With so many exciting thoughts running through your mind when you arrive in The Turks and Caicos Islands, it's easy to just jump into the nearest cab, drop your luggage at your hotel and head to the beach. Use our day of arrival checklist to plan your day of arrival.
Trust us, there's nothing more you'll want to do than head to the beach when you land in Turks and Caicos! But if you take a little extra time on your travel day to pick up a few essentials for your trip, you'll end up wasting less time in the days to follow. Resulting in more time for the beach.
If you're planning to do a little more than just chill on the beach, be sure to head over to our Ultimate Turks and Caicos Guide and One Week In Turks and Caicos for helpful tips and suggestions for your vacation.
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Pick Up Your Car Rental
This should be priority number one on your arrival day checklist for Turks and Caicos. Whether you're staying three days or three weeks, we encourage you to rent a car. Though you'll likely spend most of your time in the popular Grace Bay Beach area, try to explore ALL the incredible beaches. There are so many beautiful sites to see in Turks and Caicos.
You won't be disappointed wherever your accommodations are situated. But you don't want to limit the possibilities of a great adventure either. So many incredible sights and sounds to take in. A car gives you the freedom to come and go as you please.
Read more about Driving In Turks and Caicos in our lighthearted article.
Check in to your hotel or villa Rental
No matter where you are staying, your accommodation will be glorious. Once you've had your welcome cocktail, see your room and changed into your cooler clothes. Next, check what supplies are in your room/house. Nearly all units in Provo come equipped with either a kitchenette or full sized kitchen. Take note of what you might need for the week. Ziplock bags? Paper towels? Is there salt and pepper or any other spices? Just little things you might want to keep handy during your stay.
Head to the grocery store
Even though you're ready to hit the beach, head to the grocery store and get the shopping done. Trust me, you won't want to leave the beach the next day to do, of all things, grocery shopping. Hit up the Graceway Gourmet in The Grace Bay area or IGA Supermarket on Leeward Highway for any and all groceries you might require. Breakfast options, lunch and beach snacks, fully stocked grocery stores for all your needs.
Hit up the liquor store
If you didn't bring your liquor in your suitcase or from duty free, you can pick it up at the grocery store. Be forewarned, liquor is expensive on the island. Always best to bring a starter kit with your for the first day or so. Beer is especially expensive, though we've found a few places with better priced options for beer, wine and spirits.
PLEASE NOTE: Grocery stores and Liquor stores do not sell liquor on Sundays! You can still order drinks from restaurants and bars on Sundays. If your flight arrives on a Saturday, make sure you get what you need on Saturday to avoid disappointment on Sunday. This is an important item on the arrival day checklist for Turks and Caicos.
Find the nearest beach
Ok, NOW you can hit the beach! No matter where you're staying, you're likely only a few minutes from a beach in any direction. Go scope it out, play in the sand, feel the warmth of the sea on your feet. It's amazing. Depending on the time of day you arrive, you might be able to catch a few rays before dinner. You'll be greeted with smiling beach staff, other happy beach goers and an abundance of breathtaking white sand and turquoise water. You might want to check out our best beaches posts to start planning those beach days.
Make friends with the locals
Talk to people! Wander into the nearest beach bar or restaurant. Order up a cocktail and some delicious cuisine from your poolside cabana! You won't be disappointed. The staff are always eager to chat with you. Everyone is happy to share their tips and adventures with anyone who's willing to listen. Even if you've done extensive research before your trip, you're always going to find someone who's found a little gem of a spot that you'll need to visit! Get out there and explore like the locals do!
