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Grand Turk is the capital of the Turks & Caicos Islands which is a British Overseas Territory in the Caribbean and an exciting location to visit on a cruise.
Turks & Caicos Islands is a group of 40 islands and cays which are flat in topography with coral soil.
The island is known for having spectacular beaches and breathtaking marine life. As a result, the island is well loved by divers. All beaches in Turks and Caicos are free and one can access at no cost.
In this post we will explore the top 5 beaches to visit if you are in Grand Turk on a cruise. These are near the cruise port terminal for ease of access on the island.
SunRay Beach is the closest beach to the cruise terminal in Grand Turk. It is located walking distance from the pier where cruise ships docks. Beach chairs, umbrellas and sun beds are available free of cost. Jack’s Shack is a popular restaurant located nearby if you want to try the local cuisine.
Read on for further details about Grand Turk’s beautiful beaches near the cruise port.
1. SunRay Beach
This beach is located at the Grand Turk Cruise Center, walking distance from the pier where cruise ships docks. It is close enough that you can return to the ship for lunch and later go back and enjoy the beach.
If you prefer to have lunch on the island, then Jack’s Shack which is located a short walk from the cruise port. This spot is a favorite by both locals and visitors and his jerk chicken is his signature dish. Feel free to visit Jack’s Shack website, if you are planning your visit to Grand Turk for more information.
This beach is calm with clear blue water and is well maintained so there is marine life present which is perfect for snorkelers. Umbrellas, beach chairs and sunbeds are available for free by the cruise center if you are early. If there are many ships docked, these are used very quickly.
Nevertheless, there are beach vendors around from whom you can rent umbrellas and chairs for the day. Remember to bring a towel form the ship as there are none available from the cruise center.
2. Boaby Rock Point
If you want to avoid the crowds at SunRay Beach, Boaby Rock Point provides an excellent alternative. This beach is located in the southernmost part of Grand Turk.
This beach is about 500 metres away and takes about 6 to 10 minutes to access by walking.
Kindly note that there are no sidewalks in Grand Turk, so due care and diligence must be exercised while walking. This beach is a popular location for snorkeling.
3. Governor’s Beach
Located in the Columbus Landfall National Park, Governor’s Beach is the most popular beach in Grand Turk and a favorite of cruise passengers. Governor’s beach received its name due to the location of the house for the island’s Governor in Waterloo which is nearby.
This beach is beautiful with white powdery sand and clear water which makes it an awesome spot for snorkeling and scuba diving.
Snorkeling accessories and gear is available along with transportation to and from Governor’s beach for approximately USD$30 at the cruise terminal.
Panayiotis Governor’s Beach is a restaurant located nearby where you can enjoy an awesome view of the beach while you eat.
4. English Point Beach
A few minutes from Governor’s beach, one can find a secluded beach called English Point Beach. As Governor’s beach, English point is also part of the Columbus Landfall National Park.
Shells and coral often collect along the shoreline of this beach which may not be the best experience for sun bathers. There are no lifeguards stationed at English Point Beach
5. Pillory Beach
Well known as the place where Christopher Columbus first anchored in 1492, Pillory beach is located approximately 15 minutes via taxi from the cruise terminal.
If you prefer walking, this may take you about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Kindly note that there are no sidewalks and road signs are limited on the island.
Taxis are easy to access at the Grand Turk Cruise terminal and for your convenience, it may be best to prearrange a pick up at the end of your stay.
Snorkeling gear is available for rent at the beach. One key advantage of choosing this beach while in Grand Turk is that it is less crowded than other beaches.
Therefore, if you are looking for a day of rest, relaxation and sunbathing, then Pillory is a fantastic choice.
This beach also is excellent for snorkeling where you can see a variety of fishes, stingrays and sea turtles.
Restaurants and bars are located in the vicinity such as Arches on the Ridge and Guanahani Restaurant and Bar.
Final Thoughts
I trust that you have found this information useful if your plans are to visit a beach while on a cruise to Grand Turk.
I know that you will enjoy your stay on this spectacular island.
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