History and Overview of Turks and Caicos

Overview

The Turks and Caicos Islands is a British Overseas Territory located in the North Atlantic, and is composed of two island groups: the Turks Islands and the Caicos Islands. There are eight major islands, of which six are inhabited.

The Turks Islands, located on the eastern side of the archipelago, include Grand Turk (home of the capital Cockburn Town) and Salt Cay.

The Caicos Islands are comprised (from west to east) of West Caicos, Providenciales, North Caicos, Middle Caicos, East Caicos, and South Caicos.

The majority of the small islands in the Turks and Caicos, including Parrot Cay, Pine Cay, Ambergris Cay, Dellis Cay, Water Cay, and Little Water Cay, are located among the Caicos Islands.

Providenciales is home to the majority of the population and most of the development in the country, along with the Providenciales International Airport (PLS), where nearly all international flights arrive. Grand Turk is the second-most populated island, the seat of government, and the location of the Grand Turk Cruise Center.

The main economy of the country is tourism, with a small but growing financial services sector. The population is 47,720 (2022 Statistics Department estimate) and the total area is 238 square miles (616 km²).

Beaches

The spectacular beaches and pristine marine environment are the defining feature of the country, and are the primary attraction for tourists. There are hundreds of beautiful beaches and coasts across the many islands to discover.

Top beaches in the Turks and Caicos include Grace Bay Beach, Long Bay Beach, Leeward Beach, the Bight Beach, Mudjin Harbour, Bambarra Beach, Sandy Point Beach, Half Moon Bay, and Governor's Beach.

The beach sand in Turks and Caicos primarily consists of broken-down shells and coral, which accounts for the white and peach sand hues.

Location

The Turks and Caicos Islands is located in the North Atlantic between the Bahamas and the Dominican Republic, 575 miles (925 km) southeast of Miami, Florida.

Name, Pronunciation, and Demonym (What We're Called)

The full name of the country is the Turks and Caicos Islands. Most people simply say Turks and Caicos or TCI. It’s NOT simply Turks (i.e., don’t say: "Just got back from Turks."). Caicos is pronounced 'k-coas' (as in coastal). It’s not 'cos' as in cost. If you’d like the technical answer, the IPA pronunciation is tɜrks and keɪkəs.

Providenciales, the main tourist island, is pronounced ‘prov-ah-den-c-a-leez’. There’s no 'ch' sound in the name, as many flight attendants say on arrival.

The demonym is Turks and Caicos Islander, which is commonly shortened to Turks Islander. This is sometimes shortened further to simply TI (although Turks and Caicos Islander is the preferred form).

Above: The national costume of the Turks and Caicos.   Top right:  Top left:  Mario Robinson with his boat Sun 2 Sun, winner of the 2019 Fisherman's Day race.   Bottom right:  Top right:  Homestead in South District, Salt Cay. The island has many older houses and buildings that have a heavy colonial Bermudian design influence. Cut limestone blocks would be mortared together to form the walls and then be plastered over for extra protection.  

History

The first known inhabitants of the Turks and Caicos were a Taíno-language people known as the Lucayans. Little is known about these Lucayans, but research suggests that they originally migrated to the Turks and Caicos from South America via the Caribbean around 600 AD.

Although the islands of Middle Caicos and East Caicos supported some of the largest populations of Lucayans in the region, the only known remaining evidence of their existence are a few small artifacts, some cave pictograms, and a limited number of stone mounds.

The Turks and Caicos was discovered by Europeans in the late 1400s or start of the 1500s. It’s highly likely that Grand Turk was the initial point of landfall in the New World for Christopher Columbus on his historic 1492 voyage, as accounts made during the voyage match the island far better than the common theory of first landfall on San Salvador in the Bahamas.

There is some dispute between historians over which island was the point of landfall, but in any case, it’s certain that explorer Juan Ponce de León visited in 1512. Due to diseases brought by Europeans, including Spanish slavers, the Lucayans had completely disappeared by the late 1500s.

Although visited on and off by the Spanish, English, and French over the next century, the islands remained deserted and did not see any permanent European settlement until the late 1600s, when British-Bermudian salt rakers began to develop the natural shallow salt ponds in the country for sea salt production. It was at this time that Britain established control of the islands, which it has held with only a few brief exceptions to this day.

The history of tourism in the Turks and Caicos Islands is very young. The current luxury tourism and boutique real estate industries began in the 1970s and saw a rapid transformation over two decades, with Providenciales, Parrot Cay, and Pine Cay seeing the construction of resorts such as the Third Turtle Inn, Club Med Turkoise, the Grace Bay Club, the Parrot Cay Resort, and the Meridian Club (now Pine Cay Resort).

Origin of the Turks and Caicos Name

It was during the early 1600s when the islands began to be referred to by titles closely resembling the modern Turks and Caicos name.

For many centuries prior to the 1800s, Islamic corsairs preyed on vessels in the Mediterranean and off the coasts of Europe and Africa. These raiders were often referred to as Turks, and the term went on to become a synonym for pirate.

Early mapmakers combined this word with a version of the Lucayan word cayo hico, meaning string of islands. Together, they served as a warning to avoid the pirate islands. The name is not derived from the Turk's head cactus (a small stubby cactus capped with a spiny structure resembling a Turkish Fez hat), which is found on some islands in the country.

Piracy

Between the early 1600s and mid-1700s, piracy was at its height globally and the Turks and Caicos was a hotspot for such activity. Several well-known pirates including John “Calico Jack” Rackham, Anne Bonny, Mary Read, François l’Olonnais, and Captain Jean Thomas Dulaien had bases in the islands, as the countless small coves and inlets found around the country proved to be excellent places in which to hide ships while awaiting prey. The small island of Parrot Cay between Providenciales and North Caicos was actually previously known as Pirate Cay, due to the buccaneers who used to live there.

Plantations and the Salt Industry

The salt industry continued to expand well past the end of the American Revolutionary War, after which displaced British Loyalists began to arrive from the newly formed United States. Many of these Loyalists began cotton plantations, and African slaves were brought in from the surrounding regions to work both the plantation fields and the salt ponds. Along with African slaves the British seized and set free from the Spanish in the 1840s, these people were the ancestors of most of the modern-day Turks and Caicos Islanders.

Due to droughts, hurricanes, insects, and disease, the plantations began to fail in the first few decades of the 1800s. Sisal (a fibrous plant that was used to make rope) began to be planted and was initially successful, but the small scale of local production of both sisal and salt doomed the industries. The Turks and Caicos saw difficult economic times during the 1900s until about 1985 (around the time when the tourism industry began).

Culture

Geographically speaking, the Turks and Caicos Islands is part of the Bahamas island chain. There has been a constant movement of people between these two nations, and as such they share a similar culture.

Queen conch, a marine snail, was an important part of the local diet and remains popular today in local cuisine. Peas and rice was a staple in the past, with locally grown pigeon peas and pieces of conch added to imported rice. Conch fritters and conch salad, two popular dishes, are in fact more recent culinary developments.

Ripsaw is a local music genre developed during slavery times. It consists of scraping an instrument, such as a screwdriver, over a saw blade to create a scraping sound. Playing ripsaw is called ripping the saw. Common accompaniments are the guitar, drums, and triangle. Junkanoo, a Bahamian music genre, was brought back to the islands by returning Turks and Caicos Islanders who left to find work in nearby Bahamian islands.

Government

As the Turks and Caicos is a British Overseas Territory, the United Kingdom is responsible for external affairs, such as defense. The internal government is locally elected, and is headed by a locally elected Premier and a King Charles III-appointed Governor.

The Turks and Caicos Islands was under Jamaican jurisdiction until 1962, when Jamaica became independent. The governor of the Bahamas oversaw local affairs from 1965 until 1973, when the Bahamas became independent and the Turks and Caicos Islands received their own governor. A new constitution was adopted in 1974, and James Alexander George Smith (JAGS) McCartney became the country’s first Prime Minister (later titled Premier) in 1976.

Weather

The climate in the islands is generally hot and dry, with an average yearly temperature of 80° F (27° C). Average annual rainfall is only 33 inches (83 cm), with most rain occurring during the months of May–November.

Hurricane season is between June and the end of November, with most activity occurring between the end of August and early September. Hurricanes rarely hit the islands, mostly passing north towards the eastern coast of the United States or south through Haiti and the Dominican Republic.

Why Visit?

Grace Bay Beach on Providenciales is frequently ranked the best beach in the world, having won awards from Tripadvisor, CNN, and Condé Nast Traveler. There are many other unique beaches in the country, such as shallow Sapodilla Bay and Taylor Bay, and excellent snorkeling reefs at the Bight Reef and Smith’s Reef. Governor's Beach, located near the Grand Turk Cruise Center, is another excellent beach.

The waters around the islands have become recognized as excellent for a range of water sports, from ecotourism kayaking in the Caicos Banks to world-class kiteboarding on Long Bay. Fishing in Turks and Caicos is also excellent.

The diving here is rated in the top 10 in the Caribbean, and excellent sites are found off West Caicos, Providenciales, Grand Turk, and Salt Cay.

Practical Information

Passports and Visas

Citizens of the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and the European Union can enter visa-free for 90 days with a valid passport. It may be possible to extend this once for an additional 90 days by visiting an immigration office on Providenciales or Grand Turk. Some nationalities require a visa to visit.

Language

English is the official language of the Turks and Caicos Islands. Haitian and Dominican immigrants speak Haitian Creole (a French-derived language) and Spanish, respectively.

Money

The US dollar is the only accepted currency in the islands. If you are coming from a country that uses a currency other than the US dollar, be sure to exchange currency before you arrive. The only way you can exchange currency here is through the local banks, and they charge exorbitant rates that will take a bite out of your vacation budget. In addition, queues can run into hours for service.

There is no Bureau de Change at the Providenciales International Airport (PLS).

ATMs and Credit/Debit Cards

ATMs are found on Providenciales, though they can be unreliable and frequently go offline. Other islands may only have one ATM, or none at all. Many local businesses and restaurants accept credit cards. Foreign cards will be charged a forex conversion fee (determined by their issuing bank).

Banks

There are three major banks: Scotiabank, Royal Bank of Canada, and CIBC Caribbean. If you require teller service, be prepared for a long wait. Local banks often have huge lines, and you may easily wait over an hour for service.

Power Plugs and Voltage

The Turks and Caicos Islands uses 120 v/60 Hz electricity and US-style power plugs. No adapters or converters are needed for American or Canadian visitors. If you’re coming from a country outside of North America, or parts of South America and the Caribbean, you’ll need a plug adapter. You should purchase this before you arrive, as they can be difficult to locate in the islands.

Other than North American and a few South American countries, almost all other countries use 220–240 volt electricity. Most technology products have adapters that can work with 110–240 volts of power, 50/60 Hz. You simply need an inexpensive US-style adapter plug.

Other 220–240 volt devices, such as irons and hair dryers, cannot be used, and you will need a much more expensive voltage converter in addition to a simple plug adapter.

Time Zone

The Turks and Caicos Islands uses Eastern Standard Time (UTC/GMT -5), the same as New York, Miami, and most other US East Coast cities.

Cell Phones

The Turks and Caicos Islands uses the GSM standard, on frequencies 850/900/1800/1900 MHz. There are two local mobile telecommunications companies: Flow and Digicel.

Most foreign or international mobile customers can roam on any of the country’s networks.

If you expect to make a large amount of local calls or regional calls to other Caribbean countries, you may want to consider purchasing a local SIM card, as this will usually be far cheaper than roaming with your existing provider. Please note that in order to change SIM cards, you will need to have a phone that is unlocked.

Internet Access and Wi-Fi

4G mobile internet is available from all local mobile service providers. Wi-Fi is available from most Turks and Caicos hotels and resorts and also at many cafés.

TV, Radio, and Media

With the closure of WIV4 and PTV8, there are no longer any local TV news channels. TV programming is largely from the United States and includes all major stations.

There are several local FM radio stations. Spanish-language AM broadcasts from the Dominican Republic can also be found. The official government station, Radio Turks and Caicos, is found at 89.1 FM. In the unlikely event of a hurricane, this is the station to tune into for bulletins.

There are two local newspapers, the Turks and Caicos Weekly News and the Turks and Caicos Sun, published weekly. There are also two tourist magazines, Times of the Islands and Where When How, that are available for free from your hotel or resort. Another tourist magazine, Discover, is distributed on some flights and is available for free at locations on Providenciales.

Post and Couriers

Only the larger and more populated islands have a post office. Postal service to and from the islands can be slow. There is no delivery of postal mail, as people simply collect their mail at their local post office. There are local branches of FedEx, DHL, and UPS on Providenciales, and FedEx has a mobile service on Grand Turk.

The Turks and Caicos Islands does not use a zip or postal code. The postal code TKCA 1ZZ (in the format for the UK) exists, but is rarely used and is not required.

Safety and Crime

Overall, the crime rate in the Turks and Caicos Islands is higher than in North America and Europe, and has unfortunately increased in recent years. You are advised against traveling down deserted roads or walking outside of tourist areas at night. See also Common Scams and How to Avoid Getting Into Trouble.

Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Controlled Substances

The drinking age in the Turks and Caicos Islands is 18. Patrons appearing under 21 will be asked to show ID.

Drugs are strictly prohibited, including marijuana. If it’s illegal in the United States or the United Kingdom, it’s probably illegal in the Turks and Caicos Islands. Any products which contain marijuana derivatives, such as THC or CBD, are prohibited. There is no exception for medical marijuana products, even if accompanied by a doctor’s prescription.

Firearms and other types of weapons are strictly controlled and possession requires a permit. There are mandatory minimum sentences for possession of firearms or ammunition without a license.

Health and Medical Information

New hospitals were constructed in 2010 on Providenciales and Grand Turk which have expanded the care facilities available. Other islands have small clinics, and Providenciales also has other specialists, such as dentists and optometrists. In serious emergencies, patients are often stabilized locally and then flown to Miami, Florida via air ambulance.

There are no endemic diseases in the islands, and the WHO and CDC do not advise any mandatory vaccinations before visiting.

A few poisonous plants exist here, including coral sumac, manchineel, and rosary pea. These are generally only encountered if venturing into the wild. Snorkelers and divers should be aware of lionfish, which have the ability to sting and in rare cases paralyze humans.

Embassy Information

The United States, Canada, Haiti, and Jamaica are the only countries with diplomatic representation in the Turks and Caicos Islands. All other countries are represented by their embassies located in other countries, usually the Bahamas or Jamaica.

Getting Here

International Flights

There are several international flights per day from numerous major North American cities, including New York, Toronto, Boston, Charlotte, Chicago, Atlanta, and Miami. British Airways is the only carrier that offers transatlantic flights to Providenciales, which fly from London Heathrow Airport (LHR). Two flights are offered between LHR and PLS per week.

All international flights arrive at the Providenciales International Airport (PLS), with the exception of a Miami—South Caicos (XSC) flight via American Airlines.

Cruises

Carnival Cruise Line and several other cruise companies operate Caribbean cruises which make stops at the Grand Turk Cruise Center. Layover time ranges from 5–7 hours, which leaves plenty of time to explore the historic sights of Grand Turk, visit the stingray sanctuary at Gibbs Cay, or participate in other water sports such as diving or snorkeling.

Customs Information

Visitors are allowed to bring the following into the country duty-free:

• 1 liter (33.8 US fluid ounces) of spirits OR 2 liters (67.6 US fluid ounces) of wine (less than 42% alcohol by volume).
• 200 cigarettes OR 100 cigarillos OR 50 cigars OR 125 grams (4.4 ounces) of tobacco.
• 50 grams (1.7 ounces) of perfume or 0.25 liters (8.4 ounces) of eau de toilette.
• $1,000 of gifts or items that will remain in the Turks and Caicos (for non-commercial use).
• 'Reasonable' amount of personal goods.

All prescription drugs must be accompanied by a doctor’s prescription. It is advised to keep all medication in original packaging to avoid confusion and questioning at ports of entry.

The importation of firearms and other weapons is strictly prohibited without written permission from the commissioner of police.

Traveling With Pets

It has become more difficult to travel with pets since the passage of new laws. You are required to obtain permission at least one week prior to arrival in the islands. You must complete the required forms, pay the fee, and provide the relevant veterinary health certificates in order to receive a permit. In addition, several breeds of dogs are prohibited.

Transportation

There are no bus services or other public transportation on any of the islands. To get to your hotel or resort, it is necessary to take a taxi from the Providenciales International Airport (PLS) or rent a car.

Most tourists are advised to rent a car for their stay, unless they plan to spend most of their time at their resort.

Renting a Car and Driving

Traffic drives on the left, as in the United Kingdom. However, the majority of vehicles on the roads (including buses and shuttles) are imported from the United States, with steering on the left (i.e., the ‘wrong’ side).

The driving level of many people on local roads is poor. Give other drivers plenty of space and also be prepared for sudden and unexpected stops.

You may need an International Driver’s Permit if your license is not in English. The minimum age for renting a car is usually 25, and 18 for scooters.

Taxis

Taxis are readily abundant on Providenciales and Grand Turk. There are limited numbers of taxis on North Caicos, Middle Caicos, and South Caicos, and no taxis on Salt Cay.

Fares are very high by most standards. If you are staying for several days, it’s advised that you rent a car. It’s also advised that you confirm your taxi fare before entering the taxi.

Inter-Island Flights and Ferries

There is a regular ferry service to North Caicos (which is connected to Middle Caicos via a causeway), as well as to South Caicos. Scheduled flights from Providenciales serve North Caicos, Grand Turk, South Caicos, and Salt Cay.

Fares for the ferries are reasonable. Flights are expensive, considering the short distances traveled.

Accommodation

Providenciales has the greatest range of accommodation, which includes luxury resorts, vacation villas, and nearly all of the country's all-inclusive resorts. While a few luxury resorts can be found on other islands in the country, including South Caicos, Ambergris Cay, and Parrot Cay, accommodation on the other islands primarily consists of villas and a few small hotels.

Hotels and Resorts

Providenciales has a wide selection of hotels and resorts, many of which are located directly on world-famous Grace Bay Beach.

Grand Turk has a few hotels, some of which offer dive packages. North Caicos has several small hotels, Middle Caicos has one villa resort, and South Caicos has two luxury resorts and a beach hotel. The private islands of Parrot Cay, Ambergris Cay, and Pine Cay each have a luxury resort.

All-Inclusive Resorts

Beaches Turks and Caicos (part of the Sandals Group) and Club Med are the two most popular all-inclusive resorts. Both are located on Providenciales.

Villas

Vacation rental villas are a popular choice and are available on all of the inhabited islands. For islands such as Salt Cay, vacation rentals are the only accommodation choice.

Prices vary widely for villas, ranging from $280 per night to well over $14,000 per night (2025 prices).

Camping and Backpacking

It is not popular to camp or backpack throughout the islands. There are no designated camping areas and a lack of public facilities, such as showers and toilets.

Budget Accommodation

The Turks and Caicos Islands lacks budget accommodation, and there are no youth hostels. Less expensive flat shares and rooms can be found on sites such as Airbnb and VRBO.

Shopping and Prices

There is not a wide range of shopping available on the islands, except for jewelry and tourist souvenirs.

Providenciales has the widest range, although Grand Turk has several excellent gifts shops which sell locally produced souvenirs and products, such as bath salts and soaps.

Prices

Souvenirs fall into the typical price range for the Caribbean, such as around $25 for a T-shirt or $10 for a souvenir coffee mug. Prices for groceries and other goods are high compared to the United States.