9 Beaches You Need to Visit in Turks and Caicos

Everybody knows Grace Bay, but for one reason or another, Turks and Caicos’s other pristine beaches do not receive as much attention.

Those in the know, however, will tell you that the Caribbean destination is replete with world-class shoreline. From luxurious beaches popular with the rich and famous to secluded islands perfect for escaping the modern world, Turks and Caicos has a sea and sand destination that’s right for every type of traveler.

Considering a trip to the British territory? Learn where you should dig your toes into the sand first with this list of the archipelago’s nine best beaches.

Governor’s Beach

Soft sand and crystal-clear waters make Governor’s Beach one of the most celebrated shorelines in Turks and Caicos. When you need a break from the sun, avail yourself of the shade welcomingly provided by one of the beach’s pine trees.  

Governor’s Beach takes its name from Waterloo, the historic 19th century governor’s mansion that’s here. The beach is located off Grand Turk’s southwestern coast near the Grand Turk Cruise Center, and the shoreline buzzes with tourists on days when cruise ships are docked. If you’re looking for a relaxed atmosphere, visit on a day when the docks are scheduled to be quiet.

Grace Bay Beach

Photos can only begin to capture the stunning beauty of Grace Bay. Frequently named the world’s best beach, Grace Bay boasts breathtaking white sand and azure waters that need to be seen to be believed.

Grace Bay sits within a national park, and jet and water skis are prohibited, which adds to the sense of tranquility. Travelers can instead can explore the 12-mile shoreline via the many high-quality snorkeling opportunities made possible by the coastline’s barrier reef system.

Leeward Beach

While Grace Bay is certainly relaxing, its popularity combined with the luxury resorts that line it means that it can get crowded. For a quieter alternative, check out Leeward Beach, located nearby on Providenciales.

Largely undeveloped, Leeward lacks any hotels or restaurants. What it does have is a serene, secluded atmosphere that’s perfect for families or those just looking to get away. Comb the soft, sugar-white sands for seashells, then take a dip in the clear turquoise waters.

Long Bay Beach

Travelers come to this picturesque beach, also located on Providenciales, for the opportunity to ride ponies on the fine, soft sand. Provo Ponies leads horseback adventures along the shoreline, and everyone from beginners to experienced equestrians is welcome to join.

Long Bay is also a destination for kiting. Stand in the shallow turquoise water while the easterly winds blow your kite across the sky. Or simply enjoy a languid swim in the calm waters.

Mudjin Harbor

Travelers venture to Middle Caicos for the spectacular sights offered by its 3-mile coastline. With limestone cliffs, brilliantly blue water, a hidden white-sand beach, and tidal rock pools, Mudjin Harbor begs to be photographed.

Fortunately, given Middle Caicos’ sparse population—it has only 200 residents—you won’t have much competition when you’re lining up a shot. After viewing the scenery, stop at one of the island’s only restaurants, Mudjin Bar & Grill, where the jerk burger comes highly recommended.

North Bay Beach

The remote island of Salt Bay is among the more secluded parts of Turks and Caicos, and there’s no better place to enjoy its serenity than North Bay. The largely undeveloped beach is so quiet that you may find that there are more humpback whales passing in the ocean nearby than people.

North Bay Beach is also famous for being so beautiful that some even say it’s the equivalent of Grace Bay. When you see the pristinely clear water and peach-hued sand, you’ll understand why. Bring your snorkeling gear, as the reefs combined with the clear water make for wonderful conditions.

Pillory Beach

With all due respect to North Bay and Grace Bay, if you go snorkeling only once on your trip to Turks and Caicos, make sure it’s at Pillory Beach. Located on Grand Turk, Pillory Beach is home to abundant aquatic life viewable only a few hundred yards from the shoreline. For an immersive diving experience, check in at Bohio Dive Resort, which is located on the beach.

Pillory Beach’s waters are also perfect for swimming. When you’re ready to get back on dry land, head over to the shops and restaurants that are within walking distance.

Pine Cay

This privately owned, 800-acre island is home to the Meridien Club. As a guest of the resort, you can look out on a 2-mile stretch of pristine white-sand beach, as well as avail yourself of various aquatic and non-aquatic activities organized by the resort.

Of course, you can choose to simply luxuriate on the soft sand while gazing out at the strikingly blue water. When you’re ready for some excitement, head over to the dune located near Pine Cay airstrip. There, like on St. Martin’s Maho Beach, you can snap photographs of yourself as planes fly close overhead.

Sapodilla Bay Beach

The hills that surround this cove-like beach make its brilliantly blue waters some of the calmest in Turks and Caicos. With a soft ocean bottom that extends nearly 100 feet out from the shoreline, the shallow waters are great for taking a relaxing dip.

Among the aforementioned hills is Sapodilla Hill. At this historical site, visitors can view centuries-old rock inscriptions and take in picturesque views. Nearby, the highly rated Taylor Bay, which, like Sapodilla Bay, is located within Providenciales’ Chalk Sound National Park, beckons with its seemingly infinite beachfront.