Turks and Caicos is a popular destination for families who retreat to the ‘Beautiful by Nature’ destination for its warm weather, pristine water and friendly people. The islands offer an array of activities for families to enjoy. Here are seven must-do activities to add to your Turks and Caicos family vacation itinerary.
1. Semi Submarine Excursion
Take an underwater adventure with the Undersea Explorer and your little ones can experience the colorful and lively reefs – without even getting wet! The Turks and Caicos Islands is well-known for its abundant marine life and is home to the third largest barrier reef in the world. While some of our visitors will opt to dive, others who are not dive certified won’t have to miss out on seeing a variety of marine life in its natural habitat. As an added treat, book the mermaid adventure for an extra splash of fun and mystery.
2. Island Tour
Take a scenic ride through Providenciales with Island Style Tours TCI in the “love buggy”. The four hour island tour takes you off the beaten path and also includes stops at significant places of interest including the Cheshire Hall Plantation, Junkanoo Museum and lunch at the infamous beachside restaurant Da Conch Shack. This guided tour allows you to see the island beyond Grace Bay which is the tourism hub of Providenciales.
3. On the Water
Enjoy the perfect family outing on the water with Caicos Dream Tours or Island Vibes Tours snorkel cruise. The half or full day tour on a catamaran includes a stop to snorkel over beautiful reef, beach combing at a private island and a tour of Iguana Island. Iguana Island, or Little Water Cay, is a nature sanctuary for the indigenous Rock Iguana which are plentiful on the small uninhabited cay. For added exploration, join Big Blue Collective on a kayak snorkel adventure through the mangroves in addition to snorkeling.
4. Museum Tours
A vacation to Turks and Caicos can also be an educational opportunity for the entire family as you explore the history and heritage of the islands. The Turks and Caicos National Museum has locations in Grand Turk and Providenciales and offer a fun and interactive look into the Turks and Caicos’ past. The Junkanoo Museum offers visitors the opportunity to become a Junkanoo band member for a day, wear costumes and even learn to play the instruments while learning about the origin of Junkanoo.
5. Island Hopping
The advantage of vacationing in the Turks and Caicos is that there are destinations within the destination. The Turks and Caicos Islands have nine inhabited islands, each unique in its own way. Plan a dual vacation or a day trip to another sister island to gain a full Turks and Caicos experience. If you’re visiting Providenciales, North and Middle Caicos is a popular option for a day trip. In North Caicos, don’t miss Flamingo Pond and in Middle Caicos be sure to visit the Conch Bar Caves.
6. Adopt a Puppy for the Day
Turks and Caicos is known for its friendly and hospitable people, however, it is also home to a friendly “potcake” puppies. Potcakes are the local term for mixed breed dogs. Families can adopt a puppy for the day at the Potcake Place located in Grace Bay. This rescue charity organization also allows families to permanently adopt a furry friend to take back home. Additionally, families can also assist by donating essential care items or being a courier for families awaiting the newest member of their family.
7. Island Fish Fry
The ultimate family friendly activity is the most anticipated event of each week – the Island Fish Fry. The Island Fish Fry is an outdoor festival that occurs every Thursday from 5:30pm to 9:00pm at the Kids Park, Lower Bight in Providenciales. The event offers a lively environment with food and souvenir vendors as well as a live band and cultural performances. The evening culminates with a Junkanoo parade. Visitors and locals attend the event which is the perfect setting to immerse yourself in all things authentically Turks and Caicos.
Planning a family vacation? Click here to browse the extensive list of things to do in the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Photo credits: Brilliant Studios, Island Style Tours and Turks & Caicos Tourist Board
