Want to escape the crowds of Grand Cayman for a day? Little Cayman and Cayman Brac offer a refreshing dose of unspoiled Caribbean beauty, incredible diving, and a slower pace of life. This article dives into the details of planning a day trip (or longer!) to these sister islands, covering everything from getting there to the must-do activities, costs, and insider tips.
Getting to Little Cayman and Cayman Brac
The only practical way to get to Little Cayman or Cayman Brac from Grand Cayman is by air. Cayman Airways Express operates multiple daily flights to both islands. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season (December to April) or on weekends. You can check out their official website for schedules and booking.
Flight Duration and Cost: Expect about a 30-40 minute flight to either island. Round-trip fares typically range from CI$150 to CI$250 (approximately US$180 to US$300), but this can fluctuate depending on availability and time of booking. It’s worth checking different dates and times to snag the best deal.
Departure Airport: Flights depart from Owen Roberts International Airport (GCM) on Grand Cayman. Make sure to arrive at least 1.5 hours before your flight, especially if you have checked baggage. Security is generally quick and efficient, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry.
Luggage Allowance: Cayman Airways Express has specific luggage allowances, which are usually more restrictive than international flights. Check their baggage policy carefully before packing to avoid excess baggage fees. A small carry-on bag and a checked bag are typically included, but weight limits apply. Usually it would be around 55lbs for check-in luggage.
Insider Tip: Consider flying into Little Cayman and out of Cayman Brac (or vice versa) to maximize your exploration if you plan to stay overnight. This eliminates the need to backtrack to Grand Cayman between islands.
Little Cayman: A Diver’s Paradise and Tranquil Retreat
Little Cayman, the smallest of the three islands, is renowned for its world-class diving and pristine natural environment. Here’s what you can expect:
Diving and Snorkeling
Little Cayman’s crown jewel is Bloody Bay Wall, a legendary dive site consistently ranked among the best in the world. The sheer drop-off, vibrant corals, and abundant marine life make it an unforgettable experience. Several dive operators are based on the island, offering everything from beginner dives to advanced technical dives. Some popular options include Conch Club Divers, Southern Cross Club, and Paradise Divers. Expect to pay around CI$100-CI$150 (US$120-US$180) for a two-tank dive, including equipment rental.
Snorkeling: You don’t have to be a diver to enjoy Little Cayman’s underwater beauty. Numerous shallow reefs accessible from the shore offer excellent snorkeling opportunities. Point of Sand, a beautiful beach on the northeastern tip of the island, is a particularly good spot. You can rent snorkeling gear from most hotels or dive shops.
Practical Advice: Bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect the delicate coral reefs. Consider a full-body rash guard to minimize sunscreen use and protect yourself from jellyfish stings (though they are rare).
Relaxing on the Beaches
Little Cayman boasts stunning, unspoiled beaches perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and simply unwinding. Point of Sand is a must-visit, with its powdery white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Owen Island, a small uninhabited island just offshore, is another gem. You can rent a kayak or paddleboard to reach Owen Island and enjoy its secluded beach and tranquil lagoon.
Planning Tip: Pack a picnic lunch and plenty of water, as facilities are limited on some of the more remote beaches.
Exploring the Island by Bike or Scooter
The best way to get around Little Cayman is by renting a bike or scooter. The island is relatively flat and easy to navigate, and the leisurely pace allows you to truly soak in the scenery. Several rental shops are located near the airport and the main hotels. Expect to pay around CI$15-CI$20 (US$18-US$24) per day for a bike and CI$30-CI$40 (US$36-US$48) per day for a scooter.
Birdwatching: Little Cayman is a birdwatcher’s paradise, home to a variety of native and migratory birds. The Booby Pond Nature Reserve, managed by the National Trust for the Cayman Islands, is a particularly good spot for spotting red-footed boobies, frigatebirds, and other species. The reserve has an observation platform overlooking the pond, providing excellent views. Admission is free.
Insider Tip: Bring binoculars and a bird identification guide to enhance your birdwatching experience.
Dining Options
Little Cayman has a limited but diverse selection of restaurants, ranging from casual beachfront eateries to more upscale dining establishments. Pirates Point Resort is known for its fine dining experience, while the Hungry Iguana offers a more relaxed atmosphere and serves up local specialties. Expect to pay CI$20-CI$30 (US$24-US$36) for a main course at a mid-range restaurant.
Budget-Friendly Option: Stock up on groceries at the local supermarket and prepare your own meals, especially if you’re staying overnight. Most hotels and villas have kitchen facilities.
Cayman Brac: Adventure and Natural Beauty
Cayman Brac, the second largest of the sister islands, offers a unique blend of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural heritage. Here’s what to expect:
Rock Climbing and Hiking
Cayman Brac is famous for its “Brac,” a towering bluff that rises dramatically from the sea. The Brac provides excellent opportunities for rock climbing and hiking, with stunning views of the island and the Caribbean Sea. Several established climbing routes cater to different skill levels. Local guides offer climbing tours for those who are new to the sport. Expect to pay around CI$50-CI$75 (US$60-US$90) for a guided climbing tour.
Hiking Trails: Numerous hiking trails crisscross the Brac, leading to hidden caves, secluded beaches, and panoramic viewpoints. The Lighthouse Footpath is a popular trail that leads to the iconic Cayman Brac Lighthouse, offering breathtaking views of the coastline. The Peter’s Cave Trail is another interesting option, leading to a historic cave used as a shelter during hurricanes. The Parrot Preserve Trail is perfect for spotting the endangered Cayman Brac Parrot.
Safety Tip: Wear sturdy hiking shoes, bring plenty of water, and be aware of the weather conditions. The Brac can get very hot and humid, especially during the summer months. It wouldn’t hurt to have some bug spray either!
Diving and Snorkeling
While not as famous as Little Cayman for diving, Cayman Brac offers some excellent dive sites, including the wreck of the MV Capt. Keith Tibbetts, a Russian naval vessel sunk in 1996. The wreck is teeming with marine life and provides a fascinating diving experience. Several dive operators are based on the island, offering dives to the wreck and other sites. Buccaneer Diving and Brac Reef Beach Resort Dive Centre are two popular options.
Snorkeling: Excellent snorkeling can be found at various locations along the coast, including the reefs off of Brac Reef Beach and at the Public Beach. The visibility is usually excellent, and you can see a variety of colorful fish and coral.
Exploring the Caves
Cayman Brac is riddled with caves, some of which are quite large and impressive. Peter’s Cave, Rebecca’s Cave, and Bat Cave are among the most popular caves to explore. Peter’s Cave was used as a shelter during the devastating 1932 hurricane, and you can still see remnants of the past within the cave. Rebecca’s Cave contains a memorial to a young girl who died during the hurricane. Bat Cave is home to a large colony of bats.
Practical Advice: Bring a flashlight or headlamp, as the caves can be quite dark. Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain can be uneven. Be respectful of the caves and avoid touching or damaging any of the formations.
Museums of Cayman Brac
The Cayman Brac Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the island’s history and culture. The museum features exhibits on the island’s maritime past, its traditional crafts, and its unique ecosystem. Admission is free, and the museum is well worth a visit.
Insider Tip: The museum is located in the Stake Bay district, which is also home to the Cayman Brac Lighthouse and several other historic buildings.
Dining Options
Cayman Brac has a variety of restaurants and eateries, offering a range of cuisines. The Brac Reef Beach Resort offers fine dining with ocean views, while Captain’s Table is known for its fresh seafood. Several local restaurants offer traditional Caymanian dishes, such as conch stew and fish fry. Expect to pay CI$15-CI$25 (US$18-US$30) for a main course at a mid-range restaurant.
Budget-Friendly Option: Check out the local supermarkets for takeaway options and snacks.
Sample Day Trip Itineraries
Here are a couple of sample day trip itineraries to help you plan your adventure:
Little Cayman: Diving and Relaxation
- Morning: Early morning flight from Grand Cayman to Little Cayman.
- Dive Bloody Bay Wall with a reputable dive operator.
- Afternoon: Relax on Point of Sand beach.
- Have lunch at a beachfront restaurant.
- Late Afternoon: Explore the island by bike.
- Evening: Dinner at Pirates Point Resort.
- Late evening flight back to Grand Cayman.
Cayman Brac: Adventure and History
- Morning: Early morning flight from Grand Cayman to Cayman Brac.
- Hike to the Cayman Brac Lighthouse.
- Explore Peter’s Cave.
- Afternoon: Have lunch at a local restaurant.
- Visit the Cayman Brac Museum.
- Late Afternoon: Go snorkeling at Brac Reef Beach.
- Evening: Dinner at Captain’s Table.
- Late evening flight back to Grand Cayman.
The above are just examples that can be adjusted based on the travelers’ personal preferences.
Rental cars
If you are looking for a way to freely roam the islands, renting cars is the only way. All major car rental companies are available on the island. Rental car cost is around CI$30-CI$50 (US$36-US$60) per day depending on the model of the vehicles.
Accommodation
If you are looking for accommodation, Cayman Brac has quite a few hotels, villas and smaller cottages. Little Cayman has some hotel options and small inns. Expect to pay CI$150-CI$300 (US$180-US$360) per night depending on the accommodation preference.
Cost Breakdown
Here’s a rough estimate of the costs involved in a day trip to Little Cayman or Cayman Brac:
- Flights: CI$150-CI$250 (US$180-US$300) round trip per person.
- Activities: CI$50-CI$150 (US$60-US$180) per person (diving, snorkeling, bike rental, etc.).
- Food and Drinks: CI$30-CI$50 (US$36-US$60) per person.
- Transportation on the island: CI$20-CI$40 (US$24-US$48)(bike/scooter rentals)
Total Estimated Cost: CI$250-CI$500 (US$300-US$600) per person, depending on your activities and spending habits.
FAQ
Q: Is one day enough to see Little Cayman or Cayman Brac?
A: While a day trip allows you to experience the highlights of each island, it’s definitely rushed. A longer stay of 2-3 days would allow you to fully explore the islands and enjoy their relaxed atmosphere. However, if you only have one day, you can still have a memorable experience by focusing on a few key activities.
Q: What should I pack for a day trip to Little Cayman or Cayman Brac?
A: Pack light, but don’t forget essentials such as sunscreen (reef-safe!), a hat, sunglasses, a swimsuit, a towel, comfortable shoes, and a camera. If you plan to go hiking, bring sturdy hiking shoes. If you plan to go snorkeling, bring your own mask and snorkel (or rent them on the island). Remember to bring US dollars if you are not Caymanian.
Q: Are there ATMs on Little Cayman and Cayman Brac?
A: Yes, both islands have ATMs, but it’s a good idea to bring some cash with you, especially if you plan to visit smaller businesses that may not accept credit cards. Most establishments accept US dollars as well as Cayman Islands dollars (CI$).
Q: Is it safe to drink the water on Little Cayman and Cayman Brac?
A: While the water is generally safe, it’s recommended to drink bottled water to avoid any potential stomach upset. Bottled water is readily available at supermarkets and convenience stores.
Q: What’s the best time of year to visit Little Cayman and Cayman Brac?
A: The best time to visit is during the dry season, from December to April, when the weather is sunny and dry. However, this is also the peak season, so expect higher prices and more crowds. The shoulder seasons (May-June and September-November) offer a good balance of pleasant weather and lower prices. The hurricane season runs from June to November, so be sure to check the weather forecast before you travel.
Q: Do I need a passport to travel from Grand Cayman to Little Cayman or Cayman Brac?
A: As an international tourist a valid passport will always be required as proof of identification. Although it is domestic travel between the islands.
Call to Action
Ready to ditch the hustle and bustle of Grand Cayman and discover the unspoiled beauty of Little Cayman and Cayman Brac? Don’t just dream about it – plan your escape today! Book your flights with Cayman Airways Express, explore the dive sites, pack your bags, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in paradise. The sister islands are waiting to welcome you with their pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and laid-back charm. Your Cayman Islands adventure starts now!
References
- Cayman Airways Express Official Website
- The National Trust for the Cayman Islands
