above: Opt for a lap pool as a secondary swimming spot at one of The Ocean Estate villas.
Privacy Mode
Planning an escape to Turks and Caicos? Book a villa and opt for your own island address, complete with a butler and a boat concierge
PHOTOGRAPHY: GRACE BAY RESORTS
It’s the ultimate in quiet luxury: All the on-call amenities of a hotel, without ever having to hear another guest (or compete for a prime spot at the pool). And really, when your (temporary) piece of paradise sits on one of the best beaches in the world, the soothing sounds of the Caribbean are the only soundtrack you need. But villa vacationing in Turks and Caicos is more than just having a front-row view to turquoise perfection. Here, the pool is exclusively yours, meals happen whenever you’re hungry, and formalities like dress codes simply don’t exist. Behind the scenes, a crew of expert staffers works to craft a custom stay, restocking your fridge favorites and organizing daily excursions.
Who better to tailor those personalized experiences than the team at Grace Bay Resorts, the island-favorite brand synonymous with five-star service? With an expanding roster of real estate in Providenciales, they have a variety of properties to choose from, whether you’re bringing the whole family or simply looking to have the entire place to yourself.
Of the eleven options in the Private Villa Collection, each has a distinct design personality. Kisiwa House takes its cues from traditional colonial architecture, with its rich hardwoods and Kenyan furniture and décor, while Villa Portofino delivers designer coastal spaces dreamed up by Thom Filicia. Clean and bright modern residences are appointed with Roche Bobois pieces that complement the ocean blues, on display through walls of expansive windows. There is plenty of room to spread out—from 5,500 all the way up to 20,000 square feet—ensuring family and friends can coexist comfortably. Kids will love claiming their beds (bunks abound) and scoping out the media and game rooms. All villas take advantage of indoor/outdoor living, with daily pool and beach setup available upon request. Arrange a morning yoga session on your deck, and end your evening with a meal prepared by a pro in your chef’s kitchen, courtesy of the crew at the nearby flagship Grace Bay Club. Celebrating a milestone birthday? Your reservation also includes a photo session to commemorate your stay, ensuring your island escape becomes an unforgettable experience.
Head to the North Shore for a change of scenery at Rock House, where your new vantage point comes atop limestone cliffs that cascade down to the sparkling sea and the vibe captures the magic of the Mediterranean. Opened in May 2022, the secluded spot presents a more intimate approach to resort living. Among ancient trees and the native landscape, guests congregate around the largest infinity pool on the island or set up for a day on the sunbeds that line the 100-foot jetty. There are no bad views here, but the villas take the elevated vistas to even greater heights. The largest includes five bedrooms over two floors, with a natural palette that plays off the excavated white limestone surfaces. If you feel like venturing out to socialize, grab a table at Vita Restaurant for an alfresco Italian meal, or take a boat taxi over to Grace Bay Club, a perk that’s currently in the works.
For their latest partnership, reservations are currently being made at South Bank, a development that debuts in November. The community sits on Long Bay—a quieter part of the island—and was created for potential residents looking to level up their waterfront lifestyle. Boathouses (two to three bedrooms) boast “door to shore” private docks, with access to the full-service marina (mega yacht sold separately).
There are also villas surrounding a manmade five-acre lagoon, reminiscent of a Malibu beachfront neighborhood with their sun-bleached wood and glass structures, each with secluded gardens and decks for all-day lounging. But waking up in one of The Ocean Estate’s villas is most likely the strongest selling point here (and most are privately owned but made available for renting guests). Contemporary forms capture views wherever possible, in homes that can sleep up to 12 lucky guests. There are plunge pools, Italian-designed gourmet kitchens, and plenty of seats to take in Caicos Bank.
Aside from your departing flight (a short four-hour trip from NYC), the most difficult part will be deciding which oceanfront jewel to claim as your own.
PICK YOUR PARADISE
Choose your own (island) adventure.
PRIVATE PLAYGROUND
Seaclusion sits on Grace Bay Beach and can be combined with neighboring Seascape to create a 13 bedroom, 14 1/2 bathroom estate.
GO NATIVE
Rock House—referred to as “the Caribbean Capri”—pays homage to the rugged landscape on its 14-acre oceanfont site.
INSIDE, OUT
The focal point at South Bank’s Shoal Villa is a sheltered courtyard accessible and visible from all areas of the house.