Relaxing on the Beach [ Turks and Caicos]

Grace Bay Beach, Providenciales [Turks and Caicos]

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Turks and Caicos [Caribbean]

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Freeport [Bahamas]

Mike Gifford | CC BY-SA 2.0

Grand Turk [Turks and Caicos]

Seabamirum | CC BY 2.0

Governor's Beach [Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos]

Tobias Lindman | CC BY 2.0

Brilliant ocean beach sunrise with palm trees [Bahamas]

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Columbus Landfall National Park [Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos]

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Woman relaxing under parasol [Caribbean]

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Hamock Under a Palm Tree [Bahamas]

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Lucayan Archipelago at a Glance

The Bahamas are a favorite vacation destination, while the Turks and Caicos are a just-discovered spot. Enjoy sugary white beaches. Island hop until you find the perfect secluded inlet for swimming, fishing, surfing or picnicking. Relax and get into the slower-paced island time.

The Lucayan Archipelago has great diving spots. Gaze at pristine corals, swim among tropical fish or explore a smuggler's wrecked ship lying on the reef bottom. If you've worked up an appetite, try a conch. When prepared correctly, these giant sea-creatures are slightly rubbery but delicious. See if you can keep the shell for a memento.

The Bahamas are made up of many different islands and it is impossible to see them all your first trip. Swim with native pigs, climb a lighthouse or surf the waves. On Turks and Caicos hit up museums, explore a national park or just enjoy being along on the beach.

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Regions

Bahamas
Diving, kayaking and sunbathing draw crowds to the Bahamas for a relaxing time.
Turks and Caicos
Warm, placid water and a relaxed vibe make this hidden vacation spot well-worth checking out.

Popular Places

Nassau

Nassau is a great place to base your Bahamas trip. This loud, lively city has plenty of duty-free shopping, hopping nightclubs and pirate-themed museums and exhibits for when you want out of your beach chair.

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The Abacos

The Abacos are a chain of Bahamian islands that stretch for 120 miles. Their calm waters and the opportunity to island hop make them a famous sailing and boating destination.

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Freeport

The city of Freeport sits on the western edge of the Grand Bahama. The city is home to resorts, motels and plenty of opportunities for golf and diving.

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The Caicos Islands

The Providenciales are the tourist gateway to the Caicos Islands. Gorgeous Grace Bay is the center of all the action with its sugar-white sand and blue-green waters.

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Getting There

Major Airports

Lynden Pindling International Airport
JAGS McCartney International Airport
Providenciales International Airport

Passport / Visa Requirements

Travelers to the Bahamas will need legal passport from their country of origin. Most travelers will not require a visa. Visitors to Turks and Caicos need a valid passport from their country of origin. Contact the British Embassy to learn more about your specific requirements. American citizens can learn more about their travel requirements for any island by visiting the U.S State Department's website.

Need to Know

Severe Weather Hurricane season runs from June to November on Turks & Caicos and in the Bahamas.

Safety Concerns Take normal precautions such as never leaving your belongings unattended while on the beach or elsewhere. Some places in the islands can be grittier than others. Research the area you are visiting to address any safety concerns you might have.

Health Concerns Travelers not familiar with the water should boil or purify it before consuming. Bottled water is also a good option.