Travel Tips

Everything you need to know for your Turks & Caicos getaway

Plan Your Perfect Escape

Make the most of your stay at The Tides Grace Bay with our comprehensive guide to Turks & Caicos. From practical travel information to local insights, we've gathered everything you need for a seamless and unforgettable Caribbean vacation.

Quick Facts

Population

~38,000

Capital

Cockburn Town (Grand Turk)

Language

English

Currency

US Dollar

Driving

Left Side

Time Zone

EST

Getting to Turks & Caicos

Fly into Providenciales International Airport (PLS) - just 15 minutes from The Tides
Direct flights available from major US cities including Miami (1.5 hours), New York (3 hours), and Atlanta (2.5 hours)
All visitors must have a valid passport and return ticket
No visa required for stays under 90 days for US, Canadian, and UK citizens

Climate & Weather

Year-round tropical climate with average temperatures of 80-85°F (27-29°C)
Peak season: December to April with less humidity and rainfall
Hurricane season: June to November (rare direct hits)
Constant trade winds provide natural cooling
Over 350 days of sunshine annually - perfect for beach days!

What to Pack

Light, breathable clothing - cotton and linen work best
Swimwear, cover-ups, and flip-flops for beach time
Sun hat, sunglasses, and high SPF sunscreen (30+ recommended)
Light jacket for air-conditioned spaces and evening breezes
Comfortable walking shoes for exploring
Reef-safe sunscreen to protect our coral reefs

Currency & Payments

US Dollar is the official currency - no exchange needed!
Major credit cards accepted at most establishments
ATMs available throughout Providenciales
Tipping is customary: 15-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per bag for porters
Some smaller vendors prefer cash payments

Transportation

Rental cars available - drive on the LEFT side of the road
Valid US, Canadian, or UK license accepted for up to 30 days
Taxi services readily available from airport and around the island
Conch Bar Caves and other attractions easily accessible by car
Bicycle rentals available for eco-friendly island exploration

Communication

Country code: +1-649
English is the official language
Most US cell phone plans include Turks & Caicos
Free WiFi available at The Tides and most restaurants
International roaming charges may apply - check with your provider
WhatsApp is widely used throughout Turks & Caicos by restaurants, bars, and businesses - highly recommended to prevent roaming charges