Travel Tips - Turks and Caicos


Beaches:

  • Taylor Bay Beach is our favorite. It’s perfect for families with young children because it’s shallow for quite a ways out. There are no chair rentals available here and not a lot of shade either. There’s lots of ocean life - jellyfish, crabs, starfish, and possibly dolphins/sea turtles in the early mornings and late afternoon. When going here, pack lunch or drive to Las Brisas, which is 3 or so minutes away, to grab lunch. They have a huge menu. This beach can be a little tricky to find. It’s on Ocean Point Drive. When you see the white wall with the blue fence, you will know you’re going down the right road. The beach entrance is a small entrance on the right. There are no signs saying where the beach is, but you’ll typically see cars parked on the side of the road. 
  • Sapodilla Bay Beach - this beach is always packed! I think it’s the top beach in Turks. They have vendors for lunch set up on the beach. We never went to this one because we loved Taylor Bay so much. 


Grocery stores:

  • Graceway IGA has everything for food and some basic medications. 
  • Graceway Gourmet is another option that is a little bit nicer than the IGA. You will find delis, fresh food, and salad bars at both. I believe they sold beach gear at this one too!


Restaurants

  • Marine Room - this is an expensive but amazing restaurant. This is good for a parents’ night out. 
  • Las Brisas - has everything from Caribbean foods to pizza and sandwiches at lunch. 
  • Da Conch Shack is a staple for conch. It’s a laid-back restaurant. 
  • Hemingway’s is right on the beach and great for family meals. 
  • Lemon 2 Go is a local coffee shop we loved! There’s also great shops nearby for souvenirs. 


Where to stay:

Beaches is an all-inclusive resort where a lot of tourists stay. I think it’s kind of in a secluded area, so it’s at least a 30-minute drive to Taylor Bay Beach. We stayed in Chalk Sound at a family house. This side of the island only has a couple of restaurants. Las Brisas is the only restaurant we tried on this side of the island. They have so many choices and great food! The owner is Rachel, and she has villas that you can rent as well. They offer pontoon rides and other fun activities too! They have a pool right by the restaurant so kids can swim too. The beach access here is more rocky than on the beach. A lot of people kayak here. 


The Palms is a beautiful resort right on the beach. The spa here is amazing and definitely the best massage I’ve ever had. 


If you need a babysitter or nanny for a night or two, I can get you a number!


What to Bring:

  • Lots of sunscreen 
  • Remember you can check car seats for free depending on the airline you use. 
  • We packed our Bote board (paddle board) along with some beach gear. If you’re staying in an Airbnb, check to see if they provide beach toys.
  • You can also rent car seats, pack n plays, high chairs, etc., while on the island. 


Extra info:

  • U.S. cash is used on the island, but you are able to use your credit/debit card as well. 
  • If you’re celebrating a birthday, Business Solutions is a store for birthday party supplies and balloons. Birthday cakes can be purchased/customized at IGA. 
  • There are lots of souvenir shops, but if you need a last-minute gift, there is a shop in the airport on the 2nd floor once you get through security. There is also an indoor and outdoor bar up here and a big room that is air-conditioned. 
  • When going back to the U.S., download the MPC app. Upload your passport and info to expedite your time through customs. It took us 5-10 minutes to get through versus 45-60 minutes in the regular line. There is no charge to use this! 
  • There are no grocery deliveries, so plan to stop and stock up on all the essentials for your Airbnb.