Sand. Sunshine. A relaxed island culture. This tiny archipelago is a true paradise.
Tucked away just south of the Bahamas it’s hard to beat the Caribbean shores of the Turks and Caicos Islands. The beautiful beaches of Turks and Caicos (also known as TCI) are particularly spectacular – whether you want pure relaxation or a little bit of adventure.
Set foot on the idyllic Turks and Caicos Islands
Venture to the Caribbean’s lesser-known gems
The string of cays that make up TCI are often overshadowed by more well-known Caribbean destinations – but they really shouldn’t be. A laidback atmosphere, beaches blessed with ample natural beauty, plus heaps of local charm make them an awesome option for a sun-soaked escape.
Whether you’re planning a family getaway or a romantic trip, why not add idyllic Turks and Caicos to your travel wish list?
The 8 best beaches in Turks and Caicos
Our top picks
From white sand swathes dotted with luxury hotels to hidden coves perfect for a more peaceful escape, let’s dive into the best beaches on the dreamy Turks and Caicos Islands.
Grace Bay Beach, Providenciales
Distance from Providenciales International Airport: 15 minutes
Picture a classic Caribbean beach and Grace Bay will tick all the boxes. This divine spot on Providenciales’ north coast is among the best beaches in the world thanks to its calm, crystal-clear waters. It’s dotted with luxury resorts and fringed by Princess Alexandra National Park – a marine reserve offering brilliant diving opportunities.
Long Bay Beach, Providenciales
Distance from Providenciales International Airport: 20 minutes
Also tucked away on Providenciales is this haven for kiteboarders and windsurfers. Long Bay Beach (as its name suggests) features a long swathe of soft white sand. Its constant trade winds and lovely shallow water mean it’s ideal for various exhilarating activities.
Taylor Bay Beach, Providenciales
Distance from Providenciales International Airport: 30 minutes
This secluded paradise is located close to Chalk Sound National Park and is one of the most peaceful beaches in Turks and Caicos. Shallow water and butter-soft, white sand make it a good pick for families with little children who want to splash around or build sandcastles.
Governor’s Beach, Grand Turk
Distance from Providenciales International Airport: 5 minutes
This historic beach on Grand Turk gets its name from the Governor’s house which sits just behind the treeline. It’s a fantastic spot for swimming and sunbathing, boasting some of the clearest water on the island. Its proximity to Grand Turk harbour makes it popular with cruise shippers.
Sapodilla Bay Beach, Providenciales
Distance from Providenciales International Airport: 25 minutes
Another Providenciales beauty, Sapodilla Bay is particularly well-suited to families. Its location between two hills means it’s incredibly sheltered, with water as flat as a pancake with little to no current. Don’t forget to check out nearby Sapodilla Hill – a small bluff featuring historic rock carvings.
Malcolm’s Road Beach, Providenciales
Distance from Providenciales International Airport: 35 minutes
This hidden gem is blessed with dramatic cliffs and breathtaking views. You’ll find Malcolm’s Road Beach on Providenciales’ less built-up west coast, with its farther-flung location meaning it rarely gets busy. The incredibly clear water is largely down to the Caicos Islands plateau: a sheer drop of 7000 feet that sits just off the coast.
Pillory Beach, Grand Turk
Distance from Providenciales International Airport: 10 minutes
This Grand Turk beach is just as beautiful as Governor’s Beach but has the added benefit of being located slightly further away from the cruise port. White sand gives way to calm waters, making it a great spot for a day of swimming. It’s also just a short distance from historic Cockburn Town where you’ll find various shops and local restaurants.
Bambarra Beach, Middle Caicos
Distance from Providenciales International Airport: 20-minute drive + 40-minute ferry
This sandy paradise is located on Middle Caicos and is accessible via ferry. Prepare to float in bath-warm waters and stroll around the historic town of Bambarra which dates to the 1700s. You could also kayak or catch a boat to nearby Pelican Cay – a tiny limestone islet with outstanding views.
Top tips:
Tempt your tastebuds with conch fritters and fresh ceviche.
Local transport is limited. Use taxis to get around or hire a car.
Turks and Caicos is sunny all year round, although hurricane season (June to November) can be a little rainy.
More things to do in the Turks and Caicos Islands
The pristine beaches of Turks and Caicos may be the main attraction – but there’s more to do in this corner of the Caribbean than simply soak up the sun.
With its balmy climate and tropical landscape, TCI is heaven for outdoor adventurists. Snorkeling or diving in the serene waters of the Leeward Reef or the West Caicos Marine National Park is a must. Feast your eyes on kaleidoscopic coral and magnificent sea creatures like stingrays, nurse sharks and turtles.
Alternatively, Grand Turk is a prime destination for land-based activities. Soak up some history with a scenic coastal hike to the Grand Turk Lighthouse or stroll around the pastel-hued streets of colonial-era Cockburn Town. You could also tour the island on a dune buggy or admire its sublime beaches on horseback.
Want to delve further into the region’s natural beauty? Hop over to the lesser-populated North Caicos and Middle Caicos islands. The latter is where you’ll find the fascinating Conch Bar Caves – a large cave system with eye-catching stalactites and limestone karsts. Or, if you’re keen to spot some local wildlife, make a beeline for Chalk Sound National Park on Providenciales. It’s a brilliant location for kayaking and paddleboarding, plus