11 Best Beaches in Turks and Caicos – Providenciales

With crystal clear waters, soft white sand and a tropical climate, it's no wonder Turks and Caicos is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Our list of 11 Best Beaches in Turks and Caicos – Providenciales, takes the guesswork out of planning those perfect, fun in the sun, unicorn floatie, beach days!

If you're a beach lover, it is without question that you booked your trip to Turks and Caicos based on pictures of the mesmerizing turquoise water. With its pristine beaches and clear, turquoise waters, it’s easy to see why Turks and Caicos is a Caribbean hot spot for beach loving travelers. When visiting the Island of Providenciales, take advantage of our 11 Best Beaches in Turks and Caicos to ensure you get the most out of your vacation.

White powder sand and turquoise water lapping onto the shore of Grace Bay Beach, the best beach in Turks and Caicos

The worlds third largest barrier reef surrounds the Turks and Caicos Islands. Thanks to this, Turks and Caicos is home to some of the Caribbeans most powdery soft, white sandy beaches and unimaginable, “Gatorade' turquoise water. The reef does it's best to keep the wilds of the ocean at bay. In turn, it creates a magical, tropical wonderland and underworld that is Turks and Caicos.

Of the 40 Islands and Cays that make up the Turks and Caicos archipelago, only eight are actually inhabited. Our list of the best beaches in Turks and Caicos will keep us on The Island of Providenciales.

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11 BEST BEACHES IN TURKS AND CAICOS

PROVIDENCIALES

Byron playing in the the gatorade blue water of Grace Bay Beach, the best beach in Turks and Caicos

1. GRACE BAY BEACH

Without a doubt, Grace Bay Beach tops the list of best beaches in Turks and Caicos. Being consistently named among the best beaches in the Caribbean and in the world by World Travel Awards and Worlds Best Beach By Tripadvisor, Grace Bay Beach is one of the main reasons visitors flock to Providenciales, Turks and Caicos. Three miles of silky soft, white sandy beach are at your disposal. Leisurely walks, runs and countless beach day activities are at your disposal on Grace Bay Beach.

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While Grace Bay Beach is the central resting point for most tourists visiting The Islands, it's important to note that this beach is not crowded like you'd see in other popular Caribbean destinations. Even with high end luxury resorts dotting the shoreline, Grace Bay Beach is so vast with a wide depth of sand to the waters edge, there is never a feeling of being overcrowded at this sensational beach. There's plenty of room for sunbathers and football fanatics alike.

Grace Bay Beach is the main hub for most excursions in Providenciales. If you're planning a snorkel tour, sunset cruise or any other water excursions and tours, you'll have easy access on Grace Bay Beach.

Snorkeling at Bight Reef Beach in Turks and Caicos. Turquoise umbrellas line the shore. Another on the list of best beaches in Turks and Caicos
Photo source: Coral Gardens Resort

2. BIGHT BEACH

Bight Beach is a stunning section of beach located a little further to the west from the center of Grace Bay Beach.

One of the most popular activities at Bight Beach is FREE snorkeling. The reef is home to a wide variety of marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and even the occasional barracuda. The water is usually calm and clear, making it easy to see all the underwater wonders.

Bight Beach is a fabulous beach for both couples and families. You can choose to snorkel around the protected reef or over the beds of sea grass just to the left of the reef. Be sure to stay on the outside of the red buoys. They are there to protect the reef. Plenty of sea turtles can be found in the sea grass so be sure to venture over when snorkeling.

If you're not into snorkeling, there are still plenty of other things to do at Bight Beach. You can simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun, or take a stroll along the shore. Feeling like a float in the water? You can do that too. The reef takes up just a section of the water at Bight Beach leaving plenty of sandy bottom, shallow waters to enjoy a relaxing float.

A boat out in the water beyond Smith's Reef Beach in Turks and Caicos. Rocky shorelines make for amazing snorkeling. Smith's Reef is among the best beaches in Turks and Caicos

3. SMITH'S REEF BEACH

Smith's Reef Beach is a stunning and popular spot for snorkeling located on the north coast of Providenciales in Turks and Caicos and just to the east of The Turtle Cove Marina. It's named after the beautiful coral reef that runs parallel to the shore, which offers excellent snorkeling opportunities for visitors.

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The beach itself is relatively small, but it's lined with soft and smooth white sand. The water is clear and calm, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling. The reef is home to a wide variety of marine life, including an abundance of tropical fish, sea turtles, and even the occasional ray or shark. If you're looking for some excellent FREE snorkeling, Smith's Reef Beach in our opinion, is a must visit.

One thing to keep in mind when visiting Smith's Reef Beach is that the reef can be quite shallow in some areas. It's important to be careful when swimming and snorkeling. You don't want to touch the coral or marine life. If you're not a great swimmer, we'd suggest you wear a life vest to keep confident when snorkeling the area. Please don't stand on the coral. You'll also want to wear reef safe sunscreen and bring plenty of water, as there isn't a lot of shade available on the beach.

Unsure of which sunscreen is Reef Safe? Click for information and suggestions!

Pelican Beach and Leeward Beach, two of the best beaches in Turks and Caicos

4. PELICAN BEACH AND LEEWARD BEACH

Pelican Beach is a small and secluded beach alcove located on the north easterly coast of Providenciales, in the Leeward Community. It's a relatively quiet beach. Perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy a peaceful day at the beach.

The beach itself is varies in size depending on the tides. But like all the best beaches in Turks and Caicos, is lined with the softest white sand. The water is calm and clear, making it an ideal spot for swimming and paddle boarding or kayaking. The beach is also home to several small coves and inlets, which provide shelter and shade for visitors.

One of the unique features of Pelican Beach is the large rock formations that line the shore. These rocks provide a stunning backdrop for photos and are a popular spot for visitors to sit and enjoy the view. It's also one of our favorite spots to watch the sunset with a bottle of vino.

Overall, Pelican Beach is a hidden gem on Providenciales. Well worth a visit for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy a peaceful day at the beach. With its stunning rock formations, clear waters, and beautiful sandy beach, it's a must visit spot for nature lovers and those looking to explore the natural beauty of Turks and Caicos.

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Leeward Beach

Venturing out and around the eastern edge of the cove, brings you to the stretch of beach known as Leeward Beach. This is a spectacular section of beach for long walks and runs. Ogle the mega mansions lining the shore of Leeward Beach (keep an eye out for celebs!). Or continue along to Emerald Point, the eastern tip of Providenciales and the entrance to the Leeward Channel. We'd suggest you set up at Pelican Beach and head off on your Leeward Beach adventures from there.

Sunset Beach Turks and Caicos

5. SUNSET BEACH

Sunset Beach is yet another beach that extends out and along to the east from Grace Bay Beach. Travel just five minutes east along Grace Bay Road to the entrance of the Leeward community to find this beautiful spot on our best beaches in Turks and Caicos list. Situated between Grace Bay Beach and Pelican Beach, Sunset Beach is an unspoiled section of tropical beach lined with the whitest of sand and lush green foliage and dunes.

Outcroppings of limestone rocks act as oversized stairs to the beach from the main parking lot. On either side of the entrance is miles of secluded beach. Perfect for those who wish to get away from the hustle and bustle of Grace Bay Beach.

The water at Sunset Beach appears to be even brighter and more vibrant than you'll see at Grace Bay Beach. Is that even possible? Maybe that's because of less boat traffic coming to shore? A small section of rocks jet out into the ocean from Sunset Beach creating a perfect shallow water world for kids (and adults) interested in doing a little bit of casual snorkeling.

If you're looking for seclusion without having to travel far from Grace Bay, Sunset Beach is the perfect beach for you.

Long Bay Beach is considered the best beach in Turks and Caicos for Kite boarding.
Photo source: The Shore Club

6. LONGBAY BEACH

Of our list of best beaches in Turks and Caicos, Long Bay Beach is definitely one of the most popular. It is located on the south eastern side of the island, the opposite side to Grace Bay Beach. The beach is known for its long stretch of white sand and its shallow waters, which are perfect for kite boarding, and other water sports.

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One of the main draws of Long Bay Beach is the excellent kite boarding conditions. The shallow waters and consistent winds make it an ideal spot for kite boarding enthusiasts of all skill levels. There are several kite boarding schools and rental shops located along the beach, offering lessons and equipment rentals.

For those who prefer to relax on the beach, Long Bay offers plenty of opportunities to do so. The powdery white sand is perfect for sunbathers or taking a leisurely stroll. Make your way to The Shore Club, where you can grab a drink or a bite to eat.

Overall, Long Bay Beach is a stunning and lively spot that offers something for everyone. Whether you're an adrenaline junkie looking for an adventure or simply want to unwind and soak up the sun (and watch the adrenaline junkies), Long Bay Beach is definitely worth a visit in Providenciales.

Pack your favorite Caribbean book to enjoy on the beach!

Click on the image to read more!

A Tangled Affair and Float Plan reference some familiar sites in TCI!

Kerry enjoying the shallow water of Sapodilla Bay Beach

7. SAPODILLA BAY BEACH

Sapodilla Bay Beach is a popular beach located on the southwestern coast of Providenciales in Turks and Caicos. This picturesque beach is known for its clear, unbelievably shallow waters and soft, white sand. You can see from our picture how shallow it is! That's me (Kerry) SITTING in the water! It's that shallow.

The water is calm and clear, making it an ideal spot for kids to splish and splash, swimming, paddle boarding, and other low maintenance water sports. The beach is also home to several stunning vacation rentals. Please be mindful of their property when setting up for your beach day.

Overall, Sapodilla Bay Beach is a must visit spot on Providenciales. Ideal for those looking to enjoy the beautiful Caribbean Sea in a tranquil and relaxing setting. There is a party section to Sapodilla Bay Beach also, but plenty of room for all types of beach goers to enjoy their day. With its calm waters, soft sand, and beautiful scenery, it's a perfect spot for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

Byron daydreaming along the shores of this best beach in Turks and Caicos, Taylor Bay.

8. TAYLOR BAY BEACH

Taylor Bay Beach is among our favorites on this best beaches in Turks and Caicos list. Located a little further along Chalk Sound Road to Ocean Point Drive, is where you'll find the stunning, untouched beauty of Taylor Bay Beach. This tranquil spot is known for its calm, clear waters and sensational sunsets, similar to Sapodilla Bay Beach.

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While the beach itself may not be very deep in comparison to the likes of Grace Bay Beach, you are in for a real treat at Taylor Bay. The air of complete seclusion almost feels as though you have the whole island to yourself. Stunning villas dot the eastern edge of the bay leaving your only thoughts to be those of, which one would you live in? A few more villas sit back off the main beach area of Taylor Bay so again, be mindful of where you're setting up for your beach day.

Overall, Taylor Bay Beach is a hidden gem on Providenciales that's well worth a visit for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy a peaceful day at the beach. With its stunning rock formations towards the west end of the bay, clear waters, and beautiful sandy beach, it's a must visit spot for those looking to explore the natural beauty of Turks and Caicos while craving some privacy.

Lounging at Secret beach, our favorite beach in Turks and Caicos

9. TURTLE TAIL BEACH – 1

For years we had been referring to Turtle Tail Beach (1) as our “Secret Beach”. Come to find out years later that it actually has a name! The Turtle Tail Beaches in Providenciales, Turks and Caicos are a collection of secluded and unspoiled beaches located on the southern coast of the island.

Keep your eyes peeled when traveling along Turks Tail Drive. You will discover a break in the brush with a very small dirt road which leads out to a spectacular secluded beach, our Secret Beach. A short walk from your car (in the make shift parking lot) will lead out to a vast sea of breathtaking turquoise water. One villa sits to your right and one on the hill to your left.

A rock formation divides this beach into two small sections, both of which are ideal for setting up for setting up for the perfect beach day. You'll essentially have the entire beach to yourself. We have yet to see more than six people at this beach (so don't tell anyone about it….shhhh).

If you're looking to do a little exploring and fall upon a beach day adventure, you'll enjoy the private paradise of Turtle Tail Beach 1. Something we've discovered about Turtle Tail Beach 1, is when Grace Bay Beach is a little windy and choppy, chances are Turtle Tail 1 is much calmer.

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Roucky embankments and outcroppings that follow the shoreline of Turtle Tail Beaches in Turks and Caicos

10. TURTLE TAIL BEACH – 2

Traveling further along Turtle Tail Drive towards the Prince Estate, now known as Emara, you'll again come across a small break in a large section of brush. This time you might see a few cars parked alongside the road by the opening. We're calling this hidden beach, Turtle Tail Beach 2.

While we have found it to be slightly windier than Turtle Tail Beach 1, it's still a fantastic escape for those looking to get away from the tourist sections of Grace Bay.

Overall, Turtle Tail Beach 2 is again, a fantastic beach to remove yourself from the hustle and bustle. If you like adventure and finding places off the beaten path, you'll surely enjoy this untouched section of beach.

Apart from the sandy beach areas along Turtle Tail Drive, the majority of the shoreline for both Turtle Tail beaches, boast fabulous rocky outcroppings. These formations provide stunning photo opportunities and are fun spots for visitors to explore. Keep your water shoes handy should you head out and around the embankments.

Malcolm's Road Beach. The best beach for snorkeling in Turks and Caicos
Photo source: Beach Finder-Martin Korec

11. MALCOLM'S ROAD BEACH

Malcolm's Road Beach is a secluded and unspoiled beach located on the western coast of Providenciales in Turks and Caicos. This far removed section of beach is known for its natural beauty, pristine waters, and abundant marine life.

One of the unique features of Malcolm's Road Beach is the presence of a artificial reef balls that can be explored by snorkelers and divers. Limestone rocks jet out from the waters edge acting as tables to sit on while soaking in all the beautiful surroundings of Malcolm's Beach. The reef and magnificent rock formations are are home to a wide variety of spectacular marine life. Malcolm's Road Beach is definitely the best beach in Turks and Caicos for experienced snorkelers.

One thing to keep in mind when visiting Malcolm's Road Beach is that it's a relatively remote spot, and is difficult to access. Do not attempt to travel here if you are in a regular island vehicle. Be sure to rent a jeep or heavy duty SUV if planning to make this trip. The dirt road is filled with potholes and extremely hard to navigate if you aren't familiar with it.

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If you are a snorkeling or diving enthusiast, Malcolm's Road Beach is worth the effort to get there. It's rugged and it's magnificent all at the same time.

Because of it's location being so remote, we strongly encourage you to travel with a group. Don't venture off alone as a couple or single family unit for personal safety reasons and vehicle safety reasons.

Be sure to add these best beaches in Turks and Caicos to your vacation plans! Enjoy them all or choose your favorite, you're sure to have the best beach day in Providenciales, Turks and Caicos.

WHAT'S IN YOUR BEACH BAG?

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About The Authors

Hello, we're Kerry and Byron Glover, the founders of Corks and Tacos - Your one stop guide to the Turks and Caicos Islands.

We've been traveling to Turks and Caicos multiple times per year since 2014 and we created this website to share our love and passion for Turks and Caicos with you. We provide you with useful travel planning tips and give you a "real person" perspective on all the wonderful things this Island has to offer. We look forward to you exploring our site and gaining valuable knowledge within our resources for your next vacation. We’re sure you’re going to love Turks and Caicos just as much as we do! Read our full story...

2 thoughts on “11 Best Beaches in Turks and Caicos – Providenciales”

  1. I’ve often remarked that when beaches were handed out to the Caribbean, Turks and Caicos Islands must have gone first. Just look at these beauties. Thank you for sharing.

    Reply

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