Pelican Beach is consistently rated the finest beach on North Caicos and sits directly in front of the community of Whitby on the island’s north coast. A 1.2-mile stretch of white sand with breathtakingly turquoise water, clean sandy bottom, and a line of casuarina trees providing shade along the shore — it is the kind of beach that sets a standard for what the outer islands of Turks & Caicos can deliver when no one is watching. The Caicos Barrier Reef protects the coast from full ocean swell, keeping waves to a gentle wind chop. At Pelican Point on the eastern end, a low rock headland leads to a small snorkelling shoal where southern stingrays, turtles, and soft corals can occasionally be found. Despite being described as the busiest beach on North Caicos, you will almost always have it entirely to yourself.
Why Go — For North Caicos’ finest beach, exceptional turquoise water, clean white sand, complete tranquility, and the Barracuda Beach Bar — the only beachfront restaurant on the entire island — right on the shore.
Best For — Couples · Families · Beach days · Snorkellers · Day trippers from Providenciales · Anyone who wants North Caicos’ best beach experience in a single stop
Insider Tip — Pelican Beach can accumulate seaweed during periods of higher wind and swell — if conditions are less than ideal, Pumpkin Bluff Beach nearby is typically cleaner. The Barracuda Beach Bar at the Pelican Beach Hotel is the place to stop for cold drinks and grill fare — a simple and genuinely enjoyable beachfront lunch that makes a North Caicos day feel complete.