Escape to Grand Cayman: Home of Seven Mile Beach

What comes to mind when you see the words Grand Cayman?

Banking mecca?

Stunning beaches?

Diving paradise?

You would be correct! Grand Cayman has all these things, and so much more. First-timers to the island will be wowed with a chance to interact with stingrays at Stingray Bay, snorkel the reefs filled with colorful marine life, horseback ride on the beach, or snag a feisty barracuda from the back of a deep sea yacht.

For returning visitors and those yearning for a more off-the-beaten path experience, Grand Cayman serves up lively libations, spelunking cave adventures, old homesteads, and beautiful botanical gardens, to name a few.

First, a Brief Overview

Grand Cayman is the largest island of a three island archipelago in the western Caribbean Sea, situated just south of Cuba and northwest of Jamaica. Its 76 square miles of low-lying terrain protects a large, shallow lagoon (the North Sound). Best of all, the island’s average width of 4 miles means quick beach access and beautiful ocean views around nearly every turn.

One of the most popular cruise ports in the Caribbean, Grand Cayman receives over 1 million visitors annually to its shores. It’s also a millionaire expat playground, thanks to its favorable tax laws, plus over 600 banks and trust companies handling offshore investments.

It’s no wonder this luxury island is home to numerous VIPs, including celebrities, tech and biz moguls, as well as oodles of million dollar homes, condos, and luxury resorts.

Visitors flock to Grand Cayman for many reasons: the cleanliness, superb dining, family friendliness. and ease of getting around. It’s also one of the safest islands in the region. And did we mention diving and beaches?

A Few Fast Facts:

• Grand Cayman is a tender port — meaning a tender or ferry is needed to get to one of the three tender ports on shore (be sure to factor this into your excursion plans)
• The island is a British Overseas Territory, so you can expect to hear English and see people driving on the left
• Being a conservative island, most stores are closed on Sundays — although this rule is slowly relaxing (no worries — restaurants and excursions are still open for business)
• Dress code is casual, but plan on a wearing a coverup once you leave the beach
• The official currency is the Cayman Islands (CI) dollar; US bills accepted, but don’t be surprised if you receive your change back in CI
• The weather averages a balmy 78 degrees F year round with slight variations, and is typically humid — especially in the summer
• Best times to visit are November through April, for ideal weather; if you are budget conscious or dislike crowds, plan for September to November (note that this prime time for hurricanes — and yes, Grand Cayman is in the hurricane zone)

Things to Do in Grand Cayman

For the Newbies, Animal Lovers, and Adventurers

Grand Cayman is renowned for its powdery sands that stretch for miles and miles, as well as the various water activities just beyond the shore. If your idea of heaven is sitting on a beach chair with a cocktail in hand, or exploring a Caribbean reef, keep reading:

Visiting Seven Mile Beach is not only one of the top things to do in Grand Cayman; it is akin to stepping into a postcard-perfect version of a Caribbean paradise. Stretching for (actually) 5.5 miles along the western coast of the island, this iconic crescent-shaped beach is consistently rated one of the top 10 beaches in the world.

Whether strolling along the shoreline, basking in the warmth of the sun, or partaking in exhilarating water sports like jet skiing, this beach has it all. Indulge in your slice of paradise in front of the Seven Mile Beach Resort and Club, where the pristine shoreline invites you to bask in the sun and take refreshing dips in the azure waters.

Take advantage of clear, calm waters and complimentary snorkeling gear to explore the colorful underwater realm of Grand Cayman. Alternatively, you can leisurely stroll along the sandy strip, passing by a myriad of hotels, condos, and shops, and pop into a restaurant for a quick bite.

Stingray City and Starfish Beach in Grand Cayman is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and a must-do in Grand Cayman for first timers. At Stingray City, located in the North Sound, you can interact with southern stingrays in their natural habitat. With experienced professionals by your side, you will stand on a sandbar in shallow waters and hand-feed squid to these gentle creatures while learning all about stingray behavior and conservation efforts to protect them. While here, be sure to kiss a stingray for seven years of good luck!

Just nearby lies Starfish Beach, also known as Starfish Point, famous for its shallow, clear waters and abundant marine life. Here, you can observe beautiful Red Cushion Sea Stars in their natural environment, adding a splash of color to the shallow sandy seabed. This beach is also an ideal spot to unwind, whether lounging on the sand or snorkeling among the corals.

Your tour will also take you to the Barrier Reef for a brief interlude between these two special animal encounters. Enjoy this opportunity to explore the reef with its magnificent coral and vibrant marine life as you snorkel through twisting channels.

Immerse yourself in the excitement of deep sea fishing in the Caribbean with this half-day charter that takes you to the open sea, promising thrilling encounters with the ocean’s wildlife. These waters are known to host a wide variety of big fish including tuna, snapper, and grouper.

Cast your line into the depths below, and feel the rush of adrenaline as a marlin or mahi-mahi takes the bait! The challenge of reeling in one of these magnificent creatures tests both your skill, patience, and endurance, but it is so worth it.

You’ll fish with a captain and crew by your side who have a solid reputation for being one of the most successful fishing boats on the island. And, with a limit of four participants, you’ll enjoy individual attention and room to relax, admiring the vastness of the sea and your sense of connection to nature.

Picture yourself on the back of a majestic horse, exploring the white sand beaches of West Bay. Feel the sense of freedom and excitement as you and your steed trek along the coastline, taking in the breathtaking views of the ocean and nearby tropical landscape. And then, just when you think it can’t get any better, you and your horse wade into the inviting waters for a delightful swim together (note: there will be the option to dismount for those who do not want to get into the water).

This unique experience offers you a perfect blend of relaxation and exhilaration, promising fond memories you’ll share for years to come. There will be an opportunity to have your photograph taken, a wonderful souvenir of your equine adventure.

For the Grand Cayman Pros and Novel Seekers

Sometimes you just don’t feel like spending the day in the water. Maybe you’re experiencing a “been there, done that — what’s next?” mode. That’s okay — we’ve got you! These excursions will help satisfy those looking to experience a different side of Grand Cayman:

Entering Grand Cayman’s Crystal Caves is like stepping into an alternate world; as you descend below the earth’s surface, the cool air surrounds you, and the sound of dripping water echoes softly in the cavernous space. It’s also one of the most unique and fun things to do in Grand Cayman.

Join your guide on a forest trek to your destination, as they teach you about the local flora and fauna, passing by tree frogs, blue iguanas, and more. Once at the mouth of the caves, you’ll descend down the walkways and wander through three caves, feeling a sense of awe at the beauty and power of nature. Marvel at the stalactites and stalagmites that seem to stretch towards each other, forming intricate shapes that sparkle in the dim light. Observe the crystal clear pools of water, and look for the bats hanging from the cave ceilings.

Head to the island’s East End for an interesting blend of historical intrigue and natural wonders. Start with a scenic drive through George Town with its powerful financial center, continuing on through South Sound lined with luxury homes.

At the iconic Pedro St. James Castle, you’ll get a glimpse of the island’s colonial past. This three-story building by the sea was astounding when it was built in the 18th century, at a time when most of the island’s residents lived in modest houses. Its 18-inch stone walls and sweeping verandahs guarded the home of a wealthy Englishman, and was ultimately the place where the decision makers agreed to create a parliament and abolish slavery.

Venturing further eastward, you’ll arrive at Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park, a beautiful and welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of modern life. Here, amidst manicured gardens and winding pathways, you will find a wide array of indigenous plants and animals including beautiful orchids, colorful parrots, and the blue iguana — a large native lizard that is on the endangered list.

As you continue along the coastline, you’ll encounter the mesmerizing spectacle of the blow holes. Carved by the relentless force of the sea, these natural marvels send plumes of foamy spray cascading into the air, in a dramatic display of nature’s determination.

You can visit Hell — literally — with this tour that takes you to Hell, a cluster of black jagged limestone formations in the West Bay area. Bonus: you can send a postcard from here, postmarked from Hell, sure to bring smiles to your family and friends back home.

Other less-touristy sites on this West Bay adventure include photo stops at Camana Bay, a lively waterfront town; the Governor’s Mansion, and the Old Homestead — a 1912 Caymanian cottage that gives you an idea of early Caymanian life before all the dollars and tourists flooded in.

Wrap up your time in West Bay watching dolphins perform for you at the Dolphin Discovery, and relax in the sun or savor a meal at Seven Mile Beach. Because you can’t leave Grand Cayman without at least sinking your toes into its sand.

On this half-day tour you’ll explore the spirited side of Grand Cayman — and no, we’re not talking about the ghosts! You and your small group will head to the Cayman Spirits Company where you will witness firsthand the meticulous process of rum production before partaking in a delicious rum tasting.

Next up is the Tortuga Rum Factory, a celebrated destination for those seeking to delve into the rich history and flavors of Caribbean spirits. Here, you can sample some rums and feast on their legendary rum cakes, which make perfect souvenirs — so pick up one, or two … or three.

In Grand Cayman, the beer scene is an eclectic mix of local brews and international favorites, as you will see when you sip on local craft beers while riding down to Seven Mile Beach (there’s that beach again!). You’ll have one hour at the beach to bliss out under the sun, do a little sea kayaking, or help yourself to one of the nearby Seven Mile Beach Resort’s several amenities including its showers and bars.

What’s Next?

Discover Grand Cayman for the first time — or, with new eyes — on our high quality excursions. From the island’s “must-dos” and more adventurous tours to more relaxing and off-the-beaten-path experiences, there is truly something in Grand Cayman for everyone.

What’s your ideal way to “Grand Cayman”? Let us know and we’ll craft your personalized exploration.