20 of the top things to do in Turks and Caicos

A boardwalk with rope railings leads the viewer to a white sandy beach and bright blue ocean.

Enjoy the sun and warm waters of Turks and Caicos on a Princess Eastern Caribbean Cruise.

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Welcome to Turks and Caicos, where the water is so clear you’ll think your snorkel mask came with a built-in Instagram filter. This tropical paradise is home to powdery white sands, electric-blue waters and some of the best marine life in the Caribbean. 

The best way to experience it all? A Princess® cruise. Forget the stress of planning — Princess Cruises offers handpicked excursions that bring you straight to the heart of Turks and Caicos. 

So grab your sunhat, apply that SPF (seriously, don’t skip this part) and get ready to explore the 20 best things to do in Turks and Caicos.

1. Tour Grand Turk by tram

A colorful Turks and Caicos sign welcomes you to the Caribbean.
Tour Grand Turk by tram and experience the best of the islands.

Why walk when you can ride in style? The Grand Turk open-air tram is the perfect way to soak up the island’s charm without breaking a sweat. Princess’ Charm of Grand Turk by Open Air Tram excursion takes you through the capital and past historic landmarks, colorful Caribbean homes and even a former salt pond where donkeys and flamingos occasionally make surprise guest appearances.

As you ride, your guide will share stories about Grand Turk’s rich history, from its colonial past to the local legends that make this island so unique. Plus, you’ll get some postcard-worthy photo ops — no filter needed.

2. Visit the Grand Turk lighthouse

Experience the Grand Turk Lighthouse in Turks and Caicos during a Princess excursion.
Explore the iconic Grand Turk Lighthouse, a beacon of history and breathtaking views.

Standing tall on a limestone bluff overlooking the Atlantic, the Grand Turk Lighthouse is a pretty landmark — but it’s also a piece of island history. This 60-foot beacon was built in 1852 to guide sailors safely past the treacherous reefs. In all those years, it has seen its fair share of shipwrecks, storms and spectacular sunrises.

Walk along the scenic cliffside trails, where you might spot wild horses or donkeys grazing nearby. If you time it right, you might even catch a glimpse of migrating whales in the distance. It’s the perfect blend of history and natural beauty, made even easier with the Rainbow Calypso Tram excursion.

3. Stroll through Cockburn Town

An overhead view of Cockburn Town, featuring colorful buildings and swaying palm trees along the beach.
Wander through the historic streets of Cockburn Town, where colonial charm meets island life.

Cockburn Town is a charming colonial-era town, with its narrow streets and old-world Caribbean vibes, is a living postcard. The architecture tells a story of British influence, while the friendly locals and laid-back atmosphere remind you that you’re on island time.

As you stroll down Duke and Front Streets, you’ll find colorful shops and maybe even a donkey or two wandering the roads (they’re basically unofficial tour guides here). If you’re feeling creative, the Panoramas & Painting excursion lets you soak in the scenery and bring it to life on canvas under the guidance of a local artist. Because let’s be honest, Turks and Caicos is too beautiful not to be immortalized in art.

4. Discover Governor’s Beach

A rustic shipwreck rests on the pristine sands of Governor's Beach.
Discover the allure of the Governor’s Beach shipwreck, a photographer’s dream.

Soft, powdery sand. Crystal-clear waters. A gentle sea breeze that practically whispers, “Stay awhile.” You’ll find it all at Governor’s Beach — one of the most idyllic spots in Turks and Caicos. Nestled within the Columbus Landfall National Park, this beach is known for its calm, shallow waters that make it perfect for swimming and shell collecting.

But the real star? The famous shipwreck resting just offshore, a rusting relic that adds a touch of mystery to the scenery. Make the most of your visit with the Island Highlights & Beach Break with Local Flavors excursion. Because what’s a beach day without something delicious to go with it?

5. Snorkel the coral reefs

A mother and daughter enjoy snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of Turks and Caicos.
Make unforgettable memories of snorkeling in the vibrant waters of Turks and Caicos.

Turks and Caicos is plenty beautiful above the water, but it’s just as breathtaking below the surface. With some of the most vibrant coral reefs in the Caribbean, snorkeling here is like diving into a living aquarium. Schools of tropical fish, graceful sea turtles and even the occasional stingray glide through the waters to make every swim an adventure.

For the best experience, join the Horseshoe Reef & Round Cay Snorkel Adventure. This excursion takes you to some of the region’s most spectacular underwater sites. The warm waters and colorful marine life make this an unforgettable experience. Just don’t be surprised if you lose track of time — when you're floating among the fish, it's easy to forget about everything else.

6. Explore Gibbs Cay and stingray encounters

A sting ray glides through the water over white sands.
Get up close with gentle stingrays in a once-in-a-lifetime experience at Gibbs Cay.

Ever wanted to meet a stingray up close? At Gibbs Cay, you can do just that with no aquarium glass separating you from the action. This uninhabited island is home to friendly stingrays that glide effortlessly through the water. They’re so accustomed to visitors that they often swim right up to say hello (or, more accurately, to see if you’ve brought snacks).

Join the Snorkel & Stingray Adventure to wade into the warm, knee-deep waters where these gentle creatures gather. You’ll get to feel their smooth, velvety skin as they circle around you, or grab a snorkel and check out the underwater world nearby.

7. Taste local conch recipes

A traditional conch dish served with island flavors in Turks and Caicos.
Savor the rich flavors of freshly prepared conch, a local island favorite.

If there’s one dish you absolutely have to try in Turks and Caicos, it’s conch (pronounced konk). This island staple is served up in all kinds of delicious ways: cracked conch (fried to golden perfection), conch ceviche (fresh, citrusy and zesty) and the ever-popular conch fritters (think crispy, bite-sized flavor bombs). No matter how you try it, one thing’s for sure — fresh conch is a must on your island foodie checklist.

For the ultimate experience, you can join the Local Conch Recipes, Sightseeing, Beach & Lunch excursion. This Princess excursion lets you watch local chefs prepare conch dishes from scratch before digging in yourself.

8. Ride the Rainbow Calypso tram

A cruise port in Turks and Caicos featuring a colorful town square with red-roofed buildings, palm trees, and a dock extending into turquoise water, set against a backdrop of green hills.
Step off the ship onto the Rainbow Calypso Tram. Explore colorful shops, palm-lined streets, and warm Caribbean vibes.

Looking for the most colorful way to explore Grand Turk? Hop aboard the Rainbow Calypso Tram, a fun and vibrant open-air ride that brings the island’s history and culture to life (minus the walking, plus a cool island breeze).

As you roll through Cockburn Town, you’ll pass charming churches and lively local markets while your guide shares fun facts and stories about Grand Turk’s past. Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for the island’s famous wild donkeys and horses — if you’re lucky, one might even pose for a photo!

9. Paint at the botanical and cultural garden

Close-up of a person painting a seascape on canvas during an outdoor art class, holding a colorful paint palette with tubes of acrylic paint nearby on a wooden table.
Tap into your creative side with a guided painting class surrounded by nature’s beauty at the botanical and cultural garden

Channel your inner artist in the botanical and cultural garden, one of the most serene settings on Grand Turk. Surrounded by lush tropical plants and the gentle sounds of island birds, this is the perfect place to slow down and get creative.

As part of the Panoramas & Painting excursion, you'll be guided by a local artist who will help you capture the island’s natural beauty on canvas. Seasoned painters and those who haven’t picked up a brush since elementary school can all enjoy this opportunity for relaxation and creativity. And if your masterpiece turns out great? Well, you just got yourself the best souvenir ever.

10. Visit the National Museum of Grand Turk

The Turks and Caicos National Museum, a white colonial-style building with a red roof and teal shutters.
Step back in time at the Turks and Caicos National Museum.

History buffs, this one’s for you. The National Museum of Grand Turk is full of island history and packed with exhibits that bring the past to life. Housed in one of the oldest buildings on the island, this museum showcases everything from shipwreck artifacts (including pieces from one of the Western Hemisphere’s oldest known shipwrecks) to ancient Lucayan artifacts that offer a glimpse into the island’s first inhabitants. 

The museum also dives into the island’s salt industry, local folklore and even space history (Grand Turk played a role in astronaut John Glenn’s splashdown). You can explore the museum as part of the Island Highlights & Beach Break with Local Flavors shore excursion.

11. Go whale watching

A majestic humpback whale breaches the surface of the ocean.
Witness the awe-inspiring sight of humpback whales during their annual migration.

If you’ve ever wanted to see a humpback whale up close and in the wild, Turks and Caicos is one of the best places to do it. From January to April, these marine giants migrate through the warm waters of the Caribbean, putting on an unforgettable show of breaches, tail slaps and fin waves.

Join the Whale Watching Adventure excursion, and set sail for the Silver Bank — one of the few places in the world where humpback whales come to mate and give birth. You’ll have the chance to witness these breathtaking creatures in their natural habitat. And if you’re lucky, you might even hear their hauntingly beautiful whale songs through the hydrophone.

12. Enjoy the Junkanoo party bus

Group of young adults in swimsuits smiling and posing together, holding colorful cocktails and wearing sunglasses.
Soak up the sun and good vibes on the Junkanoo Party Bus.

Do you think sightseeing should come with a side of music and dancing to match the island vibes? Then the Junkanoo Party Bus is your ride. This is a rolling Caribbean celebration, complete with live Junkanoo music, colorful costumes and plenty of rum punch to keep the good times going.

As you cruise through Grand Turk, you’ll pass both historic sites and scenic spots — all while feeling the infectious rhythm of Junkanoo, the Bahamas and Turks & Caicos’ signature festival. And because no island party is complete without a beach stop, the Junkanoo Party Bus, Rum Tasting & Beach excursion ends with a visit to a beautiful stretch of sand.

13. Drive an electric hummer

A compact white electric Hummer parked on a brick road near lush greenery and vibrant hanging flower baskets in Grand Turk.
Cruise Grand Turk in eco-style. Ride through paradise in a fully electric Hummer.

Ready to explore Grand Turk with a little extra horsepower (minus the gas)? Take the wheel of a fully electric Hummer and zip around the island on a self-drive adventure that lets you experience the best of Turks and Caicos.

This eco-friendly ride is part of the Island Exploration by Electric Hummer excursion, combining sightseeing with a dose of adrenaline. You’ll follow a guide to top island landmarks like the Grand Turk Lighthouse and salt ponds, all while soaking in the island breeze and unbeatable ocean views.

14. Discover the Circle of Life marine facility

Close-up of a sea turtle swimming over a colorful coral reef, surrounded by tropical fish in clear blue water near the Circle of Life Marine Facility.
Get hands-on experience with sea turtles at the Circle of Life Marine Facility.

At the Circle of Life Marine Facility, you’ll get an even deeper look at the ocean’s wonders that Turks and Caicos is known for. This hands-on experience introduces visitors to the island’s efforts to protect and conserve its underwater ecosystems. You’ll get a chance to learn all about coral restoration, sea turtle rehabilitation and marine biodiversity.

The Island Vibes & Beach Swim excursion combines education with relaxation. After exploring the marine facility, you’ll have time to unwind at a stunning beach, where the only thing on your to-do list is soaking up the sun or floating in the sea.

15. Experience the FlowRider® surfing attraction

A woman rides the waves on a FlowRider attraction at the Grand Turk Cruise Center.
Feel the thrill of riding the waves on the FlowRider attraction at the Grand Turk Cruise Center.

If you think you need to be near an ocean break to catch a wave, think again. The Deluxe FlowRider® at the Grand Turk Cruise Center lets you test your surfing skills on a powerful wave simulator — without worrying about wipeouts on a coral reef. This high-energy attraction is the perfect place to ride the waves, practice your balance and (let’s be honest) probably take a few hilarious tumbles.

As part of the Deluxe FlowRider® excursion, you’ll get expert guidance and plenty of time to master your moves. And if standing up feels like too much commitment, you can always try the Flowrider® Body / Kneeboarding excursion It’s still just as fun, with slightly less falling involved. Afterward, kick back on the beach and watch the next wave of thrill-seekers take their turn.

16. Take a boat tour to Iguana Island

A rock iguana rests on sandy terrain at Iguana Island in Turks and Caicos.
See the unique rock iguanas on Iguana Island, a must-see wildlife experience in Turks and Caicos.

Iguana Island (officially known as Little Water Cay) is home to a population of rare rock iguanas you won’t find anywhere else. These prehistoric-looking reptiles roam freely across the island, sunbathing on sandy trails and blending into the tropical landscape. And yes, they’re completely harmless, unless you’re a leaf (because that’s their favorite snack).

The best way to visit is on a scenic boat tour that takes you across the waters of the Caicos Banks to this protected nature reserve. Once there, you can explore elevated boardwalks through the mangroves and watch the iguanas up close.

17. Embark on the duck boat adventure

The duck tour boat sails across the pristine waters of Turks and Caicos.
Ride on land and sea with the Grand Turk duck boat, one of the most fun ways to tour the island.

Why choose between land and sea when you can explore both—without ever leaving your seat? The Duck Boat Adventure lets you roll through the island’s historic streets before splashing into the Caribbean for a boat ride. 

Yep, this amphibious vehicle drives straight into the water, transforming from a bus into a boat in seconds. It’s part sightseeing tour, part joyride, and 100% a memory-maker.

18. Relax at Grace Bay Beach

Swaying palm trees dot the white sands of Grace Bay Beach.
Relax under swaying palm trees on the world-famous Grace Bay Beach, a true tropical paradise.

If there were a hall of fame for beaches, Grace Bay Beach would be a first-ballot inductee. With powdery white sand and zero rocks or seaweed in sight, it’s no wonder this world-famous stretch of coastline is often ranked among the best beaches on the planet.

Grace Bay delivers pure tropical perfection. And if you’re feeling a little adventurous, nearby water sports like paddleboarding, kayaking and parasailing let you take in the views from a whole new perspective.

19. Explore Conch Bar Caves

The entrance to Conch Bar Caves, with sunlight filtering through limestone formations.
Step into the depths of Conch Bar Caves, one of the Caribbean’s largest cave systems.

Did you know Turks and Caicos is home to one of the largest cave systems in the Caribbean? Conch Bar Caves, located on Middle Caicos, is a labyrinth of limestone tunnels, hidden chambers and stalactites that have been forming for thousands of years.

As you explore this underground wonder, you’ll discover ancient Lucayan petroglyphs and eerie bat colonies. The caves were once used as shelters by the island’s early inhabitants, and local legends say they still hold secrets waiting to be uncovered.

20. Set out deep sea fishing

View from a fishing boat with multiple deep-sea fishing rods extended over the open ocean, with blue waves and distant islands on the horizon under a clear sky.
Reel in the thrill of the open sea. Experience world-class deep-sea fishing in the sparkling waters off Turks and Caicos.

If you’re looking for the ultimate offshore adventure, deep sea fishing in Turks and Caicos is where the real action happens. These waters are home to some of the biggest and most sought-after fish in the Caribbean, including tuna, mahi-mahi, wahoo, marlin and sailfish.

Set sail with an expert crew, who will guide you to the best fishing spots just beyond the barrier reef, where deep waters mean big catches. And if you land something impressive? Many local restaurants offer “hook and cook” options, so you can have your fresh catch prepared just the way you like it.

Experience Turks and Caicos stress-free

Turks and Caicos is the kind of place that stays with you — whether it’s snorkeling reefs, tasting fresh conch or sinking into soft, white sand. From thrilling excursions to laid-back beach days, a Princess® cruise makes exploring effortless with seamless travel and curated shore experiences.

Explore the top things to do in Turks and Caicos, from snorkeling to historic landmarks, all made easily accessible with Princess shore excursions. Learn more about Princess Eastern Caribbean Cruises and plan your next adventure today.

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