Turks and Caicos

Turks and Caicos is a small group of islands in the Caribbean known for clear turquoise water, soft beaches and luxury resorts. A relaxing escape perfect for travelers who want calm seas, good food and quiet island time.

Population46,855
LanguagesEnglish
Local time2:58 PM
Flagtc flag
CurrenciesUSD
Area948 km²
Turks and Caicos
28°C
broken clouds
Feels like: 31°C

Best time to travel

Turks and Caicos stays warm and sunny for most of the year, making it a good destination any time. The best time to visit is from December to April when the weather is dry, breezy and ideal for the beach. Average temperatures stay between 77°F and 84°F (25–29°C). This is also peak season, so it’s wise to book early if you plan to come during these months.

Where to stay

Most travelers stay on Providenciales, the main island of Turks and Caicos. It has the widest range of hotels, beaches and restaurants. But if you want a more remote experience, a few of the smaller islands also offer peaceful escapes and great snorkeling.

Grace Bay

Grace Bay is the heart of the island and home to the most resorts, restaurants and things to do. The beach is calm and with clear water that’s perfect for swimming and paddleboarding.

  • Best for first-time visitors, families and couples
  • Plenty of hotel options, from boutique stays to luxury suites
  • Easy access to shops, tours and dining
Grace Bay

Grace Bay. Photo: Tobias Lindman. CC.

Long Bay

Just a short drive from Grace Bay, Long Bay is quieter with fewer hotels and a more relaxed pace. The beach has shallow water and steady wind, making it a favorite for kiteboarding.

  • Great for privacy and water sports
  • Mostly private villas and upscale rentals
  • You’ll want a rental car to get around
Long Bay Beach

Long Bay Beach. CC.

Grand Turk Island

Grand Turk is the island where you’ll find Cockburn Town, the capital of Turks and Caicos. It has a quieter pace, with small guesthouses, open beaches and a strong sense of local life.

  • Best for travelers who want history, calm beaches and no rush
  • Small inns and guesthouses rather than large resorts
  • Great diving and snorkeling right off the coast
Grand Turk

Grand Turk. Photo: Balou46. CC.

Is Turks and Caicos safe?

Turks and Caicos is considered safe, especially in tourist areas like Grace Bay. Most visits go smoothly with no issues. Petty theft can happen if you leave valuables unattended, but violent crime is rare. Stay aware of your surroundings and follow local advice to keep your trip easy and relaxed.

Top things to do

Turks and Caicos is all about the ocean. From beach days to snorkeling, this island group is one of the best places in the Caribbean to enjoy clear water and marine life. Whether you stay on Providenciales or visit the smaller cays, here are the top places to experience the islands at their best.

Swim at Grace Bay Beach

Often ranked as one of the best beaches in the Caribbean, Grace Bay has calm water and soft sand that stretches for miles. It is ideal for swimming, floating or just relaxing. You can rent paddleboards or take a boat tour right from the beach.

Grace Bay Swimming

Grace Bay Swimming. Photo: Dirk2112. CC.

4hour Group Half Day Snorkeling Excursion in Grace Bay
Free cancellation
4.7 (2,571)
4hour Group Half Day Snorkeling Excursion in Grace Bay
4h
$125
2 Hour Champagne Sunset Cruise from Grace Bay, Providenciales (Adult Only)
Free cancellation
4.8 (999)
2 Hour Champagne Sunset Cruise from Grace Bay, Providenciales (Adult Only)
2h
$122
4-Hour Catamaran Sail and Snorkel Tour from Grace Bay
Free cancellation
4.8 (1,463)
4-Hour Catamaran Sail and Snorkel Tour from Grace Bay
4h
$146

Go on an ATV adventure

ATV tours are a fun way to explore the islands beyond the beach. You’ll ride along quiet trails, coastal paths and through areas most visitors never reach. It’s a simple, active way to see a different side of Turks and Caicos.

GRAND TURK: Luxury ATV Adventure Tour
Free cancellation
4.9 (238)
GRAND TURK: Luxury ATV Adventure Tour
1h 30min
$119
Lets Ride Adventures ATV Tour in Grand Turk
Free cancellation
3.8 (39)
Lets Ride Adventures ATV Tour in Grand Turk
1h - 1h
$80
ATV Adventure tour on Providenciales
Free cancellation
5 (10)
ATV Adventure tour on Providenciales
1h 25min
$118

Take a half-day trip to Iguana Island

Also known as Little Water Cay, this protected island is home to the endangered rock iguana. It is just off the coast of Providenciales and can be reached by kayak or boat. The boardwalk trails and quiet beaches make for a peaceful outing.

Iguana Island

Iguana Island. Photo: RoadTripWarrior. CC.

4hour Group Half Day Snorkeling Excursion in Grace Bay
Free cancellation
4.7 (2,571)
4hour Group Half Day Snorkeling Excursion in Grace Bay
4h
$125
Exclusive Supreme Snorkeling Tour
Free cancellation
4.5 (515)
Exclusive Supreme Snorkeling Tour
3h 30min
$149
Morning Half Day Cruise from Providenciales with Snorkeling and Iguana Island
Free cancellation
4.7 (1,207)
Morning Half Day Cruise from Providenciales with Snorkeling and Iguana Island
4h
$140

Nightlife

Nightlife in Turks and Caicos is pretty calm but fun, with most of the action centered on Providenciales. You will not find big clubs or loud parties, but there are beach bars, live music and sunset cocktails that make for easy evenings.

  • Da Conch Shack - A beachfront spot known for seafood, rum drinks and live music nights. Great for casual dinners with a local vibe.
  • Infiniti Bar - at Grace Bay Club, this elegant bar is perfect for a more upscale night out.
  • Somewhere Café - A relaxed beach bar on Grace Bay with a rooftop deck and occasional live music. Great for watching the sunset.
  • Sharkbite - A friendly local hangout in Turtle Cove Marina. Casual, fun and popular with both visitors and residents.

Where is Turks and Caicos?

Turks and Caicos sits in the northern Caribbean, just southeast of the Bahamas and north of the Dominican Republic. The chain includes around 40 islands and cays, with Providenciales as the main stop for visitors.

Fun facts

  • There is no income tax or sales tax in Turks and Caicos.

  • Grace Bay Beach is often ranked among the top beaches in the world.

  • Whale watching is possible from January to March near Salt Cay.

  • Several movies and television episodes have been filmed in the islands.

FAQ Turks and Caicos

Nearby Countries

Haiti
Haiti flag
overcast clouds30°C

Haiti

Travel smart in Haiti with tips on where to stay, what to see, and safety.

Explore Haiti
Dominican Republic
Dominican Republic flag
light rain25°C

Dominican Republic

Among Caribbean gems, the Dominican Republic surprises at every turn.

Explore Dominican Republic
Cuba
Cuba flag
overcast clouds28°C

Cuba

Colorful culture, vintage cars, warm locals and Caribbean charm await in Cuba.

Explore Cuba
Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico flag
clear sky28°C

Puerto Rico

Golden beaches, rich culture and Latin rhythm make Puerto Rico a true island gem.

Explore Puerto Rico