Why Grace Bay is the No. 1 Beach in the World

If you’ve ever stayed with us at The Somerset, you already know: There’s no place like Grace Bay Beach. With its powdery soft sand and an ocean so brilliantly blue you have to see it to believe it, it’s no wonder so many visitors return to our shores year after year. It’s also no surprise that it’s consistently hailed among the best in the world. It goes without saying that, at The Somerset, we think Grace Bay is No. 1.

Turns out we’re not alone. The online travel company Tripadvisor recently released its annual Travelers’ Choice awards, including the Top 25 Beaches in the World for 2022—and Grace Bay Beach tops the list after ranking 4th best in 2021.

So what makes Grace Bay Beach so special? Here are our top 5 reasons Grace Bay is the best beach in the world.

1. There’s no such thing as crowds on Grace Bay

You won’t have a problem finding a spot to lay your towel down and relax on Grace Bay Beach. Even during our busier months, crowds are simply nonexistent on Grace Bay. Despite its recent surge in popularity, the Turks and Caicos fortunately still doesn’t get as many visitors as other Caribbean islands that have been popular with travelers for decades. And Grace Bay covers a sizable distance, measuring three miles long. If you visit in the slower season, it’s possible to have a stretch of beach all to yourself.

2. It’s the perfect watersport playground

There’s something for everyone to do on Grace Bay. Calm days present the perfect opportunity to grab a kayak, paddleboard or snorkel gear—all of which are complementary during your stay at The Somerset—and get out on the water. There are also a number of excursion companies to choose from, whether you want to try parasailing, tubing or jet skiing. No matter what activity you have in mind, our concierge team will take care of the details so you can focus on simply enjoying your vacation.

3. We have one of the longest coral reefs in the world

Grace Bay Beach may be mesmerizing on land, but there’s even more beauty to behold beneath the ocean surface. With one of the longest coral reefs in the world, snorkeling is a must when you visit Turks and Caicos. The reef is only a short boat ride away from shore, but if you prefer to stay closer to land, Coral Gardens (also known as the Bight Reef) is a popular snorkeling spot on the western side of the beach. Here, it’s not unusual to spot turtles and stingrays, as well as a variety of tropical fish.

4. The water is crystal-clear

Undoubtedly part of what makes Grace Bay such a dreamy beach destination is the clarity and color of the water. Our islands are famous for their clear turquoise waters, thanks in large part to light reflecting off the white sandy bottom of the sea. The impressive water clarity makes Grace Bay the perfect destination for ocean exploration, whether it’s kayaking on the surface or scuba diving 30 feet below. Be on the lookout for turtles, dolphins, stingrays and more. And between January and April, you may catch a glimpse of humpback whales as they make their annual migration to warmer waters for mating season. 

5. The beach is kid-friendly

A combination of all of the above factors make Grace Bay Beach an ideal destination for families with kids. Lack of crowds means little ones have plenty of space to roam and play, the out–of-this-world water clarity make it perfect for swimming, and there’s an abundance of available outdoor activities to keep kids entertained, whether it’s sandcastle-building, playing soccer on the soft sands of Grace Bay, swimming, snorkeling or wakeboarding.

Plan your stay on Grace Bay

Ready to experience all the best beach in the world has to offer? When you stay at The Somerset, you’re only steps away from Grace Bay—and we provide top amenities and services to ensure you enjoy your time here to the fullest. Contact us to book your stay at The Somerset on Grace Bay.