When discussing what to do in Grand Turk and Caicos, one might immediately think of beaches.
Grand Turk and Caicos is widely considered an ultimate summer getaway due to its beautiful beaches and luxury island vibes.
But there’s still plenty to do on these islands besides swimming, surfing, and sunning.
Visiting Grand Turk and Caicos is a unique and diverse experience, with plenty of attractions, activities, and sights to see.
Whether you’re after adventure, relaxation, or just great photos, trust us; Grand Turk and Caicos will not disappoint.
Beaches and Water Activities in Grand Turk and Caicos
The beaches in Grand Turk and Caicos are some of the best in the Caribbean.
Governor’s Beach is a particularly popular spot.
It has soft white sand and clear blue water — great for swimming and sunbathing.
This beach isn’t often crowded as well, so it’s great for relaxing.
If you’re coming from a cruise, Cruise Center Beach is very close to where you dock.
It offers calm waves, free loungers, and an overall chill, pleasant atmosphere.
Do you love snorkeling or diving?
Grand Turk is also famous for its amazing underwater spots.
Just a few minutes from the shore, you’ll find a beautiful coral wall where the ocean floor drops off sharply.
Here, you can see turtles, stingrays, and even reef sharks.
Local operators or travel advisors can easily set up snorkeling trips for you.
Finally, if you’re looking for a truly unique underwater experience, visit Gibbs Cay.
This small island is known for its friendly stingrays.
You can snorkel in shallow water and get up close to these fascinating creatures.
Best Beaches in Grand Turk and Caicos
Here’s a quick overview of some of the best beaches in Grand Turk and Caicos — aside from Governor’s Beach and Cruise Center Beach.
- Pillory Beach. Just north of Cockburn town, Pillory Beach offers a more private and quiet setting — perfect if you’re looking to just kick back and relax.
- English Point Beach. This beach is smaller and more secluded than Pillory Beach. If you’re a solo traveler in the mood for privacy, this is the place to go.
- Cockburn Town Beach. The best spot for history lovers. This beach combines scenic views with easy access to local restaurants and landmarks.
- East Side Beach. East Side Beach is long and largely untouched, making it one of the best beaches on the island for flotsam beachcombing. While it doesn’t offer the best swimming conditions, the shallow waters carpeted with seagrass make it an ideal spot for kiteboarding.
- White Sands Beach. Much like East Side Beach, White Sands Beach is not the best place for swimming. However, as a secluded, 1.5-mile-long stretch of white sand, it’s one of the best spots on the island for beachcombing.
Exploring History in Grand Turk and Caicos
The Grand Turk and Caicos islands are full of history and culture just waiting to be discovered.
The Grand Turk Lighthouse, built in 1852, is a must-see location.
It’s on the northeastern tip of the island and offers stunning views of the coastline.
Don’t miss the Turks and Caicos National Museum in Cockburn Town, either.
This small museum has exhibits about shipwrecks, local culture, and even space exploration—including John Glenn’s Friendship Seven mission.
Cockburn Town itself is worth exploring, too.
With its colonial buildings, cute shops, and historical sites like Her Majesty’s Prison, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
Adventure Activities in Grand Turk and Caicos
If you want to know what to do in Grand Turk and Caicos, just go outside.
The islands have tons of exciting activities for tourists and travelers.
If you booked a stay at one of the island’s many all-inclusive resorts, you’re sure to find unique things to do the moment you step out of your room.
Alternatively, you can head on over to the Grand Turk Cruise Center and try the FlowRider.
This fun activity simulates surfing waves and is great for all ages.
It’s especially handy for people who want to try surfing without the risks the open ocean poses.
Want to see the island on your own time?
You can rent a golf cart to go around; it’s a really fun way to go exploring, too!
The island is only seven miles long, so it’s easy to visit beaches and attractions in one day.
Guided island tours are another great option.
You can go on ATV adventures or ride in open-air trucks to see the island’s stunning landscapes.
Dining and Shopping in Grand Turk and Caicos
Your trip to Grand Turk and Caicos isn’t complete without trying the local food and shopping.
Stop by Margaritaville at the Grand Turk Cruise Center.
This restaurant has a lively, vibrant atmosphere that makes tourists feel right at home.
It also serves tasty meals and drinks right by the beach, so you can nab some aesthetic and inspiring outdoor dining pics.
Over in Cockburn Town, you’ll find unique shops with handmade crafts and souvenirs.
The Philatelic Bureau is also a fun stop for collectible stamps that share the history of the islands.
Wildlife Encounters in Grand Turk and Caicos
Grand Turk and Caicos are home to amazing wildlife.
If you go snorkeling or diving, you’ll encounter colorful coral reefs filled with fish, turtles, and stingrays.
There are around 60 different species of coral in the waters around Grand Turk & Caicos, so you’ll definitely see a bit of variety.
And if you visit between January and April, you’ll be able to take a whale-watching tour.
This is when humpback whales pass through the area, so you might see them breaching.
On land, look out for wild donkeys and horses roaming freely around the island.
Bird lovers will also enjoy spotting the odd osprey, pelican, and other bird species out and about.
Plan Your Perfect Trip to Grand Turk and Caicos
If you’re still wondering what to do in Grand Turk and Caicos, just ask around.
The locals are friendly, the hotel/resort staff are knowledgeable, and the options are near-endless.
From relaxing on breathtaking beaches, exploring the islands’ rich history, or trying to spot specific wildlife, there’s something here for everyone.
So let Team Thompson Travel help you plan the Grand Turk and Caicos trip of your dreams.
We take care of every detail so you can relax and enjoy everything these islands have to offer!
Contact us today to start planning your perfect island getaway.