gerandlg / Creative Commons BY-SAHouses and hotels line the shoreline on Grand Turk in Turks and Caicos.

Things to see & do on Grand Turk Island

Historic 18th and 19th century architecture line Duke and Front streets in Cockburn Town. The town is known for its long, narrow streets and antique street lamps. Cockburn Town is home to the Turks & Caicos National Museum, located in the colonial-era Guinep House, right on Front Street. The house is over 150 years old and is made of salvaged materials from shipwrecks, including a ship's mast.

On the opposite end of Grand Turk Island is the Lighthouse (the only lighthouse in Turks and Caicos), a pretty spot to explore. In between, you will find lovely beaches such as Governor's Beach, Cockburn Town Beach, Pillory Beach, East Side Beach and White Sands Beach. Just a mile off the coast of Grand Turk Island, you can snorkel and dive in several locations, such as The Wall and Gibbs Cay. 

Fun facts

• The name "Grand Turk" comes from a species of cactus on the island that has a distinctive cap, reminiscent of an Ottoman fez.
• U.S. astronaut John Glenn, the first American to orbit the Earth, landed in Friendship 7 near Grand Turk in 1962. To commemorate the island's connection to the Mercury space program, there is a replica of John Glenn’s capsule on display at the entrance to the airport.

Docking information

Cruise ships at Grand Turk dock on the southwestern tip of the island at the new pier. You can walk directly into town.  

Free Wi-Fi

• Froots, smoothie hut in the port facility
• Osprey Hotel, downtown Cockburn on Duke Street

Logistics

Getting around:  Taxi fares are charged per person, according to set zone fares set by the local government. The island is split into four zones, with charges ranging from $4 to $10 per person. 

Store hours:  Shops are generally open Monday to Friday from 8 or 8:30 am to 5 pm. 

Tipping:  At restaurants, tip 15% if service isn’t included in the bill. Taxi drivers also expect a token tip, about 10% of your fare. 

Safety: Grand Turk is a safe island, with a peaceful past. As always, be aware of your surroundings and lock up your valuables.

Your take

Have you been to Grand Turk? Please share a story, tip or discovery. What was the highlight for you? Please share in the comments below.

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