The Turks and Caicos Islands

A Caribbean Paradise of Turquoise Waters and Pristine White Sand Beaches

Welcome to the Turks and Caicos Islands, a tropical paradise known for the world’s best beaches, crystal clear, turquoise waters, and vibrant marine life. Here you will find the perfect blend of natural beauty, exceptional accommodations and activities, and a rich cultural heritage.

The Turks and Caicos Islands consist of 40 islands and cays and are a British Overseas Territory in the Atlantic Ocean. They are positioned southeast of the Bahamas and north of Hispaniola, approximately 575 miles (925 km) from Miami, Florida. The population is estimated at approximately 50,000. The islands boast a diverse cultural heritage influenced by African, European, and Caribbean traditions – a rich blend reflected in the local music, dance, cuisine and customs. English is the official language, and the United States Dollar is the official currency. The Turks and Caicos have a democratic system with their own elected government and a governor appointed by the United Kingdom.

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The Islands

The Turks and Caicos Islands are made up of two island groups: the Turks Islands and the Caicos Islands. The Turks Islands consist of Grand Turk and Salt Cay, while they are divided from the Caicos Islands by the Caicos Passage. The Caicos Islands include Providenciales (Provo), North Caicos, Middle Caicos, South Caicos, East Caicos, and West Caicos. Out of all the islands in the Turks and Caicos, only eight are inhabited.

Each island has its own unique appeal, ranging from the lively atmosphere of Providenciales to the rich history of Salt Cay. While Providenciales is the main tourist destination with the largest population, the capital and administrative center of the Turks and Caicos Islands is Cockburn Town on Grand Turk.

Providenciales

Providenciales, often referred to as “Provo,” is the most developed island in the Turks and Caicos. It is the center of tourism activity, offering a variety of attractions and amenities. Provo is home to Grace Bay Beach, a world-renowned beach with sand so white it’s almost blinding, electric blue waters and vibrant coral reefs which create a picture-perfect beach paradise. The beach stretches for miles, offering plenty of space for relaxation and beach activities.

Provo’s appeal goes well beyond Grace Bay, with stunning beaches stretching from Blue Hills to Leeward, Sapodilla Bay to Turtle Tail. Whether you’re looking for luxury resorts, exciting water sports, or serene natural beauty, Providenciales has it all. It’s the perfect starting point for your Turks and Caicos island getaway.

Grace Bay Beach, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos
Grace Bay Beach
Marauder at Southwest Bluff and Split Rock, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos
Southwest Bluff and Split Rock
Long Bay Beach in Providenciales, Turks and Caicos
Long Bay Beach

North Caicos

North Caicos is often referred to as the “Garden Island”. It receives more rainfall than the other islands contributing to its lush vegetation and fertile soil. This island is home to well-preserved plantation ruins at Wade’s Green Plantation and natural attractions like Cottage Pond and breathtaking views of the turquoise lagoon from Bottle Creek. Visitors can relax on the tranquil white sand beaches at spots like Three Marys Cays and Sandy Point. Birdwatchers will appreciate the opportunity to spot flamingos at Flamingo Pond Overlook. North Caicos is connected to Middle Caicos by a causeway which traverses the shallow waters between the two islands.

Cottage Pond, North Caicos, Turks and Caicos
Cottage Pond
Three Marys Cays, North Caicos, Turks and Caicos
Three Marys Cays
Flamingo in North Caicos, Turks and Caicos
Flamingo Pond

Middle Caicos

Middle Caicos is the largest island in the Turks and Caicos archipelago with one of the smallest populations. It’s known for its natural wonders, including the Conch Bar Caves among one of the largest cave systems in the Caribbean. Mudjin Harbour provides breathtaking views of the dramatic coastline of limestone cliffs and sandy shores. Bambarra Beach is a popular beach to visit and Wild Cow Run is one of the most untouched beaches in the islands.

Bambarra Beach in Middle Caicos, Turks and Caicos
Bambarra Beach
Conch Bar Caves in Middle Caicos, Turks and Caicos
Conch Bar Caves
Mudjin Harbour overlooking Dragon Cay in Middle Caicos, Turks and Caicos
Mudjin Harbour and Dragon Cay

West Caicos

For more than a century, West Caicos Island has remained deserted after the sisal plantations at Yankee Town were abandoned in the early 1900s. Evidence of the past trade can still be seen in the form of plantation ruins, a Burrell steam engine, and train tracks that run across the lake. Lake Catherine, a 500-acre wildlife sanctuary, is home to pink flamingoes, turtles, and other native animals. This lake is connected to the ocean, and the Boiling Hole bubbles as the tide rises. Bernard Bay Beach and Delvin’s Cove on the island’s western coast offer private white sandy beaches and rocky shores. The stunning gradient of electric blue waters on the western side of West Caicos is truly unparalleled.  Day trips to West Caicos offer visitors the opportunity to enjoy fantastic snorkeling, secluded beaches, and explore the wonders of Lake Catherine and its surroundings.

The Western Iron Shore of West Caicos, Turks and Caicos
The Iron Shore of West Caicos
Burrell Steam Engine at Yankee Town, West Caicos, Turks and Caicos
Burrell Steam Engine, Yankee Town
Lake Catherine in West Caicos, Turks and Caicos
Lake Catherine

East Caicos

East Caicos is an uninhabited island that offers spectacular untouched natural beauty. It is separated from Middle Caicos by the narrow Lorimer Creek not often visited due to its remote location. In the 19th century, the island was used for sisal and cattle farming but has been devoid of human inhabitants ever since. Flamingo Hill in East Caicos is the highest point in the Turks and with an elevation of 156 ft. Locals have reported tales of ghostly activity on the island, adding to its mystery and allure.

South Caicos

South Caicos is the fishing capital of the Turks and Caicos Islands, known for excellent fishing and diving opportunities. The island is famous for hosting the vibrant Big South Regatta each year, a popular sailing event celebrating the heritage of the Caicos Sloop, drawing both residents and visitors alike. South Caicos is also known for its small-scale export of conch and spiny lobster. With stunning beaches, shallow flats, and sandbars surrounding the island, it is truly a breathtaking destination in the remote outer islands.

Grand Turk

Grand Turk, named after the Turks Head Cactus, is the capital island of the Turks and Caicos and has the second largest population of the archipelago. The island is rich in heritage with many charming Bermudian style buildings erected in the 17 century during the days of the salt trade. The Turks and Caicos National Museum is a highlight here, offering a glimpse into the islands’ rich past. Grand Turk isn’t just a historical treasure, it also offers stunning beaches, exceptional diving opportunities, and the chance to witness humpback whales. The island exudes a relaxed atmosphere, with roaming donkeys adding to its unique charm. Grand Turk is also home to the only cruise ship port in the country.

St Mary Anglican Church built in 1899 is the oldest church in Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos
St Mary Anglican Church, 1899
Cockburn Town in Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos
Cockburn Town Beach
The Sandbar Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos
View from The Sandbar Restaurant

Salt Cay

Salt Cay is just 2.6 square miles, a tiny island known for its big history of the salt industry established in 1673. The island consists largely of salt pans and the ruins from the hundreds of years of salt operations. Similar to Grand Turk, the descendants of the donkeys and cattle used during the salt production era can still be found roaming freely. Salt Cay is a popular destination for those seeking a peaceful and charming retreat, with its deserted beaches, exceptional diving opportunities, and prime whale-watching location on the migration route to the Silver Bank.

Salt Cay Turks and Caicos
Secluded Beach
Balfour Town, Salt Cay Turks and Caicos
Balfour Town Salt Pans and White House
Grace Bay Beach, Perfect Weather in Turks and Caicos

Quick Facts

Weather and Seasons in Turks And Caicos

Turks and Caicos weather is consistently warm and sunny year round, with approximately 350 days of sunshine per year. The tropical heat is well balanced by the refreshing breeze of the trade winds blowing gently at 10-12 mph from the southeast. Average temperatures throughout the year are between 75-90F making the islands a great vacation destination any time of year.

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