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There is no shortage of amazing beaches in Turks and Caicos, but sometimes it's fun to explore and find new things to do. Especially with kids who get bored or are not necessarily the beach-going type. So, on day 3, you're going to need some other options. And you don't want those options to be bank (and therefore soul) crushing after you've gotten your family of 4+ to the islands.
Here are our favorite low cost activities to do that won't set you back a second mortgage on your house:
Join The Fish Fry event on Providenciales, held Thursdays from 5:30 PM to 9:30 PM at Stubbs Diamond Plaza in The Bight. Sample local food and drinks, and experience live music in a spirited atmosphere.
Visit Chalk Sound, a stunning turquoise, natural lagoon surrounded by hundreds of small rocky islands. Powered watercraft use is prohibited. The main attraction is sightseeing and as a calm and serene kayaking and paddle boarding destination.
Walk along the shoreline and explore the beaches for seashells, coral pieces, and other natural treasures. We have gathered small shells over the years. In fact, a dog head triton has become a new abode for one of our hermit crabs in our aquarium at home!
Renting a bike can be an affordable way to explore the islands and their natural beauty at your own pace. Many hotels offer free bikes, and some vacation rentals also provide bikes. Because of their size, the islands are quite accessible by bike. It's also a great way to pick up groceries.
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Wander around the charming Blue Hills area, where you can experience the local lifestyle and enjoy scenic views. The Blue Hills Beach Park has public beach access with onsite parking (aka a dirt lot). This beach is more for beachcombing as the waters are shallow with sea grass.
Sunset Watching
Witness breathtaking sunsets from the beach or other vantage points. our favorite is, you guessed it, Sunset Beach in Leeward. No cost involved, just the enjoyment of nature's beauty. In the winter months, along with your favorite cocktail in your travel bottle, bring your favorite mosquito repellent as they can be savage.
This not-for-profit located at the Salt Mills in Grace Bay rescues and re-homes stray dogs, known as “Potcakes.” Monday to Saturday from 10am to 12:30pm you can take a puppy for a walk on or around Grace Bay.
If you're looking low cost activities at are a bit different, you can always learn the basics of brewing beer! Launched in 2017, the Turks Head Brewery is an ultra-modern facility with a tasting room open from 12pm-8pm Monday to Saturday.
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Like bikes, some hotels and rentals offer paddle boards for their guests (all non-motorized aquatic toys are generally free). Paddle boarding isn't for the faint of heart, so be sure if it's your first time the water is calm with little wind. It is an amazing workout as well. You will feel muscles you never thought you had for days after.
For those of us who get sun rashes, it's always fun to take a break from the beach and head to Grace Bay's shopping destination. Full of boutiques and fun gift shops, it's a nice way to spend the afternoon, even if you're just window shopping. Be sure to stop by Turkberry and grab some frozen yogurt to cool off or an iced mocha at Beans & Leaves.
You can snorkel all over the islands, but Smith's Reef is great for the whole family as there is a nice beach for the ones that know the ocean is the "shark's house" and the Marina for those that want to meander and grab a drink at Mango Reef. But we've seen all kinds of creatures here, from starfish to cowfish, it's an amazing underwater neighborhood.
If you find yourself on Grand Turk, this small museum in one of Grand Turk's oldest houses provides insights into the history and culture of the islands. Entrance fees are usually quite affordable.
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