Grand Turk Travel Guide 2025: Best Beaches, Shore Excursions & Insider Tips

Governor’s Beach

This is one of the most beautiful beaches on the island, known for its calm waters and powder-soft sand. It’s a favorite for families because the swimming is so easy here. I love that it’s only a short distance from the cruise port but still feels peaceful compared to the busier spots.

Cockburn Town

Grand Turk’s capital, Cockburn Town, is full of history and character. Strolling through its colonial-style streets feels like stepping back in time. The National Museum here is a highlight, especially if you want to learn about the island’s shipwrecks and salt industry.

I enjoyed wandering through the colorful streets, stopping at small shops, and soaking in the slower rhythm of island life.

Grand Turk Lighthouse

The lighthouse sits at the northern tip of the island and offers sweeping views over the ocean. It’s a great spot for photos and has a sense of history—it was built in the 1800s to protect ships from the island’s reefs. I loved climbing the nearby trails and spotting donkeys roaming free, which added a bit of charm to the visit.

Snorkeling diving

Grand Turk is known worldwide for its incredible diving, with a dramatic drop-off just offshore. Even if you’re not a diver, the snorkeling is fantastic—crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and plenty of tropical fish. I joined a half-day snorkeling excursion and couldn’t believe how vibrant the underwater world was.

Tip: For divers, Bohio Dive Resort makes a perfect base.

Shore excursions (cruise-friendly)

Cruise visitors will find plenty of easy-to-book excursions. Options include snorkeling tours, catamaran sails, ATV adventures, and even horseback riding along the beach.

One of the highlights is the Gibbs Cay excursion, where you can swim with stingrays in shallow water—it’s both family-friendly and unforgettable.

• Sandbar Restaurant: Right on the beach, Sandbar is a casual favorite where you can enjoy local dishes with your toes in the sand. Fresh conch fritters and cold drinks are the go-to here. I loved the laid-back vibe—it’s the kind of place where you settle in after snorkeling and never want to leave.

• Bohio Dive Resort Beachside Grill: Even if you’re not staying at Bohio, the beachside restaurant is worth visiting. The fresh fish tacos and rum punch make it a perfect lunch stop. Eating here feels like part of the island’s community, with both visitors and locals gathering in a relaxed setting.

• Jack’s Shack: Near the cruise port, Jack’s Shack is known for its jerk chicken and friendly, welcoming atmosphere. It’s a short walk from the pier and a great spot to grab food and drinks without straying too far. We liked how casual it was—you can eat, chat, and head right back to the beach.

• Secret Garden Restaurant (Osprey Beach Hotel): For something more sit-down, this restaurant offers a mix of Caribbean and international dishes in a pretty garden setting. It’s quieter and more refined than some of the beach shacks, making it nice for a slower evening meal.