Totally Turks

The Beaches of Turks and Caicos

Turks and Caicos is a beach lover's dream: miles of soft, white-sand beaches, turquoise blue water, and absolutely no rocks or seaweed! This is an ideal place to gaze at the ocean from a hammock for hours on end, sipping a cold cocktail as you contemplate the fluffy white clouds and ponder which of the island's great restaurants you'll try for dinner. In other words, there isn't a lot to worry about here, and not a lot to do either, but you've chosen Turks for exactly this reason.

For complete seclusion, you'll start at the remote...

Parrot Cay, a private island 35 minutes by boat from the main island of Providenciales. This is just the place to ease in – no obligations, no pressures, nothing but the luxury of time and space. Your room, which looks out over the ocean, is simply inspired in a cool white palette. You're likely to spend hours on the ocean facing veranda, just relaxing. Your days may consist of beachcombing, lying by the pool, and perhaps some yoga on the beach. Be sure to visit COMO Shambala Retreat, Parrot Cay's Asian-inspired spa and wellness center. An Indonesian Massage is recommended to wash away any residual stress. And for those celebrating a honeymoon or other special occasion, we suggest a private dinner in the resort's beach Tiki Hut by torch light – just you, the surf, and the stars.

After five days of bliss...

at Parrot Cay, it's time for a change of scene and a change of pace. Yes, Turks is quiet overall, but a stay at the Gansevoort takes the relaxed vibe to a new chic and stylish level. This is a very cool place to chill out as you enjoy the relative buzz of the main island, Providenciales. Your room is gorgeous, filled with light, and facing the ocean, with a full kitchen as an added bonus. You'll find the Gansevoort is a great place to continue the relaxation, yet still be close to restaurants, a little bit of nightlife, and the blue blue water you've become accustomed to in Turks thus far.

Turks is actually a great place for...

snorkeling or diving, so one day we've reserved places for you aboard a catamaran for a half day excursion to the best reefs. You'll enjoy the island's beautiful coral gardens, as well as a terrific picnic lunch on the boat. Feel like a round of golf? There is a nice public golf course just minutes from your hotel. A great way to explore the water is on a jetski – zip along the shore, stop for a swim, and enjoy the varying shades of azure that surrounds you. In the evenings, the Gansevoort is a great place for a cocktail, or head out to one of the island's many fine dining establishments for local seafood, including conch or rock lobster (in season). If this all seems too much, however, simply go for an extended stroll along Grace Bay, as you marvel at how beautiful a beach can be.

Who will enjoy this trip:

Beach fanatics will be very happy here. Those who simply wish to chill out and gaze at amazing blue water. People seeking a high quality yet affordable resort experience will find numerous options. Snorkelers and divers will have much to enjoy. Foodies will find a handful of quality restaurants. For those who value islands with few people, Turks is a good bet.

Who should avoid this trip:

Turks and Caicos' vegetation is quite dry and scrubby, so if you prefer a lush tropical setting you might consider other places like St. Lucia, Nevis or Jamaica. Night-life seekers should look elsewhere such as St. Barth or St. Martin. Those traveling in January / February might consider something further south as Turks has the potential to be cooler during that time.