First-Time Visitor’s Guide to Turks and Caicos

When to visit

If you ask me, any time is the best time to visit Turks and Caicos. Turks and Caicos is a year-round destination, but there are a few things to keep in mind when picking your travel dates. The peak season runs from December to April, which means higher prices and more crowds — though in Turks and Caicos, "crowds" aren’t anything like what you’d find in Cancun or other high-traffic tropical destinations. If you want the same dreamy weather without the rush, late April through early June is ideal.

Hurricane season officially runs from July through October, but heightened awareness is typically focused on September to mid-October. While storms are rare, these months can offer excellent resort deals. However, it's worth noting that some resorts and restaurants close temporarily for renovations, updates or staff holidays during September and October. There are still plenty of great options available, but it’s something to keep in mind when planning your trip.

What to expect upon arrival

You’ll fly into Providenciales International Airport (PLS), which is small but busy, especially on weekends. Expect longer lines at immigration during peak hours. If you want to skip the wait, consider booking a fast-track service like VIP Flyers Club to breeze through customs. Once you’re through, there are several options to get you from the airport to your accommodations. You can grab a taxi, a shuttle or pick up your rental car right outside.

Getting around

Providenciales (or “Provo” as the locals call it) is the main island where most travelers stay, and while it’s not huge, getting around requires some planning. There’s no public transportation, and taxis can get pricey since they charge per person, not per ride. Renting a car is the best option if you plan to explore beyond your resort, but keep in mind that they drive on the left side of the road here. If that feels overwhelming, many resorts and villas in the Grace Bay area are walkable to restaurants and the beach. You can use taxis only as needed.

Must-know customs & local tips

Turks and Caicos is an easy place to visit. English is the official language, the US is used and credit cards are accepted at hotels and restaurants (minus a few beach vendor-type eats). That said, small businesses and taxis often operate on cash only, so it’s good to have some small bills on hand.

Tipping is customary, but there are a few things to know. Most restaurants include a 10 percent service charge on the bill, which goes toward behind-the-scenes staff. It’s standard practice to tip your server separately (15–20 percent) in addition to this, preferably in cash, even if you pay your bill by credit card. If you’re using a porter at the airport, don’t forget to tip them a few dollars per bag for their service.

One thing first-timers don’t always realize is that things can, on occasion, move at a slower pace in Turks and Caicos. Service is friendly and sometimes unhurried if you’re dining at a casual local establishment, and island time is real — so relax and enjoy the slower rhythm.

Things to do

The beaches are the main attraction, and Grace Bay Beach consistently ranks among the best in the world for a reason. But don’t stop there — Taylor Bay and Sapodilla Bay are perfect for calm, shallow waters, while Long Bay Beach is a hotspot for kiteboarding. If you want a day of adventure, take a half-day snorkeling tour. Explore the barrier reef and visit Iguana Island or book a private boat charter for the ultimate island-hopping experience. Love animals? And, you definitely can’t beat a sunset catamaran cruise along the coast of Grace Bay Beach. Visit Provo Ponies for a bucket-list horseback ride through the water, or stop by Potcake Place K-9 Rescue to take an adorable rescue puppy for a beach walk.

Day trips

If you have time, a day trip to North and Middle Caicos is well worth it. You’ll take a 30-minute ferry ride from Provo and be able to explore some of the most untouched parts of the islands. Mudjin Harbor’s dramatic cliffs and secluded beaches are a must-see, offering some of the most stunning coastal views in the Caribbean. Bambarra Beach in Middle Caicos was recently named the #1 best beach in the Caribbean by USA Today. The island’s Conch Bar Caves are also worth visiting for a peek into the island’s natural history.

Turks and Caicos has an incredible dining scene, offering everything from beachside bites to fine dining experiences. Here are some top picks for first-time visitors:

• Beach bars: Somewhere Cafe, Rickies Flamingo Cafe and Da Conch Shack (especially on Wednesdays for live music and a lively atmosphere!).

• Casual eats: The Deck, Coco Van (an upscale food truck experience) and Hemingway’s for laid-back island vibes.

• Mid-dining: Mango Reef, Infiniti Restaurant & Raw Bar, Embers and Lua Restaurant for a mix of fresh seafood and island flavors.

• Fine dining: Indigo, Blue Water Bistro, Coco Bistro for elevated cuisine and an unforgettable dining experience.