About the Turks and Caicos Islands

The Turks and Caicos Islands consist of 40 islands and cays, nine of which are inhabited – Providenciales, Grand Turk, Salt Cay, North Caicos, Middle Caicos, South Caicos, Parrot Cay, Pine Cay and Ambergris Cay.

Located 550 miles southeast of Miami, Florida, the islands are just below the Bahamas chain and to the east of Cuba and the island of Hispaniola (Dominican Republic and Haiti.) Technically, the Turks and Caicos are located in the Atlantic Ocean, not the Caribbean Sea.

Population
Home to about 40,000 residents, the islands welcome almost a million tourists each year.

Official Language
English

Currency
US dollar

Time Zone
Eastern Standard Time and Daylight Savings Time is observed.

Driving
Keep LEFT when driving.

Climate
The islands reach their coolest temperatures from November to May, ranging from 75˚F – 84˚F (24˚-29˚C) while June to October see temperatures between 80˚F – 90˚F (29˚-32˚C), sometimes reaching above 90˚ in the late summer months.
Hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30.

The Islands
Encircled by the world’s third largest barrier reef, the islands are perfect for water adventures. From scuba diving, kiting, fishing, sailing and more, the dreamy turquoise waters, white sand beaches and great weather creates a true island paradise waiting to be experienced.
Each island offers a different experience and a unique character but all offer year-round great climate, beaches and underwater activities.

Providenciales
Providenciales is the most developed and populated of the islands and is the center of the tourism industry with a wide range of hotels, restaurants and modern conveniences.

Grand Turk
Grand Turk is the Nation’s Capital, offering a glimpse into TCI’s history with great Bermudian architecture and the National Museum. It also welcomes cruise ship tourists at the buzzing Cruise Center.

Salt Cay
Salt Cay also has historic remnants including the salinas and windmills, and is a popular spot for whale watching.

Middle Caicos
Middle Caicos is home to the Conch Bar Caves, beautiful beaches and flamingo ponds.

North Caicos
North Caicos is the greenest island with lush plant life and a wide variety of birds. Wade’s Green Plantation ruins is also found here.

South Caicos
South Caicos is the center for fishing, with lobster, conch and fish exported from the island.

Parrot Cay, Pine Cay and Ambergris Cay
Parrot Cay, Pine Cay and Ambergris Cay are privately owned islands and are home to some most exclusive resorts: Parrot Cay Resort and Spa, the Meridian Club and Turks and Caicos Sporting Club respectively.