The islands of Turks and Caicos are renowned for their incredible ocean life, and many tourists want to try its amazing seafood. To try the best variety of dishes that the area has to offer, it is important to come in the right season. That’s why lobster lovers should visit between August 15 and March 31, as catching them outside this window is illegal. As the specific times can vary each season, it is important to check the exact dates when planning your trip to Turks and Caicos.
It’s not just lobster that has a hunting season, as the island’s famous conch does as well. Conch can only be collected from October to July so if you want to enjoy both seafood delicacies, then you need to visit between October and March to avoid disappointment! Turks and Caicos is known for its fishing so if you really love seafood, and want to enjoy it as fresh as possible, you could try catching your own lunch. For those who want to try catching their own lobster, special fishing trips are available during this period as well.
Things to know about fishing in Turks and Caicos
One fish that you can hunt without any restriction is the lionfish, but you do need to get a license to do so, to make sure that the reef isn’t harmed. The lionfish is an invasive species that is not native to Turks and Caicos so the authorities are trying to get rid of them. That’s why it is the only fish tourists can catch on scuba diving expeditions. If you do catch one, don’t let it go to waste as they have a similar taste to grouper when they are cooked.
Plenty of other fish can be caught on special fishing trips from the islands — including marlin, snapper, barracuda, tarpon, and bonefish. You can join different types of trips based on what you’re interested in trying. Deep-sea sport fishing, bonefishing, flats fishing, reef fishing, and bottom fishing are all available, as well as conch and lobster trips when in season. Many local restaurants are happy to cook up your catch, or you could hire a private chef to do it. If you have a kitchen in your accommodation then you could even try creating a delicious seafood dish yourself.
Places to eat seafood in Turks and Caicos
Naturally, there are plenty of fabulous seafood restaurants to choose from in Turks and Caicos. Many of them are around the picture-perfect tourist area of Grace Bay. According to Tripadvisor reviews, the most popular eatery is Blue Water Bistro, known for its seafood claypot. Indigo is another highly-rated establishment, admired for its specialist dishes like white sturgeon caviar and mahi mahi.
Grace’s Cottage at Grace Bay and Arches on the Ridge on Grand Turk Island are two great places to grab a lobster tail when it’s in season. There is also a big fish fry at Stubbs Diamond Plaza in the Bight near Grace Bay. It is held every Thursday where fried fish is the dish of the day, with opportunities to try crab, lobster, and conch as well. It’s a wonderful place to soak in the ambiance, try local food, drink a cocktail, and get into the island spirit. Wherever you decide to go, make sure to make the most of your time in the most romantic destination in the Caribbean while you enjoy your meal.
