Turks And Caicos With Kids: Why Is It Great For Families
Are you planning to visit Turks and Caicos with your kids and need to know what to expect? Maybe you are unsure yet, but are you researching more information to decide? You can certainly start here.
What can be better than witnessing one of the World’s most beautiful places with the people you love the most?
Whether you want to spend your days lounging on the beach, snorkeling in the coral reefs, or exploring the island’s natural beauty, there is something for everyone.
Direct short flights from many major cities, safe, pristine beaches, family resorts, and various family activities make Turks and Caicos one of the best places to visit for a family vacation.
It certainly comes with a price tag, and it is likely to be more expensive than other Caribbean islands.
We traveled to TCI (Turks and Caicos) with a toddler, and we still cannot stop thinking about our trip. Since our first trip there, I have researched and gathered information that helped me plan the Ultimate Turks and Caicos Travel Guide.
This post focuses on basic Turks and Caicos travel, helpful information for families, family-friendly activities, the best family resorts, and places to eat with kids.
Please note that this post may contain affiliate links, and I will earn a small commission for any sales made through such links – at no extra cost to you.
Turks & Caicos with Kids: What to Know
Location
Somewhere between the Bahamas and the Dominican Republic is a beautiful country with one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) is a British Overseas territory mainly known for its white-sand beaches, luxury resorts, and pristine marine environment.
While TCI consists of 40 different islands, only eight are inhabited; the most popular tourist destination is Providenciales, where most resorts, restaurants, and the world-famous Grace Bay Beach are located.
Providenciales International Airport (PLS) makes it easy for International travelers and families with children to arrive in Providenciales.
The major US cities such as New York, Boston, and Philadelphia are less than 4 hours away, which makes the trip incredibly convenient if you are traveling with young children and are looking for a short flight destination from East Coast cities in the USA.
Best Times to Visit Turks and Caicos with Kids
Turks and Caicos is a beautiful destination that can be enjoyed year-round. However, certain times of the year are better for families with kids. Here are the best times to visit Turks and Caicos with kids:
The best time to visit Turks and Caicos with kids is mid-December to mid-April. The weather is dry and warm, with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to the mid-80s. The water is crystal clear and calm, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and larger crowds.
If you want a more affordable vacation, consider visiting Turks and Caicos from May to mid-December. During this time, prices are lower, and crowds are smaller. The weather is still warm, with temperatures ranging from the mid-80s to the low 90s. However, this is also the rainy season, so be prepared for occasional showers and thunderstorms.
How to Get Around in Turks and Caicos With Kids
There is no public transportation in the Turks and Caicos Islands. The most cost-effective way is to get around with a taxi or a car rental. We highly recommend renting a car unless you plan to spend the entire vacation at the resort.
If you have minors who still need a car seat, request it from the rental company well in advance or bring your own.
If you rent a car, note that you will be driving on the left side of the road since Turks and Caicos is British territory. Also, there are no stoplights throughout the country; traffic is regulated through roundabouts.
Where to stay in Turks and Caicos With Kids
Grace Bay Beach on Providenciales Island is the most desirable location to stay in turks and Caicos with kids. With its extensive selection of hotels and resorts, you will find something that works best for you and your family. Check out my favorite Turks and Caicos resorts with details and reviews for families.
Family Resorts in Turks and Caicos
All-inclusive options
Beaches Turks & Caicos: Beaches Turks and Caicos is one of the best All-Inclusive Kid-Friendly resorts, focused on plenty of kid-friendly amenities and activities. If you want a high-energy place where there is always some fun to catch up with, this is the one to go with. Also, remember that the price tag may not be appealing for budget traveling.
Palms Turks & Caicos: Palms is another one of the best all-inclusive luxury resorts, but it is more laid-back and quiet than Beaches Resort. This is my best choice for adults to relax and kids to have fun at the kid’s club!
Another great all-inclusive option is the Blue Haven Resort. This waterfront property offers a range of family amenities, including a kids’ club, a playground, and a game room. The resort has various dining options, including a beachfront restaurant and a poolside bar. Rooms are spacious and can accommodate families of all sizes.
Resorts with Kids’ Clubs
There are several options if you’re looking for a resort that offers a kids’ club. The Alexandra Resort is famous for families, partly thanks to its excellent kids’ club. The club offers a range of activities for kids, including arts and crafts, games, and sports. The resort also has a variety of amenities for adults, including a spa, a fitness center, and multiple dining options.
Another great option is the Grace Bay Club. This luxury resort offers a kids’ club for children ages 5-12 and a teen lounge for older kids. The resort also has a variety of amenities for adults, including a spa, a fitness center, and multiple dining options.
I have an entire article on the best family resorts in Turks and Caicos based on my opinion and in-depth research that you may find helpful.
Windsong on The Reef is a unique, small, and quiet resort steps away from the beach, where families can enjoy the best snorkeling and water activities. Our stay here was terrific. We truly enjoyed our spacious private family suite and all the snorkeling on the beach!
Things to do in Turks and Caicos with Kids
Besides resort activities, there are many other off-resort things for the entire family, such as excursions, horseback riding at the beach, semi-submarine tours, snorkeling, kayaking, and more.
Outdoor Adventures for Families
If you’re looking for outdoor adventures with your family in Turks and Caicos, you’re in luck! Plenty of exciting activities will keep everyone entertained and active during your vacation.
Dolphin and Whale Watching
Horseback riding
Horseback riding is one of the top activities in Providenciales. While tour agencies have an age requirement, this is one of the must-dos if you have older kids.
The local stables can accommodate all skill levels, making the activity perfect for families with kids. We highly advise booking your reservation well before visiting the Turks and Caicos, as the island’s stables are small and limited.
Semi-Submarine experience
For those traveling with smaller kids who cannot yet snorkel or scuba dive, a semi-submarine tour is a fantastic way to see the beautiful reefs and underwater ocean life in Turks and Caicos. There is also an option to choose a glass bottom boat activity, but semi-submarine will be the best way to see underwater life.
We were so glad to book this tour with our 2-year-old. The glass window showed him sea turtles, stingrays, and even sharks!
A couple of Providenciales tours offer semi-submarine tours, but the Undersea Explorer is the best option. They also provide a unique mermaid encounter tour. How cool!
Snorkeling in Turks & Caicos
Snorkeling is a must-have activity for adults and kids in Turks and Caicos! If you stay at the Grace Bay Beach Resorts, most will offer kids snorkeling gear that we found excellent. Our son has so much exploring fish with it.
If you want to do more with kids, sign up for kayak adventures, day trips to Iguana Island, and charters around the sunset.
Check Out Iguanas
Little Water Cay, also known as Iguana Island, is one of the top tourist attractions in Providenciales. Many boats and charters visit here.
Here, rock iguanas relax at the beach. They do not care about humans walking among them (but remember not to feed them).
If you happen to visit Half Moon Bay instead, no worries. We spotted at least 10 Iguanas relaxing at the beach when we arrived. They usually find their way here from Little Water Cay.
Kid-Friendly Beaches in Turks and Caicos
If you plan a family vacation to Turks and Caicos, you’ll want to know the best kid-friendly beaches. Here are three beaches sure to please you and your little ones.
Grace Bay Beach Activities
Grace Bay Beach is a must-visit for families with kids. Its soft, white sand and crystal-clear water make it the perfect place to relax and play. There are plenty of activities for kids, including building sandcastles, playing beach volleyball, and swimming in the calm waters.
Snorkeling at Bight Reef
Bight Reef, located at Coral Gardens, is an excellent spot for families who want to experience the underwater world of Turks and Caicos. The reef is home to various colorful fish and other sea creatures, making it an excellent place for kids to snorkel and explore. You can also take a glass-bottom boat tour if your little ones are more excited about that.
Quiet Spots at Taylor Bay
If you want a quieter beach experience, head to Taylor Bay. This secluded beach is perfect for families who wish to relax and enjoy peace.
The water is shallow and calm, making it a great spot for young kids to splash. Pack a picnic and spend the day soaking up the sun and enjoying the beautiful scenery.
Dolphin and whale watching is one of the most popular outdoor activities for families in Turks and Caicos.
These majestic creatures can be seen swimming and playing in the crystal-clear waters around the islands. You can book a tour with a local operator and enjoy a thrilling ride to sea to see these friendly animals up close.
Clear Kayaking in Mangroves
Another great way to explore the natural beauty of Turks and Caicos is by kayaking through the mangroves. The calm, shallow waters are perfect for beginners and children, and you’ll see various wildlife, including fish, birds, and iguanas.
Cultural Experiences and Education
If you want to add cultural education to your family vacation in Turks and Caicos, you’re in luck! There are several opportunities to learn about the history and traditions of the islands. Here are a few suggestions:
Visiting the Conch Farm
One unique experience in Turks and Caicos is visiting the world’s only conch farm. At the Caicos Conch Farm, you can take a guided tour to see how conch are raised from larvae to adulthood.
You’ll also learn about the history of conch in the islands and its importance to local cuisine. The tour ends with a tasting of conch salad, a traditional dish made with fresh conch meat. It’s a fun and educational experience that the whole family will enjoy.
Where to Eat in Turks and Caicos With Kids
When dining with kids in Turks and Caicos, you’ll be pleased to know that there are plenty of family-friendly restaurants to choose from. Here are some of the best options.
Family-Friendly Restaurants
There are plenty of options if you’re looking for a family-friendly restaurant in Turks and Caicos. For a casual dining experience, head to Da Conch Shack, which offers beachfront seating and a kids’ menu.
Another great option is Hemingway’s, which has a fun and relaxed atmosphere and serves delicious seafood dishes.
Local Food Tasting
One of the best ways to experience the local culture in Turks and Caicos is through its food. Take your kids on a food tour to try regional specialties like conch fritters, jerk chicken, and fresh seafood.
You can also head to the weekly Thursday Fish Fry in Bight Park to sample various local dishes and enjoy live music and entertainment.
Best Eating Options
Below are the top 5 kid-friendly restaurants to consider when traveling to Turks and Caicos.
- Da Conch Shack
- Bugaloo’s
- Mango Reef
- Hemingway’s Restaurant
- Coco bistro.
Practical Tips for Traveling with Children
Traveling to Turks and Caicos with kids can be a fun and exciting experience for the whole family. However, it can also be challenging if you’re not prepared. Here are some practical tips to help make your trip more enjoyable.
Packing Essentials
When packing for Turks and Caicos, bring all your kids’ essentials, including sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and insect repellent. Also, pack plenty of snacks, drinks, and any medications your children may need.
It’s also a good idea to bring a few toys and games to keep your kids entertained during the flight and downtime.
Supermarkets in Turks & Caicos
One thing you should be aware of before planning a trip to TCI is that food there is costly. Especially if you are going with kids, your best friend will be groceries and supermarkets to balance.
The largest supermarket in Providenciales is the Central Graceway IGA, which offers various everyday products. It is a great one-stop stop for shoppers who want to stock up on essentials.
Another great option is the Grace Bay Gourmet, located only a few steps from the world-famous Grace Bay Beach. It is famous for its large selection of organic, vegetarian, and gluten-free international brands.
During our visit to Providenciales, we grabbed some groceries and kept them in our hotel fridge; that was very handy! Yogurts, fruits, and snacks to have available for a toddler and us throughout the stay because you do not want to eat out every time!
Cons of Visiting Turks and Caicos with Kids
Despite being a kid-friendly destination, Turks and Caicos can become quite expensive. It is more costly compared to other Caribbean islands. However, good planning makes it possible to travel to Turks and Caicos on a budget.
Final Thoughts Turks and Caicos With Kids
While Turks and Caicos is not a budget-friendly destination for families, it is indeed kid-friendly! We found TCI the most relaxing and calming trip we have had with our son. I highly recommend visiting it, but start planning your trip to set aside your budget. Read more of the articles below to help you prepare better.
