9 Most Luxurious Resorts in Turks and Caicos

by Becca Hensley

Perhaps no other tropical destination is as convenient to the United States as spectacular Turks and Caicos, renowned for its glimmering turquoise water and powdered sugar-like sand. Called simply “Turks” by those in the know, the 40-island archipelago, part of the Atlantic and not the Caribbean, welcomes direct flights from eight U.S. cities including New York, Dallas, and Miami. Rich with posh resorts, many of which occupy private islands, the British Overseas Territory’s buzziest hotspot is Providenciales (aka Provo), the third largest island. There, scores of top-notch retreats beckon, many of them planted on Grace Bay Beach, one of the world’s most lauded crescents of sand. Other upscale hotels, accessible by boat, spread out across tinier islands to provide that Robinson Crusoe castaway effect — albeit in swish digs with a bikini and a glass of Champagne at the ready.

Though diving and snorkeling rule in the Turks, fishing (conch, spiny lobster, and Nassau grouper in season), wind and water sports, Humpback whale watching, and trips to Little Water Cay (Iguana Island) where legions of lizards lounge comprise alternatives to swimming pools and spa days. Don’t miss an opportunity to hear the island’s own ripsaw music, melodies made from the carpenter saw’s screechy sound, mixed with the accordion and other instruments. For a memorable day trip, cross the causeway to reach North Caicos and Middle Caicos, deserted beaches and wild-garden terrain, where spelunkers can find the Conch Bar Caves, one of the region’s largest dry-cave systems. Our favorite places to stay:

COMO Parrot Cay

You’ll gaze hopelessly besotted at the azure water that surrounds this private island paradise. With an Asian elegance, the resort features villas and houses, many owned by celebrities, as well as grand hotel rooms. With a four-mile-long beach, the haven incorporates some 1,000 acres, much of it undeveloped. Mangrove kayaking, sailing, biking, farm visits, and water play delight guests of all ages. Memorable gastronomy makes a lasting impression. But, possibly the resort’s crowning glory is its COMO Shambhala Retreat, a tranquil enclave along the North Caicos Channel, where guests can partake of yoga, holistic therapies, Pilates, and more.