InterCaribbean Twin Otter airplane
An interCaribbean Twin Otter aircraft.
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Getting to South Caicos

Exterior of the South Caicos airport.
The South Caicos airport terminal, built in 2024.

South Caicos is a bit more remote than the other main islands in the Turks and Caicos, as the island is separated from the Turks Islands by the 20-mile-wide (32 km) Turks Islands Passage and is bordered on the western side by uninhabited East Caicos and sparsely populated Middle Caicos.

South Caicos is home to a small international airport (airport code XSC) that welcomes a twice-weekly Miami flight via American Airlines, as well as daily domestic flights from both Providenciales and Grand Turk. There is also a small passenger ferry service from Providenciales to South Caicos that makes one round-trip per day.

Once on South Caicos, the larger resorts typically provide complimentary transit to their properties. Car rentals are also available on South Caicos.

New! Flight from Miami, Florida

Starting March 15, 2025, American Airlines will offer a non-stop flight Wednesdays and Saturdays from Miami (MIA) to South Caicos (XSC). Book direct with American Airlines for the best rates and flexibility, and be one of the first to experience the first international flight to South Caicos.

American Airlines Boeing 737-823 in Turks and Caicos

Flights

For those who aren't flying direct from Miami with American Airlines, the fastest way to get to South Caicos is by domestic flight from Providenciales or Grand Turk. Both interCaribbean and Caicos Express Airways offer scheduled flights. Airfares start at around $150 for a return ticket (2024 price).

Sailrock Resort generally offers complimentary flights for guests booking direct.

For information on connecting through Providenciales, check out Getting to Providenciales. You’ll find visa and passport requirements (nationals of the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom do not require a visa), flight information, and local connections.

Ferry Service

A small passenger ferry route connects South Caicos and Providenciales. Operated by Captain Russel, the South Caicos Ferry operates most days, leaving South Caicos at 9:00 AM, and departing Providenciales at 3:00 PM. The 45-mile (72 km) journey usually takes under two hours. Return rates are $130, and one way fares are $80. Some baggage limitations may apply, but are typically ample. Ferries depart from Heaving Down Rock Marina (Walkin Marina) on Providenciales and arrive at the main settlement of Cockburn Harbour on South Caicos.

During the popular annual Fisherman's Day event, the ferry can book up quickly. On the day of the event, Caribbean Cruisin’—which typically operates the Providenciales–North Caicos route—organizes same-day charter ferries between Providenciales and South Caicos.

Flight or Ferry?

For most, the flight is the better choice due to time and cost considerations. However, if you have several pieces of large baggage, the ferry may make sense.

Due to the smaller size of the island hopper planes flown by the local airlines (such as the Twin Otter), luggage hold space on flights is often quite limited.

Vintage photo of a U.S. Coast Guard Fairchild C 123B Provider at the South Caicos Airport
US Coast Guard Fairchild C-123B Provider. The island’s airstrip was built by the United States during World War II to support a submarine tracking station, and was later used by the Coast Guard. Photo courtesy of and copyright of US Coast Guard veteran Charles A. Bliley (www.bliley.net).

Private Charter from Providenciales

A few of the private charter companies based on Providenciales are able to arrange private transfers to South Caicos via sea.

Arriving By Yacht

The Government Dock in Cockburn Harbour is a port of entry. If you’re planning to visit South Caicos by yacht, we recommend contacting Seaview Marina in Cockburn Harbour for information on the area and facilities.

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