June 2, 2025

When It Comes to Luxury Resorts in Turks and Caicos, All Signs Point South

The Turks and Caicos have welcomed an abundance of tourists from all over the world, experiencing consistent year-over-year growth for literal decades (with 2024 setting an all-time record in numbers). As a result, developers have unsurprisingly set their sights beyond popular Providenciales to other islands, such as South Caicos.

Adjacent to coral and cream-hued salt fields, appropriately named Salterra, a Luxury Collection Hotel (which translates to “Salt of the Earth”) has spearheaded the luxury hotel market in this region with a brand new, 100-room property.

Boasting a natural, organic look and feel, its accommodations mirror the intentionally minimalist surroundings that focus on sand, salt, and surf. Guests are encouraged to spend as much time outdoors as possible, starting with a stroll on the resort’s long private beach that leads to mangroves and, if lucky, small herds of local donkeys.

Watersports such as paddleboarding and kayaking are also readily available, but a boat day trip with activity and conservation directors Joey and Anna is a necessity. The dynamic duo not only shows visitors the raw beauty of uninhabited islands but also contextualizes their unique locale with a bit of oceanography, especially around the island’s commitment to coral restoration and replanting. Salterra, a Marriott Luxury Collection member, has even partnered with the School for Field Studies to aid in these environmental efforts, where guests are welcome to visit the school and assist firsthand.

But perhaps most appealing of all, American Airlines has partnered with South Caicos Airport to offer two direct flights a week from Miami International Airport. This prevents a layover in Providenciales to make vacations even more convenient and stress-free.

Top Takeaways

Location: South Caicos, Turks & Caicos

Address: 1 Forth St, TKCA 1ZZ, Turks & Caicos Islands

Rating: Five-Star

The Vibe: There is a very apparent newness, seen not only through the island’s remote location but also recently planted vegetation and just-opened buildings. It reminds us of the line in Titanic where old Rose says, “I can still smell the fresh paint,” because a reservation in 2025 will certainly elicit the same response. There is something special about feeling like you’re the first to experience a hotel that is in the beginning stages of greatness.

Food + Drink: You’ll have no other choice but to stay on property for meals, but Salterra offers a surprisingly robust number of dining options, from beachside and Latin-influenced Cobo Bar & Grill to comfortable and nautical-themed Regatta. There is also an on-site deli, Flamingo Cafe, that serves coffee, gelato, and sandwiches throughout the day. But it is upscale Brine that has emerged as its culinary crown jewel. Guests can experience a chef’s tasting menu featuring salt pairings that accompany each dish, accenting everything from beef tenderloin to conch tartlet. The experience also includes a showstopping mango mousse dessert in the shape of a sun, paired with a bush tea salt to complement its white chocolate.

Amenities: Gym; spa; pickleball courts; boutique; cafe; bars; restaurants

Our Favorite Thing About the Hotel: If you’re seeking a Caribbean escape without feeling like you’re fighting for pool chairs or space on the beach, this is the property for you. Its seclusion is its biggest selling point. And though the water doesn’t tout the same signature turquoise as neighboring islands, it’s still a beautiful view that can be taken in from practically every vantage point.

5 Nearby Attractions: You will not be leaving the property unless you take a boat or small plane to popular Providenciales or other areas in the archipelago.

Any Personal Neighborhood Recs? The resort is currently one of two in South Caicos, with not much to explore nearby. Instead, be sure to book an aforementioned trip with Joey and Anna to see beyond the property and into the stunningly desolate territory that surrounds it.

Closest Airport: South Caicos Airport (XSC)

Pricing: Rooms start at $726/night