Turks and Caicos is a collection of 40 islands near Bermuda with the most-visited ones being Providenciales, North Caicos, South Caicos, Middle Caicos, Salt Cay and Grand Turk. Since there are so many you can visit, and since it is close to other Caribbean Islands, it is a sought-after destination among vacationers, honeymooners, and those planning an anniversary or milestone birthday trip.
Turks and Caicos is known for its perfect beaches. Think white, powdery sands and shades of turquoise in the water that you just can’t find anywhere else. But what are some of the can’t-miss attractions here that make it worth the trip?
Read on to learn about some of the seemingly endless number of things to do at Turks and Caicos.
Luxury resorts are plentiful at Turks and Caicos and it is home to one of the top beaches in the world. But what else can you do once you get there? The good news is that there are activities that work for everyone whether you are an adult or child. And since many of the islands within it are small, it’s also easy to navigate through it and see several attractions in a short amount of time.
So, if you are only here for a few days, you will still be able to check off many items from your itinerary. If you are a fan of the idea of choosing your own adventure, Turks and Caicos is the place for you.
Many people visit Providenciales as it is home to many of the luxury resorts and is a well-developed part of Turks and Caicos. But don’t be afraid to venture to other parts as well. Most are available to see via short ferry rides.
Here are few of our favorite must-see places in Turks and Caicos. Get ready to take plenty of pictures!
Providenciales
-
In Providenciales, you’ll want to visit Grace Bay Beach for an afternoon at least once during your trip. It doesn’t matter if you go for sunbathing or for a swim in the ocean: you’ll enjoy every minute of it here.
- When you aren’t on the beach, visit Chalk Sound National Park where you’ll be welcomed by the beauty of the unusually bright turquoise waters in this unique lagoon. The waters have hundreds of small rocky islands and you shouldn’t be surprised if you happen to see some rock iguana, bonefish and barracuda as well. It’s an excellent location for kayaking and paddleboarding as well.
- The Turks and Caicos National Museum (currently in Grand Turk with a smaller location in Providenciales), offers insights into the rich history of the islands. Learn about the historic 1962 splashdown of astronaut John Glenn and the Friendship Seven space capsule, see Spanish gold coins from the 1600s, learn about the Trouvadore slave ship and the early European and Loyalist settlers that came here and much more. And for those who love to shop, you’ll love the gift shop here which is considered one of the best on Grand Turk.
- Cheshire Hall Plantation, a ruined late 1700s cotton plantation, is a must-see historic site especially for those interested in colonial history. The main attraction at Cheshire Hall is the plantation house, a colonial-era building with distinctive Bermudian architecture. The house features a great house and several outbuildings, including a kitchen, slave quarters, and a carriage house.
- Turk’s Head Brewery, the islands’ first and only brewery operation. You’ll find an onsite shop and taproom, with unique and exclusive special beers as well as locally made gifts.
- Visit Smith’s Reef for the most easily accessible snorkeling spot. This one is a popular place to visit because it offers such beautiful underwater experiences.
- The nation’s number one land sport here is horseback riding so you’ll won’t want to miss a chance to take part in it as well. There are three stables on Providenciales: Provo Ponies at Long Bay, Unique Tours in Blue Hills, and a small stable at Five Cays near the famous Bugaloo’s restaurant. Bring along the kids: they offer basic instruction as well as the option to have the guides lead the kids during their ride.
- Golf lovers will love their visit to Royal Turks and Caicos Golf Club which is an award-winning, 18-hole course.
- Visit Northwest Point National Park in Providenciales to book an ATV tour. You’ll enjoy a small group size for your tour and plenty of time to explore the landscape and beaches once you reach your destination.
- Go on a glass bottom boat tour. These are small clear boats that have a silent electric motor, which carry up to six people. You’ll be able to look under the surface of the water to enjoy the sea life swimming underneath you. The tours go to the gorgeous Princess Alexandra National Park near Mangrove Cay where you’ll see lush red mangroves, and turtles, jellyfish, fish, stingrays, baby sharks, and fish, too.
North and Middle Caicos
-
Take a 30-minute ferry ride from Providenciales to North Caicos and Middle Caicos which both have beautiful landscapes perfect for photography, untouched beaches, plantations, and the Conch Bar Caves. The Conch Bar Caves (accessible from both Middle and North Caicos) have beautiful stalactites and stalagmites and are the largest cave system in Turks and Caicos and the Bahamas.
- North Caicos, often referred to as the “Garden Island” due to its lush vegetation, offers a more tranquil and off-the-beaten-path experience compared to some of the more touristy islands. If you love being in nature, learning about history and having a less touristy vacation, you will want to visit here. Middle Caicos is the largest island in the Turks and Caicos archipelago, known for its rugged landscapes, natural wonders, and historical sites as well.
- North and Middle Caicos offer unique ecosystems that attract a variety of birds making them the perfect places to visit for birdwatching and photography. North Caicos has the Flamingo Pond Overlook which allows you to catch a glimpse of the vibrant pink flamingos in their natural habitat.
- At North Caicos, you’ll come upon Kew, the main settlement on North Caicos, which offers a glimpse into the local way of life. Explore the small town, visit local shops, and perhaps enjoy some authentic Caribbean cuisine. For a historical perspective, go to Wade’s Green Plantation, a historic site dating back to the Loyalist era. The plantation provides insights into the island’s past and the cultivation of cotton and sisal.
Middle Caicos
-
Middle Caicos is also the place to go to see Mudjin Harbour, a majestic coastal landscape of beaches, cliffs, and turquoise water. Dragon Cay and Bambarra Beach are part of Mudjin Harbor, offering stunning vistas and excellent photo opportunities. They are ideal spots for relaxation, swimming, and enjoying the island’s natural beauty.
- While in Middle Caicos, see the ruins of Haulover Plantation. The plantation dates back to the 18th century and provides insights into the island’s history, including its involvement in the sisal and cotton industries.
- The waters around Middle Caicos are known for excellent fishing opportunities. Try bonefishing, reef fishing, or deep-sea fishing to experience the rich marine life of this beautiful area.
- Cottage Pond is a natural limestone pond surrounded by lush vegetation. It’s a serene spot for birdwatching so bring binoculars.
South Caicos
-
Experience the fishing culture at South Caicos, known as the Fishing Capital of the Turks and Caicos Islands. As such, it’s the place to come to savor authentic Caribbean cuisine, with an emphasis on freshly caught seafood. Local restaurants and eateries offer incredible seafood meals with beautiful views of the sea.
- While you are there, visit East Bay Islands National Park where you can snorkel or dive in the diverse marine life at this protected area, featuring coral reefs and seagrass beds.
- Like many of the Turks and Caicos Islands, South Caicos offers excellent opportunities for whale watching. Humpback whales migrate through the waters surrounding the island, especially during the winter months (January to April), providing a thrilling experience for those interested in marine life.
- East Bay Islands National Park is a protected area around South Caicos that is a haven for snorkelers and divers. The park features coral reefs, seagrass beds, and a diverse range of marine life. It’s a fantastic spot to explore the underwater world and witness the beauty of the Turks and Caicos’ marine ecosystem.
- Cockburn Harbour: Cockburn Harbour is the main settlement on South Caicos and serves as the center of the island’s activities. Visitors can explore the charming streets, interact with locals, and enjoy the relaxed island atmosphere. The harbor is often dotted with fishing boats, adding to the authentic maritime feel of the town.
Salt Cay
Salty Cay is the smallest inhabited island in the Turks and Caicos Islands, known for its rich history in the salt industry and its tranquil, unspoiled atmosphere. It played a crucial role in the salt industry during the 17th and 18th centuries. The island’s expansive salinas were used for salt production, and remnants of the salt industry, including old windmills and saltpans, can still be explored. The island offers a getaway from the more bustling tourist destinations, providing visitors with a chance to relax on pristine beaches and enjoy the slow pace of life.
- The architecture on Salt Cay reflects its historical past, with colorful colonial-style buildings lining the narrow streets of the island’s main settlement, Balfour Town. Take an afternoon stroll here for a relaxing activity to do here.
- Embark on a whale-watching tour during the migration season (January to April) to witness humpback whales in their natural habitat.
- See the historic White House, a colonial landmark dating back to the 18th century that was once the residence of the island’s salt merchants. Learn about the island’s salt industry history.
- Enjoy a visit to Salt Cay National Park, a protected area with diverse flora and fauna. Take a nature walk or birdwatch in this pristine environment.
From the bustling hub of Providenciales, with its lavish resorts and vibrant atmosphere, to the quieter, undiscovered islands waiting to be explored, Turks and Caicos invites you to chart your own course.
Embark on short ferry rides to uncover hidden gems scattered across these enchanting islands and you’ll find that whether you’re drawn by the allure of luxury or the promise of adventure, you’ll have a vacation like no other. With every island offering its own unique charm, the possibilities are as boundless as the shimmering seas that surround them.
Contact us today by visiting www.CompleteGetaways.com or calling 1-877-530-5560
Contact us today by visiting www.CompleteGetaways.com or calling 1-877-530-5560