If you’re taking a large family getaway or a “friendcation,” regular hotel rooms might not cut it. Even if you book adjoining rooms or a more spacious suite, accommodations most likely still won’t have all of the amenities to make your stay as comfortable as it could be. But if your brood happens to be planning a beach getaway to Turks & Caicos, The Somerset on Grace Bay can provide an inviting oceanside home away from home.

Located on Providenciales on an idyllic stretch of Grace Bay Beach, with its powdery white sand and calm azure waters that feel like the world’s largest swimming pool, the resort offers a selection of 53 luxury accommodations with sweeping oceanfront vistas or views of the beach or the pools.

© The Somerset on Grace Bay

At the heart of the property are the one-, two- and three-bedroom Stirling Villas, which range from 1,500 to 2,500 square feet. These sumptuous abodes combine traditional and modern design with a muted color palette and pops of sea-green to match the water outside, lots of natural light, and several balconies with conversation and dining seating and stainless-steel gas grills. The master bedroom features a king-sized bed, sitting area, large closets and an en-suite bathroom with a jetted tub. All bathrooms are luxe, with elements including marble tiles, mahogany cabinets, rain showers and soaking tubs. A fully equipped gourmet kitchen boasts everything you need to prepare meals for your crew, including stainless-steel appliances, cookware, glassware, serve ware and gadgets. Have your kitchen stocked with groceries before your arrival, and your vacation starts that much quicker. Some villas also have access to a shared upper-level patio with private Jacuzzis.

© The Somerset on Grace Bay

Multistory one- to three-bedroom townhomes overlooking the resort’s croquet lawn and surrounded by tall coconut trees are another good option for small- to medium-sized groups. To really spread out, book an oceanfront estate in one of four buildings that flank the infinity and reverse-current lap pools; these have three–five bedrooms with square footage from 3,200 to 5,300 square feet and can accommodate eight–12 guests.

Speaking of those pools, you’ll definitely want to grab a foam float, lie back and wile away the afternoon in the oceanfront infinity pool, take a salty dip in the stunning water for which this island is famous, rinse and repeat. Complimentary bikes are available if you want to venture out and explore the area, or you can book an in-room massage followed by an indulgent nap on your private patio. Access to Caicos Kids Club is included for children ages 3–12, with two two-hour sessions offered Monday–Saturday featuring beach games, arts and crafts, shell collecting, sandcastle competitions, and a treasure hunt for the youngest island goers.

© Kelly Magyarics

Breakfast at Barbetta House, next to the croquet lawn, is included for all guests, with upcharges required for some dishes and options. The casual poolside restaurant serves lunch, including Caribbean favorites like conch fritters and shrimp tacos. (Pro tip: Order a Greek or Caesar salad and have it topped with their delicious jerked chicken breast).

Happy hour at Barbetta House may be the resort’s best-kept secret, with live music; two-for-one specials on cocktails, wine and beer; and a tapas menu. The eponymous cocktail is a refreshing elixir that shakes vodka with watermelon and lime juices, and the rum punch includes four versions of the sugarcane spirit, along with juices and grenadine. Grab a leather sofa or seats at the bar and order a round of drinks and coconut shrimp with sweet chili sauce or fried calamari with roasted pepper aioli.

© The Somerset on Grace Bay

Stay for dinner on the veranda (staff will thoughtfully bring you a bottle of bug spray if you forgot yours). Can’t-miss dishes include tender braised oxtail with island peas and rice, and grilled mahi mahi with steamed rice and lemongrass coconut sauce.

While you may choose to keep things low-key and either dine at the resort or in your own villa, there are several excellent restaurants nearby.

At the resort, staff is incredibly friendly, and service is always exemplary. The concierge is available to arrange activities, like a half-day snorkeling excursion through Caicos Island Charters. After some incredible reef snorkeling, your captain will navigate the catamaran to the deserted Iguana Island, where you can spot the indigenous rock iguana and have a swim on either the calm or wavier side of the island. After sipping rum punch and listening to island jams on the ride back, you’ll be deposited directly on the beach, where your group can retreat to your comfortable digs in this little slice of turquoise heaven.

The Somerset on Grace Bay

Princess Drive, The Bight Settlement TKCA 1ZZ
Turks & Caicos
tel 855 831 5991