Beach Guide

Conde Nast Traveler magazine and a British Sunday Times readers poll voted Grace Bay Beach in the Turks & Caicos Islands as the “the world’s best beach.”

The Caribbean island of Turks & Caicos, British West Indies, situated 75 minutes southeast of Miami, Florida, owns the third biggest coral reef system and the most breathtaking tropical beaches in the world. Grace Bay, located in the island of Provindenciales, more commonly known as “Provo,” features the 12-mile Gray Bay Beach. Grace Bay got its name from a British lady named Grace Hutchings, who spent her honeymoon here in 1892. Provincidenciales is Turks & Caicos’ main tourist island, where upscale hotels and resorts, world-class spas and the best restaurants are found mostly on the island’s beaches.
The stretch of Grace Bay Beach is to the northeast coast of Provo, and features soft, powdery sands, crystal clear waters that change color from deep blue to light green, and long coral reef with a thriving marine life. Water sports enthusiasts will find the beach a beautiful, natural playground, ideal for friendly water activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, sailing trips on a catamaran, parasailing and windsurfing. Great diving is found in the Blue Hills Dive Spot, located six miles to the west of Grace Bay Beach. Amazing snorkeling can be arranged further down Grace Bay near Coral Gardens. Water skis, jet skis and other “extreme” water adventure activities are not allowed.

The waters of Grace Bay are warm throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy a tranquil atmosphere even during the peak season, without worries of any hassles and peddlers while sun tanning or simply reading on the beach. As part of the Princess Alexandra National Park, guests are assured of safety and protection by law. Public facilities are not available, but there are numerous resorts with restaurants that accommodate beachgoers. A number of high-end condo-hotels and resorts are located near Grace Bay Beach. Visitors can choose among Sands at Grace Bay, Trade Winds Condotel, Grace Bay Club, Caribbean Paradise Inn, Royal West Indies Resort, Alexandra Resorts & Spa, and Beaches Turks & Caicos Resort & Spa. For a sample of native dishes or a fusion of international and tropical cuisine, guests can visit Seaside Café, Bella Luna, Caicos Café Bar and Grill, Barefoot Café, Jasmine, Coco Bistro, Anacaona, and Anacaona Restaurant.

The sheer length of Grace Bay Beach makes it easy for beachgoers to find a secluded spot and relax along its sun-drenched shore. Therefore, Grace Bay Beach may not be ideal for guests who prefer bustling beaches crammed with tourists and activities.