The Turks and Caicos Islands are the epitome of a true luxury destination. Between the powder white sand, crystal clear turquoise waters, and the delicious Caribbean cuisine, Turks and Caicos are a must-visit destination for travelers of any age. Its close proximity to Miami makes it a quick getaway whether you go for a weekend or weeklong adventure. Here’s what you need to know to plan the perfect trip.
Preparing to Book a Vacation to Turks and Caicos
Turks and Caicos are relatively warm year-round, which makes scheduling a vacation easy. However, hurricane season falls from June through November, so if you choose to travel to Turks and Caicos during that time period, you should definitely consider an iTravelInsured travel protection plan to insure your prepaid, non-refundable trip costs. For more information about traveling during hurricane season, check out our blog here.
Because of the hurricane threats, December through April is considered high season and a favorable time to visit the islands.
Turks and Caicos Requirements as of Summer 2021
- Travel Authorization form – This is available on the Visitcom portal
- A negative COVID-19 PCR test result. Results must be within 5 days prior to travel
- Insurance with COVID-19 coverage - IMG's iTravelInsured plans meet the requirements for travel insurance
- Online health screening
As of June 2021, there are mask requirements, curfews, and reduced capacities. For the most updated information, please visit VisitTCI.com
Getting to Turks and Caicos
While there are two airports, you will book your flight into Providenciales. The second airport, Grand Turk, does not accept international flights. You will need your passport to clear customs. Once you’ve made it through customs, you’ll head to the lobby of the airport for transportation. If you are staying at a resort, most of them offer complimentary transportation to the resort from the airport. Keep an eye out for a van with your resort’s logo on it. If you’re staying elsewhere, taxis are readily available. Rideshare services are not allowed in Turks and Caicos.
If you are wanting to explore more of the island during your stay, the easiest way is to rent a car. According to Visit TCI, you’ll want to read the fine print when it comes to your car rental agreement. Websites that offer rates seeming too good to be true usually don’t include the required taxes and fees. Also, the company may offer airport pick up but the vehicle isn’t actually located at the airport, which adds time to your wait to get started on your trip. The rental car staff must go retrieve the vehicles from an off site location and bring them to the airport.
If you do plan on driving while you stay, don’t forget to drive on the left side of the road.
Best Places to Stay in Turks and Caicos
- Private Villas – Super Ultra Luxury
- Turks and Caicos are home to some of the most luxury villas in the world. Villas can be rented from as low as $1,500/day to upwards of $20,000/day. The homes are absolutely stunning and typically come with a staff of housekeeping, security, chefs, and drivers.
- Seven Stars Resort & Spa – Luxury Resort & Villas
- Located on Grace Bay Beach, renowned as one of the best beaches in the world, Seven Stars Resort & Spa offers five-star dining, luxurious accommodations, and is home to the island’s only heated saltwater pool. For those looking to balance relaxation with new experiences, the resort offers water sports, land sports, and wellness classes.
- Home Rental – Budget
- You can find some of the best travel deals through renting local homes on home share websites. While these rentals don’t come with a staff, you’ll be able to have all the amenities you need to enjoy your vacation. If the home doesn’t
offer beach access, check out some of the other resorts (like Beaches), that offer day passes. Prices may vary, but often start at over $500 per person for a day pass.
- You can find some of the best travel deals through renting local homes on home share websites. While these rentals don’t come with a staff, you’ll be able to have all the amenities you need to enjoy your vacation. If the home doesn’t
offer beach access, check out some of the other resorts (like Beaches), that offer day passes. Prices may vary, but often start at over $500 per person for a day pass.
Things to do in Turks and Caicos
Beach Day - Turks and Caicos are well known for their award-winning beaches and oceans. You’ll want to soak up all the sun and beauty that they have to offer. Whether you choose to relax on the beach or try your hand at one of the many offered watersports, you will have a blast. You can also spend all day beach hopping. Here are some of the most notable beaches:
- Grace Bay Beach – the most well-known beach in Turks and Caicos. This beach offers the most variety of activities including parasailing, jet ski rental, stand up paddleboarding, and boat rentals
- Long Beach – this beach is popular for people interested in kiteboarding. The location makes it perfect when the wind picks up
- Malcolm's Road Beach – there is a beautiful reef that is accessible by Malcolm's Road Beach that makes it a hot spot for snorkeling
- Taylor Bay Beach – Taylor Bay is quite shallow, making it a great place to bring children for the day
Boat Rentals – There are many different options for boat rentals. Snorkel cruises, catamaran sailing excursions, and yacht rentals are the most popular nautical activities.
Potcake Place – If you are missing Fido, this animal rescue is home to potcake dogs. Potcake is a breed of dog common in the Bahamas and Turks and Caicos. You can visit the rescue to play with the dogs and walk them.
Da Conch Shack – Boasting reviews from the Travel Channel, NY Times, and BBC, this beachfront restaurant and bar is a must-see. Try the cracked conch, and check their schedule to see when to catch live music.
Enjoy your Turks and Caicos trip with peace of mind knowing that your trip and health are protected with one of IMG’s iTravelInsured plans. Get a quote now!
