Grand Turk
"Overview"
[My photo is not edited, I don't know why the sky looks so weird--the color is so off! The water, however, really is that beautiful color!]
I visited Grand Turk as a port of call on a Princess cruise. The island was ravaged by hurricane Ike in 2008, so much of the area is in disrepair. That being said, there are a few great things about the island.
The port's welcoming center is very nice if not overly touristy (but it houses good bathrooms and the only taxi hub). It includes a duty-free shop as well as several small jewelry, knick-knack and souvenir stores (also a Ron Jon Surf Shop). In addition, the largest Margaritaville is here. It is the only place close to the port to eat. Food is mediocre at best, but it is a beautiful scene with the beachfront and a nice pool. They hold dancing contests when the ships come in that are entertaining with the help of a few margaritas! The locals sure can dance...
We went a bit out of the way to Governor's Beach. Dropped off by a taxi at the Bohio Dive Resort (a very small hotel), we walked right through and onto the beach on the other side. The beach had the most beautiful clear water I have ever seen. Conch shells and coral abound on the white sand, and the warm water was so inviting. The taxi ride took 15 minutes, and though we had a driver promise to return in a few hours, of course he didn't come. So be prepared, give yourself enough time to get back to the ship if you're cruising! Stick nearby a hotel or be sure to have someone call a taxi for you in advance.
We did not dive in the area, but the snorkeling was quite sparse. You have to go beyond to the reef to see anything, and we didn't have the time or equipment to do so. We didn't utilize any of Bohio's amenities other than the Ike and Donkey beachfront bar and their chair rental ($7/day use per chair). The staff was very friendly and helpful, and they didn't have a problem with the beachgoers using their restrooms. The area was not very populated which was so nice--Margaritaville's beach was so crowded!
Overall Grand Turk is a quiet little island we'd love to explore more.


Beach rentals at Bohio Dive Resort




