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Planning a trip to Turks and Caicos? Well, you’ve come to the right place!
We know how challenging it can be to figure out exactly what to do in this tropical paradise. We’ve actually spent a lot of time on this idyllic and ever popular destination, so we put our expertise to use and crafted a list of the 10 best activities you simply can’t miss.
Whether you’re snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, paddling through serene mangroves, or taking in the sunset with champagne, Turks and Caicos promises memories that will last a lifetime.
Ready to make the most of your trip? Let’s dive in and start planning!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORTIE experience in Turks and Caicos is this snorkeling tour in Grace Bay! The visibility was amazing and we saw tons of wildlife, then stopped at an island to see hundreds of iguanas. It was such a fun day out!
Check out the 2,100+ 5-star reviews and book this tour here!
- Don't Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
- Things to do in Turks and Caicos
- 1. Explore Providenciales Island in a Love Buggy
- 2. Go snorkeling in Grace Bay
- 3. Relax on a sunset champagne cruise
- 4. Paddle through mangroves in a transparent kayak
- 5. Rent a golf cart and explore Grand Turk on your own
- 6. Snorkel with stingrays in Gibbs Cay
- 7. Go parasailing
- 8. Spend a day on the water with a private boat and captain
- 9. Jet ski around a shipwreck
- 10. Get your adrenaline pumping on an ATV tour of Grand Turk
- Where to Stay in Turks and Caicos
- Thanks for reading!
- Why We Book Tours with Viator
- Don't Forget Travel Insurance!
Things to do in Turks and Caicos
1. Explore Providenciales Island in a Love Buggy
- Duration: 3 – 4 hours
- Time: 9 am or 1:30 pm
- Highlights: Zooming around in your own Love Buggy, Cheshire Hall Plantation, Junkanoo Museum, lunch at Da Conch Shack, Grace Bay Strip, admiring the scenery of Turtle Cove
- Inclusions: Hotel pickup and drop-off (Lower Bight and Grace Bay only), transport to starting point, use of Scoot Coupe (Love Buggy), helmets, plantation and museum admission, lunch, local guide
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 1,000+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check prices here!
Providenciales is Turks and Caicos’ main hub, so exploring it is a must while you’re here. And what better way to do that than in a super cute, open-air Love Buggy? We had such a great half-day full of laughter and adventure on this Love Buggy tour, and we think it’s the perfect way to get to know Turks and Caicos better.
The Love Buggy itself is a bit like a souped-up tricycle, and it’s very easy to drive. After a quick tutorial from our hilarious guides, Marvin and Niko, we hit the road. There were speakers built into the buggy so we could always hear our guides’ instructions, as well as their impromptu karaoke performances!
We covered so much ground on this tour – around 85% of the island, in fact! Highlights included a guided tour of Cheshire Hall Plantation, which is home to fascinating history and gorgeous views, as well as a quick stop at the colorful Junkanoo Museum.
We did this tour in the morning, so we finished with lunch at Da Conch Shack, which was the perfect end to the experience. The local dishes were delicious, and the beachfront views made it hard to leave.
The itinerary of this tour was fantastic, but Marvin and Niko’s energy and jokes made the trip even better. They’re the heart of this experience and really ensured we had an exhilarating adventure. It really is the perfect way to explore Providenciales, and we would highly recommend booking this tour for the first day of your trip.
Read over 1,000 5-star reviews and book this tour here!
2. Go snorkeling in Grace Bay
- Duration: 4 hours
- Time: 9 am or 1:30 pm
- Highlights: Snorkeling coral reefs, cruising around Grace Bay, spotting iguanas on Little Water Cay, drinking beer or rum punch on board, curved water slides on board
- Inclusions: Beach pickup and drop-off, catamaran cruise, use of snorkels and fins, local taxes, lunch, alcoholic and soft drinks, snacks
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 2,300+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check prices here!
This half-day snorkeling excursion from Grace Bay was, without a doubt, the highlight of our trip to Turks and Caicos. It’s the ultimate way to soak in the island’s beauty and feel like a VIP! And we’re clearly not the only ones who love it – check out the 2,000+ 5-star reviews here!
We were picked up by the friendly crew at Grace Bay Beach and climbed aboard the spacious, double-decker catamaran. We were delighted to discover that the boat had a rooftop lounge, where we spent a lot of time soaking up the sun and sipping on ice cold rum punch.
Snorkeling near the vibrant coral reef was like stepping into another world. The visibility couldn’t have been better, and we spotted tons of colorful fish, sea turtles, and even a playful dolphin in the distance. After snorkeling, we cruised over to Little Water Cay, which is otherwise known as Iguana Island. We got to enjoy a laid back lunch here as we hung out and spotted iguanas walking around on the sand.
For the grand finale, we stopped in deeper waters, where we got to slide down the boat’s curved water slide and leap off the rooftop diving board. Everyone in our group was cheering and laughing as we jumped – it was so much fun!
The tour offered the perfect mixture of adventure, relaxation, and fun. The crew made us feel like VIPs. If you’re visiting Turks and Caicos, this is one experience you absolutely cannot miss!
Book our favorite Turks and Caicos tour here, with FREE cancellation!
3. Relax on a sunset champagne cruise
- Duration: 2 hours
- Time: 3:45 pm – 5:30 pm (dependent on time of year)
- Highlights: Cruising around Grace Bay on a catamaran, enjoying champagne and fresh conch fritters, watching the sunset over the Caribbean waters
- Inclusions: Beach pickup, catamaran ride, wine, beer, rum punch, soft drinks, snacks provided by a local restaurant, local taxes
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 840+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check prices here!
Nothing beats a Caribbean sunset – especially not one viewed from a luxurious catamaran, with a glass of champagne to boot. This two-hour sunset cruise was a dream come true from start to finish!
The crew gave us a warm welcome on board the sleek and spacious boat, greeting us with smiles and a celebratory glass of champagne. We set sail and were free to enjoy complimentary bubbles, beer, and rum punch as we cruised along the stunning coastline. The views were absolutely spectacular, especially as the sun dipped lower and the color of the sky started to change.
As we glided along, we saw tropical fish darting below the boat and enjoyed delicious conch fritters, chicken strips, and fish bites prepared by a local restaurant. It was all fresh and delicious, and it paired perfectly with the rum punch and champagne! The crew was super attentive and made us feel like VIPs as we lounged on the open-air deck.
After this tour, we both agreed that this is the ultimate romantic experience to enjoy in Turks and Caicos. If you’re here on your honeymoon or looking for a way to celebrate a special occasion, there’s really no better tour to choose! And if you don’t believe us, why not check out the hundreds of glowing reviews here?
Don’t miss out – book this magical sunset champagne cruise here!
4. Paddle through mangroves in a transparent kayak
- Duration: 2 hours
- Time: 7:30 am – 5:30 pm
- Highlights: Paddling through mangroves on a clear-bottomed kayak, getting close to wildlife, learning about the local ecosystem, spotting rays and small sharks
- Inclusions: Hotel pickup and drop-off, clear-bottomed kayaks, paddles, lifejackets, local guide, bottled water, local taxes and fees
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 550+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check prices here!
As wildlife lovers, this kayak tour was one of the most memorable and magical experiences of our trip. So if you’re planning a visit, do yourself a favor and book this tour now. Seriously, it sells out weeks in advance, so don’t hesitate! You can even reserve your spot now and pay later, so there’s no reason to hesitate.
The magic began from the moment we hopped into our clear-bottomed kayaks. Thanks to the crystal clear water in Turks and Caicos, we were able to see every detail of the vibrant underwater below. There’s really no better place in the world for this type of adventure!
As we glided through the mangroves, we saw sea turtles, stingrays, baby sharks, and even a conch. Our guides explained the fascinating ecosystem to us and pointed out unique marine life along the way. We didn’t even have to paddle the entire time because we were towed across the channel, which enabled us to relax and enjoy the views to the fullest.
We also loved the fact that this was a small group tour, so it felt really intimate and personal. We were able to ask all of our burning questions about the local wildlife, and our guides helped us to spot a ton of interesting creatures. This tour is an absolute must for nature lovers and active travelers, and we can’t wait to do it again!
This tour is likely to sell out – book it here to access FREE cancellation before you go!
5. Rent a golf cart and explore Grand Turk on your own
- Duration: 1 day
- Time: Flexible
- Highlights: Zipping around in an open-air golf cart, self-guided tour, customizable itinerary
- Inclusions: Golf cart rental, map of the island, vehicle insurance, additional driver, roadside assistance, vehicle cleaning fee
- Rating: 4.5 stars (check 450+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check prices here!
If you’re a cruise passenger docking in Grand Turk, then we think that booking this self-guided golf cart tour is one of the best decisions you could make! It’s an easy, hassle-free way to explore the island at your own pace – oh, and did I mention that it’s also a ton of fun?
The pickup process is really simple, and the staff waits just steps outside of the cruise terminal. Setup is quick and easy, so within minutes, we were off, zipping around the island with the warm breeze on our faces. Bliss!
The flexibility of having our own transportation was a game-changer, and we got to see so much of the island. We began by heading north from the port to the Grand Turk Lighthouse, where we enjoyed a scenic walk and saw some friendly donkeys. From there, we drove south to Boaby Rock Point, stopping for snacks and lots of photos along the way.
The golf cart was easy to drive and a lot more fun than a traditional rental car! Plus, parking was a breeze wherever we stopped. Then, at the end of the day, dropping the cart off was just as easy as picking it up, so there’s no need to worry about returning to the cruise terminal on time.
This tour of Grand Turk is a real must-do for cruise ship passengers docking here. It’s fun, affordable, and the absolute best way to make the most of your limited time on the island. Don’t overthink it – just book it!
Book this tour here and enjoy FREE cancellation until 24 hours beforehand!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
6. Snorkel with stingrays in Gibbs Cay
- Duration: 3.5 hours
- Time: 7 am – 3:30 pm
- Highlights: Visiting the uninhabited island of Gibbs Cay, snorkeling at the Amazing Wall, spotting stingrays and small sharks, watching the captain die for conch, enjoying a fresh conch salad
- Inclusions: Boat ride to Gibbs Cay, snorkel equipment, captain, conch salad, local taxes and fees
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 400+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check prices here!
This snorkeling tour was an unforgettable experience! I mean, it’s not every day that you get to snorkel along the Amazing Wall, which is a dramatic coral shelf that begins at 20 feet (6 meters) to 7,000 feet (2,133 meters). Crazy, right?
Honestly, swimming along the coral drop-off was incredible. Seeing schools of tropical fish, colorful coral, and friendly turtles was a breathtaking experience. We felt like a teeny tiny part of a huge underwater world.
We didn’t think it could get any more magical than that, but the next stop was the uninhabited island of Gibbs Cay. The 30-minute boat ride there was a highlight in itself, and we loved soaking up the turquoise waters while our captain dove deep for live conch. Then, the pristine shores of Gibbs Cay left us breathless! It was truly an incredible experience, and you don’t just need to take our word for it – check the hundreds of rave reviews here.
We went snorkeling again on Gibbs Cay, and this time, the stingrays were the stars of the show. It was amazing to watch them gliding gracefully around us – they’re so elegant and gentle! And to top it all off, our captain prepared a fresh conch salad for us right there on the beach. It was everything we could have dreamed of on an island vacation!
Check availability and book this bucket-list experience here!
7. Go parasailing
- Duration: 1 hour
- Time: 9:30 am – 3:30 pm
- Highlights: Exhilarating parasailing flight, amazing aerial views of Grace Bay, small group tour
- Inclusions: Beach pick up, boat ride, 12-minute parasailing flight, professional instructors, all taxes and fees
- Rating: 4.6 stars (check 375+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check prices here!
Parasailing over the famous Grace Bay was a truly epic experience. If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush in Turks and Caicos, don’t hesitate to book this tour!
From start to finish, the experience was seamless and so much fun. The friendly crew picked us up from the beach and made sure that everyone felt safe and prepared before heading up. I felt completely at ease thanks to their clear instructions and calm demeanor.
Once in the air, I couldn’t believe the breathtaking views! Grace Bay is stunning from the ground but when you’re flying above it, it’s a whole different story. My jaw dropped as I gazed out at the endless stretch of white sand curving along the vibrant turquoise waters, and I really felt as though I was flying.
The ride lasted for about 12 minutes, and I loved every second. To be honest, I didn’t want to come down! However, if it had to end, at least the crew made it a smooth and easy landing!
Not only did this tour deliver an incredible experience, but it was also a really affordable way to enjoy unbelievable aerial views without splurging on a helicopter ride. Plus, the adrenaline rush that comes with it makes it even better. This really is a must-do while in Turks and Caicos.
Book this tour here with FREE cancellation before it sells out!
8. Spend a day on the water with a private boat and captain
- Duration: 4 hours
- Time: 9 am or 1:30 pm
- Highlights: Exploring the water on a private boat, snorkeling at the Outer Islands and Iguana Islands, enjoying drinks and snacks on board, personalized tour for you and your group
- Inclusions: Private boat, captain, snorkeling equipment, rum punch, beer, bottled water, snacks, sandwiches
- Rating: 5 stars (check 200+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check prices here!
This private boat and snorkel tour would make anyone feel like a celebrity, so if you’re seeking a VIP experience in Turks and Caicos, this is just the ticket! It was an adventure-filled day that we were able to tailor exactly to our liking, and we got to visit the stunning Outer Islands and Little Water Cay.
The crew, including Captain Jack and the unforgettable “Lunchbox”, made sure we had a blast the entire time. They treated us like old friends and had us laughing constantly as we explored the archipelago. Plus, there’s really nothing that they don’t know about the area!
The snacks on the boat didn’t disappoint, either, and nor did Lunchbox’s signature rum punch! The crew even set up a picnic for us on a sandbar, a picture-perfect moment straight out of a travel magazine.
We felt incredibly lucky as we cruised through the impossibly turquoise waters, and we couldn’t stop snapping photos because the views were just so beautiful. Walking among the iguanas on Little Water Cay was fascinating. They’re such unique creatures, and as big wildlife lovers, we were so excited to walk among them in their natural habitat.
Next up, we went snorkeling, which was another highlight of the day. The underwater views were magical, and we saw tons of tropical fish, as well as a mother dolphin and her baby! This tour was unbelievable, and we loved being able to enjoy it just the two of us.
Book this private tour here and pay nothing until 48 hours beforehand!
9. Jet ski around a shipwreck
- Duration: 2 hours
- Time: 8 am – 2 pm
- Highlights: Thrilling jet ski ride, skiing around the Ghost Freighter shipwreck, visiting secluded beaches and cays that big boats can’t access
- Inclusions: Use of jet ski, professional guides
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 250+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check prices here!
This jet ski safari was not only a super unique experience, it also delivered an incredible thrill! We loved zipping around the turquoise waters of Turks and Caicos on a jet ski, but what was even better was that we got to visit places most tourists never see.
For me, the highlight was jet skiing out to the Ghost Freighter, aka La Famille Express. It’s a cargo ship that was wrecked and dragged to its current spot by a hurricane in 2004. It has a striking, haunting beauty, as it’s stranded in just seven feet of water, and I definitely think it’s one of the more unusual things to see in Turks and Caicos.
As well as the Ghost Freighter, this tour took us to secluded cays and pristine beaches that are normally reserved for private charters but at a fraction of the cost! We really felt as though we were exploring an untouched paradise as we zoomed across the crystal-clear waters.
We also stopped at a sandbar that looked straight out of a dream and spotted dolphins swimming nearby! It gave us chills in the best way.
We have to give a shoutout to our guide, Alex, who was just fantastic. He was knowledgeable and patient, and he allowed us to ride freely while making sure that he was always on hand to help.
This tour is like a private charter but with added excitement and affordability. In short, it’s a no brainer. You won’t regret booking it!
Check availability and book this epic jet ski tour here!
10. Get your adrenaline pumping on an ATV tour of Grand Turk
- Duration: 1.5 hours
- Time: 9 am – 3:30 pm
- Highlights: Zooming around Grand Turk on an exciting ATV ride, Front Street, North Creek Bird Watching Area, the Lighthouse, the Ridge Trail, authentic Jerk Caribbean meal (optional)
- Inclusions: Use of ATV, helmet and safety gear, local guides, soft drinks, small group size
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 200+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check prices here!
If you’re an adventurer at heart, don’t miss this exciting tour of Grand Turk! We got to go beyond the usual tourist spots and zoom along colonial-era roads, dirt trails, and scenic paths. But don’t worry, we got to see the famous sights, too!
We started on the historic Front Street and then zipped over to North Creek to see the incredible birdlife. After that, we took a breathtaking ride up to the Grand Turk Lighthouse and went onto the Ridge Trail for spectacular views of the sea. It was such a great way to cover a ton of ground in just 1.5 hours – we couldn’t believe how much we saw!
Our guides, Sheldon and Kevin, were outstanding. They were super friendly and knowledgeable, with a knack for making everyone feel comfortable. We also loved hearing about Grand Turk’s history along the way.
If you’re hungry, don’t skip the optional Jerk Caribbean meal along the way. This was on our own account, but it was authentic and absolutely delicious, so we both agreed that it was well worth it.
This tour is a thrilling way to get off road and see the island. It’s fun, fast, and perfect for adventurous travelers. Plus, if you’re a cruise ship passenger, the meeting point is less than a 10-minute walk from the port. This way, you can see the island in just a few hours and spend the rest of the day relaxing – bliss!
Check out the 150+ 5-star reviews and book this tour here!
Where to Stay in Turks and Caicos
Turks and Caicos is quite a sprawling island, so Grace Bay will be the most central location unless you plan on renting a car. It is also quite an expensive island, so be prepared to spend more on accommodation than you might on other islands. But there are still some good options, so here are three recommendations for a range of budgets!
Luxury – $$$
If you like a private patio and marina views, Zenza Boutique Hotel is a fantastic choice! This luxury hotel is located just a 10 minute walk from Babalua Beach and has excellent snorkeling and cycling right at your fingertips. The rooms are large and have huge windows; all come with a patio, and some have a kitchen or hot tub. You can enjoy the outdoor pool and terrace for amazing views!
Rooms start at $550 USD per night and can be reserved at Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
Ports of Call Resort is in a fantastic location, just across from Grace Bay Beach and within walking distance of the best restaurants in the city. They offer large rooms, whether you want two double beds, a king, a poolside room, or one with a terrace (or all of the above!). This is one of the few resorts in the area, so you can enjoy the pool, restaurants, spa, and gym onsite.
Prices start around $350 USD per night and can be booked on Booking.com.
Budget – $
While things aren’t always cheap in Turks and Caicos, Sibonne Beach Hotel is one of the more budget-friendly options, and you’re still right on the beach! Located right on Grace Bay Beach, the location is prim,e and you can enjoy the swimming pool, restaurant, and garden. The rooms are quaint and clean, with big windows so you can enjoy the views.
Prices start at $280 USD and can be booked on Booking.com.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
Turks and Caicos is a true slice of paradise! We certainly weren’t ready to leave and are already plotting our next visit. After you check off these 10 best things to do, I know you’ll love this place as much as we do!
Be sure to check out our other travel guides before you take off! We’ve been all around the world and love sharing our favorite places and activities. Here are a few related blogs to help you plan your next great adventure – cheers!
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