Start your morning off by heading to the northern tip of the island to take in the views and history at the Grand Turk Lighthouse. Just south of the lighthouse is North Creek, where you can enjoy bird-watching, kayaking, and horseback riding. History buffs can head to the Salt House museum to learn how this commodity shaped the history of the islands.

Spend the afternoon exploring Cockburn Town, the capital city of the Turks and Caicos. Stroll along Front Street to admire the colorful colonial buildings, and visit popular attractions such as Her Majesty’s Prison and the Turks and Caicos National Museum, where you can see artefacts excavated from shipwrecks and learn about the indigenous people of the islands.

Soak up the late afternoon sun and enjoy the sunset from a convenient seaside spot like Cockburn Town Beach or Governor’s Beach. If a cruise ship is in town, another option is to head to Cruise Center (SunRay) Beach, home to the largest Margaritaville in the Caribbean.

On your second day, get out on and in the water: Grand Turk is known for its pristine waters and an abundance of sea life. Just off the west coast is the Grand Turk Wall, which offers several excellent diving sites. A lot of the area’s sea life can also be seen close to the surface, making it an ideal spot for snorkelers as well.

In the afternoon, head to Gibb’s Cay, on the eastern side of Grand Turk, to interact with gentle stingrays under supervision in shallow waters. (This is a popular activity and is included on many island tours.) Alternatively, charter a boat and go hopping around the nearby uninhabited islands, including Round Cay, Long Cay, and Martin Alonzo Pinzon Cay.

If you chartered a boat, enjoy the sunset out on the water. Otherwise, sip sundowners along the beach and enjoy the island vibes. After dinner, find a local bar offering live music and wrap up your trip listening to the rake-and-scrape of ripsaw.