Fodor's Expert Review Island House

Years of experience helped Colin Brooker create this comfortable, peaceful boutique hotel that overlooks North Creek and Westside Beach. His daughter, Donna, now continues the tradition, giving her guests a personal introduction to the country's capital, thanks to her family's long history here. Balconies and nestled terraces, shaded hammocks, and hilltop breezes help guests wile away a quiet afternoon. Updated furnishings including flat-screen TVs and sink-into sofas, both diversions from a backdrop of splendid island and ocean views, make this hotel the most luxurious of the island's accommodations. All rooms have refrigerators and efficiency cooking amenities. Suites 3 and 7 command the best sunset views. Graduated terraces descend the hillside to a small freshwater pool surrounded by stunning pink-and-white bougainvillea, creating the feel of a Mediterranean hideaway. Guests are only a 12-minute walk away from long stretches of deserted beach. If you stay more than three nights, a car is included in the rental price. Even though it's not on the beach, this hotel—with all it has to offer—is at the top of the list.

YOU SHOULD KNOW This is a place you can truly get away from it all. The only sounds that fill the air other than sea breezes are donkeys braying and roosters crowing in the wee hours of the morning!

room

Island House offers four unique one-bedroom suites to choose from, all at the same price point with kitchens, private terraces and full ocean views.

YOU SHOULD KNOW All suites offer an element of privacy. Be sure to book well in advance, as Island House is small and so books up fast.

bathroom

Bathrooms are clean and modern with showers.

lobby

There is no lobby in this hotel. Guests are either greeted by the owner/manager, or simply "let themselves in" at their convenience. Owners are always a phone call away if questions arise, and do live on property.

pool

A lovely freshwater pool with large terra cotta tiled terrace welcomes guests, overlooking the island and ocean beyond from the hotel's ridge top location. It is the perfect spot to cool oneself after a day of exploration or diving, as well as to watch the sun go down from.

dining

All suites have full kitchens in which to prepare meals. There are no restaurants within walking distance, however the island is small with many little restaurants to explore. We recommend that guests take a deep breath and try one of the roadside barbecue barrels. The offerings are scrumptious and can be carried away to be transformed into a wonderful meal served on your own private terrace.

YOU SHOULD KNOW Roadside vendors often prepare their delicacies late into the evening. Ask around to discover who's on the top, but expect line-ups when you get there!

drinking

There is no bar on site. While alcoholic beverages are sold for consumption, don't expect a wide range of wines, beers or spirits available for purchase on Grand Turk. We recommend that you bring your favourites with. There are several small establishments along the waterfront that you will enjoy. History abounds, so the locations are quite unique. Others offer feet-in-the-sand possibilities.