Ready for an unforgettable Caribbean adventure? Cayman’s three islands – Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac, and Little Cayman – each offer a distinct slice of paradise. Whether you’re seeking vibrant nightlife, dramatic landscapes, or tranquil escapes, “island hopping” Cayman-style promises a rich travel experience. This guide unveils the unique charms of each island, pinpointing must-see spots and providing practical tips to make your trip seamless.
Grand Cayman: The Hub of Activity
Grand Cayman, the largest and most developed of the three, is the main port of entry and the place where most visitors begin their Cayman adventure. With its bustling capital (George Town), world-famous beaches, and extensive range of activities, Grand Cayman provides an excellent balance between relaxation and excitement. It’s where you’ll find nearly all of the available luxury villas in Cayman Islands.
Seven Mile Beach: A World-Class Destination
No trip to Grand Cayman is complete without experiencing Seven Mile Beach. In reality, it is a little shorter than its name suggests, clocking in closer to 5.5 miles. However, its soft, powdery sand, crystal-clear water, and gentle surf make it perennially ranked as one of the world’s best beaches.
Practical Tip: If you’re staying at a resort along Seven Mile Beach, beach access is generally included. However, there are also public access points, such as Governor’s Beach and Cemetery Beach, which are free to use. Arrive early, especially during peak season, to secure a good spot, as these areas can get crowded.
Costs: Beach access is generally free at public points. Beach chair and umbrella rentals can range from $10-$20 per day. Watersports activities like jet skiing or paddleboarding typically cost $30-$50 per hour.
Food & Drink: Numerous restaurants and bars line Seven Mile Beach, offering everything from casual beach eats to fine dining. Expect to pay $15-$30 for a casual lunch and $40+ for dinner per person at a mid-range restaurant.
Stingray City: An Unforgettable Encounter
Stingray City is undoubtedly one of Grand Cayman’s most famous attractions. Here, you can stand in waist-deep water and interact with dozens of friendly southern stingrays. These gentle giants have become accustomed to human interaction over the years, making it a truly unique and memorable experience.
Getting There: Stingray City is located in the North Sound and is accessible only by boat. Numerous tour operators offer excursions departing from various locations around the island, including George Town and Rum Point.
Costs: Stingray City tours typically range from $50-$100 per person, depending on the duration and inclusions. Some tours also include snorkeling at nearby reefs.
Recommendations: Choose a reputable tour operator with a commitment to responsible tourism. Look for tours that provide information about stingray behavior and conservation. Avoid tours that encourage guests to hold stingrays out of the water for extended periods, as this can be harmful to the animals. Red Sail Sports is a well-known and respected tour operator.
George Town: Shopping, Dining, and Culture
George Town, the capital of the Cayman Islands, is a vibrant hub of activity. During the day, the town comes alive with cruise ship passengers exploring the duty-free shops and savoring local cuisine. In the evening, George Town offers a diverse dining scene and a lively nightlife.
Shopping: George Town is a duty-free shopping haven. You’ll find a wide array of jewelry, watches, perfumes, and souvenirs. Keep in mind that prices may not always be significantly lower than in your home country, so it’s always a good idea to compare prices before making a purchase.
Dining: George Town’s culinary scene is incredibly diverse, ranging from local delicacies to international flavors. Try fresh seafood at Lobster Pot or sample authentic Caymanian cuisine at Champion House II. Expect to pay similar prices to Seven Mile Beach restaurants.
Culture: Explore the National Museum of the Cayman Islands, which showcases the islands’ history, culture, and natural environment. Stroll along the waterfront and admire the impressive yachts docked in the harbor. Visit the Elmslie Memorial Church, a beautiful example of Caribbean Gothic architecture.
Rum Point: Relaxation and Tranquility
For a more laid-back experience, head to Rum Point, located on the north side of Grand Cayman. This secluded spot offers a relaxed atmosphere, calm waters, and plenty of shade. It’s the perfect place to unwind and escape the crowds of Seven Mile Beach.
Getting There: Rum Point is about a 45-minute drive from George Town. Alternatively, you can take a ferry from Camana Bay. The drive offers stunning views of the island’s coastline.
Activities: Relax on the beach in a hammock, swim in the calm waters, or try your hand at paddleboarding or kayaking. Rum Point is also a popular spot for snorkeling and diving. There is an entry fee of $5 to use the facilities which include toilets, showers and parking.
Food & Drink: The Wreck Bar & Grill at Rum Point is famous for its Mudslides, a delicious frozen cocktail that’s a must-try. The menu also features a variety of casual beach fare.
Insider Tip: Visit Rum Point on a weekday to avoid the weekend crowds. Consider renting a car to gives you flexibility for exploring other spots on the north side of the island, such as Starfish Point, where you can see dozens of starfish in their natural habitat.
Cayman Brac: Adventure and Natural Beauty
Cayman Brac, the second largest of the three islands, is a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Known for its dramatic bluff (a towering limestone cliff), breathtaking hiking trails, and world-class diving, Cayman Brac offers a unique and rugged charm.
The Bluff: A Hiker’s Paradise
The Bluff, which rises to 140 feet above sea level, dominates the landscape of Cayman Brac. Hiking trails crisscross the bluff, offering stunning views of the island, the Caribbean Sea, and even Cuba on a clear day.
Hiking Trails: Several trails lead to the top of the Bluff, ranging in difficulty from easy to moderate. The Lighthouse Footpath is a relatively easy trail that leads to the oldest lighthouse on the island. The Peter’s Cave Trail is a more challenging hike that takes you through a rugged landscape and past several caves.
Safety: Wear sturdy shoes, bring plenty of water, and be aware of your surroundings. The trails can be slippery, especially after rain. Consider hiring a local guide for a more informative and safe experience.
Diving and Snorkeling: Underwater Wonders
Cayman Brac is renowned for its exceptional diving and snorkeling opportunities. The island boasts numerous dive sites, including the MV Captain Tibbetts, a Russian frigate that was intentionally sunk to create an artificial reef.
MV Captain Tibbetts: This 330-foot wreck is one of the most popular dive sites in the Caribbean. Divers of all levels can explore the ship’s interior and exterior, encountering a variety of marine life, including barracuda, jacks, and sea turtles.
Snorkeling: Several shallow reefs around Cayman Brac are perfect for snorkeling. The reefs are teeming with colorful fish, corals, and other marine creatures.
Dive Operators: Numerous dive operators on Cayman Brac offer scuba diving and snorkeling trips. Divi Resorts is a popular option that offers packages including accommodation and diving. Make sure to book in advance, especially during peak season.
Caves: Exploring Underground Worlds
Cayman Brac is riddled with caves, formed over millions of years by the dissolution of limestone. Many of these caves are accessible and offer a fascinating glimpse into the island’s geological history.
Peter’s Cave: One of the largest and most accessible caves on Cayman Brac. It was used as a shelter by early settlers during hurricanes.
Bat Cave: Home to a colony of bats. You can enter the cave, but it’s important to be respectful of the bats and avoid disturbing them.
Rebecca’s Cave: This cave is particularly notable for its historical significance as it once served as a safe haven for residents during storms and hurricanes. Named in memory of a young girl who perished during the 1932 storm, it stands as a solemn reminder. Inside, visitors will discover a small memorial dedicated to her, honoring her memory amidst the natural formations of the cave. You can easily reach Rebecca’s Cave with a car.
Exploring Tips: Bring a flashlight or headlamp to explore the caves. Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to climb over rocks. Consider hiring a local guide for a more informative and safe experience.
Little Cayman: A Tranquil Escape
Little Cayman, the smallest of the three islands, is a true paradise for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty. With its pristine beaches, unspoiled coral reefs, and abundant wildlife, Little Cayman offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life.
Bloody Bay Wall: A World-Famous Dive Site
Little Cayman is most famous for Bloody Bay Wall, a dramatic underwater cliff that plunges to depths of over 6,000 feet. This spectacular dive site is renowned for its vibrant coral formations, abundant marine life, and excellent visibility.
Diving: Diving Bloody Bay Wall is an unforgettable experience. You’ll encounter a variety of marine life, including sea turtles, sharks, rays, and countless species of fish. The wall is also home to a variety of colorful corals and sponges.
Snorkeling: While Bloody Bay Wall is primarily a dive site, there are also several shallow reefs in the area that are suitable for snorkeling.
Considerations: Choose a reputable dive operator. Many operators include the use of nitrox (enriched air) to extend bottom time, but be sure to be certified to use it. Pirates Point Resort is a high-end option.
Owen Island: A Deserted Paradise
Owen Island, a small, uninhabited island located just off the coast of Little Cayman, is a true desert island paradise. You can kayak, paddleboard, or swim to the island and spend the day exploring its pristine beaches and turquoise waters.
Getting There: You can rent kayaks or paddleboards from various locations on Little Cayman. The paddle to Owen Island is relatively short and easy.
Activities: Relax on the beach, swim in the crystal-clear waters, or explore the island’s interior. Bring a picnic lunch and enjoy a secluded meal in a truly idyllic setting.
Important: Be sure to take all your trash with you when you leave to help preserve the island’s natural beauty.
Booby Pond Nature Reserve: A Birdwatcher’s Haven
Booby Pond Nature Reserve, located on the western end of Little Cayman, is the largest red-footed booby nesting colony in the Western Hemisphere. Birdwatchers will be thrilled to observe these fascinating birds in their natural habitat.
Viewing Platform: A viewing platform offers excellent views of the nesting colony. Bring binoculars for a closer look.
Other Birds: Besides red-footed boobies, the reserve is also home to a variety of other bird species, including brown boobies, magnificent frigatebirds, and various species of herons and egrets.
Responsible Observation: Respect the birds and their habitat. Keep a safe distance from the nesting colony and avoid disturbing the birds.
Island Hopping Logistics
Inter-island travel is easy and convenient. Cayman Airways Express operates multiple daily flights between Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac, and Little Cayman. The flights are relatively short, with flight times ranging from 30 to 40 minutes.
Booking Flights: Book your flights in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability and get the best prices. Check Cayman Airways for schedules and fares.
Accommodation: Accommodation options vary on each island. Grand Cayman offers a wide range of hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals. Cayman Brac offers a smaller selection of hotels and guesthouses. Little Cayman offers a few small resorts and guesthouses. Book well in advance, especially if traveling during peak season.
Transportation: Renting a car is the best way to explore Grand Cayman and Cayman Brac. On Little Cayman, you can rent a car or a scooter. Taxis are also available on all three islands, but they can be expensive.
Practical Travel Tips
Currency: The official currency of the Cayman Islands is the Cayman Islands dollar (KYD), but US dollars are widely accepted. Credit cards are also accepted at most businesses, but it’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases.
Language: The official language of the Cayman Islands is English.
Entry Requirements: Visitors from most countries, including the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom, do not need a visa to enter the Cayman Islands for tourism purposes. However, you must have a valid passport and a return ticket.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit the Cayman Islands is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. The weather is generally sunny and dry during this time, with average temperatures in the mid-80s. The shoulder seasons (May-June and September-November) can also be good times to visit, as the weather is still pleasant and the crowds are smaller. Be aware that hurricane season runs from June to November.
What to Pack: Pack light, breathable clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and insect repellent. If you plan on hiking, bring sturdy shoes. If you plan on diving or snorkeling, bring your own gear or rent it from a dive operator.
FAQ Section
What is the best island for families? Grand Cayman is generally considered the best island for families, as it offers a wide range of activities and amenities, including kid-friendly resorts, beaches, and attractions. However, all three islands can be enjoyed by families, depending on their interests and preferences.
Is it expensive to visit the Cayman Islands? The Cayman Islands are generally considered to be an expensive destination, especially compared to other Caribbean islands. Accommodation, food, and activities can all be quite pricey. However, there are ways to save money, such as staying in a vacation rental, eating at local restaurants, and taking advantage of free activities like swimming and sunbathing.
Do I need to rent a car? Renting a car is highly recommended on Grand Cayman and Cayman Brac, as it gives you the freedom to explore the islands at your own pace. On Little Cayman, you can rent a car or a scooter. Taxis are also available, but they can be expensive.
Is it safe to drink the tap water? Tap water is generally safe to drink on Grand Cayman, but it’s always a good idea to ask your hotel or resort if they have a filtration system. On Cayman Brac and Little Cayman, it’s best to drink bottled water.
What are some good local dishes to try? Some popular Caymanian dishes include fish rundown (a coconut milk-based stew), conch fritters, jerk chicken, and cassava cake.
References
Cayman Islands Department of Tourism
Cayman Airways
Divi Resorts
Ready to embark on your island-hopping adventure? Book your flights, pack your bags, and get ready to experience the unique charms of Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac, and Little Cayman. From world-class beaches to dramatic landscapes and tranquil escapes, the Cayman Islands offer something for everyone. Start planning your unforgettable Caribbean vacation today!
