Beaches Turks and Caicos, a little piece of heaven

by Joy Gawf-Crutchfield

Providenciales is a 38 square mile island on the northern edge of the Turks and Caicos island group.  It is the most developed of the Turks and Caicos Islands, with a modern airport as well as many fabulous resorts and an 18 hole golf course. 

There are literally miles of coral reefs close to the shore, and the island is also along the humpback whale migration route.  It’s a snorkel and diving utopia. The surf here is gentle and soothing.

My trip to Providenciales was courtesy of Sandals and Beaches Resorts.  Our private jet landed at the local airport and after a quick trip through customs we were whisked away to Beaches Turks and Caicos, frequently named the number one family resort in the world.

This mega-resort focuses on giving families the trips of their lifetimes, yet is was also voted number five by Travel Agent Weekly under the “Best Resorts for Romance” category.   I would not hesitate to take Doug on a romantic get-away to Beaches Turks and Caicos, and I would not hesitate to send you there, either.  

Beaches Turks and Caicos is a large resort with an intimate feel.  It’s big, but laid out in a very user friendly way, with wide avenues connecting every area, and great signs on every corner.

This resort has something for everyone.  The original “Caribbean Village” offers sweeping lawns and towering coconut trees, lush gardens and an oceanfront location.  This area of the resort is exactly what you’d expect from the name “Caribbean Village”.  There are two wonderful pools here, as well as swim up bars and a coral rock waterfall.  

The “French Village” next door was inspired by the elegance of Versailles.  It features formal gardens, fountains, and a cypress lined boulevard of restaurants, al fresco café’s and a patisserie.  The accommodations here are chateau-style, and there’s a stunning half-acre zero entry level pool, complete with a grand whirlpool and swim-up bar.

The Italian Village is where I was lucky enough to be rooming.  This Mediterranean oasis with a tropical twist is a Six Star Diamond Award winner, with a huge zero-entry level pool, a sunset tower, a swim up bar, and fabulous ocean views.  The surrounding restaurants are incredible (don’t miss the Italian food at Mario’s).  

The newest village to be added to this resort is the “Key West” luxury village.  Focused on casual elegance and a laid back lifestyle, this area of the resort features stunning beachfront villas and expansive suites ideal for multi-generational family travel.  There’s a chic oceanfront pool here with a gorgeous fire feature. 

Pirates Island Waterpark is my favorite part of Beaches Turks and Caicos.  You’ll jump into over 45,000 square feet of fun, featuring nine thrilling water slides, a wave simulator, and a 650 foot lazy river.  Little kids will love the pirate ship and water cannons.

Other included watersports:  Hobie cat sailing, snorkeling, kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, windsurfing, aquatrikes, waterskiing, SCUBA diving, glass bottom boats, banana boats, and kneeboarding. 

With 4 villages, 44 room categories, 21 restaurants (24 hour dining), 14 bars, 10 pools, 9 waterslides, 1 choo choo train, and a complete Sesame Street sponsored kids program, you will never make a better choice than the ultra-all-inclusive Beaches Turks and Caicos for your much deserved vacation.  


Joy Crutchfield is a Sandals and Beaches Certified Specialist.