Shoulder Season in the Turks and Caicos

Why slower months can mean savings on your favorite sun and sand destinations

If you haven’t travelled much, shoulder season might sound like warmer temps providing an opportunity to peel off a few layers of that winter clothing. Sure, that’s enticing, but what’s actually a commonly used term for slightly off-season holiday travel actually means the period before or after the peak time visitors flock to a specific destination. 

For obvious reasons, the ideal time to go somewhere highly depends on geography, local holidays, weather, larger happenings (festivals, competitions, etc) and any other factor that tends to move the masses.

If you’re in North America right now, kids everywhere have probably gone back to school, sweater weather will slowly start creeping in and you may want (or need) a great deal on an even greater escapade. That’s where we come in.

When is shoulder season in TCI?

If you’re reading this blog post, we imagine you’re considering the Turks and Caicos. So when exactly is the shoulder season?  Here, it means travel from the end of April to early June, and then mid-November to early December.

None of these months are considered peak season and you won’t be dealing with the height of summer vacation, either. Overall, you enjoy the same great weather, with a more peaceful holiday setting.

Is there also a low season?

Yes, there is. But truth be told, slowly, travellers are catching on and starting to book all year long. Low season in the Turks and Caicos runs from late August to early November. This time of year, Caribbean destinations are often on the radar for hurricane season but we’re fortunate enough to be North of most isles and benefit from better, safer weather.

Savings and social distancing

The shoulder (or low) seasons typically allow you to save on flights and accommodations. With demand slightly lower, villas, hotels and airlines offer discounted rates on the same services you’d pay big ticket prices for, during popular peak weeks.

And because we’ve all learned to enjoy our space, shoulder season travel also means easier social distancing for a safer, serene getaway.

Less travellers, more attention

You may worry that shoulder season would mean closed doors, shorter hours and a lifeless destination. Rest assured, this is not the case. During the shoulder season months mentioned above, restaurants are eager to see you, activities can be booked easily and local guides simply aren’t as busy. Overall, you have access to the same fun, without having to overplan, pre-book or settle for a less than amazing experience.

Worried about the weather? Don’t be.

The first thing to know is the Turks and Caicos is one of the most consistently sunny destinations in the world. With an average 325 days of sunshine per year, you simply can’t go wrong.

During the shoulder season, daily temperatures are still comfortably warm, humidity is only moderate and warm winds keep things breezy and pleasant. Sandwiched between cooler and hotter months, the shoulder season boasts around 8 hours of sunshine a day. And if there’s any rain, it’s likely to come in short afternoon or evening showers when it does happen.

Peak one place, means shoulder somewhere else

Shoulder season is like ‘happy hour’; at any given time, it’s always happening somewhere in the world. If you’re available for travel at a time where there’s too much hustle and bustle in certain places, think TCI. You’ll have a wonderful sun and sand getaway, save a few dollars, social distance just enough and have the time of your life.

So, what are your plans this fall?

Simon and Karim