With a short flight time from the mainland U.S and some of the finest beaches and clearest water anywhere in the world, the Turks and Caicos Islands enjoy a reputation as a paradise-like retreat. Water sports abound in the clear seas, and the culture of the islands influences the art, music, and cuisine. The alluring 5-star delights of The Palms Turks and Caicos offer guests a respite from the ordinary. Here guests can luxuriate in salt-laden breezes under sunny skies and sample delicious local delicacies.
Accommodation type: 5-star
No. of Rooms & Suites: 72
Pricing: starts at $509 for a junior suite, at $1,689 for one-room suites, at $2,175 for two-bedroom suites, at $2,682 for three-bedroom suites
High season: November to May
Nearest airport: Providenciales International Airport (PLS)
Suitable for: couples, honeymooners, families
Awards:
- U.S. News & World Report, “#2 in Best Turks and Caicos Hotels”
- Travel + Leisure “World’s Best Awards,” Number 1 in Turks & Caicos, 2013
- World Travel Awards’ “Leading Hotel in Turks and Caicos,” 2011
Accommodation
Enjoying a recent, multi-million dollar renovation, The Palms Turks and Caicos has treated guests to ocean-front luxury for just over ten years. Its enviable location is right on Grace Bay Beach and the aesthetic calls to mind the beauty of ancient Greece. The resort offers guests a sprawling property centered around a stunning infinity-edge pool. Moreover, circular beds, or sun pods, that promise the ultimate luxury are available for guests. Thus, one can lounge on the side of the pool and enjoy the bright Caribbean rays. There are also shops and an art gallery for guests who want to pick up an outfit or take home a memento of their trip.
Guest rooms feature elegant decorating schemes reminiscent of British-era history, with colonial furniture styles and tropical accents. Guestrooms also include DVD players, cable television, espresso makers and washing machines with accompanying dryers. Many of the rooms feature sea views and balconies with charming tables and chairs perfect for an impromptu meal.
Facilities
- Parallel 23 — sea bass, conch, beef and exotic fruits and vegetables are all expertly prepared and spiced with a focus on indigenous flavors. In addition, this fine dining experience includes open-air dining with the sound of the waves in the background and a wood-burning oven adding ambiance.
- 72 Degrees West — casual dining fit for the entire family, this restaurant provides meals near the pool. Moreover, as darkness falls, fire pits are lit to provide dramatic atmosphere.
- The Spa at The Palms — 25,000 feet of space dedicated to wellness await visitors in one of the finest spas in the Caribbean. Moreover, by using products from the sea like powdered conch shell and mother of pearl, guests are treated to a range of therapies including massage, exfoliation, and facial cleansing.
- Fitness Centre — enjoy this state-of-the-art facility or engage the expertise of on-site trainers to amplify your workout in this dedicated space.
Complimentary Activities
Bike riding into town is simple with the resort’s complimentary bikes, issued on a first-come, first-served basis. Guests also have full use of any non-motorized water equipment, such as stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, snorkeling equipment and beach toys. Moreover, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the resort.
Travel Options
Resort representatives will meet visitors at the airport and guide them to taxis. The journey to the resort takes 15 minutes. For those wishing to rent their own vehicle, leaving the airport on South Dock Road will lead to Leeward Highway after three kilometers. Then, make a right-hand turn onto Leeward Highway and follow it for five kilometers. Travelers will have to take a left onto Lower Bight Road. After two hundred meters, take a right, and continue to follow Lower Bight Road. After a kilometer, take a left onto Princess Drive. The Palms Turks and Caicos will be at the end of this road.
Main Attractions Around The Palms Turks and Caicos
1. Cheshire Hall Plantation
This cotton plantation hailing from the late 1700s features crumbling, evocative ruins. They include a kitchen, the Great House, a cistern and a rebuilt example of a slave cabin that visitors can enter. There are 15 sites in all, spanning several acres. A highlight of the ruins is a large cannon that has recently been relocated to the property. In addition, visitors can arrange a guided tour, and there’s a gift shop near the entrance with informative brochures.
2. Caicos Conch Farm
The farm specializes in raising not only conch but fish like snapper and pompano as well. From festivals to daily fare, the humble conch plays a part in the islands’ cultural legacy. Moreover, a 40-minute tour follows examples of the mollusk from egg stage to full growth. Guests can even hold the spiny-shelled creatures if they wish. The facility occupies ten acres right on the edge of the ocean, with 65 submerged acres where the conch and fish grow.
3. The Hole
As an alternative that allows for viewing one of the island’s unusual geological features, head over to The Hole. This is a stunningly beautiful sinkhole formed from the native limestone. More than 60 feet in depth, it contains a mix of salt and freshwater, linking it somewhere in its depths to the ocean. The area is riddled with tunnels and caves, and the hole may once have been an enclosed cave that disintegrated.
Final Words
Whether you prefer lounging in the sun to the lullaby of the sea or want to brush up on your golfing or diving skills, the Grace Bay Beach area offers the perfect prescription for relaxation. Maybe you’ve spent some time in this part of the Caribbean or have even had a chance to stay at The Palms Turks and Caicos? Let us know all about your experience in the comments below. The Turks and Caicos Islands are a living and breathing paradise so if you wish to extend your vacation, you might want to consider the Parrot Cay resort that is just nearby!