No matter what time of year, the Caribbean is one of my favorite places to visit. In this Turks and Caicos travel guide, I cover everything you need to know before your book your next trip.
In addition to the Turks and Caicos, I’ve also spent time in The Bahamas, Jamaica, St. Thomas, St. Croix, Puerto Rico, and the Dominican Republic. The Bahamas and Puerto Rico are personal favorites amongst this group.
For more Points With Q articles delivered to your inbox, sign up for my travel newsletter.
Best Credit Cards to Use in Turks and Caicos
The Turks and Caicos is a British Overseas Territory close to the Bahamas. You want to avoid transaction fees on your travel credit cards so check out ones offered by American Express, Chase, and Citi.
The American Express Gold earns 4x on dining and US grocery stores. You earn 3x points on dining and travel with the Chase Sapphire Reserve. Citi Premier cardmembers earn 3x points on airfare, hotels, gas stations, restaurants, and grocery stores starting August 23, 2020.
Other cards to consider bringing include the American Express Green and Chase Sapphire Preferred. Neither card has transaction fees. Green cardmembers earn 3x points on dining and travel. You earn 2x points on dining and travel with the Preferred.
How to Fly to Turks and Caicos
All of the major US airlines in American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines fly to Providenciales International Airport (PLS). In addition, low-cost airlines like JetBlue and Southwest fly to the Turks and Caicos.
The island is also served by major international airlines in Air Canada and British Airways. Bahamasair, Caicos Express Airways, InterCaribbean Airways, SkyBahamas Airlines, Sunrise Airways, and WestJet fly from various North American cities to the Turks and Caicos.
Where to Stay When Visiting Turks and Caicos
Turks and Caicos is not flooded with points hotels. Unfortunately, Hilton, IHG, nor Marriott have properties on the island. Hyatt has two properties in the Sailrock Resort and Point Grace Resort and Spa.
You can also check Airbnb, Google Hotels, and Ocean Club West (where we stayed). God Save the Points has a Google Hotels Tips Best Search Tools piece that’s a helpful guide if you’re new to using Google Hotels. He shares everything you need to know about booking a hotel through the platform.
Where to Eat and Drink When Visiting Turks and Caicos
Coffee & Breakfast
Start your morning off at Retreat Kitchen. It’s a small coffee shop attached to a Yoga studio that offers healthy breakfast dishes. Another option is Lemon 2 go Coffee. The coffee shop has an outdoor space that’s a great place to enjoy your coffee and breakfast.
Lunch
Solana is perfect for lunch if you’re staying at Ocean Club West. Turks Kebab is our favorite lunch spot. It’s a rundown-looking joint but don’t let that fool you! The food is delicious.
Dinner
One of the nice restaurants on the island is Coco Bistro. Try the West Indian Style Shrimp Curry. Kalooki’s Restaurant is a husband and wife team serving traditional Caribbean food. The food here is on par price-wise with Coco Bistro. Try the Jerk Chicken and pumpkin soup.
Things to Do in Turks and Caicos Travel Guide
Our daily routine included waking up early, working out, knocking out some work, reading books on the beach, and then watching the sunset. Ocean Club West, where we stayed, also has a lazy river and pool, kayaks, and parasailing.
We also spent time biking around the property and the island. In addition, we walked up and down Grace Bay. While there’s not a ton to do on Turks and Caicos, that’s why you go there. It’s the perfect place to relax!
Common Turks and Caicos Questions
Is Turks and Caicos safe?
While there may be areas of the islands you are considered unsafe, we never felt unsafe during our visit. The people were friendly and always hospitable wherever we went.
Is Turks and Caicos expensive?
Generally speaking, yes. When you compare the Turks and Caicos to places like Jamaica and The Bahamas, the Turks and Caicos is not as affordable.
Is there a lot to do in Turks and Caicos?
The beaches are one of the main reasons to visit the Turks and Caicos. With that said, most of the things to do involve the beaches and/or water.
Do I need a passport to go to the Turks and Caicos?
Yes! You must bring your passport to go to the Turks and Caicos.
Is Turks and Caicos part of the travel ban?
Per the State Department, the Turks and Caicos is currently under Level 2 Advisory, which means you need to exercise increased caution. The State Department recommends against all international travel due to COVID-19.
Conclusion on Turks and Caicos Travel Guide
Ashlee and I love spending time in the Turks and Caicos. We visited in 2018 and can’t wait to get back! It’s an island that’s easy to get to and recharge your batteries. Is there anything more could you ask for in a Caribbean island?
What do you think of this Turks and Caicos Travel Guide? What other things do you recommend doing? Please let me know in the comments below or by sending me an email on my contact page.
Disclaimer: If you click and/or sign up for a credit card through certain links on this site or any of my related social media platforms, I may make a commission from that click-through. The editorial content on this page and the user comments are not provided by any of the companies mentioned and has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities. Opinions expressed here are mine alone.
