The Cayman Islands are a Caribbean paradise. While cruise ships and high-end souvenir shops fill the capital, George Town, there is much more to see beyond this tourist hub.
The Seven-Mile Beach
A trip to the Cayman Islands isn’t complete without spending a day on Seven-Mile Beach. This beautiful white sand is home to several popular resorts and hotels.
The beach can get crowded, especially with hotel guests and cruise ship passengers, so secure your spot early. If you’re staying at a resort on the beach, consider renting a private cabana for a more secluded experience. You can even request a cabana with an ocean view.
Stingray City
Stingray City is one of the most popular attractions on Grand Cayman. This shallow sandbar is where you can interact with and feed wild Atlantic stingrays.
While some may call this a tourist trap, previous visitors insist it is worth the visit.
Many tour operators offer Grand Cayman excursions, usually combined with a stop at Coral Gardens and Starfish Point.
Bodden Town
For an authentic Cayman Islands experience, stray from the high-end souvenir shops and waterfront restaurants of George Town. Explore the local sights, such as the enigmatic Crystal Caves, and spot endangered blue iguanas at the Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park.
Indulge in the islands’ bounty of seafood. Jerk chicken and rundown are lunchtime favorites at Island Bites.
The Devil’s Grotto
Whether your aim is to seek solace and escape the rigors of everyday existence or bask in the radiant sun and savor the sea, the Cayman Islands have it all to offer. However, to ensure your journey is truly fulfilling, diligent preparation is paramount. The islands boast an astonishingly rare occurrence of crime, though it’s prudent to exercise caution when dwelling in remote and dimly lit locales. Beyond that, the Cayman Islands provide an exceedingly secure environment for travelers. A multitude of activities, such as scuba diving and snorkeling, beckon those seeking adventure.
The Cayman Turtle Farm
The Turtle Farm isn’t a must-do attraction, but spending a few hours is still fun. It is especially recommended for families with children.
The Cayman Turtle Farm was established in 1968 to domesticate green sea turtles for commercial purposes. The Farm has released over 31,000 turtles into the wild, but sadly, it’s unclear what impact this has on local wild populations. This needs more detailed data collation.
The Crystal Caves
One of the newer attractions on Cayman Brac, this is a great way to see some natural formations and escape the sun. The caves were formed over millions of years, and fossilized shells inside have revealed that they were once underwater. As sea levels changed, they eroded and created the beautiful and amazing rooms that make up the cave system.
Join a tour guide on an underground adventure through three different caves and learn about the geological significance of this natural tourist attraction.
The Cayman Islands National Park
The Cayman Islands are a cluster of paradises that offer something for everyone. Whether it’s world-famous shopping, excellent beaches, or scuba diving, there is no shortage of things to do in this tropical paradise.
Take a step back in time at Pedro St James National Historic Site, where cotton growing and sea turtle export were the primary industries of the islands’ early 19th century. Visitors can explore the 18th-century Great House and learn about Cayman history.
The Cayman Islands Wildlife Reserve
The Cayman Islands are a cluster of Caribbean paradises that offer something for everyone. As a British Overseas Territory, there are plenty of home comforts (think driving on the left-hand side and Waitrose products in the supermarkets) mixed with gorgeous beaches and world-famous diving.
A self-guided walking tour is a great way to explore the capital, George Town. Historic and contemporary sites like the National Museum and the Craft Market are here. Also, otherworldly caves are worth visiting, like Rebecca’s Cave and Bat Cave.
The Cayman Islands National Museum
The Cayman Islands National Museum is an awe-inspiring cultural center that displays the nation’s history.
Situated in the heart of George Town, this stands as one of the nation’s pivotal museums.
For the optimal Cayman Islands experience, consider the period from December to February when weather conditions are optimal and accommodations are more budget-friendly. Yet, for those seeking respite from crowds and rain, consider a visit between mid-April and mid-May. Getting around is made easy by the island’s efficient public transport and flat roads.
The Cayman Islands Botanic Park
With stretches of golden sand, intricate caves, and world-class marine life, the Cayman Islands are an islander’s paradise. But to discover the true beauty of this three-island archipelago, venture beyond the cruise ships and high-end souvenir shops of Grand Cayman’s capital city, George Town.
Visit the Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park and explore its Colour Garden, Woodland Trail, and the Xerophytic Garden.