7 Things to Do in Grand Cayman

There are endless reasons to love Grand Cayman. This destination is the epitome of a perfect island escape. Between its pure white sand, hidden coves, and turquoise waters that would surprise even the most experienced world traveler, Grand Cayman is by far one of the dreamiest destinations I have ever been to.

Even though Grand Cayman is significantly smaller than most islands in the Caribbean, it still shows off an impressive list of activities that are unique to the area.

Looking to scuba dive shipwrecks or explore incredible botanical gardens? How about sample some authentic rum cakes straight out of the factory. No matter how you decide to spend your vacation in the Cayman Islands, it’s sure to be unforgettable.

Best of all, it has something for everyone. Whether you prefer basking in the sun for days on end or you’d rather explore some of the area’s greatest natural treasures, a trip to Grand Cayman can be enjoyed by all.

So without further ado, here are my top 7 things to do in Grand Cayman. Before you know it, you’ll want to check out this exotic oasis yourself!

1. Snorkel at Smith’s Cove:

If there is one thing to know about Grand Cayman, it’s that the island has incredible marine life and some of the best diving spots in the Caribbean. Even if you aren’t into the idea of going 50 feet below, there are other similar options that may be more suitable for you.

For those that are not scuba certified but still want to get a glimpse of this island’s underwater paradise, then grab your snorkel gear and head on over to Smith’s Cove. This local hangout spot is known to be one of the best places to snorkel and it’s just right off the road.

2. Drink Mudslides at Rum Point, Grand Cayman:

Now, what’s a vacation without some fruity cocktails in hand? If I’m going to a tropical destination, you better believe I’ll be sipping on pina coladas the entire time. However, in the Cayman Islands, there is a different choice of drink that I’ll gladly substitute- the Mud Slide.

Kahlua, Irish Cream, Vodka, ice, and a sprinkle of cinnamon, is all that’s needed for the local mudslide. Every bar seems to have their own take on this island favorite (sometimes with chocolate and ice cream), however, if you want the good stuff, get it at Rum Point. Regardless if you are getting a drink or not, Rum Point is a must-see when visiting Grand Cayman.

This cove is a popular stop for most snorkel tours and other tourist excursions on the island. Here you can enjoy a fresh lunch of local Mahi Mahi, doze off in a seaside hammock, or just relax in one of the many beach chairs that are open to the public.

3. Venture to Starfish Point:

Located near the famous Rum Point lies a hidden treasure that many people sadly miss. Starfish Point is a secluded beach with endless swaying palm trees and tranquil shallow waters. While the beach alone is enough for a visit, as you could probably assume by its name, it also has some surprising inhabitants.

Sprawled along the shallow waters you can find orange, yellow, and black starfish. If it is a cloudy day and the water visibility is poor, grab a snorkel mask and take your search below the surface. In no time at all, you will be able to see two to three clustered starfish sporadically spread out along the ocean floor.

Starfish Point was actually my favorite spot along our island road trip. It felt as if we were on a quest to find our ocean gems, getting excited after each and every brightly-colored object we’d find with our snorkel mask. Oh, and it was also pouring down rain when we went, which made the experience that much more memorable.

4. Hangout at Grand Cayman’s Seven-Mile Beach:

Illuminating turquoise waters, pearl-colored sand, and a shore that seems to kiss the entire horizon is what you will find at seven-mile beach. This stretch of coastline showcases one of the best beaches in all of the Caribbean. The water is so clear that even waist deep you can still see your toes and wandering fish below.

Luckily for visitors, most of the hotels and condos are located on seven-mile beach. This makes it easy to hop out of bed and go straight outside for a quick morning dip. In fact, most people never leave this area their entire trip, and quite frankly, you really don’t need to.

If you don’t care about seeing the rest of the island, then make sure you stay on this beach. With local restaurants, nearby bars, and one of the most pristine beaches in the world, you can easily stay put and still have an incredible time on the island.

5. Take an Excursion to Stingray City:

Now if you want to do something a little more exciting, then book an excursion to see Stingray City. This is by far the most popular day trip to take on the island and can be booked through your hotel or any local tour company. There are several different combinations of trips you can take. However, the one I did went to stingray city and Rum Point by Catamaran.

Situated in the middle of the ocean is a massive sandbar filled with giant (and friendly) stingrays. Back in the day, fishermen used to come to this secluded spot to clean their fish, which is what originally attracted these gentle giants in the first place. Since the stingrays are being fed and aren’t being threatened in any way, they are completely harmless to people.

Since the stingrays are being fed and aren’t being threatened in any way, they are completely harmless to people.

6. Rent a Car and Drive Around the Island:

While it’s not absolutely necessary to rent a car in Grand Cayman, I will say it makes your life a whole lot easier if you ever want to leave your hotel beach. There are so many secluded beaches and local restaurants to explore. However, most of them are impossible to get to unless you taxi (which is super expensive) or rent a car. If you are looking to get to the opposite side of the island over to Rum Point but also want to make some stops in between, then I highly recommend renting a car. One day is all you’ll need to see everything this island has to offer.

There are so many secluded beaches and local restaurants to explore. However, most of them are impossible to get to unless you taxi (which is super expensive) or rent a car. If you are looking to get to the opposite side of the island over to Rum Point but also want to make some stops in between, then I highly recommend renting a car. One day is all you’ll need to see everything this island has to offer.

If you are looking to get to the opposite side of the island over to Rum Point but also want to make some stops in between, then I highly recommend renting a car. One day is all you’ll need to see everything this island has to offer.

7. Take a Trip to Hell and Back:

Okay, well this stop is pretty anti-climatic, but it’s still a popular tourist trap nonetheless, and if you have a car for the day you might as well go check it out. Grand Cayman’s version of “hell” is basically a bunch of crazy-looking limestone formations that is accompanied by a tiny gift shop with memorability of your trip to hell and back. If you are crunched on time, definitely don’t go. However, if you have an extra ten minutes and you’re near the West Bay, then go stop by.

Grand Cayman’s version of “hell” is basically a bunch of crazy-looking limestone formations that is accompanied by a tiny gift shop with memorability of your trip to hell and back. If you are crunched on time, definitely don’t go. However, if you have an extra ten minutes and you’re near the West Bay, then go stop by.

Whether you want to sunbathe on a picturesque beach or scuba in one of the greatest diving spots in the Caribbean, Grand Cayman is the perfect summer vacation for just about anyone.

Have you been to the Cayman Islands? If so, what was your favorite spot? Let me know in the comments below!

 

xox Dani