TheJellyBeans.net
Renting a golf cart is a great way to explore the island of Grand Turk.
Some of the more popular destinations outside of the cruise center are the Grand Turk Lighthouse
and Governor’s Beach.
We visited both when we rented a golf cart during our last visit.
Prior to our cruise, we reserved a golf cart with a vendor operating inside the cruise center.
The golf cart pick-up was located past the shops at the covered walkway that leads to
the cruise center’s main exit.
Our reservation gave us priority over passengers who did not have a reservation.
With a limited number of golf carts available during our visit, those without a reservation
had a very long wait.
The rental fee for the golf cart was $100 for the day and we were required to refill
the fuel tank to the same level as when we picked it up.
After a quick reminder from the rental company rep to drive on the left side of the road,
we were on our way!
Our primary destination during our visit was the Grand Turk Lighthouse, which is located
roughly seven miles from the cruise center, on the island’s northern-most point.
To get to the lighthouse, head north from the cruise center, passing by the turn off
for Governor’s Beach and the island’s airport.
When you reach Emancipation Square, which you can easily identify by the clock tower,
follow the road to the right to stay on Lighthouse Road.
Be aware that there was no street signage at the Square during our visit, so if you
miss the turn, like we did, you’ll end up on Hospital Road, which you’ll soon figure
out when you reach the hospital instead of the lighthouse.
If you end up at the hospital, just make a U-turn and head back to the Square.
Since the golf carts are pretty slow, you’ll have plenty of opportunity to see the sights
of Grand Turk as you drive along, such as spectacular views of the coastline and water,
feral donkeys, both on the side of the road and in residents’ yards,
and, if you look in the direction of the cruise center, you’ll likely be able to see your ship in the distance.
Another sight you’ll be able to see from your slow-moving golf cart is quite a few
regular vehicles passing by, even in “no passing” areas.
The drive to the Grand Turk lighthouse took us about 30 minutes, after subtracting a few
minutes for getting lost on Hospital Road.
Don’t be surprised if you’re greeted by several donkeys hanging around the parking
lot when you arrive.
After parking our golf cart, we removed the key and explored the area.
The lighthouse, which was built in 1852, is no longer operational, but visitors are able
to enter the grounds for a nominal fee.
The lighthouse grounds include a small gift shop, restrooms, and a bar.
On our trip, a ticket cost $3.00 and could be used for a discount inside to help offset
the price.
From within the grounds, we walked along a small path that led to cliffs with beautiful
views overlooking the ocean.
We also saw horse stables that were operated by a local tour company and the remnants of
a United States naval base.
Prior to being decommissioned in 1979, the primary purpose of the base was reportedly
to track Soviet submarines as part of an underwater listening system.
After we finished our visit to the lighthouse grounds and surrounding area, we headed back
south and refueled the golf cart at one of several gas stations that can be found along
the main road.
Be aware that during our visit, the last gas station before the cruise center was located
a few minutes before Governor’s Beach on the return trip.
With the golf cart fueled up, we stopped at Governor’s Beach, which is located just
a mile north of the Grand Turk Cruise Center.
The beach is popular with cruise passengers wanting to escape the crowds at the cruise
center, especially since it’s within walking distance.
Restrooms and changing facilities are available at the beach, and nearby trees provide a good
amount of shade for those who prefer it.
While there was plenty of space to swim, the snorkeling at Governor’s Beach was mostly
limited to what could be found around the rocks near the shoreline.
Still, there was enough sea life in that limited area to enjoy for quite a while.
Many visitors to Governor’s Beach are drawn to the Mega One Triton shipwreck situated
on the shoreline.
The cargo ship ran aground during Hurricane Sandy in 2012 and -- because of tourists’
interest in the wreckage -- the local government has advised the public to not touch or enter it.
After calling it a day, we headed back to the cruise center and our ship.
Before we re-entered the cruise center gates, we spotted several locals renting golf carts
and ATVs for a price that was reportedly less than what the companies inside the cruise
center were charging.
If you’re interested in saving some money, it’s an option worth researching.