Turks & Caicos: What to Do (and What to Definitely Skip)
You know those places that live up to the postcard hype? Turks & Caicos is one of them. With water so clear it feels surreal and sunsets that take your breath away, it’s a dreamy escape worth the hype. But—like all travel stories—it’s better when you go in with a few insider tips.
We just got back from our latest adventure, and here’s what made our trip *chef’s kiss*... and what we’d probably skip next time.
✅ What to Do in TCI
1. Hit the beaches—but don’t just stick to Grace Bay
Sure, Grace Bay is gorgeous, but Chalk Sound and Long Bay Beach stole the show for us. Chalk Sound’s surreal turquoise waters feel like you’re floating in a screensaver. Long Bay? Shallow, warm, and windy enough for kiteboarding (or just laying low with a book and a breeze). Whether you’re paddleboarding, snorkeling, or just getting your float on, the beaches here deliver.
👉 Pro tip: Bring your own snorkel gear so you can explore on your own terms.
2. Eat local—skip the fluff
Yes, there are plenty of polished restaurants with dreamy decor and resort-worthy menus. But if you want food with heart (and serious flavor), go where the locals go. One of our faves? Taste The Ting, just a quick drive from the airport. They make a limited amount of food each day, and when it's gone—it’s gone. So get there early if you want options.
👉 Their Jerk Chicken? A+ island heat.
3. Rent a car—trust us on this one
There’s zero public transportation, and taxis are shockingly pricey. If you’re planning on exploring the island (and you should), renting a car is the smart move. It gives you the freedom to go beach-hopping, explore local eats, and find those lesser-known gems without blowing your budget on cab fare.
👉 Skip the resort bubble. Get the keys and go.
❌ What to Skip
1. The Fish Fry (at least, for dinner)
It’s a popular weekly event, and yes, the Junkanoo performance is full of energy and color—worth catching if you swing by around 8 PM. But as far as food goes? You can get tastier meals elsewhere without standing in line or battling the crowds.
👉 Go for the music, skip the dinner
2. Off-roading with the wrong ride
Let us save you the heart-pounding moment of almost getting stuck in a pit of gravel. We tried reaching Bonefish Beach in our tiny Suzuki and had to back out halfway—because the car literally couldn’t make it. The “roads” to more remote beaches are rough and rocky.
👉 If you’re going off the beaten path, you need a proper 4x4. No exceptions.
3. Eating out every meal
Here’s the truth: food in TCI is pricey. Most of it’s imported, and even casual meals can add up fast. Save your splurges for special dinners and keep breakfast chill at your Airbnb. We stocked up on fruit and eggs, and brought our own snacks from home—it made a big difference.
👉 Jet-setter hack: protein bars and trail mix are worth the suitcase space.
Bonus Souvenir Tip
Pick up a bottle of Bambarra Rum before you leave—it’s locally made and totally sippable. Vanilla, spice, and sunshine in a glass. Way better than another shot glass souvenir.
Final Thoughts
Turks & Caicos is easy to fall for—and even easier to explore if you know where to lean in and where to pull back. Hit the water, taste the island, rent the car. Whether you’re sipping rum on your patio or dodging potholes like a local, it’s all part of the story.
Your turn—been to TCI? What did you love or leave behind? Drop it in the comments. 🌊✈️
