Turks and Caicos is a destination I return to again and again and it is without a doubt my favorite Caribbean island (so far at least!). I have visited multiple times and, across those trips, I stayed at or personally toured many of the resorts included below. That firsthand perspective matters, because deciding where to stay in Turks and Caicos is not just about choosing a “nice hotel.” Choosing the right resort has a significant impact on how your whole trip.
I do not take many beach vacations, but when I do, the beach needs to be exceptional. Turks and Caicos delivers on that perfectly. In fact, Grace Bay is consistently ranked among the best beaches in the world, and it earns that reputation. The water is calm, clear, and all my favorite shades of turquoise to deep blue. Plus, an outer barrier reef protects the shoreline, which keeps seaweed at bay and creates ideal swimming conditions, unlike many other places in the Caribbean that are plagued with sargassum.
Getting to Know Turks and Caicos
Turks and Caicos is made up of around 40 islands and cays, though only a handful are inhabited. Providenciales, commonly referred to as “Provo,” is the main island and home to the international airport, most resorts, restaurants, and services. This is where the majority of travelers stay, particularly those visiting Grace Bay or Long Bay. However, South Caicos has been expanding its tourism infrastructure and appeal.
Providenciales has nonstop flights from many major U.S. gateways, particularly from the East Coast, making it a manageable flight even for shorter stays. The islands sit in the Atlantic rather than the Caribbean Sea, which contributes to the clarity of the water. Hurricane risk exists, as it does throughout the region, but direct hits are relatively infrequent.
Peak season runs roughly from December through April, when weather is dry and demand is highest. Expect to pay the most if you visit during “festive” season (mid-December through early January) as well as the week around President’s Day weekend. Shoulder season, particularly late April through early June, often offers an excellent balance of weather and value. Late summer and early fall bring lower prices but also higher humidity and increased storm risk.
Turks and Caicos is widely considered a luxury destination. Even four-star resorts tend to be pricey compared to islands like the Dominican Republic, and many properties are built around privately owned residences. As a result, one-, two-, and three-bedroom units with kitchens and living rooms are common, which works especially well for families, friend groups, and longer stays.
How to choose the right resort in Turks and Caicos
I have some mini-reviews below, but if you want the short version, here are my recommendations depending on your travel companions and budget. And don’t forget that as a luxury travel advisor, I will not only provide you with personal recommendations and quotes, I can also provide you with exclusive VIP perks at many of these properties.
If you are traveling as a family, Beaches offers the most comprehensive all-inclusive experience. For a more moderate all-inclusive option, Alexandra Resort is often a good fit. The Palms works well for families who prefer a quieter, non-all-inclusive resort with spacious accommodations.
For friend groups, The Shore Club, Grace Bay Club, and The Palms offer a combination of space, dining variety, and a social atmosphere without feeling chaotic.
For couples, Wymara and The Shore Club stand out for their design, service, and adult-friendly ambiance.
There are also excellent alternatives depending on budget and priorities. Amanyara is a standout for couples with a very high budget. Rock House offers dramatic views from a hillside setting rather than direct beachfront. Newer brands such as Kimpton and Andaz are entering the market, while Ambergris Cay is increasingly popular for large group villa rentals. South Caicos is also seeing new luxury development for travelers looking beyond Providenciales.
Where to Stay in Turks & Caicos
Note: You can also check rates and book online with access to my VIP amenities using my hotel booking platform.
Grace Bay Club
Grace Bay Club is one of the island’s most established luxury resorts and remains a benchmark for beachfront stays on Grace Bay. The location is excellent, with easy access to town for dining and shopping. The property is expansive, with multiple buildings, pools, and restaurants, creating a lively, full-service resort feel.
The tradeoff is scale. Distances can be challenging for guests with mobility concerns. For travelers who want options, walkability, and a classic luxury resort experience, it remains a strong choice.
The Palms Turks and Caicos
The Palms offers a more intimate alternative to some of the larger resorts on Grace Bay. Recently renovated, it blends colonial-inspired architecture with a polished, contemporary feel. The spa is a highlight and frequently cited as one of the best in the Caribbean.
With casual pool bars, beachfront restaurants, and excellent fine dining options, this hotel shines for foodies. A complimentary shuttle also connects guests to sister properties The Sands and The Shore Club, expanding dining options while maintaining a calmer home base. There is a small kids’ club with specialized activities like searching for lizards, but the overall atmosphere leans relaxed rather than family-centric.
The Ritz-Carlton Turks and Caicos
The Ritz-Carlton is visually distinct as one of the few high-rise resorts on Grace Bay. While the curb appeal is not great (it looks a bit like a hospital in my opinion), the interiors and grounds are elegant and modern. The mix of hotel rooms and private residences allows for a range of accommodation styles.
Because the property narrows at the beachfront, beach space is limited relative to the number of guests, and seating can feel competitive during busy periods. While the public spaces are posh, to be honest this is not one of my favorites. Marriott Bonvoy members should also note that stays in the Residence towers do not earn points.
The Sands at Grace Bay
The Sands is a reliable four-star option with a large pool, a strong beachfront location, and a relaxed atmosphere. Units are generally spacious, making it a practical choice for families or longer stays.
While it lacks some of the polish of higher-end neighbors, it offers good value for its location on Grace Bay and easy access to town and restaurants.
Alexandra Resort
The Alexandra Resort is one of the island’s few all-inclusive resorts. The property is four-star and currently renovating its units, improving the overall experience. Amenities are more limited than at larger resorts, but guests also have access to its sister property, Blue Haven Resort, which adds variety to your stay.
Beaches Turks and Caicos
Beaches is designed for families who want everything included. While the food is solid rather than exceptional, the range of activities is unmatched. Kids’ and teens’ clubs, scuba diving, and boat excursions are included, which is rare for an all-inclusive resort.
Just keep in mind that this resort is pretty massive and arranged in various “villages” and offers a variety of accommodation options including multi-bedroom villas. For couples, I’d suggest the Key West Village — although honestly I wouldn’t recommend Beaches for couples as it is really designed for families.
Families with younger children will like the Caribbean Village, as it is closest to the kids clubs and pirate pool. Those with teens would really like the Italian Village and those that want the most updated accommodations should try out the brand-new Treasure Beach village.
Wymara Resort
Wymara is one of the best choices on the island for couples looking for a “sexy” stay. The pool scene has a South Beach feel without becoming a party resort. Small details, like free libraries throughout the property and books in every room, give it personality.
Entry-level rooms are compact, and the open-bathroom layout makes them less suitable for friends or families. The resort is intimate, which many couples appreciate, but not as expansive as some of its neighbors on Grace Bay. Luxury villas are also available separately from the main resort.
H2O Life Style Resort
H2O is ideal for water-sports enthusiasts. Located on Long Bay, the area is windier than Grace Bay but features shallow, calm water that is excellent for kitesurfing. The resort operates its own kitesurfing school and sits near a nature preserve, giving a secluded feel.
Accommodations include kitchens and access shared barbecue areas and are best for those looking for a self-catering situation because dining is limited, with an occasional food truck rather than a permanent restaurant. I’d recommend renting a car for a stay at the H20 Life Style Resort.
The Shore Club Turks and Caicos
The Shore Club is consistently one of my top recommendations. It combines multiple pools, excellent dining, and a refined but approachable luxury feel. A shuttle connects guests to sister properties The Palms and The Sands and its location on a long stretch of beach at Long Bay is simply lovely.
The resort also offers exceptional private villas with butler service, private pools, and dedicated beach access, while still providing full use of resort amenities.
I often recommend splitting a one-week stay between The Palms and The Shore Club. This beach-to-beach approach allows travelers to experience both Grace Bay and Long Bay, combining classic calm with a more spacious, design-forward setting.
Practical tips for visiting Turks and Caicos
- Consider Fast Track services at the airport. Providenciales International Airport can be chaotic during peak travel periods and is not air conditioned. Fast Track can significantly reduce wait times on both arrival and departure.
- Plan extra time for departure procedures. Even if you have a mobile boarding pass, all travelers must stop at a kiosk or check-in counter to receive a paper boarding pass before going through security.
- Know where to sit once through security. The main gate area is small and crowded. After clearing security, head upstairs for additional seating and a few limited dining options.
- Understand how taxis work. Taxis are shared and priced per person, not per vehicle, even if everyone is going to the same destination. Costs add up quickly, so renting a car may be worth considering.
- Go to the Thursday night fish fry, but stay aware. It is a fun way to experience local food and culture, but keep a close eye on valuables in crowded areas.
- Check travel advisories before you go. Review the U.S. State Department website for the most up-to-date travel advisories prior to departure.
Tamara Gruber is an award-winning travel writer and the founder of Your Time to Fly. With more than a decade of professional writing experience across two travel publications and hundreds of destination guides, she specializes in crafting practical, detailed itineraries that help travelers explore the world with confidence. Her work reflects years of on-the-ground research across the globe. Tamara is a member of SATW and serves on the Board of Directors of the Family Travel Association.
