric is at the top of his list, but other fine-dining options include Grace’s Cottage, Coco Bistro, and Caicos Cafe.