The BEST Things To Do In Turks And Caicos (Providenciales)

Looking for the best things to do in Turks and Caicos? These must-see sights cover the top spots and a few lesser-known activities in Provo!

When it comes to Caribbean islands, it’s no secret that they offer some of the most gorgeous and varied holiday destinations in the world, whether you’re letting your hair down in a bustling commercial hub or venturing further afield in search of deserted beaches.

The island of Providenciales is the gateway to the beautiful Turks and Caicos archipelago and is made up of a sparsely populated and unimaginably pristine series of white sand bays and untouched coral reefs. Providenciales Turks and Caicos is referred to as “Provo” by the locals and if it’s not on your Caribbean bucket list, it should be!

 

Best Things To Do In Turks and Caicos (Providenciales)

 

Providenciales is a traveler’s Mecca in the paradise island department, boasting beautiful beaches whilst being home to some truly remarkable luxury hot spots.

With postcard moments around every corner and quickly developing commercial attractions, it can be tricky to decide what to do in Turks and Caicos, so I wanted to share a few tips and recommendations on the best Turks and Caicos activities.

 

Horseback Riding Turks and Caicos

Make those dreams of horseback riding across perfect white sand beaches a reality and book yourself an excursion with Provo Ponies which I can attest to being one of, if not the best, horse riding stables on the island.

Ideal for both families and couples, this experience was a defining moment of my memory of Providenciales. Ambling through the sunlit ocean at Long Bay Beach on the back of a calm, friendly horse is enough to make anyone’s trip!

 

Visit Grace Bay

Fringing the luxuriously developed North Shore of Provo, Grace Bay is an exquisite stretch of ivory-white, powder-sand shoreline that can provide an escape from the hustle and bustle of resorts scattered around the area. It’s so beautiful that it’s one of the main reasons why Turks and Caicos is known as a beach destination!

Perfect for sunset walks, swimming and soaking up the surroundings, the shallow, clear waters are also home to migrating starfish and other reef-dwelling marine life.

 

Happy Hour Sunset Cruise

Embark on the sail of a lifetime with a view to match, with one of the many privately chartered vessels and catamarans that offer sunset cruises. Many offer collection from your hotel, especially around the Grace Bay area and all offer unbeatable sunset views dancing off Caribbean waters.

 

Take a Glow Worm Tour

As if the scenery wasn’t spectacular enough already, Providenciales also happens to be home to an intriguing and mesmerizing natural phenomenon. Every month, in the days following the full-moon, the waters in the shallow bays around the Turks & Caicos islands are illuminated by Mother Nature’s light show with glow worm mating rituals.

Glow worm tours are offered each month following the full moon. Check out the beautiful ritual for yourself. The Caribbean’s answer to the Northern Lights, this is one experience not to be missed!

 

Sail & Snorkel Cruise

What kind of Caribbean adventure would this be without getting up-close and personal with marine life in the warm, clear, azure waters of the idyllic Barrier Reef that rings Providenciales? This half day excursion will take you beach-hopping through the Caicos Cay chain as well as providing you an opportunity to snorkel in the surrounding waters.

 

Thursday Night Fish Fry

If you’re in search of fun and an abundance of mouthwatering, fresh local produce, then look no further than the Fish Fry on Thursday nights in Bight Park on the North side of Providenciales.

Around 12 of the undisputedly best restaurants on the island set up shop under tents and stalls and accompanied by live music, dish up some of the best eats you’ll find anywhere on your trip. The conch fritters and grilled lobster are particularly good; arrive early so you don’t miss out!

 

Dine at Da Conch Shack

Doubling up as a Rum Bar, Da Conch Shack is a haven for seafood lovers and has secured itself a reputation as one of the island’s most legendary eateries.

The beachfront restaurant-bar would be worth it if only just for the view, as it sits amongst bleached driftwood on a perfect beach — but luckily the food matches the scenery in terms of quality. Dine on local, freshly-caught snapper and grouper or one of the many varieties of conch dishes that gave the establishment its name.

 

Watersports

Get your adrenaline pumping with an endless variety of watersports you can partake in around the island, regardless of your experience level. You’ll be amazed at the number of ways you never knew you could waterski, from slalom to barefoot all the way back to regular — there’s something for everyone!

If waterskiing isn’t your thing, this jet ski shipwreck and private island excursion takes you to the famous ghost ship and a pristine secluded secret island.

If you’re a novice, then there’s no better place to learn than in the tranquil waters of Providenciales. If you’re really looking for something a little more challenging, then the breeze along the Northern shore is perfect for windsurfing and kite boarding.

 

Chalk Sound National Park

A stretch of coast that no matter how many times you see it, always manages to take your breath away, Chalk Sound National Park is made up of a gorgeous aquamarine lagoon with turquoise water on the southernmost tip of Providenciales.

Grab yourself a paddleboard or kayak, float out onto the still water and snap some incredible photos with the stingrays and lemon sharks that call this spot home.

 

Iguana Island

Also known as Little Water Cay, this pristinely preserved island is home to locally revered and loved rock iguanas that give the island its nickname.

Organized tours will give you the chance to get up close and personal with the prehistoric critters and, combined with the beautifully mysterious and rugged island surroundings, will have you feeling like a Caribbean explorer before the end of your day.

 

Off-Road ATV Adventure in Providenciales

Located in the heart of the island, near a trail named Pirates Cove, this company offers one of the only off-roading tours on Providenciales. You can customize your tour to include cliff jumping spots, scenic spots and beach trails. The guides will also take photos of you during your ride!

 

Parasailing

Adventure junkies can get the most most epic aerial views over Grace Bay by taking a parasailing adventure. This tour includes a pick up from any Grace Bay beach location and boat drop off to the same location. This is a small group tour of 10 people or less.

 

Love Buggy Island Tour

This half day-tour of Providenciales includes your very own Scoot Couple (Love Buggy), lunch at Da Conch Shack (included in price of tour) and stops at Cheshire Hall Plantation and the Junkanoo Museum. You’ll see approximately 85% of the island on this tour. 

 

 Where to Stay on Providenciales, Turks & Caicos

 

Point Grace: Point Grace Resort & Spa is a highly rated resort situated right on Grace Beach — with two restaurants and an outdoor pool. Breakfast is included in the price.

La Vista Azul: La Vista Azul is a great value property and only 3 miles from iconic Grace Bay.

Beaches Turks and Caicos: Beaches Turks and Caicos is one of the top-rated resorts on the island. It’s all-inclusive, featuring an outdoor pool and stunning views of Grace Bay.