Celebrating a Milestone Birthday in Paradise: 4 Days in Turks & Caicos

Royal Turks & Caicos Golf Course

My sister and I love golfing, so this was our first stop. The only course on the island, it's an easy 10–15-minute cab ride from the Grace Bay area depending on where you are staying. Fast greens and plenty of water made for an enjoyable and challenging round, and the pro shop had a wide selection of cute clothes/accessories. The #19 Bar & Restaurant, ability to rent Titleist clubs if you don’t want to bring your own and a starter who told us “not to worry” about our 8a tee time (ah, island time) made for a memorable round.

Half Day Snorkel Tour

As you would expect, water activities are plentiful here. Options include private charters, sunset cruises, jet ski rentals, snorkeling excursions, scuba diving, kayaking, parasailing and fishing. We chose a snorkeling tour that started at Leeward Reef, where we saw lobster, conch, a variety of colorful fish and even some playful dolphins that swam alongside our catamaran. From there we went to “Iguana Island” (trust me, they’re everywhere), had lunch on board and finished the day taking turns slipping into the water via the slide on the catamaran. Unlimited rum punch and excellent music made this tour one of our favorites. Whatever activity you choose, make sure you pick a reputable company since there are always fly-by-night operators. Working with a knowledgeable travel advisor will ensure you get the perfect tour with a trustworthy company.

Love Buggy Island Tour

This half-day land tour will give you a great overview of the island since it covers 85% of it. It also includes lunch at Da Conch Shack, one of Provo’s most beloved casual dining spots.

Fun fact- the tour allows you to get a glimpse of the homes of some of the island's most famous residents, including Prince’s former home which still features a distinctive purple driveway.

Kayak Chalk Sound

Rent a kayak from Las Brisas Restaurant and explore the gorgeous light azure water of Chalk Sound on your own.

Pro Tip - Chalk Sound is located on the southwest side of the island, which is known to get windy in the afternoon, so it’s best to head out earlier in the day. Regular kayak rentals are $35 for the first hour, glass bottom is $60, and each additional hour is $10.

Indulge in a Spa Experience

What good is coming to a chill island if you never chill? Spa treatments are available at most hotels, and our hotel (Seven Stars Resort & Spa) was no different. I opted for a 50-minute massage while my sister relaxed with a 30-minute salt scrub followed by a 30-minute massage. It’s a great way to sooth aching muscles and calm down after a full day of activities.

Places to Eat & Drink

The Farm

Farm-to-table came to Provo in March of 2023 with the opening of The Farm, one of four restaurant options at Seven Stars. The moment you step inside the outdoor restaurant, you’re transported to a Zen Garden experience. At the center is a 320 sq. foot container farm that grows fresh ingredients like basil, romaine, kale, mint, microgreens, herbs, Bibb and butter lettuces and much more – all used in dishes and drinks on the menu. This is a game-changer for Provo, given that nothing grows on the island (everything is imported from Miami - one of the reasons Turks & Caicos is more expensive than other Caribbean islands). The food was fresh & healthy, and the atmosphere laid back. Highly recommend lunch or dinner here.

Infiniti Restaurant & Raw Bar

Located on the grounds of Grace Bay Resort, Infiniti is just steps from the ocean. Grab a drink from the more casual Infiniti Bar and watch the sun set while lounging on one of the many cushioned seating areas adjacent to the restaurant. Large firepits keep everything toasty when the evening breezes set in, and low-lit hanging lanterns add to the island vibe. Stay at the raw bar and enjoy light bites from this menu or make a reservation for the restaurant next door, only steps away in a sophisticated setting designed by NY interior designer Thom Filicia. In addition to seafood, the menu also includes fresh catches of the day, a selection of high-quality meats and vegetarian options. Rumor has it, this is Drake’s favorite restaurant on the island.

Coco Bistro

The rave reviews and tough-to-get-a-reservation reputation made this an obvious choice to celebrate my actual birthday. Tables are nestled between canopies of coconut palm trees decorated with twinkling lights, creating a charming and intimate atmosphere. The Caribbean-inspired cuisine was beautifully prepared (I had pepper-crusted tuna, my sister enjoyed west Indian style shrimp curry) and, unlike US restaurants, service was not rushed. We were able to enjoy our pre-dinner cocktails without ever getting the stink eye from an impatient server anxious to turn over the table. I love island time!

Bella Luna

This was a great choice for a low-key dining option that was directly across the street from our hotel. The Italian cuisine is creatively interpreted for the Caribbean.

Omar’s and Da Conch Shack

Two great options for casual dining that allow you to keep your toes in the water while sipping your island beverages. Both places offer live music on the weekends- Omar’s features reggae music on Saturday & Sunday, while Da Conch Shack features local artists on the weekend and a Junkanoo band on Wednesdays.