Why This South Caicos Resort Should Be On Your Travel Bucket List
Off the beaten path doesn’t mean sacrificing five-star amenities at Sailrock South Caicos.
When it comes to visiting the Turks & Caicos, many people never venture beyond the main island of Providenciales. Which is a shame because an extra 25 minutes in the air will get you to one of the most relaxing and entrancing boutique luxury resorts in the British West Indies—Sailrock South Caicos. If you’ve never heard of South Caicos, it’s the seventh largest island in the archipelago, only eight square miles in total but offering some of the most exceptional scenery in the entire region.
And at Sailrock, which is part of the prestigious Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH) association, beyond the usual hotel-suite offering they have a variety of private villas that easily elevate any stay. There are no cars on the five-star resort’s grounds; you get around by foot, bike or golf cart. You can even look into purchasing a villa of your own should you want to return often or even decide you never want to leave—which is a distinct possibility.
With American Airlines having just started detract flights from Miami to South Caicos, there’s never been a better time to visit. The property, which first opened in 2017, is ramping up its offerings to better host new travelers to South Caicos, but with just 38 guest accommodations spread across 27 separate buildings, with lush landscaping and coral-stone pathways, it will never feel crowded or less than a privileged perch.
Situated on the pristine Sailrock Peninsula, the resort and real estate offerings boast the benefit of natural beauty and seclusion combined with the five-star amenities one would expect from a resort of this class. South Caicos is remarkable for its extraordinary positioning between two distinct marine environments. To the west, the turquoise salt flats of the Caicos Bank create a tranquil seascape, while the deep blue Atlantic Ocean stretches to the east.
Guests can choose between two primary accommodation types that showcase the resort’s commitment to high-end design that harmonizes with the natural landscape. The Ridgetop Suites are situated on an elevated ridge, offering panoramic views of both the Caicos Bank and Atlantic Ocean. Available in one- and two-bedroom configurations, they feature large picture windows and sliding glass doors allowing in sunlight ands ocean breezes.
Stepping up to the Beachfront Villas however is the better move. Located on scenic bluffs just above the white-sand Long Beach, these private residences integrate open-plan living spaces with outdoor pools and terraces. Private showers enhance the indoor-outdoor living ethos, while great rooms have high lofted ceilings and full-width sliding glass doors opening onto the pool area. Peninsula Villas maximizing privacy are also available.
For those seeking a more permanent connection to this extraordinary location, Sailrock offers various real estate options. Private suites and villas offer additional configurations and come with attractive benefits, including tax exemptions and comprehensive rental management services. And owners have access to all of the resort’s luxe amenities. Current villa real estate opportunities range from $1.5 million one-bedrooms to a 21,900-sq.-ft. Garden Estate Villas for $14.4 million.
Sailrock offers two captivating dining venues that celebrate the Turks & Caicos’ culinary heritage. The Great House Restaurant, in the resort’s main building, serves locally-derived dishes made with fresh, sustainable ingredients, in a fine-dining but not formal setting. By the shore, The Cove Restaurant + Beach Bar is a more casual option with Instagrammable ocean views, showcasing the freshest seafood and island-inspired cocktails that perfectly complement the spectacular sunset.
Menu highlights at the Great House include citrus and fresh herb marinated local lobster tail, grilled and served with roasted garlic mashed potatoes, lemon butter sauce, and grilled vegetables; and thin slices of cured red snapper crudo marinated with local spices with sesame served with cabbage slaw and sweet chili sour-lime dressing laced with a rustic pineapple salsa. At The Cove you have the option of local conch served a variety of ways, and an island-inspired version of fish and chips that never fails to satisfy. Both venues also have great bars to sidle up to. And villa guests can arrange for a private chef to come prepare dinner at home.
In addition to lounging by the Great House’s impeccable infinity pool, the resort curates a wide range of activities designed to connect guests with the incomparable natural environment. Snorkeling and diving enthusiasts can explore South Caicos’ coral reefs and marine life; water sports lovers can enjoy paddleboarding, kayaking, and Hobie Cat sailing; fishing fanatics can embark on deep-sea expeditions or try their hand at bonefishing, guided by local experts who know all the best spots and techniques.
Adventure seekers can also take ATV nature tours around the island, exploring its unique terrain. Yoga sessions and beach activities provide additional opportunities for guests to connect with the natural surroundings, while the property’s acclaimed Na Spa offers rejuvenating treatments designed to refresh both mind and body. For a one-of-a-kind experience book a Thai massage in one of the Ridgeline Cabanas with a commanding view of the whole property.
Sailrock is “deeply committed to environmental preservation and integration with the local community”, and the resort’s eco-conscious design “incorporates sustainable practices in its architecture and operations.” Active marine conservation efforts aim to protect the surrounding coral reefs and sea life. It also takes pains to employ local staff, support regional initiatives, and source as much as possible from the island itself.
When all is said and done, Sailrock South Caicos aims to be more than just another beach resort; rather a “carefully crafted destination that offers travelers an authentic, immersive experience of a less-explored Caribbean paradise…. an unforgettable journey that will reshape your understanding of tropical travel.” Sounds like a plan.