The Turks and Caicos Islands consist of 40 islands and cays, nine of which are inhabited. Many travelers are familiar with Providenciales, but the sister islands also have plenty to offer travelers including diverse activities and unique accommodations.
Turks and Caicos consist of two island groups: the Turks Islands of Grand Turk and Salt Cay to the east, and the larger Caicos Islands archipelago of Providenciales, North Caicos Middle Caicos, East Caicos, South Caicos and West Caicos to the west.
Providenciales
Providenciales is the most developed and populated island in the Turks and Caicos, and is home to some of the world’s best beaches (including the famous Grace Bay Beach) and a plethora of luxury hotels and resorts. All international flights to the Turks and Caicos land at the Providenciales International Airport (PLS)
One of the newest properties to open is Rock House. Located on the north coast of Providenciales, this oceanfront luxury resort sits on 14 acres and has just 46 resort homes. It is known for its 13-foot vaulted ceilings, expansive bathrooms and bedrooms, private pools, and views of the coastline. The Instagram-worthy 100-foot infinity pool sits high up on an oceanfront cliff lined with daybeds and built-in cabanas. The property also has a spa, fitness center, tennis courts and jogging trail.
Point Grace has long since been a favorite for seasoned travelers looking for a luxury experience. It is nestled in front of the 12-mile Grace Bay beach. This boutique property has 28 accommodations including one-, two-, three- and four-bedroom suites and penthouses. Grace’s Cottage restaurant is popular with guests; it’s a dinner-only venue and the menu is gourmet-French inspired. The extensive wine list offers an expansive selection from around the globe, many available by the glass.
South Caicos
South Caicos is geographically the last island to the east in the Caicos Islands group. Due to being bordered on the northern side by the uninhabited East Caicos, and separated from the Turks Islands by the twenty-mile-wide Turks Island Passage on the other, South Caicos feels a bit more isolated than the rest of the country. It’s an ideal place for those looking for a quiet laid-back stay.
South Caicos has some excellent reefs, which are perfect for scuba diving and snorkeling. The island's primary dive company is Reef Divers, which is based at the East Bay Resort.
East Bay Resort is the place to stay for water enthusiasts. There are a wide range of water sport activities including snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and fishing. For divers, the only on-site PADI dive shop is located here. The renowned South Caicos Wall, known for its dramatic drop from 35 to 7000 feet, is a short boat ride away. The Aquarium, where guests can snorkel in the clear blue waters and experience diverse wildlife firsthand, is minutes from the resort.
Grand Turk
Grand Turk is the second most populated island in the country after the island of Providenciales. Grand Turk is a very popular cruise destination, but it’s also known for its pristine beaches and plethora of water activities (including scuba and snorkeling).
The Osprey Beach Hotel is an affordable option and a popular one among divers. The hotel has a variety of dive packages available with all three dive shops on Grand Turk (Blue Water Divers, Grand Turk Diving Company, and Oasis Divers). Other popular activities in Grand Turk include horseback riding, snorkeling, and fishing.
North and Middle Caicos
North Caicos and Middle Caicos are found in the center of the Caicos Islands archipelago, and collectively make up most of the land mass in the Turks and Caicos. Compared to Grand Turk and Providenciales, these islands are sparsely populated, together the population is less than 2000 people.
North Caicos and Middle Caicos are ideal for the adventurous and outdoor-loving traveler. Miles of secluded beaches and rugged ocean cliffs line the north coasts of the islands. Hiking, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding are top activities here.
Pelican Beach Hotel in North Caicos and Dragon Cay Resort in Middle Caicos are two good options. Dragon Cay Resort is nestled behind 2,000 feet of naturally preserved beachfront, and it’s the only resort-style accommodation in Middle Caicos. It offers complimentary use of kayaks, SUP, snorkel equipment and bicycles. The property is close to miles of hiking trails.
Ambergris Cay
Ambergris Cay is private island located on the remote south-eastern edge of the Caicos Islands archipelago in the Turks and Caicos. The resort is an all-inclusive property with 10 beachfront suites and seven villas (with more villas being built). The island is a favorite among the rich and famous. It has a large private runway that can land a G4 and it has an international airport so private jet travelers can land directly on the island. The most luxurious villa is the Dream Pavilion which has six bedrooms, two pools, and a private chef and butler.