Turks and Caicos: A Dreamy Island Escape

Our trip to Turks and Caicos was nothing short of magical. It was our first vacation without Aydin, and while we missed him dearly, this vacation was exactly what we needed to reset and reconnect. Turks and Caicos truly felt like paradise, it was the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re traveling as a couple, with family, or even solo, Turks and Caicos offers something for everyone. Here’s a breakdown of our trip, complete with tips to help you plan your own island adventure.

Best Time to Visit

Turks and Caicos is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is between November and April when the weather is warm and dry. We went in December, and the days were sunny in the mid 80’s, with cool breezes that made exploring and lounging on the beach equally enjoyable.

Where to Stay

Turks and Caicos is made up of several islands, but most people stay on Providenciales (or Provo, as the locals call it). Two of the most popular beaches on Provo are Grace Bay Beach and Long Bay Beach, each offering a unique experience.

Long Bay Beach: Located on the North Caicos side of the island, Long Bay Beach is quieter and more secluded. Its shallow waters and steady breeze make it a hotspot for kiteboarding.

We stayed at The Shore Club on Long Bay Beach looking for a quiet escape from our busy lives as parents. The resort felt luxurious yet laid-back, with beautifully designed rooms, a gorgeous beachfront, and exceptional dining options. Their amenities including pools and cabanas, making it easy to relax when we weren’t out exploring.

Grace Bay Beach: Ranked among the best beaches in the world, is known for its turquoise waters and soft, powdery sand. This area is the central hub, with tons of resorts, restaurants, and shops within walking distance. It’s ideal for families, couples, and anyone looking for convenience and luxury.

Here are some other fantastic resort options that we also considered:

The Sands at Grace Bay: A more affordable yet highly-rated beachfront property.
Royal West Indies Resort: Perfect for families or longer stays, with kitchenette-equipped rooms.
Villa Del Mar: A great boutique option just steps away from Grace Bay Beach.

turks and caicos palm tree beach view long bay

Where to Eat

Turks and Caicos has a vibrant food scene that combines fresh seafood with Caribbean flavors. Here are some of the places we tried (and loved):

Cocovan: This quirky, food-truck-style spot is known for it’s tacos but it’s the fried chicken sandwich that had our mouth watering for days. The outdoor seating under the palm trees was such a vibe.
Sui Ren: Located at The Shore Club, this restaurant offers a fusion of Japanese and Peruvian cuisine. We enjoyed multiple dishes but its the sushi rolls that would definitely bring us back for more.d
Bay Bistro: A great spot for beachfront dining, with everything from lobster to jerk chicken.
Embers: Known for their wood-fired dishes. Their lobster dumplings were to die for.

hemingway beach lunch turks fish and chips

Some other top rated options that we wish we had time to try:

Things to Do

Turks and Caicos isn’t just about the beaches (though those are spectacular). Here are some of the highlights from our trip:

Jet Skiing: This was such a thrill! We made a pitstop at Noah’s Ark, a popular floating tiki bar, most notably known for having celebrity sightings such as Drake. There was hookah, a DJ, and tons of yachts that pulled up to join in on the scene.

Snorkeling and Diving: While we didn’t get to do this on this trip, Grace Bay is known for its incredible coral reefs, and many tour operators offer excursions.
Fish Fry: Every Thursday night starting around 6pm local vendors serve up everything from fresh conch fritters to whole grilled lobster. It’s the perfect way to experience island culture with locals and tourists alike with live music in the background.
Chalk Sound National Park: Known for its vibrant blue waters, this area is perfect for kayaking or paddleboarding.
Sunset Cruise: Watching the sun dip below the horizon while cruising on the crystal-clear water was an unforgettable experience. Highly recommend booking one with snacks and drinks included.

Packing Tips

Packing for Turks and Caicos is all about keeping it light and breezy. Here are some essentials that made our trip easier:

Sunscreen: The sun is no joke here—bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect your skin and the environment.
Swimwear: You’ll likely live in swimsuits, so pack a few options.
Light Layers: Evenings can get a bit breezy, so bring a lightweight jacket or shawl.

Final Thoughts

Turks and Caicos exceeded all our expectations. The island’s beauty, combined with its warm hospitality and endless activities, made this trip one for the books. If you’re dreaming of white sand beaches, world-class food, and unforgettable adventures, Turks and Caicos should be at the top of your travel list, so book that trip!