A Travel Advisor's Guide to Turks & Caicos
Villas, Views & Grace Bay Magic
A few days in Turks & Caicos was all it took, and now I get it.
This quick, easy flight from the East Coast drops you into a world of turquoise water, powdery white sand, and easy elegance. It’s a beautiful destination in the Caribbean, and thanks to some standout hotels, it's also one of the most luxurious. Whether you’re planning a long weekend or a longer island escape, here’s why Turks & Caicos should be on your radar, and how I can help you make it magical.
Planning Your Trip to Turks & Caicos
Turks & Caicos is one of those rare destinations that feels both easy and extraordinary. Just a short flight from the East Coast (under 4 hours from NYC), you’ll land on the island of Providenciales , known as “Provo”, home to Grace Bay Beach, regularly ranked among the best in the world.
And yes, the water really is that blue.
But the islands offer more than a pretty view. This is a place where laid-back luxury meets natural beauty:
Charter a private boat to spot dolphins or visit the famous Iguana Island
Wade through the shallows at Half Moon Bay or swing in the sea at Long Bay
Snorkel coral gardens, kayak through the mangroves, or toast the sunset from your own plunge pool
Discover local beach bars like Noah’s Ark or take a boat out to floating favorites like Minibar on the Water
Whether you’re staying for a long weekend or a full tropical reset, the vibe is pure barefoot elegance. The local currency is the US dollar, English is the main language, and transfers are easy, most resorts are under 20 minutes from the airport.
Who It's For (Let Me Match You)
Grace Bay Resorts offers a collection of truly distinct properties, from cliffside escapes to beachfront villas, and each one delivers something a little different. But all share the brand’s signature warmth, service, and design-forward sensibility.
Couples who want privacy, views, and design
Families who want the space of a villa with the perks of a hotel
Friend groups who want to eat, swim, toast, and repeat
Luxury travelers
For New Yorkers: this is such an easy win. Quick direct flights, short transfers, and properties that feel worlds away, but without the jet lag.
For European travelers: Turks & Caicos isn’t always easy to pair with other Caribbean islands, but it shines as a standalone destination, or combined with Miami, NYC, the Dominican Republic, or Jamaica (all offer direct connections).
Where to Stay:
Amanyara
On the far western tip of the island, Amanyara feels like another world, serene, architectural, and deeply connected to nature. The pavilions are tucked among palms and reflecting pools, opening onto the ocean or tranquil ponds. The design is pure Aman, minimal yet warm, and the energy is meditative rather than social. It’s the ultimate reset: remote, beautiful, grounded in the landscape itself and ultralux.
perks: Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability, Daily Full breakfast for two guests per bedroom, 100USD equivalent Resort credit utilized during stay, Early Check-In / Late Check-Out, subject to availability
The Strand
I actually just met the team from The Strand over lunch in New York, and if the meal was any preview, their attention to detail runs deep. Tucked along a quiet stretch of Providenciales, their villas and residences open completely to the sea, with handcrafted infinity pools and glass walls that make the line between indoors and outdoors almost disappear. Guests have access to The Club at The Strand, a private beach club and restaurant with tennis and pickleball courts, water sports, and a marina for easy adventures on the water. Lots of small touches that make it feel like your own island home.
Perks: Daily breakfast credit of $50/adult, consumable at Delmar (can be used any meal of the day), Room Upgrade (subject to availability), Early check-in & Late Check-out (subject to availability)
Grace Bay Resorts
I was recently invited by Grace Bay Resorts to visit their collection, and it’s safe to say each property has its own personality. Whether you’re traveling as a couple, a group of friends, or a multigenerational family, there’s a perfect match here. Let me help you find it.
Grace Bay Club
A Turks & Caicos classic. This beachfront resort feels polished but never stuffy, with spacious suites, sweeping views, and multiple pools (including an adults-only option). I love the variety here, romantic dinners at Infiniti, casual bites at The Grill, and a 90-foot bar overlooking the ocean. For families, the Villas and Estate areas offer more privacy and space.
Fora Reserve Perks at Grace Bay Club: Upgrade on arrival and early check-in/out (subject to availability), and a resort credit.
Rock House
Dramatically set on a cliff with views for days, Rock House feels like the Amalfi Coast, but in the Caribbean. It’s stylish, quiet, and design-forward, with limestone pathways, curated interiors, and the longest infinity pool on the island. I loved the villas here, perfect for couples or small groups who want privacy without giving up service. Breakfast is included, and the Cave Bar & Vita Restaurant are both worth staying in for.
Rock House Guest Perks: Daily breakfast and an early check-in/late check-out (subject to availability)
Point Grace
Old-school charm meets barefoot elegance at this intimate, all-suite resort. Tucked into a quiet stretch of Grace Bay, Point Grace is ideal for honeymooners, couples, or anyone craving peace and privacy. The Grace Cottage Bar & Restaurant was a standout. I’m still thinking about the coquilles. The lush gardens and colonial architecture give it a sense of place that’s hard to find elsewhere.
Typical Point Grace Perks: Daily continental breakfast for two, resort credit, Room upgrade and early check-in/ late check-out (subject to availability)
South Bank
Located on the calm southern shore, South Bank is a new residential-style resort built around a marina and lagoon. The vibe is modern and airy, think waterfront villas, private pools, and large outdoor living spaces that feel made for family trips or longer stays. I didn’t stay here, but the lunch and site visit were incredibly promising, and I can’t wait to see it come to life.
Typical South Bank Perks: Daily continental breakfast for two, resort credit, Room upgrade and early check-in/late check-out (subject to availability)
Who It’s For (Let Me Match You)
Families who want villa space and services
Couples who want privacy, design, and a killer view
Friend groups who want to eat, swim, toast, and repeat
Travelers who like quiet luxury over big-brand sameness
Each Grace Bay Resorts property has its own personality. That’s why seeing them in person matters, and why I’d love to help you find the one that fits you best.
A Few More Highlights
Iguana Island, stingrays, and a swing in the sea: Turks isn’t short on nature moments.
Noah’s Ark beach bar, reachable only by boat, and worth it for the lobster alone.
Rocky, the resident hotel cat at Rock House, easily one of the most photogenic locals I met.
Special thanks to everyone who made this trip what it was (you know who you are).
For You?
If you’re dreaming of turquoise water, luxurious villas, or a truly personalized island stay, Turks & Caicos is more than just a beach destination, it’s a mood, and Grace Bay Resorts nails it.
I’ve seen the villas, tasted the rosé, and tested the beds (very comfortable, by the way). Now it’s your turn.
