TCI FAQ
*A valid passport is required to travel to the Turks and Caicos Islands.*
Beaches
The islands of Turks and Caicos are framed with beautiful white sand beaches. Visitors can find world famous beaches like Grace Bay Beach or other less trafficked beaches as well. Check out TC Villas blog to see our staff’s favorite beaches and helpful tips on which beaches are best for wind surfing, sunsets, children, snorkeling, etc. *There are no nude beaches in Turks and Caicos.
Climate
From June to October the average temperature ranges between 85 to 90 degrees (29 – 32°C) and the water temperature between 82 to 84 degrees (28 – 29°C).
From November to May the average temperature ranges between 80 to 84 degrees (27 – 29°C) and the water temperature between 74 to 78 degrees (23 – 26°C).
A constant trade wind keeps the climate comfortable all year round. The average annual rainfall ranges from 21 inches in the east of the Turks and Caicos Islands to 40 inches in the west. The Turks and Caicos Islands enjoy an average of 350 days of sunshine per year.
Crime
The Turks and Caicos Islands boast one of the lowest crime rates in the Caribbean. However, normal precautions and common sense should still be followed. Do not leave valuables unattended and lock all doors and windows. Any incidents should be reported immediately to the Royal Turks and Caicos Police.
Currency
The official currency of the Turks and Caicos Islands is the US dollar. Most credit cards are also readily accepted.
Customs & Immigration
Duty free goods that may be brought in to the Turks and Caicos Islands include: 50 cigars, 200 cigarettes, 1.136 liters of spirits or wine and perfume for personal use.
All US Citizens traveling by air to the Turks and Caicos Islands must have a valid US passport. This is a new US government requirement effective from January 8, 2007. Visitors from other countries also require passports, but no visas are necessary with the exception of some former Eastern Bloc countries. If you have any doubts you are advised to contact the nearest British Consulate Office. All visitors must hold a round trip ticket and will be permitted to stay for a duration 90 days upon entry (possibility to renew).
Diving
Turks and Caicos is home to miles of beautiful coral reefs that make up part of the third largest reef system in the world and largest in the Atlantic. With many dive spots all around the islands, divers return year after year to enjoy the sea life, including whales (January-March), sea turtles, dolphins, and countless fish species.
Economy
The economy of the Turks and Caicos Islands is predominantly based on tourism, real estate development and seafood exports. There is also a growing offshore financial services sector.
Electricity
110 volt/60 cycle which is suitable for US appliances. Visitors from other areas, particularly Europe, should check their appliances and bring an adapter.
Government
The Turks and Caicos Islands are a British Crown Colony. A Governor is appointed by Her Majesty The Queen and presides over an Executive Council formed by a democratically elected, local self-government. The legal system is based on English Common Law.
Language
English
Location
The Turks and Caicos Islands, TCI for short, are located in the Bahamas island chain east of Cuba. Check our Maps section to see a map of the islands.
Population
There are approximately 30,000 full time residents in the Turks and Caicos Islands and the islands welcome over 350,000 visitors per year. The majority of the Turks and Caicos Islanders (known as “Belongers”) are of African descent. There is also a large expatriate population of Americans, Bahamians, British, Canadians, French and many other countries.
Snorkeling
Turks and Caicos offers some of the next snorkeling in the world, with many great snorkeling spots located off the north shore of Providenciales. Smith’s Reef is a great spot with lots of coral and fish to see
Time Zone
Turks and Caicos is on Eastern Standard Time (GMT -5).
