First time in Turks and Caicos? No doubt you’ve chosen our idyllic chain of islands for one big, award-winning reason: The beach. Fortunately, there are several pristine sandy stretches of gorgeous shoreline to choose from, and even more activities to keep you busy when you want to get out and explore.

Whether you’re visiting for the first time or planning a return trip, there are some experiences you simply can’t miss. From snorkeling right off shore to sampling the island’s locally made brews, here are the top 10 must-do activities to make your trip to Turks and Caicos one to remember.

Top 10 Must-Do Activities in the Turks and Caicos Islands

Pictured: Grace Bay Beach

1. Spend the Day Beach Hopping

No trip to Turks and Caicos is complete without spending time on its world-famous beaches—and Grace Bay is only one of them. Some of our favorites include:

• Grace Bay Beach – Consistently ranked among the world’s best, with powder-soft sand and calm, clear waters made for swimming.
• Taylor Bay – A secluded, shallow beach ideal for families with young children.
• Leeward Beach – A quieter stretch of sand near the eastern tip of Providenciales, great for long walks and shell collecting, and home to Big Chill Villa, Villa Bash and Aquazure.

Long Bay Beach – Home to Aguaribay Villa, Long Bay is known for its shallow waters and steady breezes, making it a hotspot for kiteboarding.

Pictured: Mudjin Harbor, Middle Caicos

2. Take a Day Trip to North and Middle Caicos

Just a 30-minute ferry ride from Providenciales, you’ll find the quiet, untouched beauty of North and Middle Caicos. These islands are some of the largest in the Turks and Caicos island chain, yet with even fewer people than Providenciales—making them the ideal destination to truly get away from it all. The ferry will take you to the island of North Caicos, where you’ll either rent a car or catch a taxi to explore the islands. Middle Caicos connects to North via a scenic causeway. Highlights of the twin islands include:

• Beaches of North Caicos – The beaches here are serenely quiet and unspoiled, offering a true escape from crowds. Notable spots include Whitby Beach, Hollywood Beach and Pumpkin Bluff. You could spend a full day just beach hopping on North Caicos.
• Flamingo Pond – A hidden gem where you can see flocks of wild flamingos in their natural habitat. This tranquil spot provides a rare chance to observe these vibrant birds in the shallow wetlands of North Caicos.
• Mudjin Harbor – A dramatic coastline on Middle Caicos with impressive limestone cliffs reminiscent of the coast of Scotland. Stop at Mudjin Bar & Grill for lunch with one of the most impressive views in the Turks and Caicos.
• Conch Bar Caves – The largest cave system in the Caribbean? That would be the Conch Bar Caves on Middle Caicos. This vast cave system was once home to the indigenous Lucayans thousands of years ago. Today, you can only explore the caves with a guide.

Pictured: Villa Big Chill on the Canal

3. Set Sail on a Boat Charter

One of the best ways to experience Turks and Caicos is from the water. A private or group boat charter lets you explore the many islands and uninhabited cays that make up TCI, snorkel our world-famous barrier reef and enjoy the turquoise waters at your own pace. Whether you’re interested in a day of snorkelling and cruising the Caicos cays, a leisurely sail at sunset or an afternoon of deep-sea fishing, there are options to suit every type of boater in Turks and Caicos.

4. Go Horseback Riding with Provo Ponies

For a truly magical experience, book a horseback riding tour with Provo Ponies. This beloved local stable offers rides along quiet trails that lead to Long Bay Beach, where you and your horse can wade into the shallow waters. It’s a unique and adventurous way to explore the island’s natural beauty, with opportunities for riders of all skill levels. Pro tip: Be sure to reserve your tour months in advance, as this popular activity books up fast.

5. Get Your Feet Wet with Exciting Water Sports

Turks and Caicos is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. Beyond swimming and snorkeling, try these thrilling activities:

• Kayaking & Paddleboarding – We love the beach, but there’s something magical about the mangroves. Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore this haven for juvenile fish, turtles and lemon sharks.
  • Bonus: All of our villas at Turquoise Vacation Rentals include complimentary access to kayaks and paddleboards so you can easily get on the water on your own.
• E-Foiling – A high-tech way to glide over the water, e-foiling is like surfing with a futuristic twist. Local companies like FlyTCI offer lessons for all skill levels.
• Kiteboarding – If you’re going to try your hand at kiteboarding, there’s no better place than Long Bay Beach, where you’ll find multiple kite schools to choose from. Its shallow waters and protected shoreline make it an ideal spot for learning the sport, and there’s no better feeling than getting your kite up in the air while skimming the water’s surface on your board.

Pictured: Villa Seafire, Smith’s Reef

6. Go Snorkelling Right Off the Beach

Turks and Caicos boasts some of the best snorkeling spots you’ll find in the Caribbean region. The best part: You don’t have to charter a boat to explore the reef. The island of Providenciales is home to some thriving coral reefs right off shore, so you can wade in from the beach and explore the underwater world with ease.

• Smith’s Reef – Located in Turtle Cove, Smith’s Reef is just a short swim off shore with an abundance of marine life, including sea turtles, eagle rays and vibrant coral formations. If you want to wake up and be snorkelling the reef within minutes, consider a stay at Seafire Villa.
• Coral Gardens – A beginner-friendly reef close to the beach with tropical fish and occasional stingray sightings. Pro tip: Explore the sea grass next to the reef for a chance to spot sea turtles having a snack.

7. Tour Turks Head Brewery

For a taste of local flavors, take a tour of Turks Head Brewery, the islands’ only brewery. Learn about the brewing process and sample their refreshing craft beers, playfully named for local colloquialisms including I-Ain-Ga-Lie Lager and I-Soon-Reach Light Lager. It’s a laid-back, fun stop for those looking for a break from the beach.

Pictured: Rock House

8. Enjoy Sunset Cocktails at a Beachfront Bar

If there’s one thing the Turks and Caicos do well, it’s sunsets—and there’s no better way to enjoy them than by the beach with a cocktail (or mocktail, if you prefer) in hand. Some of the best spots for sunset drinks on Providenciales include:

• Rock House Cave Bar – An elegant bar and restaurant featuring unique limestone walls and an impressive selection of tasty cocktails, best paired with one of their signature pizzas.
• Infiniti Bar at Grace Bay Club – An upscale atmosphere with uninterrupted ocean views of Grace Bay, offering live music several nights a week.
• Somewhere Café & Lounge – A casual, lively spot known for its Mexican food, excellent margaritas and superior sunsets over Grace Bay.

Pictured: Da Conch Shack

9. Try Local Restaurants for Authentic Island Flavors

Turks and Caicos boasts a vibrant food scene that blends Caribbean flavors with fresh seafood. For a true taste of local flavors, give one of these restaurants a shot:

• Da Conch Shack – A famous beachfront restaurant in the quaint Blue Hills, da Conch Shack is known for its fresh conch dishes served a variety of ways, from conch salad to fritters and more. For the full experience, make sure you get a side of peas and rice, plantains and don’t forget the island-style mac-and-cheese.
• Omar’s Beach Hut – Known for its fresh seafood and jerk dishes, a stop at Omar’s is a great way to sample the flavors of the islands in an incredible location on the beach in Five Cays. At low tide, the beach makes for an ideal playground for kids.
• Chinson’s Grill Shack – Where Jamaican and Chinese flavors meet, you could get a Jamaican-inspired jerk pork dish or shrimp lo mein—and both would be fantastic. You’ll love the atmosphere at Chinson’s in the evening, set on a wooden deck on a hill under the stars.

10. Explore Chalk Sound National Park

This striking turquoise lagoon, dotted with tiny limestone islands that add to its stunning seascape, is one of the most picturesque places in Turks and Caicos. Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore its calm, shallow waters, or simply take in the view from the laid-back waterfront restaurant Las Brisas, offering some of the best views on the island. Want to stay in this area? Check out the contemporary 5-bedroom Villa Alinna.

Ready to Plan Your Trip to Turks and Caicos?

If you’re looking for a villa and itinerary that checks all the boxes in Turks and Caicos, we’d love to help you experience the best our islands have to offer. Get in touch with us at Turquoise Vacation Rentals to start planning your stay. Our job is crafting experiences in Turks and Caicos that cater to your every need and leave lasting memories—yours is simply to relax and come along for the ride.