Why visit Turks and Caicos?
The Turks and Caicos islands are a popular destination for eco-tourism, with opportunities for humpback whale watching, bird watching, and exploring the island’s salt ponds. Salt Cay also has some of the most picturesque beaches in Turks and Caicos, with crystal-clear waters and powdery sand.
Make sure to take the time to explore the Columbus Landfall National Park. This protected area is named for the point where the famed explorer first ventured here. It is home to Governor’s beach, one of the finest in the whole island nation that has pinky-hued sand made from crushed shells and coral, as well as over 20 sublime diving sites. You’ll get a serious underwater wow with the abrupt drops and magical colours of these diving spots.
Things to do
It goes without saying that you’ll want to bronze all day on the islands’ beautiful beaches, but don’t miss out on Turks and Caicos culture as well. The islands have a rich history, and you can get a good look into this on North and Middle Caicos where there are several abandoned plantations. Visitors can explore the ruins and learn about the islands’ agricultural and colonial past.
Also on Middle Caicos, you’ll find Indian Cave, a mystical karst rock cave formed from a sinkhole with many openings and ‘skylights’ that are strung with tropical vines. It looks like something out of Indiana Jones! You might even spot giant blue land crabs or even, curiously, barn owls that have made this place home.
Every Thursday night in the Bight Park area of Providenciales, there is a Fish Fry event where locals and tourists come together to enjoy fresh seafood, live music, and local crafts. It’s a fun and festive way to experience the local culture.

Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos
Food and drink
Famous dishes that everyone comes to the Caribbean for can be enjoyed on the Turks and Caicos. Jamaican-inspired jerk chicken is also popular here and the chicken is marinated in a spicy blend of herbs and spices, then grilled or roasted. It’ll likely be served with the classic side dish, and staple of Caribbean cuisine, rice and peas. Black-eyed peas and rice are cooked together with spices and often served with fish or chicken.
Bammy is a traditional flatbread made from cassava. It is popular on the islands and often served with fish or conch dishes.
The islands are also known for some seriously tasty snacks, such as conch fritters – deep-fried balls of conch meat and vegetables – and johnny cakes which are bite-size batter balls of cornmeal that are then fried on a skillet and traditionally eaten around lunchtime.
For a sweet end to a meal, try a Caribbean classic: rum cake. This delicious dessert is made with rum-soaked cake, then topped with a buttery glaze.