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Turks and Caicos Islands
Discover the Caribbean’s Best-Kept Secret
A stunning archipelago of 40 islands and cays, Turks and Caicos boasts the world’s best beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and the third-largest barrier reef system. This British Overseas Territory offers a perfect blend of luxury resorts and untouched natural beauty.
40+
Islands & Cays
350 Days
Sunshine Per Year
99%
Underwater Visibility
230 Miles
Of Pristine Beaches
Island Paradise
Geography & Nature
Island Formation
The Turks and Caicos Islands consist of two groups:
- Turks Islands: Grand Turk and Salt Cay
- Caicos Islands: Providenciales, North Caicos, Middle Caicos, South Caicos, and several smaller cays
Natural Wonders
- Third-largest coral reef system in the world
- 7,000+ ft deep Turks Island Passage
- Conch Bar Caves—the largest above-ground cave system in the Caribbean
- Extensive mangrove wetlands and seagrass beds
History & Culture
Historical Timeline
- 700 AD: Inhabited by Lucayan TaÃno people
- 1512: First recorded European sighting by Juan Ponce de León
- 1681: Salt rakers from Bermuda establish the first settlements
- 1766: Becomes part of the Bahamas colony
- 1962: Gains separate colony status
- 2006: The Current constitution was established
Cultural Highlights
- Unique Ripsaw music tradition
- Junkanoo festivals with vibrant costumes
- World-famous conch-based cuisine
- Friendly island hospitality
Top Attractions
Must-Visit Locations
- Grace Bay Beach: Voted the world’s best beach
- Chalk Sound National Park: Turquoise lagoon with tiny islands
- Grand Turk Wall: Dramatic underwater drop-off
- Conch Bar Caves: Impressive limestone cave system
- Salt Cay: Historic whaling and salt industry site
Activities
- Scuba diving and snorkeling
- Whale watching (Jan-Apr)
- Kayaking through mangroves
- Deep-sea fishing
- Island-hopping adventures
Island Comparison
| Island | Area (km²) | Population | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Providenciales | 122.20 | 23,769 | Main tourism hub, Grace Bay Beach, and international airport |
| Grand Turk | 17.39 | 4,831 | Capital (Cockburn Town), cruise port, historic sites |
| North Caicos | 116.43 | 1,312 | “Garden Island,” farms, flamingo ponds, Wade’s Green Plantation |
| Middle Caicos | 144.22 | 168 | Largest island, Conch Bar Caves, Mudjin Harbour |
| South Caicos | 21.21 | 1,139 | Fishing industry, luxury developments, Bell Sound Nature Reserve |
| Salt Cay | 6.74 | 108 | Historic salt ponds, whale watching, deserted beaches |
Island Gallery
Grace Bay Beach—World’s Best Beach
Chalk Sound National Park
Underwater Coral Reefs
Turks and Caicos Sunset
Travel Essentials
Getting There
Airports
- Providenciales International (PLS): Main gateway with flights from the US, Canada, and the UK
- Grand Turk (GDT): Serves cruise ship visitors and inter-island flights
Visa Requirements
- Valid passport required for all visitors
- No visa required for US, UK, EU citizens for stays under 90 days
- Return ticket and proof of accommodation may be required
Accommodations
Luxury Resorts
- Grace Bay Club—Providenciales
- Amanyara—Providenciales
- The Palms, Turks and Caicos
- Parrot Cay by COMO
Mid-Range Options
- Alexandra Resort—Grace Bay
- Sibonné Beach Hotel—Grace Bay
- Osprey Beach Hotel—Grand Turk
Food & Drink
Must-Try Dishes
- Conch—served as fritters, salad, or ceviche
- Peas and Rice—traditional side dish
- Johnnycake—sweet fried bread
- Fresh seafood—lobster, grouper, snapper
Local Drinks
- Bambarra Rum—locally produced
- Island cocktails—Rum Punch, Turks Head Beer
- Fresh coconut water straight from the coconut
Interactive Map of Turks and Caicos Islands