Main Content
North Caicos
Explore North Caicos
With miles of paved, lightly travelled roads, the second largest inhabited island, North Caicos, also known as the “breadbasket” of the archipelago, boasts 41 square miles and large tracks of usable, fertile land in a lush setting. “The Green Island” is home to most of the country’s agricultural operations. With its lush vegetation and several luxury properties underway, North Caicos is on its way to becoming the quieter, greener alternative to Providenciales, with easily accessible natural and historical attractions such as Flamingo Pond, Cottage Pond, Wade’s Green Plantation and Three Mary’s Cays.
Twelve miles northeast of Providenciales, North Caicos is only a 5-minute flight from Providenciales and a 20-min ferry ride from Heaving Down Rock Marina on Providenciales, and 3-minute boat ride from the exclusive resort island of Parrot Cay.
WELCOME TO NORTH CAICOS
Lush and rugged, North Caicos is the so-called garden island of the Turks and Caicos Islands. It covers nearly 45 sq. mi. of tropical paradise, with only a few luxury resort properties and developments scattered throughout the island. Receiving a little more rain than Provo keeps North Caicos lovely and evergreen throughout the year.
North Caicos lies in between Providenciales and Middle Caicos in the western part of the archipelago. Fortunately, numerous boat charters (only min) keeps North Caicos connected to Providenciales and other parts of this British overseas territory. A mile-long causeway then links North Caicos to the picturesque island of Middle Caicos.
With less than 2,000 year-round residents, North Caicos is a dream come true for those who long for a quiet island lifestyle. Things may change in the future, however, as luxury resorts and other real estate properties continue to be on the radar of forward thinking investors. For now, the island remains a more rugged and unspoiled alternative to the popular and populous Providenciales.
Some of the settlements in North Caicos include Bottle Creek, the historic village of Kew, Whitby, and Sandy Point.
Could this be the location of your dream island home? Continue reading to learn more about North Caicos, from the local lifestyle to its real estate offerings.
Properties North Caicos Listings
North Caicos NORTH CAICOS PROPERTIES FOR SALE
NORTH CAICOS PROPERTIES FOR SALE
With its breathtaking beaches, year-round sunny weather, and laid-back atmosphere, it’s easy to see why North Caicos real estate has been gaining attention lately. Many investors are buying up vacant land or are in the market for vacation homes perfect for weekend or holiday getaways.
In the North Caicos real estate market, properties for sale vary between single-family residences or parcels of land in prime locations. Many of these are located along the beach or are within close proximity to the ocean.
Where to buy North Caicos real estate
Most North Caicos real estate are concentrated in and around the island’s established settlements:
- Sandy Point in northwest North Caicos is home to Sandy Point Marina, which is now used mostly for water recreation. Villas and single-family homes can be found throughout this small settlement. These include the properties in Sandy Point Resort and Marina
- Bottle Creek in southeast North Caicos is the largest of the island’s settlements, and also home to some of the government offices. Bottle Creek is also home to some of the commercial shops on the island and East Bay Islands National Park is not far.
- Major Hill is located in northeast North Caicos. The settlement greatly benefits from its proximity to the airport. There are only a few homes and restaurants here. And although most of Major Hill is waterfront, you’ll have to go to Whitby Beach if you want to lay out in the sand. That said, the settlement has great real estate potential—some of the higher elevated lots have commanding water views.
- Whitby attracts more people than the other settlements for one reason: it’s home to the best stretch of beach in North Caicos. It runs for 2 miles (3.2 kilometers) and offers access to relatively calm waters. Since this is the island’s center of tourism, there are more real estate options available in the settlement.
- Kew is located further inland and is best known as one of the oldest settlements in North Caicos. Considerably greener than most of the villages on the island, Kew has a sizable number of residential real estate along with a small collection of shops and services. The settlement also benefits from being just a short distance away from Bellefield Landing.
For those who are planning on building their dream beach homes from the ground up, North Caicos has plenty of potential locations to choose from. These include Hollywood Beach, Whitby Beach, Sandy Point Beach, Three Mary’s Cay Beach and Bottle Creek.
LIVING IN NORTH CAICOS
Before exploring the North Caicos real estate market, here’s a preview of what it’s like to live in one of Turks and Caicos’ best-kept secrets:
Climate
North Caicos boasts a tropical savanna climate— ideal for soaking up the sun through water or beachside activities. But although Turks and Caicos in general are some of the driest parts of the region, expect more rainfall in North Caicos due to its location.
Island recreation
Kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and boating are among the most popular activities in North Caicos. Swimming and sunbathing are also a must in its pristine beaches like Sandy Point Beach, Pumpkin Bluff Beach, and Three Mary Cays.
Things to do in North Caicos include driving through scenic routes to explore the outback and discover hidden gems dotting the isle. Travelers can also get a glimpse of North Caicos’ rich past by visiting Wade’s Green, a vast and well-preserved cotton plantation established in 1789. Cottage Pond, a 260-foot-deep naturally formed blue hole and underwater cave, is perfect for catching sight of a unique natural attraction inhabited by local wildlife.
Caribbean cuisine
Dining options may be limited in North Caicos compared to the tourist hotspot Providenciales, but this quiet island prides itself on authentic Turks and Caicos cuisine with fresh and locally sourced ingredients. Its dishes tell the stories of the archipelago’s formative years, reflecting its early inhabitants’ experience in finding, catching, and cultivating food.
Start a food crawl across North Caicos at Miss B’s Island Restaurant, an eatery that serves fresh seafood and baked goods with a side of karaoke performances every Saturday evening. Next up is Green Island Café for a picnic by the docks underneath the palm trees.
Local shopping
Basic dry goods, produce, personal care products, and refrigerated items are available at the island’s three small supermarkets: Al’s Grocery on Major Hill, Tee’s Grocery along King’s Road, and the nearby Dards Grocery. For souvenirs, the Turks and Caicos National Trust office in Kew sells art and handmade woven products.
Head to Providenciales or Grand Turk for luxury goods like perfumes, watches, and jewelry. Duty-free items are available at the Providenciales International Airport.
Watering holes
Local bars like the Barracuda Beach Bar and Grill and Big Josh’s Bar and Grill are among the few options in the area, serving local and imported beer and spirits.
IMMIGRATING TO NORTH CAICOS
The Turks and Caicos currently have one of the hottest real estate markets in the Caribbean. Properties in the region are popular among expats who wish to participate in the residence-by-investment program or those who simply want to live and work on an undisturbed island.
To obtain a Turks and Caicos permanent residency status, Investing a minimum of $300,000 in real estate is one of the viable routes to becoming a permanent resident of the TCI, granted that the applicant has independent or outside means of income. Establishing a business is an option, but at least 60% of its personnel must be locals.
Once an expat reaches five years of legal residency, they can apply for Turks and Caicos–British Overseas Territory Citizenship. It’s a status that entitles them to a passport and grants them residence and work rights.
Holding Permanent Residency and acquiring British Overseas Citizenship status can put you in position to apply for the Turks and Caicos Islander Status, but only after 10 consecutive years of living in the TCI.
Turks & Caicos Islands Island Location Map
North Caicos History, Access, and FAQs
North Caicos’ history at a glance
North Caicos was originally inhabited by the Taino people. Also known as the Lucayans, they were believed to have migrated through the Caribbean around 700 AD. Their populations were threatened by disease transmission and slavery during the 15th century; about 200 years later, the Lucayans eventually disappeared. They left many historical sites in their wake, although it remains unknown when settlement started to occur.
The 18th century saw North Caicos settled by a different group: American Loyalists who were awarded land by the British crown as thanks for their continued allegiance. They planted cotton and sisal, as well as founded the village of Kew. Although the loyalists achieved some level of success, they had to constantly contend with natural adversaries such as hurricanes and infestations. To this day, it remains a challenge to grow and sustain crops in North Caicos due to the poor quality of soil.
Lately, the island has been catching the attention of adventure seekers from different parts of the globe. Many want to experience its promise of a serene, slow-paced lifestyle with convenient access to activities on- and off-water, causing a spike in activity in the North Caicos real estate market.
How to get to North Caicos
North Caicos’ secluded beaches and rugged appeal might give people the impression that it’s a faraway place. In reality, it’s fairly easy to get to. The first step is to take yourself to Providenciales.
Short Ferry Ride
North Caicos, daily ferry services are also available from Leeward in Providenciales. Travel times take approximately 20-30 minutes. Most days, passengers can walk in to get their tickets at the port. But if there are special events scheduled, it would be wise to reserve ahead of your trip.
Most Providenciales passenger ferries disembark at Bellefield Landing, North Caicos’ main marina. From here, you can also rent a car to take you around the island or sign up for a package tour. Parking, restrooms, and a few dining options are also available.
Another marina, Sandy Point, is located in northwest North Caicos. This facility, however, is now mostly reserved for recreational use.
From Middle Caicos: Take the causeway
Once on North Caicos travel causeway that links North Caicos to Middle Caicos, making travel between these two isles easy. The causeway stretches for a mile and is suitable for all types of road vehicles. In case of hurricanes, anticipate closures or managed traffic. Other than that, it offers a scenic drive.
Traveling around North Caicos
There are very limited public transportation options in both North and Middle Caicos. Taxi services are available, but the common complaint is that it is expensive (and often late!) If you are staying in a hotel and resort for the meantime, you may be able to take advantage of their shuttle services provided they have one.
If you want to be able to travel on your own time and pace, renting a car or jeep may be the best option. You can rent a vehicle depending on the size of your group and your itinerary. Driving is easy in North Caicos as most roads are paved. Most car rental companies also provide maps. For fuel, there are three gasoline stations where you can fill up the car’s tank: two in Bottle Creek and another one near Sandy Point and Kew Junction. Take note, however, that gas prices may be slightly higher here than in Providenciales.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT NORTH CAICOS
As a lightly populated island tucked away on the northern edge of the Turks and Caicos Islands, much is unknown about North Caicos for many home buyers. Here are a few of the most asked questions about the area:
- What is North Caicos known for? Aside from its spectacular white sand beaches, North Caicos is famous for the flock of West Indian flamingos that calls its shores home. Watch these pink birds wade through the shallow waters at Flamingo Pond Overlook, a pond bounded by lush mangroves.
- Is North Caicos a good place to retire? For those looking to settle down in a secluded tropical paradise, North Caicos is the ideal place to retire. With its magnificent setting, welcoming locals, and still ambiance, the island can help residents unwind and enjoy their time away from hectic commercialized world.
- Why should I buy a property in North Caicos? People should consider purchasing North Caicos property for sale. The Turks and Caicos, welcomes real estate investors with open arms. Its authorities don’t impose restrictions on foreign ownership nor collect annual property tax. Only a one-time land transfer tax or stamp duty is necessary to obtain a home or property in the region.North Caicos’ unmatched laid-back lifestyle, exceptional natural beauty and close proximity to the main island of Providenciales also make its various investment options highly coveted.
- What are some of the buying and selling fees to expect?
These include a stamp duty of 0-10% of the purchase price, (paid by the buyer) and 1% of the purchase price for legal representation to ensure title is legally transferred and registered with the local land registry and protected by the British Crown. The real estate agent’s fee of 6-10% is paid by the seller.