1. Explore Grand Turk
2. Getting to Grand Turk
3. Best Things to Do on Grand Turk
4. Best Places to Eat and Drink on Grand Turk
5. Best Places to Stay on Grand Turk
Look beyond Providenciales to the island of Grand Turk.
Getting to Grand Turk
All inbound international flights to Turks and Caicos arrive at Providenciales International Airport (PLS). Travelers headed to Grand Turk then hop on a quick charter operated by one of the two local airlines: Caicos Express Airways or interCaribbean. Several cruise lines port at Grand Turk Cruise Center, making it accessible for travelers arriving by sea. Additionally, it’s possible to anchor private yachts and boats here.
Best Things to Do on Grand Turk
The breathtaking beaches are the main reason people come to Turks and Caicos, and those visiting Grand Turk certainly won’t be disappointed in that department. The bean-shaped island is fringed by stunning stretches of soft sand and sparkling turquoise waters. Wild horses and donkeys roam free, adding to the charm. Many laud Governor’s Beach on the western coast as the prettiest seaside spot, ideal for a relaxing break from the sun. Other beautiful beaches include Cockburn Town Beach, Pillory Beach, Cruise Center Beach, and English Point Beach. Active travelers can enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, and windsurfing, while fans of snorkeling and scuba diving should consider excursions to explore the vibrant marine life.
As the only port in Turks and Caicos, the island caters exceptionally to cruise passengers. The modern Grand Turk Cruise Center offers a variety of shops, restaurants, bars, and a giant swimming pool. It’s a hub for tours and vehicle rentals, located just a stroll from Cruise Center Beach, which tends to get quite busy when ocean liners dock.
For those interested in history, the area offers rich cultural experiences. The Taino and Lucayan people inhabited the region for nearly 700 years, followed by periods of colonization that saw pirates and various European nations control the island. The establishment of the salt industry around 1680 by Bermudan colonists is still evident today with remnants of salt ponds and windmills. Notably, the blufftop Grand Turks Lighthouse is a famous historic landmark, and the Turks and Caicos National Museum in Cockburn Town displays artifacts from the island’s storied past.
Best Places to Eat and Drink on Grand Turk
Ridge Cafe at Arches on the Ridge is a lovely spot for homemade breakfast dishes like huevos rancheros and baked goods, also serving lunch and dinner on weekends. Situated right on the beach, Sandbar Restaurant invites diners to enjoy local seafood, sip rum punch, and soak in sunset views. Many guests relish quick bites at Jack’s Shack, conch fritters, and fruity drinks at the swim-up bar at the popular Margaritaville Grand Turk.
Best Places to Stay on Grand Turk
For overnight accommodations, travelers who aren’t returning to a cruise cabin have several options. Osprey Beach Hotel is the largest, featuring 34 rooms and a wide array of amenities, including a pool and watersports. Set on a picturesque street in Cockburn Town, the privately owned Turks Head Inne offers charming rooms in a landmark building just steps from the ocean, with a restaurant and bar in a lovely garden courtyard.
