Destination of The Month
Turks and Caicos
Don't just visit Turks and Caicos. Experience
Turks and Caicos
The Turks and Caicos consist of 40 different islands and cays, only 9 of which are inhabited. The islands of the Turks and Caicos are almost as diverse as its people. From the main tourist center of Providenciales to the quiet and tranquil islands of North and Middle Caicos to the historic Capital of Grand Turk; each one offers a different experience and a unique character but all offer a year-round great climate, beaches, and underwater activities.
The first known inhabitants of the islands were Taíno Indians, who left evidence of their occupation in the form of utensils and a ball court. Locals claim that the islands were the first landfall of Columbus in 1492. Some argue for Grand Turk, where a monument casts the claim in stone. The arrival of Europeans spelled the end for the Taínos, who had either been forced into slavery or had succumbed to European-borne diseases by the mid-16th century.
During the 16th, 17th, and 18th centuries, the islands passed from Spanish to French, to English (subsequently British) control, but none of the three powers ever established any settlements.
From about 1690 to 1720, pirates hid in the cays of the Islands, attacking Spanish treasure galleons en route to Spain from Cuba, Hispaniola, and the Spanish possessions in Central America and Peru.
The islands were not fully colonized until 1681 when salt collectors from Bermuda built the first permanent settlement on Grand Turk Island.
The best time to visit TCI is April and May, a sweet spot featuring lower prices and fewer crowds. The weather is pleasant year-round with average highs that hover in the 80F. The Turks and Caicos Islands do experience a rainy season in October and early November, and the threat of hurricanes lingers from June to November. Turks & Caicos’ high season travel period lasts from December to March.