Turks & Caicos beckons with all the clichés of the ultimate beach vacation, the kind you’ve only dreamed about until now. It’s the pinnacle of tropical perfection: the sun shines brighter, the sea shimmers bluer, and time appears to slow down to a leisurely pace.
Nestled in the lap of the Caribbean Sea, these islands provide an appealing blend of seclusion and laid-back charm, setting the stage for an unforgettable vacation experience.
The Turks and Caicos islands aren’t as well-known as some other Bahamas islands, despite their popularity. You may therefore find it challenging to choose a specific place to stay in Turks and Caicos.
I’ve put together this information on Turks and Caicos accommodations to make things easier for you. There is something for every kind of traveller and price range. So no matter what kind of vacation you want from the Turks and Caicos islands, I’ve got you covered.
Ready? Let’s dive straight into it.
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- Where is the Best Place to Stay in Turks and Caicos?
- A Quick Overview: Top Places to Stay
- Turks and Caicos Neighborhood Guide – Best Places to Stay in Turks and Caicos
- Turks and Caicos Five Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
- FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Turks and Caicos
- What To Pack For Turks and Caicos
- Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Turks and Caicos
- Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Turks and Caicos
- Buy Us a Coffee!
When it comes to picking where to stay in the Bahamas, few people choose the Turks and Caicos Islands. Fortunately, this means you’ll encounter less tourists and crowded areas during your stay, allowing you to properly enjoy the beach life. However, if you want to enjoy a stress-free holiday, you should plan ahead of time where you will stay.
Fun fact: Despite their remote location, these islands are actually part of the United Kingdom. It is a British Overseas Territory, making it convenient for Europeans to visit.
Keep in mind that accommodation in Turks and Caicos is extremely limited for the one million tourists that visit a year! So whenever you’re planning to visit these stunning islands, plan and book well in advance to bag a good deal and avoid disappointment.
Let’s get into my top picks for where to stay in Turks & Caicos.
A Quick Overview: Top Places to Stay
Short on time? Here’s a quick rundown of the best places to stay in Turks and Caicos.
Hollywood Beach Suites | Best Mid-Range Hotel in Turks and Caicos
This three-star hotel is conveniently located near the beach and offers large family rooms with easy access to the shore. Dining options are plentiful, with its own restaurant and close proximity to some of the island’s greatest eateries and bars. There’s plenty to keep you occupied during your visit, whether your preference is to explore the island by bike, snorkel, canoe, or just to relax on the sand.
Grace Bay Club | Best Luxury Hotel in Turks and Caicos
This Grace Bay resort is a bit of a splurge, but it sure is worth it. It boasts 5-star facilities, including a day spa, kids club, a private beach, swimming pools, and tennis courts, so you can truly escape in paradise. The beach and local bars are a stone’s throw away, meaning it won’t be hard to truly embrace the beach life.
Reef House | Best Airbnb in Turks and Caicos
This seafront apartment is a dream come true. No doubt, it is one of the best Airbnbs in the Bahamas. Sitting right on the beach in one of the coolest parts of the island, the property provides a tropical home-away-from-home for up to two visitors. You can fall asleep to the sound of the waves, wake up and enjoy your morning coffee while looking over the water, and spend the day snorkeling in front of your doorstep.
Providenciales
The Bight Settlement is a lively area where there’s always something going on. It’s filled with bistros selling delicious foods and has lots of traditions that allow you to see a more authentic side of the town.
North and Middle Caicos
If you’re looking for a quieter area, then Whitby is the best area in Turks and Caicos to stay in. It’s in the center of the Turks and archipelago and is a lush green area close to all the major attractions on the island.
Grace Bay
Grace Bay is based around the beach of course, which is why many visitors never bother to go much further than their sun loungers.
Grand Turk
What will strike you first about Cockburn Town is the history. If you’re interested in the past, this is one of the best areas to stay in Turks and Caicos hands down.
South Caicos
South Caicos is a slightly different choice as it’s an island that only houses around 900 locals. It was once a hub for regional trade and salt exports, but now it supports itself with tourism and fishing.
The Turks and Caicos islands are made up of several small islands dotted with tiny towns, most of them along the beach. There are dozens of hotels on these islands, with the majority located in the area known as Providenciales. So prepare yourself to find top vacation rentals in the Bahamas.
This is the most popular part of the island train. But there are also quieter areas where you won’t have to contend with as many tourists and will still have access to amazing beaches!
Providenciales is the first place you should consider for your trip. It’s one of the best places to be if you want to be close to local beaches, restaurants, and nightlife. It offers a range of accommodations at different price points, making it suitable for any travel style.
Grace Bay on Providenciales is arguably one of the busiest neighborhoods in Turks and Caicos. Grace Bay is surrounded by things to see and do, meaning you’ll never run out of things to explore. It’s unquestionably the greatest location to take in the vibrant nightlife that the Caribbean has to offer, with a wide variety of top-notch hotels, bars, and restaurants.
North and Middle Caicos is a quieter alternative to Providenciales. This small island offers beautiful beaches and easy access to some of the many natural attractions on the Turks and Caicos islands. The lower tourist numbers here also mean that accommodation is usually cheaper than in other areas so you can bag yourself a deal and save your precious dollars for that pina colada on the beach.
And after that, you have Grand Turk. This is a more local area that still sees its share of tourists, offering the perfect combination of beautiful nature experiences and a more down to earth, local atmosphere. This is one of the best areas to stay in Turks and Caicos for adventurous travelers, who want to see the true essence of the Caribbean without the oversaturation of tourists.
The final area on my list is South Caicos. This island is charmingly laidback, without the bars and restaurants that make other Turks islands so busy. You won’t find as many amenities in this area. Instead, you’ll be treated to miles of pristine beaches and natural landscapes.
Turks and Caicos Five Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
Now, let’s take a look at each of these areas in more detail. Keep in mind that these neighborhoods aren’t all close together, so it’s important to find the best one to suit your travel plans!
1. Providenciales – Where to Stay in Turks and Caicos for Your First Time
Providenciales is one of the two most popular choices for tourists visiting the Turks Islands. There is a cluster of accommodation options in this area at every price point, as well as easy access to beautiful beaches such as Long Bay Beach. It’s also just eight minutes from the airport, which means no long car trips!
Providenciales is a lively area that makes it one of the best Caribbean islands to visit: there’s always something going on. It’s filled with bistros selling delicious foods and has lots of traditions that allow you to see a more authentic side of the town. For example, every Thursday night the locals hold a traditional fish fry that welcomes locals and tourists alike with local food vendors and live music playing in the street.
This is a fun night with live music from local artists and lots of socializing and shouldn’t be missed if you’re visiting at the right time. This experience is a real draw whether you’re trying to decide where to stay in Turks and Caicos for your first time or on a return trip, offering great insight into island life.
The Shore Club Turks & Caicos | Best Luxury Hotel in Providenciales
If you’re searching for a peaceful area of the island away from the bustle of Grace Bay, this hotel is fantastic, and its location couldn’t be better. The Shore Club Turks & Caicos offers water sports facilities, a year-round outdoor swimming pool, a kids club, and a sun deck for guests to enjoy. The beds are like clouds, and the rooms are perfectly designed.
Windsong on the Reef | Another Great Luxury Hotel in Providenciales
This hotel in Turks and Caicos is ideal if you have a little extra to spend and want a truly luxurious experience. It offers a swimming pool, private beach, onsite restaurant, and daily continental breakfast. The rooms are stylish and come with private bathrooms and an in-room dining area. Fancy.
Paradise Villa #4 | Best Budget Airbnb in Providenciales
Whether you’re trying to decide where to stay in Turks and Caicos for one night or for a longer visit, this is a good choice. It’s located right in the middle of the shops and restaurants and offers easy access to the beach, too. This private villa has amazing views as well as comfortable furnishings, a fully equipped kitchen, and laundry facilities.
Amazing Home with Private Car | Best Mid-Range Airbnb in Providenciales
This Airbnb truly has it all. You definitely know you’ve scored a great deal if a car comes with an incredible home – for free! This condo is perfect for your first time on the Turks Islands, offering stunning views and all of the amenities you could need. If you want to head to the beach, make sure you pack the snorkelling gear that has been provided by the host. For recommendations on dining or going out, reach out and your host will provide you with all the best hotspots.
Things to See and Do in Providenciales
- Visit the area’s popular beaches like Bight Settle Beach, Long Bay Beach, or Grace Bay Beach.
- Spend half a day exploring Providenciales Island in your very own Love Buggy.
- Play a round at the Provo Golf Club.
- Discover Providenciales’ hidden beauties with an exciting off-road buggy tour accompanied by an experienced guide.
- Snorkel through the beauty of Smiths Reef.
- Go kiteboarding in Long Bay Beach.
- Take a clear kayak trip through the mangroves.
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View on Osprey View on REI2. North and Middle Caicos – Best Place to Stay in Turks and Caicos on a Budget
Okay, Turks and Caicos isn’t exactly one of the top budget-friendly destinations. But Broke Backpackers don’t have to miss out! Whitby is a quieter, slightly more affordable part of the island, making it the best place to be if you need to watch your spending.
It’s in the center of the Turks and Archipelago and is a lush green area close to all the major tourist attractions on the island. If you’re a little more adventurous and want to get away from resort living, then this is where you should spend your vacation.
This is a quiet area that few tourists ever see, so, you’ll be staying and living among the locals which is SUCH a rarity when you look at other Caribbean islands like Anguilla. This is what makes North and Middle Caicos a great choice when you’re deciding where to stay in Turks and Caicos on a budget.
The great thing about staying at either one of these islands is the fact that they are connected by road, making a day trip to either very accessible. It’s perfect to escape the hustle and bustle of more chaotic parts of Turks and Caicos like Grace Bay and Providenciales.
But if you want to head back to civilization, it’s also only a thirty-minute (scenic) ride on the ferry from Providenciales and all the popular luxury resorts. You can’t go wrong.
Hollywood Beach Suites | Best Hotel in North Caicos
This three-star hotel is conveniently located near the beach and offers large family rooms with easy access to the shore. Dining options are plentiful, with its own restaurant and close proximity to some of the island’s greatest eateries and bars. There’s plenty to keep you occupied during your visit, whether your preference is to explore the island by bike, snorkel, canoe, or just to relax on the sand.
Dragon Cay Resort Mudjin Harbour | Best Hotel in Middle Caicos
Dragon Cay Resort is a one-of-a-kind tropical paradise nestled behind 2,200 feet of naturally preserved beachfront on Middle Caicos, overlooking Mudjin Harbor’s cliffs. In addition to enjoying the advantages of a resort stay, guests staying in one of Dragon Cay Resort’s private villas will experience complete seclusion and tranquility. In Middle Caicos, this is the only resort-style lodging available.
Sanctuary by the Sea | Best Airbnb in North Caicos
If direct access to 8 miles of quiet white sand beaches and views of swaying palm trees sounds good to you, then you’ll love this stunning island retreat. The house is a great choice for couples planning a romantic escape and is conveniently located a stone’s throw from the best restaurant on the island. It’s beautifully furnished with modern amenities and has everything you’ll need for a comfortable stay.
Things to See and Do in North Caicos
- Head down to Mudjin Harbour to see the majestic limestone cliffs.
- Take a day trip to North and Middle Caicos to see all the sights and sounds the islands have to offer.
- Pack your beach bag and enjoy the nearly deserted beaches in North Caicos and Middle Caicos!
- Take the Crossing Place Trail hike, a historical trail that is used to connect the communities in Middle and North Caicos.
- Visit some of the astonishing blue holes like the Cottage Pond in North Caicos and the Middle Caicos Ocean Hole.
3. Grace Bay – Best Neighborhood in Turks and Caicos for Nightlife
Grace Bay is arguably the most popular neighborhood to stay in on the Providenciales island – and for good reason. It’s the ideal location if you want a trouble-free vacation because it has an enormous selection of hotels and convenient access to the beach and local stores. If you want to unwind, enjoy the beach and the laid-back vibe in Turks & Caicos, this is the place to stay.
Naturally, Grace Bay is centered around the beach, which is why most visitors never venture farther than their sun loungers. However, there are plenty of water-based activities to get involved in, including stand-up paddleboarding from Princess Alexandra National Park, if you’re not the sort to just laze around and get tanned. There are lots of clubs and restaurants around, so the nightlife is also pretty decent.
Coral Gardens on Grace Bay Beach | Best Hotel in Grace Bay
This is one of my all-time favorite hotels in Turks and Caicos. It’s just 15 minutes from the airport and offers a sun deck, private beach, private pool, lounge bar, and a lovely garden. The resort is super-luxurious, offering beautifully decorated rooms and a whole host of activities to keep everyone entertained.
Grace Bay Club | Best Luxury Hotel in Grace Bay
This Grace Bay resort is a bit of a splurge, but it sure is worth it. It boasts 5-star facilities, including a day spa, kids club, a private beach, swimming pools, and tennis courts, so you can truly escape in paradise. The beach and local bars are a stone’s throw away, meaning it won’t be hard to truly embrace the beach life.
Coco Apartment | Best Budget Airbnb in Grace Bay
This one-bedroom apartment is just a 2-minute walk from Grace Bay beach, local shops, and restaurants. It has a small kitchen, living room, and a private patio so you can enjoy the outdoors in peace. Up to five guests can stay here, making for a cozy but well-equipped family retreat.
Inn by Grace Bay Beach | Best Mid-Range Airbnb in Grace Bay
This Airbnb offers peace and quiet while still being in the best location. It’s pretty much on the beach and offers easy access to some of the best places to eat in Turks and Caicos. Each room can sleep up to four guests and has been newly renovated to offer a flashy modern kitchen area, a Sonos sound system, and much more.
Things to See and Do in Grace Bay
- Live your best beach life (with plenty of sun cream).
- Take a catamaran snorkeling tour from Grace Bay Beach.
- If you’re PADI certified, then head out to go scuba diving in the famous Turks and Caicos Barrier Reef.
- Marvel at the beauty of the Princess Alexandra National Park, a pristine marine reserve.
- Take the ferry across to the other Caicos islands to explore the beaches and natural landmarks.
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Grab an eSIM!4. Grand Turk – Best Area to Stay in Turks and Caicos for an Authentic Experience
Turks and Caicos’ capital is Cockburn Town, which is located on Grand Turk island. The island itself is so small that Cockburn Town takes up virtually all of it, yet it still has an international airport and numerous tourist sites to visit. The simplicity of staying on Grand Turk Island makes it ideal for groups, families, solo travelers, and those traveling on a budget.
What strikes you immediately about Grand Turk is its history. If you want to learn about the fascinating history of the Turks and Caicos, this is without a doubt one of the best places to stay.
The majority of the building dates back to colonial times, however, there are certain parts with a more Bermudan flair. Grand Turk also has all of the fantastic beach and wildlife experiences found on the other Turks islands.
Turks Head Inne | Best Luxury Hotel on Grand Turk
This Turks and Caicos accommodation option has truly beautiful grounds, light and cheerful, and filled with lots of quirky touches. It’s ten minutes from the airport, offers car hire, and is close to local fishing and scenic spots. The rooms are spacious and bright, containing everything you’ll need during your stay. Massages are also available – result!
Pillory Club | Best Budget Airbnb on Grand Turk
Each apartment has a huge beachfront terrace with breathtaking views of the ocean for a romantic meal or sunset cocktail, as well as a bonus second balcony off each bedroom for couples to enjoy some peace by themselves. The staff are warm and friendly and are happy to help you plan any activities you like, such as snorkeling, whale watching, and world-class dive packages for scuba diving leaving straight from the beach. You can truly take in the Carribean vibe here.
Reef House North | Best Mid-Range Airbnb on Grand Turk
If you wish to visit one of the nicest regions in the Turks Islands, your accommodations should be equally as good. This coastal villa is not the cheapest, but with such a fantastic location, it is a dream come true. Imagine falling asleep to the sound of the waves, waking up with your morning coffee overlooking the water, and then spending the day snorkeling right in front of your door. So what are you waiting for?
Things to See and Do on Grand Turk
- Take an open-air tram tour of Grand Turk’s top attractions while listening to a knowledgeable guide provide historical commentary.
- Learn more about local history at the Turks and Caicos National Museum.
- Visit some of the local beaches like Governor’s Beach or Pillory Beach.
- Rent a golf cart and explore the island.
- Explore the Grand Turk Wall, a coral shelf internationally famous due to its dramatic shelf drops, on a snorkel tour.
- See the Historic Lighthouse Grand Turk and take in the lovely views while you’re there.
- Have a look at the Crofton Coverley House, first built in 1870.
5. South Caicos – The Most Tranquil Place to Stay in Turks and Caicos
South Caicos is a slightly different choice as it’s an island that only houses around 900 locals. It was once a hub for regional trade and salt exports, but now it supports itself with tourism and fishing.
South Caicos is one of the coolest places to stay in Turks and Caicos if you have a more adventurous spirit. You won’t find lots of shops and bars on this island, instead, you’ll find a more poetic experience that puts you closer to nature.
From South Caicos, a day trip to Salt Cay should definitely be on your itinerary. With an area of about 2.6 square miles and a population of only 108 people, this island is very different from Providenciales and the other islands in the country. Salt Cay is a true example of an island that time forgot. Tranquilly is an attraction on Salt Cay that is difficult to find elsewhere.
South Caicos is charmingly laidback, without the bars and restaurants that make other Turks islands so busy. There are only a few resorts on the island, no casinos, and few water sports businesses.
This is hands down one of the best places to stay in Turks and Caicos if you want to experience the Old Caribbean before the developments move in and ruin – I mean change – it. This, along with lesser-known islands like Curacao, are the true hidden gems of the Caribbean
Ambergris Cay Private Island | Best Private Island Resort Near South Caicos
Big Ambergris Cay, an island directly south of South Caicos, has been privately owned since 1811. This unique private island luxury resort offers all-inclusive villas, beachfront pool suites, and premium amenities like a heated saltwater pool. This hidden gem offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience when visiting Turks & Caicos.
Sailrock South Caicos | Best Luxury Hotel on South Caicos
It doesn’t get much better than this 5-star beachfront luxury resort in Turks and Caicos. Visitors can enjoy a spa, a private beach, a private pool and plenty of family entertainment. Each room comes with a terrace and balcony, air conditioning, and a flat-screen TV, as well as a private bathroom. There are loads of activities to do here, including water sports and snorkeling. An all-inclusive option is available if you fancy going all-out.
Things to See and Do on South Caicos
- If you’re visiting between January and April, head over to Salt Cay for whale watching.
- Relax on otherwise empty beaches like East Bay, Long Beach, Bell Sound, and turquoise Plandon Cay Cut Beach.
- Throw on your best hiking shoes and head through the natural landscape.
- Go reef fishing.
- Go paddling through hidden, stunning areas like the mangrove channels of McCartney Cay, Hog Cay, and Middle.
- Check out Creek Cay and East Caicos for some of the best paddling in the region.
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Turks and Caicos
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Turks and Caicos and where to stay.
What To Pack For Turks and Caicos
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
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Where is the coolest place to stay in Turks and Caicos?
If you have the cash to splash, escaping to a private island for your Turks and Caicos getaway is the best way to explore this beautiful corner of the Caribbean. Resorts like Ambergris Cay Private Island are a once-in-a-lifetime experience where you can experience true luxury.
What part of Turks and Caicos is the most beautiful?
Grace Bay is arguably one of the most beautiful places in the region. Known for its renowned beaches and insane scuba diving, you really will be left breathless by the beauty that Grace Bay has to offer.
Is it safe to swim in the ocean in Turks and Caicos?
The water surrounding the Turks and Caicos islands is clear and generally calm, providing perfect conditions so you can indulge in water sports ’till your heart’s content. Whether it be swimming, snorkeling or scuba diving, you’re guaranteed to live your best beach life.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Turks and Caicos
Hey, I know – travel insurance is not the most exciting aspect of a trip to Turks and Caicos. But believe me, if things don’t turn out as planned, a paradise trip quickly turns into a nightmare. So expect the best, but prepare for the worst.
This is why good travel insurance is essential before you head on your trip to these beautiful islands.
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Turks and Caicos
Regardless of the island you choose, Turks & Caicos will enchant you with its tranquility. If you plan on doing a lot of island hopping, you’ll be immersed in a tapestry of sensations, from the vibrant pulse of Providenciales to the peaceful stillness of South Caicos.
And once you’ve visited these islands, chances are that their charms will bring you back again and again!
Grace Bay is the epitome of indulgence for those looking for the ultimate Caribbean holiday, complete with magnificent resorts, stunning beaches, and a plethora of upmarket amenities. Days here unfurl in a haze of pleasure, mixed with exhilarating water sports, spectacular dining experiences, and leisurely strolls along golden beaches. You’ll build that tan in no time.
If you’re still not sure where to stay, I highly recommend Shore Club in Providenciales. The facilities here are top notch and the region offers pristine beaches and fantastic bars, guaranteeing you have a fabulous time.
Why not stay in a villa on your own private island if money is not a concern and you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience? The ultimate Caribbean retreat, Ambergris Cay Private Island will quickly fulfill all of your sun-kissed fantasies.
In the end, wherever you decide to settle in Turks and Caicos, you will undoubtedly be met by friendly faces, stunning scenery, and an abundance of adventures just waiting to be explored. So, as you embark on your journey to this exquisite corner of the Caribbean, may you discover your own slice of paradise among the sun-kissed sands and azure waters of Turks and Caicos.
What are you waiting for? Get out there and get your best beach life on!!!
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