An Atlantic Ocean archipelago comprising 100 islands and cays, Turks and Caicos is the poster child for tropical paradise. With plenty of sunshine, white sand beaches, and clear turquoise waters, the island chain features a laid-back vibe that welcomes sunseekers and water sports enthusiasts—particularly kiteboarders, scuba divers, and snorkelers. Kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, sailing, and wakeboarding are among the adventurous things to do in Turks and Caicos. Or you can simply grab a cocktail and soak up the sun.
Temperatures in Turks and Caicos are usually around 80℉ (29℃); the water temperature stays in the same range as the air temperature during the summer months. A constant trade wind keeps the climate comfortable, so any time is a good time to visit the island chain. Tourism peaks around the holidays (December and January) and spring break (March and April). If you’re interested in scuba diving, January through March offers the best chances of spotting migrating rays, turtles, dolphins, and humpback whales.
Flights and ferries are centered around Turks and Caicos’ two hubs: Providenciales and Grand Turk, which is home to the only cruise ship port. Most visitors use rental cars or taxis to get around as there’s no public transport in Turks and Caicos. And since the attractions, restaurants, and hotels are spread out, walking isn’t an option. Tours typically include round-trip transfers from your accommodation.
Turks and Caicos consist of two groups of islands—the larger one is Caicos and the smaller one is Turks. The majority of visitors head to Grace Bay Beach on the island of Providenciales (known locally as Provo) while Grand Turk is home to the archipelago’s capital, Cockburn Town, and the only cruise ship port. Grand Turk only has a few resorts, whereas Provo boasts more resorts, excursions, and food options.
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Turks and Caicos is a popular destination for snorkelers and scuba divers thanks to its crystalline waters and thriving marine life. The island chain also boasts world-class beaches such as Grace Bay Beach, Long Bay Beach, Sandy Point Beach, and Pillory Beach.
...MorePlan to spend 5-7 days in Turks and Caicos. This gives you plenty of time to explore lesser-known areas of the island chain, such as North and Middle Caicos. Plus, if you’re diving, you’ll want to leave extra time on land before flying out.
...MoreAlthough petty crime like theft from rental cars does occur in Turks and Caicos, tourist hubs such as Grace Bay are relatively safe. Vigilance while traveling is recommended, especially on Providenciales, which has a higher crime rate than the other islands. Avoid walking alone and at night.
...MoreYes, Turks and Caicos can be expensive, but it’s comparable to other English-speaking countries in the Atlantic and Caribbean, such as Barbados, Bermuda, the Bahamas, and the Cayman Islands. Hotel prices vary by season, with wintertime being the highest. Restaurant prices are similar to those in major US cities.
...MoreHawaii is considered cheaper than Turks and Caicos, mainly because of flight costs. West Coasters in the US will have an easier (and less expensive) time getting to Hawaii. East Coasters can easily reach Turks and Caicos, but the flights tend to be costly even though they travel a shorter distance. Neither destination is considered budget-friendly, but Hawaii has more accommodations at different price points.
...MoreTourism in Turks and Caicos peaks from December to April, when school breaks take place, Caribbean cruise season happens, and snowbirds head south. Because it experiences year-round sunshine, any month is a good time to go. The island chain is vulnerable to hurricanes from late summer to the end of fall, but they’re rare.
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