Imagine stepping barefoot onto powder-soft white sand, feeling the warmth of the sun on your face as you gaze out at crystal-clear water shimmering in shades of blue you didn’t know existed. Welcome to Turks and Caicos—a breathtaking chain of islands just a short flight from many North American cities where luxury meets unspoiled natural beauty. Whether you’re planning your first visit or simply dreaming of a quick getaway to paradise, this guide will help you navigate everything you need to know about the islands. From how to get here to the best places to stay and explore, allow us to introduce you to the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Discovering Turks and Caicos
Where Are the Turks and Caicos Islands?
The Turks and Caicos Islands (often abbreviated TCI) are an archipelago of 40 islands and cays in the Atlantic Ocean, located southeast of the Bahamas and north of the Dominican Republic. While the islands are often associated with the Caribbean, they technically sit just outside the Caribbean Sea in the Lucayan Archipelago.
Despite their secluded feel, the Turks and Caicos are surprisingly accessible from North America, making them a sought-after destination for travelers looking for a quick island escape.
Getting to Turks and Caicos: Direct Flight Information
The primary gateway to Turks and Caicos is Providenciales International Airport (PLS), located on the island of Providenciales—the most developed and visited island in the chain. The airport welcomes direct flights from several major cities, making it easier than ever to plan your trip.
Travelers can fly non-stop to Turks and Caicos from a variety of international destinations, including:
- United States: Miami (MIA), New York (JFK), Newark (EWR), Charlotte (CLT), Atlanta (ATL), Dallas (DFW), Washington D.C. (IAD), Boston (BOS), Chicago (ORD), Philadelphia (PHL), Minneapolis (MSP), Orlando (MCO)
- Canada: Toronto (YYZ), Montreal (YUL) (seasonal)
- United Kingdom: London Heathrow (LHR) (via British Airways, with a stop in the Bahamas)
Many airlines—including American Airlines, Delta, JetBlue, United, Air Canada and British Airways—offer frequent flights, making Turks and Caicos an easy and accessible destination for international travelers.
Turks and Caicos: Understanding the British Overseas Territory
Turks and Caicos is a British Overseas Territory, meaning it is under the jurisdiction of the United Kingdom while maintaining its own local government. English is the official language, making it easy for visitors from the U.S., Canada and the U.K. to navigate.
As for the official Turks and Caicos currency? That would be the U.S. dollar, making it even more convenient for American travelers who don’t need to exchange money upon arrival. Credit cards are widely accepted at resorts, restaurants and shops, though carrying some cash for small purchases and local vendors is always a good idea.
Exploring the Islands of Turks and Caicos
While Turks and Caicos consists of 40 islands and cays, only about eight are inhabited. Each island offers something for everyone, whether you’re in search of luxury accommodations, a dive into local history and culture, or simply unspoiled land and seascapes.
Providenciales: The Heart of Tourism and Grace Bay Beach
Providenciales, or “Provo” as locals call it, is the most developed island in Turks and Caicos and the country’s center of tourism. It’s home to some of the world’s best beaches, including the renowned Grace Bay Beach.
Grace Bay Beach
This stunning three-mile stretch of soft white sand and turquoise waters that’s consistently voted among the best in the world thanks to its immaculate shoreline and clear turquoise waters. And despite its popularity, it’s rare you’ll find a big crowd on Grace Bay—in fact, there are plenty of sections along the shore where you’ll have the beach all to yourself. But if you’re looking for pristine, lesser known beaches, there are a variety to choose from on Provo that rival even Grace Bay, like our own Cooper Jack Bay.
Provo Dining and Activities
Beyond the beaches, Provo is also home to high-end resorts, gourmet dining, world-class spas and a range of activities, from snorkeling and scuba diving to paddleboarding and deep-sea fishing. For those staying at The Strand on Cooper Jack Bay, you’ll experience barefoot luxury at its finest, with private beachfront villas and residences, exceptional service and exclusive amenities.
The Strand’s concierge team is dedicated to curating a special experience for guests, arranging an itinerary that caters to your needs whether you’re in search of a private boat charter to explore the Caicos cays, a scuba diving excursion or a day of shopping with an indulgent spa treatment. Just let our team know what you’re after, be it relaxation or an adventure, and they’ll craft the perfect plan for you.
Grand Turk: The Historical Capital and Diving Hotspot
The capital of Turks and Caicos, the island of Grand Turk is known for its rich history and charming colonial architecture. A quieter destination than Provo, Grand Turk is home to the Turks and Caicos National Museum and the Grand Turk Lighthouse—a historical landmark dating back to 1852.
Grand Turk is also a top spot for scuba diving, with incredible wall dives and an abundance of marine life. You can reach Grand Turk via a quick 30-minute flight from Provo.
North and Middle Caicos: Nature Lover’s Paradise
North and Middle Caicos are the largest islands in the chain, known for their quiet, untouched natural beauty. And despite their size, they’re also some of the most sparsely populated islands in Turks and Caicos. You can reach North Caicos via a ferry, with North connecting to Middle Caicos with a causeway.
- North Caicos is often called the “Garden Island” due to its lush vegetation compared with neighboring islands. It’s home to miles of unspoiled beaches, the freshwater Cottage Pond, and the fascinating Wade’s Green Plantation—the best preserved historical agricultural site in TCI.
- Middle Caicos is known for Conch Bar Caves, the largest cave system in the Caribbean, as well as the postcard-worthy Mudjin Harbor, a dramatic coastline with high limestone cliffs and breathtaking views.
Salt Cay: An Island Lost in Time
Salt Cay is a peaceful island with a population of around 100, often referred to as ‘the island time forgot.’ Free roaming donkeys and unpaved roads add to its old-world charm. Remnants of the salt industry, colonial-era buildings in Balfour Town, and the iconic Harriott White House reflect its rich history. Known for incredible diving and whale watching, Salt Cay has also been nominated for UNESCO World Heritage status, highlighting its cultural significance.
Interested in exploring beyond Provo’s shores? Let our concierge know where you’d like to go, and we’d be happy to arrange your travel plans and itinerary.
Book Your Dream Turks and Caicos Getaway
Turks and Caicos stands out as one of the most luxurious island destinations in the world, and despite its many accolades in recent years, the islands remain a much quieter destination compared with their Caribbean counterparts. With world-famous beaches, a luxurious-yet-laid-back vibe and easy access from so many North American cities and beyond, the Turks and Caicos make the ideal reprieve from the busyness of everyday life in an idyllic environment.
Interested in making The Strand your homebase for your Turks and Caicos holiday? Choose from luxury accommodations ranging from 1-bedroom suites with private pools to spacious 5-bedroom residences, all of them oceanfront. With a range of amenities, a gourmet restaurant right on the beach and a dedicated concierge service to help plan your itinerary, we’ll make sure you experience all the best the Turks and Caicos has to offer. Explore The Strand’s luxury villas and plan your unforgettable Turks and Caicos vacation today.