The Cayman Islands consist of 3 Islands just south of Cuba.  Considered part of the West Indies, they are British overseas territory.  Grand Cayman Island is the largest of the 3 islands, and you can still drive from one side of the island with in  1 1/2 hours.  I’ve traveled all throughout the Caribbean, and Grand Cayman is one of the most charming islands, along with being the safest. 

 

Where to Stay ~

The Island is split by the “West End” and the “East End”.  The West End is where all the action is – the capital of Georgetown, and Seven Mile Beach.  It’s touristy, and busy.  So if you like nightlife and shopping the the West End is your jam.  I would definitely recommend that you stay on the East End, where it is quieter. The beaches are serene, the sunsets/sunrises are fantastic and the diving is incredible!

Eats ~

While in Georgetown you’ll come across lots of touristy type restaurants, don’t worry though, you can’t go too wrong because everyone sources in local seafood which is AHHHHHMAZING.  On the East End make it a point to going to The Reef on Thursday night to see the Barefoot Man Show, great island singer and absolutely hysterical – I laughed all night! (P.S. not always kid appropriate).  You also need to make it to Eagle Rays Dive Bar & Grill.  There’s a reason why “dive bar” is in the name.  Get the conch fritters, and the lion fish tacos.  The tacos are the BEST fish tacos I’ve ever had, and after living in San Diego that is a very bold statement to make!

Things to Do ~

Georgetown ~ if you aren’t staying in Georgetown then make plans to spend a day there.  If you want to score big on jewelry then this is the place to be!

Seven Mile Beach ~ named the Caribbean’s “Best Beach” its a long crescent beach of coral sands and calming blue waters.

Queen Elizabeth II Royal Botanical Park ~ spend an afternoon at the Botanical Park browsing the gorgeous island flowers, along with witnessing some friendly locals – the iguanas!

The blowholes ~ Also on the East End are the famous Grand Cayman blowholes. Surprisingly they can actually blow in excess of 15 ft!

Rum point ~ Spend the day at Rum Point! Tons of food, island cocktails and water activities! Fall asleep reading your favorite book in a hammock while overlooking the calm blue waters.   Or if you are a little more active,  grab your snorkel gear and head towards the end of the pier where you are sure to swim with sea turtles!

Diving ~ The Cayman islands have the best diving in the Caribbean.  Dive enthusiasts from all over spend days experiencing the teeming underwater life.  Grand Cayman is surrounded by a barrier reef (the Cayman Wall), providing calm waters on the inside next to land.  But just beyond the wall the waters are full of fish, sea fans, coral, sharks, turtles and rays.  The  Cayman Wall  itself is amazing diving because it drops down to depths of 3,000ft!  Plenty to see on the West End, however your big ticket items (sharks, turtles, rays) are all along the wall on the East End. First dive down I saw a Caribbean Reef shark within one minute! You can read all about diving Stingray City here!

If you are considering a vacation in the Caribbean put Grand Cayman Island is at the top of your list!