Things to Do In Turks & Caicos (Top 25) – Let Island Magic Lead The Way!

With sun, surf and shore at the heart of the Turks & Caicos experience, these islands are the go-to for vacations that are refreshingly tropical. A territory of over 40 islands and cays, you’ll find everything from scenic beaches to historical island monuments. Throw in the chance to dive, sail, island hop, or even take an ATV adventure, and you’ve got what could easily be your best vacation yet.

As there’s just so much to do in this destination (and year-round amazing weather!), we’ve put together a guide to help you figure out the best things to do during your Turks & Caicos vacation. Whether you want to dive into the culture and traditions, learn more about the history of the islands, get a taste of the local cuisine, or spend hours at the beach or pool of your all-inclusive resort, this post will get you off to a good start!

Picture: With a vacation at the all-inclusive Beaches Turks & Caicos, just about everything you need for your vacation is included with your stay!

TLDR;

• Turks & Caicos is located in the Atlantic Ocean, southeast of the Bahamas and north of Hispaniola.
• The main (and most populated) island is Providenciales, also known as “Provo.”
• The Turks & Caicos is a British Overseas Territory and English is the official language.
• The islands experience a tropical climate year-round.
• The Turks & Caicos archipelago consists of around 40 islands and cays, with only 8 being inhabited.
• Top 3 attractions: Grace Bay Beach, Chalk Sound National Park, Little Water Cay.
• Top 3 excursions: Snorkeling Boat Cruise, Caicos Shipwreck and Floating Bar Experience, Clear Kayak Mangrove Adventure.

1. Grace Bay Beach

Picture: The all-inclusive Beaches Turks & Caicos is located on Grace Bay Beach. Spacious, scenic and made for relaxation, Grace Bay Beach is a favorite for visitors to these shores!

Is there any beach more jaw-dropping than Grace Bay Beach in the Turks & Caicos? A true island gem, this beach has been voted the world’s best beach on several occasions. We highly recommend spending at least a couple of hours here if you're planning a vacation in Turks & Caicos.

The major draw of Grace Bay Beach is how effortlessly beautiful everything seems, and we say this with all the sincerity possible. Perfection isn’t always what you want in a beach, as each one has its own charm, but the soft white sand, calm waters, and breathtaking views at Grace Bay Beach come incredibly close! Plus, the convenience of nearby restaurants, bars, and resorts makes it even more appealing.

Another standout feature of Grace Bay Turks & Caicos is its thriving reef. This reef is recognized as one of the few that hasn’t been significantly impacted by human development. Its healthy state boosts the likelihood of seeing vibrant marine life while snorkeling or diving. And if you’re craving more adventure, water sports are plentiful—whether it’s snorkeling, scuba diving, jet skiing, or parasailing, there’s something for everyone to enjoy at Grace Bay Beach.

2. Chalk Sound National Park

Photo credit: Renise Peters/Shutterstock.com

Framed by aqua-colored waters, Chalk Sound National Park is as beautiful as it gets. This protected area is home to the captivating Chalk Sound beach, a favorite for many visitors to the Turks & Caicos. With its shimmering waters, it’s one of this destination’s top natural landmarks. The park’s shallow lagoon is dotted with tiny rocky islands, some of which are home to the rare Turks and Caicos Rock Iguanas, adding an extra element of charm to the scenery.

Although watercraft use is restricted to protect the area, paddle sports like kayaking and paddleboarding are popular activities when the weather is calm. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also explore the famous Blue Hole, a submerged cave hidden beneath the turquoise surface. Or, head to the nearby Sapodilla Bay and Taylor Bay, both shallow, family-friendly beaches just a short distance from the park.

3. Potcake Place

There’s a special joy that always comes with being around animals, especially loyal and protective furry friends. If you didn’t bring your pooch along on vacation, consider visiting the Potcake Rescue Center on Providenciales as you explore Turks & Caicos. This shelter cares for rescue dogs in need, and even if you’re not planning to adopt, you can stop by to pet them, take one for a walk, or donate to support the center, which is entirely volunteer-run.

4. Little Water Cay

Photo credit: Island_Footage/Shutterstock.com

There’s a lot to look forward to at Little Water Cay, which is part of the Princess Alexandra Nature Reserve. This protected area offers a unique kayaking experience, giving visitors the chance to reconnect with nature. As you paddle through the mangroves surrounding Little Water Cay, you may spot sea turtles or the island’s national bird, the Brown Pelican. Island Routes offers a scenic tour through the mangroves and the inland Rock Iguana Sanctuary. Half Moon Bay, a secluded local beach, is also located on Little Water Cay.

Good to know: Little Water Cay is also known as Iguana Island. This island is renowned for its unique rock formations and it is home to endangered Rock Iguanas.

5. Mudjin Harbor

One of the main attractions in North and Middle Caicos is the stunning three-mile-long Mudjin Harbor. With its sweeping cliffs, caves, and the Crossing Place Trail, it’s an intriguing spot to explore. This can be a cool location to take in the incredible views, but not so much for a family beach day much due to the large waves and presence of gray reef sharks. Mudjin’s rugged beauty and dramatic coastline make it a must-see for adventurers seeking breathtaking views and untamed nature.

6. Leeward Beach

Is there anything more quintessentially Caribbean than hunting for seashells along calm, clear shores? Honestly, who wouldn’t want to bring home a few treasures after a trip to this region? If that sounds like your idea of a beach day, head to Leewards Beach on Provo where you can discover some amazing finds both in and out of the water. Some visitors have said that being on Leeward Beach feels like you're stranded on a beautiful, remote island. And, in a place as tranquil and mesmerizing as this, that can only be a good thing. Leewards Beach is a true seashell haven surrounded by glistening ocean waters and it’s also a favorite spot for kiteboarders.

Insider tip: When visiting Turks & Caicos, staying at Beaches Resorts gives you the added bonus of all-inclusive water sports. Whether it’s snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, or even sailing in Turks & Caicos, it’s all included in your stay!

7. Taylor Bay Beach

Get active at Taylor Bay Beach with a hike or swim. Though it may be a bit harder to find than some of the more popular beaches in Turks and Caicos, this beach can be a great option if you want a more unique experience. Located to the south of Providenciales, getting to the beach requires a bit of a hike, but the tranquility that awaits makes it well worth the effort. The calm, shallow waters are often compared to a sand-bottomed swimming pool and relaxation comes easy. There aren’t any vendors on site though, so you’ll need to bring all your beach essentials with you, including food and drinks.

Good to know: Sipping on cocktails on Grace Bay Beach is that much more appealing at the all-inclusive Beaches Turks & Caicos. As our guest, you'll have access to one of the largest water parks in the Caribbean: Pirates Island Waterpark.

8. Half Moon Bay

Half Moon Bay on Little Water Cay is famous for its iguana population, earning it the nickname Iguana Island. We briefly touched on this sandbar beach earlier, but let’s get a little more into the details. The name of this beach has to do with its crescent-moon shape. It’s both secluded and serene, and it’s set right between Little Water Cay and Water Cay. The shallow, crystal-clear water here makes it a good option for families who want to venture a bit further out. The water is usually very calm as well. Visiting Half Moon Bay is a good idea if you want to spend a few hours swimming, snorkeling, or just enjoying an off-the-beaten-path experience.

Beyond the rock iguanas, the diverse wildlife, including small sharks, crabs, and birds, can be interesting to spot while in this area. Conservation efforts play a big role in the island’s appeal, with an Iguana Sanctuary accessible with a short boat ride from Providenciales.

9. Long Bay Beach

Long Bay Beach on Providenciales is calm and shallow too. This beach is considered by many to be the kitesurfing hub of Turks & Caicos, especially for beginners. On windier days, the shoreline fills with kite-boarders hoping to catch some waves. You can have a go if you’re brave enough, and there are even kite surfing lessons available. Courage will get you going, and once you get the hang of it, you’ll be hooked. Even if kitesurfing isn’t your thing, you can relax on the shore and take in the scenic views. For a different experience, horseback riding tours are also available on most days, offering yet another way to enjoy Long Bay Beach.

10. Snorkeling Boat Cruise

If you’re looking to add snorkeling to your vacation, the Caicos Half-Day Snorkel Cruise is a fantastic option. As part of this excursion, you’ll cruise along Grace Bay, stopping at vibrant reefs for an underwater exploration filled with colorful sightings. After snorkeling, the boat sails to Half Moon Bay where you can embrace the serenity of the islands. Keep an eye out for the iguanas—they’re often found under trees or casually strolling along the beach. With onboard slides and refreshing rum punch, it’s the perfect way to spend a sunshine-filled beach day in the Turks & Caicos. As the trip winds down, flow right along with the smooth island tunes on your way back to Provo. This excursion, available via Island Routes, includes transfers, food, and drinks.

11. Salt Cay

Simplicity is the essence of Salt Cay. A visit here is all about unwinding on white sandy shores and savoring the unhurried pace of island life. With only about 100 residents and three main restaurants—Coral Reef Bar and Grill, Pat’s Place and Oceanaire Bistro—the island may be small, but the service and seafood are exceptional. You can enjoy a romantic meal in a blissful island setting complete with island-inspired drinks. Vegetarians are also catered to here, though it’s best to make any special food requests in advance.

Insider Tip: Explore island cuisine at Beaches Turks & Caicos with 21 dining options including an island-inspired seafood restaurant. The restaurants at Beaches Turks & Caicos serve up cuisine from around the world.

12. Gibbs Cay

Swim with stingrays in the Turks & Caicos if you’re drawn to something beyond the ordinary. Located just a mile off the east coast of Grand Turk, the small island of Gibbs Cay (Stingray City) is the ideal spot for this adventure. It takes about 10 minutes to get to Stingray City from Grand Turk, and as the name suggests, the main attraction is the stingrays. The water around this island is usually calm and clear, which makes it easy to spot the rays. These marine animals are used to human interaction and often swim right up to visitors. Swimming with these majestic sea creatures really is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and makes it possible to have a peaceful interaction with wildlife while in the islands.

13. Malcolm's Road Beach

Remote and wild, Malcolm Road Beach is on the west coast of Providenciales. It’s a bit of a rugged journey to get to this beach, but it’s an ideal spot if you're looking for a secluded beach escape. Snorkeling and diving are exceptional, so you might want to bring along some gear. If you’re planning to spend the day here, pack a cooler with drinks and snacks as there are no nearby restaurants or facilities. Bring an umbrella and towels too, and any other beach essentials. Swim shoes are also useful as there are some rocky areas you’ll need to navigate if you’re swimming.

14. Turks Head Brewery

The Turks Head Brewery, the only one of its kind in Turks and Caicos, began brewing in 2001. Its main offerings include Island Hopping Ale (IPA), Turks Head Amber, Turks Head Lite, and Turks Head Lager. The brewery draws inspiration from ingredients sourced from countries like New Zealand and the United States, which influence its flavors and seasonal beers. You can sample their creations at local liquor stores or supermarkets in the Turks & Caicos, or take a brewery tour to learn about their production process.

15. Governor’s Beach

Photo credit: tose/Shutterstock.com

Soft white sand and calm clear water make Governor’s Beach in Turks & Caicos a favorite for both locals and visitors. Located near the cruise terminal, this beach can get crowded when ships are in port. On quieter days, you’ll likely have the place all to yourself. The great thing about this beach is that there are lots of trees for shade, which works out perfectly if you want to enjoy a picnic or simply unwind on island shores. Many people snorkel here or hunt for sea glass treasures. If you plan on swimming, sea shoes are a good idea. Families with kids should keep an eye out for the quick tide that often comes in, so little ones should be supervised if they’re playing in the water.

Expert Tip: When visiting Turks & Caicos, be sure to plan your excursions early, especially during peak season, as tours can fill up quickly. Also, stay mindful of your surroundings, particularly if venturing out alone or at night, just as you would in any vacation spot. Most importantly, enjoy every moment of your trip!

16. Turks ATV East Coast Adventure

Photo credit: Olesia Bilkei/Shutterstock.com

Kids as young as 6 can join as passengers on the Island Routes ATV East Coast Adventure in Turks & Caicos. With an experienced driver at the helm, you’ll set off on an exhilarating journey across the scenic landscapes of Providenciales’ East Coast. Start with the Lower Bight route, then make your way to the famous Grace Bay Beach. Next up is a visit to The Hole, a naturally-formed 40 ft. limestone sinkhole. The adventure continues as you head to Shore Club Beach in Long Bay, with a stop at Rickie’s Flamingo Café, where you can enjoy peaceful beachfront views before heading back to the starting point.

17. North Caicos Sea & ATV Experience

Photo credit: Denis Moskvinov/Shutterstock.com

Snorkel at the famous Turks & Caicos Barrier Reef (third largest barrier reef in the world) and get up close to pink flamingos at Cottage Pond, all part of the Island Routes Turks & Caicos Off-Road ATV experience. This full-day land and sea tour gives you the chance to experience the best of Turks & Caicos. After snorkeling at the Barrier Reef, you’ll embark on a scenic cruise to North Caicos. Once there, hop on your ATV and hit the roads and trails of the Kew and Whitby regions—both must-sees. You’ll also visit Isaac’s Farm, where you can sip on fresh cane juice, dive into local history and spot wildlife. More ATV riding makes for a satisfying end to this action-packed tour with lunch and stops at Three Mary’s Cay, Lovey’s Beach, and Sand Bar. This excursion lasts around 7.5 hours.

18. Turks Full Day Circumnavigation & Powerboat Adventure

There’s much to look forward to with a powerboat adventure in the Turks & Caicos. One of the top picks is the Island Routes Turks Full Day Circumnavigation & Powerboat Adventure which offers a chance to experience the highlights of Providenciales. The coastal views alone are worth the trip, but the fun activities make it even better. Things kick off with a relaxed cruise along the picturesque Blue Hills shoreline, but then the excitement ramps up. You’ll snorkel at North West Point, enjoy a picnic-style lunch, swim, and visit the famous Pirate’s Cave, where marooned sailors once scratched their desperate pleas for rescue. The adventure wraps up with beach cruising along the south coast. This tour is a great idea if you just want to spend a full day out on the water.

19. Deep Sea Half-Day Fishing Charter Turks & Caicos

Deep sea fishers are attracted to both the beauty and challenges that can come with the sport. In the Turks & Caicos, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to set up a deep-sea fishing tour around the islands. Situated near a plateau with depths starting at 40 feet, these islands offer a distinct advantage. The unique topography means that it often doesn’t take more than a few minutes to get to the best spots.

Whether you’re up for the challenge or just want to watch, this can be a fun way to spend a few hours during your vacation. The Island Routes Deep Sea Half-Day Fishing Charter Turks & Caicos includes an expert captain behind the wheel, food, drinks, snacks, and good times.

Insider tip: Planning a trip to the Turks & Caicos? Make it a culinary adventure with Beaches Resorts! As our guest, you can enjoy fresh seafood and a range of cuisine from around the world with 21 themed restaurants on-property.

20. Caicos Shipwreck & Floating Bar Experience

Spending time at floating bars is one of those things you should do at least once in the Caribbean. And, Turks & Caicos is a great place to have this adventure unfold. With the Island Routes Caicos Shipwreck & Floating Bar Experience, you’ll embark on a scenic cruise that includes snorkeling at two vibrant sites, one of which features the sunken cargo ship, La Famille Express. The grand finale is a stop at Noah’s Ark, a tiki bar floating in the middle of the ocean. As you soak in the sweeping Caribbean views from this unique spot, you’ll realize you couldn’t have chosen a better destination for your tropical escape!

21. Clear Kayak Mangrove & Iguana Island Experience Turks & Caicos

You’ll literally feel like you’re floating on the ocean with a clear kayak excursion in Turks & Caicos. This eco-friendly tour is not only a fun way to explore the islands but it’s also suitable for all ages, making it a great option for first-timers. Scenic spots like Princess Alexandra National Park, Mangrove Cay, Donna Cay, and Little Water Cay are prime locations for kayaking in this destination. For a mesmerizing clear kayak experience, try the Island Routes Clear Kayak Mangrove & Iguana Island Experience. The translucent waters reveal an abundance of mangrove-dwelling wildlife, including turtles, lemon sharks, and other captivating sea creatures.

Good to know: The Island Routes Turks Clear Boat Experience is a comparable tour if you’re looking to be immersed in the natural beauty of the Turks & Caicos and scope unique marine life. Private versions of this tour are available.

22. Private Caracol Half-Day (1-9pax)

The Turks & Caicos is famous for its glimmering blue waters, and there’s no better way to experience this than with a boat tour. With plenty of options for exploring by sea, one of the best group-friendly choices is the Island Routes Caracol Half-Day Tour. This private catamaran excursion takes you on a half-day journey that can include snorkeling, sightseeing, shelling, fishing, and lobster diving. Many travelers go with this option, particularly for all-inclusive group vacations and it’s among the top things to do in The Turks & Caicos.

23. Caicos Sunset Cruise

Don’t leave the Turks & Caicos without jumping on at least one sunset cruise! This can be a great way to soak in the island vibes, whether you’re after a romantic evening or just some laid-back fun. The Island Routes Caicos Sunset Cruise is a great pick—just 2.5 hours long. You’ll hop aboard a Power Catamaran and sail through the calm waters around Providenciales. As the sun starts to dip, you’ll have-front row seats to see all the dreamy colors Caribbean sunsets are made of. Enjoy some tasty hors d’oeuvres, sip on red or white wine, crack open a cold beer, or try the local favorite—rum punch. Relax, soak it all in, or dance the evening away to the island beats. Either way, it’s a great way to end your day!

24. Seaside Caicos Scavenger Hunt

Conch is a beloved island delicacy in the Turks & Caicos, and with the Seaside Caicos Scavenger Hunt by Island Routes, you can discover the secrets of conch hunting during your vacation. You won’t be on your own—the captain and crew will guide you to the best spots and assist you as you dive into the crystal-clear waters in search of this renowned treasure. After making your catch, you’ll sail to a deserted island, where it will be transformed into a delectable main course. Enjoy snacks and fresh conch salad before unwinding with sunbathing, swimming, and soaking in the serenity of a secluded beach.

25. Library Reef

Snorkeling is one of the best things to do in Turks and Caicos with kids, and Library Reef is an excellent spot to begin. This reef, located in Grand Turk, is known for its diverse marine life, which is how it earned its name. Divers often describe the experience as “epic” and “amazing,” but this is a place you have to see to believe. After your dive, you might agree that it truly feels like an underwater library, where coral ledges act as shelves, and the deeper you go, the more spectacular the discoveries become!


Expert Tip: Don’t be afraid to spread your beach explorations far and wide while in the Turks & Caicos. Other popular beaches in this territory include Bight Reef, Governor’s Reef, Leeward Beach, Taylor Bay, Chalk Sound, and Sapodilla Bay.

The ultimate list of things to do in the Turks & Caicos

If you’re trying to figure out what are the best things to do in the Turks and Caicos islands, you’ll have no shortage of options. From exploring the best dive locations and water sports, to going on boat cruises and land tours, there’s never a dull moment. The best part of vacationing in this destination is that you can have a vacation where you can do as much or as little as you’d like.

Before booking your flight to the Turks & Caicos, you might be wondering about accommodation. For a hassle-free getaway with everything you need in one place, the all-inclusive Beaches Turks & Caicos can be a great choice. All-inclusive dining, day and night entertainment, land and water sports, and comfortable, island-inspired suites are all included with your vacation. Once you’ve booked your stay, the countdown begins, and you can get ready to let the magic of the Turks & Caicos take the lead!

Good to know: Bight Reef and Three Marys Cays are excellent places to snorkel and dive in the Turks & Caicos. PADI® certified guests of Beaches Turks & Caicos can dive for free (max. two tanks a day, depending on availability). This includes professional equipment and professional dive staff. Non-certified guests can get PADI® certified at the resort for an additional fee.

Bonus: Try the surf simulator at Beaches Turks & Caicos' Pirates Island Waterpark!

The Pirates Island Waterpark is one of the largest water parks in the Caribbean. Inside, you'll find nine water slides, a lazy river, water cannons, a surf simulator and much more. If you'll be traveling to the Turks & Caicos with kids, the FlowRider Surf Simulator will be a great way to switch things up a bit while splashing around in the pool. All you'll need to do is hold on tight and ride the waves either by laying down flat or propping yourself up on your knees.

The Pirates Island Waterpark can only be accessed by guests of the all-inclusive Beaches Turks & Caicos. In addition to all the quality inclusions this resort offers, you'll be able to visit this water park just as many times as you'd like as part of your island escape!

Frequently asked questions about Turks and Caicos

Where are the Turks and Caicos islands?

The Turks and Caicos Islands are located in the northern West Indies surrounded by the beckoning bright blue seas of the Atlantic Ocean. Neighboring countries include the Cayman Islands, The Bahamas, the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico.

How many islands does Turks and Caicos have?

The Turks and Caicos is home to over 30 islands, but only eight of these are inhabited with a total population of around 46,621 residents.

What is Turks and Caicos best known for?

Turks and Caicos is best known for its stunning white beaches and crystal clear waters. This destination has some of the best water activities in the Caribbean with a huge variety of watersports available. The Turks & Caicos is also known for its whale watching and food tours and well as cave tours (Conch Bar Caves) and wreck diving.

Is Turks and Caicos in The Bahamas?

Turks and Caicos is not in the Bahamas - in fact, the Bahamas are approximately 730km away! Flights between the two locations can take around 1 hour and 40 minutes.

Is Turks and Caicos expensive?

Compared to many other Caribbean islands, Turks and Caicos is a relatively expensive area for two reasons. The first is that it is smaller than many of its neighboring countries and therefore more exclusive with less mass tourist trade. The second is that many foods and goods are imported and subject to import tax. We recommend staying at an all inclusive resort to better manage your vacation costs. Beaches Turks and Caicos is a great option that offers beachside accommodation, 21 restaurants, entertainment, land and water sports, and more.

Does Turks and Caicos have a nightlife?

Turks and Caicos has a few bars and other night spots but it is not known for having a bustling club scene. If you’re looking for entertainment that flows into the evening, why not go all-inclusive for your vacation? At Beaches Turks & Caicos, you can look forward to nightly shows, cocktail parties, beach parties, bonfires, live bands and more!

Insider Tip: Let ocean views and sunshine be your island perspective with these incredible Beaches Turks & Caicos deals!