Discover the best things to do in Cayman Islands, from breathtaking beaches to thrilling water activities. Plan your dream vacation with our comprehensive guide. Welcome to the enchanting world of the Cayman Islands, a tropical paradise offering a plethora of experiences for every traveler.
Whether you seek relaxation on pristine beaches, thrilling underwater adventures, or cultural exploration, Cayman Islands has it all. Let's dive into the must-see attractions and activities that make this destination a gem in the Caribbean.
Things to Do in Cayman Islands
Immerse yourself in the sun-kissed beauty of Seven Mile Beach, a stretch of powdery sand that seems to go on forever. With crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life, it's an ideal spot for sunbathing, beachcombing, or enjoying water sports.
1 - Interact with sea turtles at the Cayman Turtle Center
Have you ever dreamed about snorkeling with turtles? Get up close to the water with these gentle and elegant creatures at the Cayman Turtle Center!
The Cayman Turtle Center works towards conserving green sea turtles by breeding them and eventually releasing them into the wild ocean. Learn about the different species of turtles and you might even be lucky enough to hold some hatchlings at the turtle lagoon!
After learning more about turtle conservation, walk around the grounds and try to spot giant crocodiles in the Smileys saltwater lagoon or admire the exotic birds in the aviary.
2 – Dive into the water for some snorkeling at the legendary Stingray City
Grab a mask and flippers to explore underwater wonders at top snorkeling spots like the Barrier Reef or Coral Gardens. This has to be one of the ultimate top things to do in the Cayman Islands as you surround yourself with shoals of tropical fish or scan the ocean bed for brightly colored starfish!
Cruise to Stingray Town to swim alongside the friendly and charming Southern Stingrays as they merrily wade through the water. On some tours you even get the chance to feed a stingray under the guidance of a marine guide!
3 – Admire the breathtaking geological formations at the Cayman Crystal Caves
Prepare to be blown away by the amazing stalagmite and stalactite formations. Explore the hidden but beautiful underground chambers where you may occasionally see bats!
The caves are known as 'Crystal Caves' because of the calcite crystals that have formed naturally over thousands of years which sparkle in artificial light. It's amazing to think that the Cayman Crystal Caves were only discovered by humans in the recent 1990s!
4 – Go to Hell and back to see some evil black rock formations
Check out some incredible jagged black rocks between 10 and 15 million years old! Erosion by acid rain and the absorption of organic matter from this limestone has created a rugged and desolate landscape of sharp rocks!
Thinking of Dante's Inferno, one can imagine that the dark and cruel landscape of hell can look very similar!
There are viewing platforms overlooking the rock formations and you can pick up some hilarious 'Hell' related postcards from the gift shop! Located on the west side of the Grand Canyon, you can include your tour of Hell during one of the West Island tours.
5 – Check out the local top class artworks at the National Gallery of the Cayman Islands
Browse through their permanent collection of art from the mid-20th century, including an excellent selection of Caymanian modernism to realism and a selection of contemporary works. There are displays of traditional handicrafts such as simple silver thatch craft or ceramics!
Step out into the charming sculpture garden or relax and sip a coffee on the café terrace. The National Gallery of the Cayman Islands is free to visit Monday through Saturday!
6 – Go on a relaxing boat trip and feel the calm sea breeze
Why not rent a private charter boat for a small group of friends and family and zoom out for a day on the water to discover the most amazing snorkeling locations?
There are also boat tours offering trips around the waters of the Mangrove Reserve Environmental Park or around the waters of the North Sound reef lagoon. Other popular destinations for boat trips include Starfish Beach where you can see these magnificent sea creatures in the calm and clear shallow waters!
7 – Admire the West Bay shore line while horseback riding
Trotting along the sandy beaches on horseback with the warm Caribbean breeze blowing through your hair is definitely one of the top activities to do in the Cayman Islands!
Sit back and enjoy the ride as a professional guide with plenty of horse riding experience leads the group. Ask questions about horses and get to know your handsome pony!
The flat beaches of the western bay are perfect for horseback riding because of the wide open spaces. Whether you are a complete novice or an experienced rider, the horse trek along the West Bay is sure to provide an enjoyable trip!
8 – Soak up some sun rays at beautiful Seven Mile Beach
Seven Mile Beach is often cited as one of the top beaches in the world, and it's really no surprise when you see post-card like fine white sand and turquoise waters. If you are lucky, you will see some tropical fish that are traveling in shallow water like parrotfish, angelfish or butterflyfish.
Rent a paddle board or a kayak to splash around in the water or simply lay out your towel and snooze in the warm sun and take a well-deserved snooze.
Large stretches of beach perfect for long distance swimmers! If you want to improve your stroke and swimming techniques, you can also book a personal swim coaching session designed for triathlon.
9 - Take a jet ski tour and speed across the coastline
On a jet ski tour you can power over the water and visit all the top seaside locations such as Stingray Bay and Rum Point. Rum Point is a stunning beach on the north side of Grand Cayman that you definitely don't want to miss!
Experiment with different speeds and thrilling turns and pick up some jet ski driving tips! Improve your balance and steering skills on a single or double jet ski. Jet ski experiences on offer range from 30-minute to full-day tours for those who want to make the most of it and spend more time visiting the destinations en route.
10 – Admire the rainbow of unusual coral sponges at Kittiwak Ship Wreck and Artificial Reef
Just 18 meters below the water's surface, the Kittiwak shipwreck is accessible to divers of various ability levels. The Kittyhawk was a submarine rescue ship used by the United States Navy during World War II. The ship was deliberately sunk in 2011 to create an artificial reef and has since become a popular diving destination.
The ship has five decks where you can see schools of enclosed sea urchins and squirrels. Check out the mix of hard and soft corals or try and look for turtles or lobsters and crabs that hide in the rubble.
11 – Get paddling and racing on one of the adventure bike tours
Cruise through secluded mangrove forests with a beautiful gentle breeze and admire the flora and fauna. Along the various beaches, an old style Caymanian house known as the 'Old Homestead' and the infamous 'Hell' rock formation.
Explore Barkers National Park during your bike tour, which is celebrated for its mangrove swamps, tidal flats and sea grass beds. Biking guides will share information about the various habitats, wildlife and history of the sites encountered.
12 – Catch some wind and skim across the water with a kitesurf lesson
Learn how to handle and control a kite with the help of a professional instructor who will make sure you feel comfortable! Shallow, calm and crystal clear waters provide excellent conditions for beginners. At the end of the class you will stand up on the board and harness the power of the Caribbean wind!
Kitesurfing classes or gear rentals are available at Barkers Beach near Barkers National Park. Generally this beach is very quiet, making it an amazing location for amateur kite surfers!
13 - Walk around Pedro St. James House, the oldest surviving stone structure in the Cayman Islands
Pedro St. James is a restored 18th-century house with thick stone walls, balconies and a slated roof. The place has a complicated history as it was originally built by an Englishman using slave labor and was later used as a cotton plantation, a courthouse, a jail and a government assembly!
Pedro St. James is often called 'Pedro's Castle' due to its large size and many claim that the place is haunted! Follow the full history of the house during a movie screening at the Pedro Theater! The place has significant historical significance as a decision was made within the walls of the house to form Cayman's first elected parliament!
14 – Cayman Spirits Co. Distillery
A trip to the Caribbean wouldn’t feel quite complete without sampling some fruity and spicy flavored rums In fact, rum cake is one of the most popular desserts in the Cayman Islands!
The Cayman Spirits Distillery is known for their unique Seven Fathoms Rum, handcrafted rum aged in barrels stored underwater! Check out the Tourscanner site for different rum tastings in Cayman Islands which include tasting at the Tortuga Duty Free, Pedro St. James or the Cayman Spirits Co. Distillery. Learn how rum is distilled and understand more about the different varieties and styles.
Beer enthusiasts can combine the rum with a tour including beer tastings in Cayman Islands. All year round warm temperatures ranging from 24 to 31 degrees celsius make the Cayman Islands the ideal destination to enjoy a thirst quenching and refreshing chilled craft beer.
15 – Stop for some swimming at Smith’s Barcadere
Close to the George Town, Smith’s Barcadere is a calm and shallow cove located in a residential area in the south of Grand Cayman. The beach at the cove has white sand, convenient shaded picnic areas as well as showers to rinse off after a couple of hours of snorkeling.
There is no surprise that Smith’s Barcadere makes the list as one of the most photographed beaches in the Caribbean! Since it faces west, the beach is the most idyllic spot to capture the fleeting sunset. When in the water look out for delightful and friendly tropical fish such as angelfish and damselfish!
16 – See Grand Cayman from the comfort of bus tours
Embark on a 4 hour private customized bus tour with a group of friends or family where you can organize your own itinerary! Sit back and cruise around the island where a driver can drop you off and pick you up right on the door of the locations you want to visit.
Crazy about beaches? Organize your bus tour to include some of the most spectacular seaside spots around the island! Super intrigued by geology? Orientate the bus itinerary to include exciting stop offs such as the Hell rock formation of Devils grotto!
17 – Come face to face with a Grand Cayman Blue Iguana at the Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park
The Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park stands out for being a Blue Iguana Conservation Facility, meaning that this endangered reptile is bred here on site!
In addition to Blue iguanas, the Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park has a spectacular array of butterflies that dance through the fragrant flowers as well as unusual Cayman Islands native birds that perch around the lake area. During your visit, admire the gorgeous orchid species, the impressive cacti and the flower gardens organized into color themes!
A trip to the Botanic Park is included in one of the East Island tours. During the East Island tours visitors can zip across Grand Cayman in a fun three-wheeler minicar!
18 – Take a visit to the buzzing Apiary at Reagan’s Honey
Have you are wondered what it tastes like to sample honey directly from the hive? Or how long is takes for bees to produce their sweet thick honey? At Reagan’s Honey you can learn more about pollination, the role of the Queen bee and the daily tasks of a bee keeper.
You may even get the opportunity to engage in some honey harvesting and take home a pot of local fresh honey as a souvenir! Remember to take lots of fun photos in your epic and professional beekeeper suit!
19 – Get grooving on a party boat cruise as you sail over calm Caribbean waters
Rent a private party boat for some exclusive party vibes! Whether you are looking for a select gathering or a large party extravaganza, party boats can accommodate up to 100 guests on board!
Tasty snack platters, non alcoholic drinks and an amazing sound system are included so you can blare out your top party beats for some dancing and party vibes! Choose to set sail towards some of the most incredible marine spots on Grand Cayman such as Stingray bay, Coral Gardens or Barrier Reef.
20 – Eat in the trendy waterfront town of Camana Bay
Explore the various shopping boutiques or stop at one of Camana Bay's chic bars or restaurants. Camana Bay is an urban area developed by Dart Real Estate that aims to focus on both sustainability and community interaction. There are plenty of open spaces that sometimes host outdoor events such as public film screenings or music concerts.
Spots to visit in Camana Bay include the fun interactive water feature fountain or the observation tower covered in nautical themed mosaic tiles! Walk around the small harbor and check out the boats or visit the weekly farmers and artisan markets.
21 - Get your reel out and try some deep sea fishing
Grand Cayman waters are home to delicious and prized fish species that are great when grilled or put into fish chowder!
On a deep fishing expedition, fishing enthusiasts can learn more about different fishing techniques used by anglers like spinning, drifting and jigging from experienced fishermen! Top catches include Caribbean queen snapper, mahi mahi and wahoo fish!
22 - Check out the best golf courses in Grand Cayman
North Sound Golf Club is Cayman's only 18 hole course. Kick back on your golf club while admiring the stunning ocean views. Practice your aim at the Aqua Driving Range where you can hit balls floating on water! Share a post-game drink and relax in the shade at the on-site open air bar with your golf buddies.
Master your swing at The Ritz-Carlton Golf Club featuring a 9 hole course and practice green. Take a golf lesson and embrace the fresh air of the saltwater lagoon.
23 – Experience Australian and Caribbean fusion cuisine at Tukka East End
Dine at Tukka East End Restaurant where you can sit on the shaded veranda and enjoy the mesmerizing view of the sea. You might even be able to catch a glimpse of the famous shipwreck, the wreck of the Ten Sails! This fleet of 10 ships sank again in 1794 while attempting to navigate from Jamaica to the United States.
Taste fresh seafood brought in by local fishermen with Yellow Fin Tuna and Mahou Snapper! Stop by Monday through Friday for happy hour or head to Tuesday to take advantage of the delicious Taco Tuesday deals.
24 – Head out for some night snorkeling
Visit the mesmerizing BioBay where you can marvel at phosphorescent glowing waters filled with millions of plankton. The naturally lit water provides an unforgettable and magical romantic setting!
Biobay is one of the unique places in the world where you can enjoy bioluminescence all year round! For the best conditions try and go when there is no moon or a small new moon to provide an extra dark background. Snorkel around in the silent calm of the night air without the heat of the daily sun!
The smaller and more remote island of Little Cayman oozes quiet and tranquility with plenty of empty beaches and natural mangroves. Get away from the crowds and explore the saltwater lagoon at Buby Pond Nature Reserve for some bird watching or focus on your wellness with a daily yoga session or some great snorkeling!
25 - Enjoy a moment of sheer tranquility at Bali Point
The Point of Sand is a charming beach on the northeastern tip of Little Cayman. Paddle through the endless shallow ankle-deep waters and feel the fine powdery soft sand beneath your feet.
Sand Point is generally less busy than other beaches in the Cayman Islands, offering a peaceful and somewhat more secluded atmosphere. Sit in the picnic area with a small barbecue pit, enjoy a snack and spend a lazy day listening to the gentle breeze.
26 - Explore the uninhabited and peaceful Wayne Island
Wayne Island is a small island off the southwest coast of Little Cayman. Spend the afternoon on the sandy beach or swimming and snorkeling in the bright blue waters.
Due to the absence of any commercial development, Wayne Island is a beautiful place of natural beauty and bird enthusiasts may be able to spot some interesting wildlife such as the brown bubby seabird.
Try and capture a photo of the brown bowies as they head down to the water for a tasty catch Other birds that can be spotted include the Magnificent Frigatebird known for its aerial acrobatics!
27 - Brush up on your local history knowledge at the Little Cayman Museum
The mission of the Little Cayman Museum is to preserve and celebrate the natural, cultural and historical heritage of Little Cayman. The museum is open every day except Sunday.
Visit the fascinating exhibit of underwater photography to discover more about native rock iguanas. The Little Cayman Sister Islands are home to a unique species of rock iguana that is quite large and has rough textured scales! You'll be happy to know that these rock iguanas are primarily herbivores and enjoy eating leaves and fruits.
At the museum you can discover more about Christopher Columbus and when he first set eyes on Little Cayman in 1503. Learn about local seafaring culture from boat building, fishing to maritime navigation.
28 – Go birding in the saltwater lagoon at Buby Pond Nature Reserve
Buby Pond Nature Reserve is a bird sanctuary and natural area managed and protected by the National Trust. During your visit, look out for a resident colony of 4,000 red-footed booby birds! This large bird has red legs, a colorful bluish beak and feathers ranging from white to brown.
The reserve is a natural haven for birds where Black-necked Stilts feed on water bugs and crustaceans in the mud or Magnificent Frigate birds that can be found nesting in the trees. The reserve has a well-developed viewing tower so that visitors can observe the wildlife without encroaching and disturbing their habitat.
Apart from the birds, you can catch a glimpse of the Sister Islands rock iguanas basking in the sun in the dry land area!
29 - Visit the tiny Cayman Baptist Church
The church was rebuilt in a simple style after an earthquake in 1932 and has a blue green exterior with white framed arched windows. The church has a warm and friendly atmosphere.
The church can be found in the small and cozy village of Blossom on the southwest coast of Little Cayman.
30 - Take some deep calming breaths at Little Island Yoga
Dedicate some time to your inner well-being at Little Island Yoga. Whether you want a sunrise private yoga session, a fun dynamic vinyasa group class or simply a guided meditation practice, Little Island Yoga has a lot to offer.
Reconnect with your body and breath in a relaxing Tai Chi session right by the beach! A few sessions of yoga can really help your mind and body slow down so you can completely switch off from the stress of your daily work and heal during your vacation! Stretch those tired muscles and improve your balance and flexibility.
31 – Enjoy a delicious meal at The Hungry Iguana Restaurant
Diners at The Hungry Iguana can enjoy their meal with a stunning view overlooking the ocean from the shaded patio terrace.
Their menu caters to all taste preferences, from Cayman Island specialties such as mouth-watering seafood chowder, jerk chicken or freshly caught lobster to classic international pizzas, pastas and burgers.
There are often live music events where you can enjoy a cocktail and watch the sunset while listening to the lively rhythms of local musicians.
Take a 30-minute flight from Grand Cayman to reach the breathtakingly alluring island of Cayman Brac. Slightly larger in land than its sibling Little Cayman, Cayman Brac will blow visitors away with natural wonders such as bluff limestone cliffs and shipwreck diving!
32 - Step back in time at the local Cayman Brac Museum
The Cayman Brac Museum is the oldest museum in the Cayman Islands since 1983! The museum aims to educate visitors about the traditional heritage of Cayman Brac and has interesting and educational exhibits on local maritime traditions such as turtles and ship building.
Learn about the difficulties faced after the hurricane in 1932 or discover more about the islands' geology and different rock types. Encounter old artifacts such as tools and traditional clothing used by previous island settlers in the early 1900s.
33 – Hike along the nature trail at the National Trust Parrot Reserve
Watch wild, small and colorful Cayman Brac parrots fly overhead and fly among the trees! Cayman Brac parrots are characterized by their bright green and blue feathers and slightly red cheeks.
The best time to watch parrots in flight is early morning or late afternoon when they are most active.
Brac Parrot Reserve has many other interesting bird species such as red-legged thrushes and white-crowned pigeons.
If you plan to follow the nature trail, be sure to wear some sturdy and comfortable trekking shoes as the forest floor can get quite rough with some rough terrain!
34 - Keep an eye on the bluff, the highest elevation point in the entire Cayman Islands
The locals refer to the 43 meter sheer limestone cliff wall as the Bluff! These picturesque cliffs are home to many bats hiding in the crags, providing the perfect backdrop for some spectacular holiday snaps. From the top you can enjoy the stunning view of the sea and watch the birds nesting in the crevices of the cliffs.
On a windy day you can hear the waves crashing on the rocks. Legend has it that the infamous pirate Black Beard even collected some hidden treasure in the hidden cliff caves during his voyage to Jamaica!
35 - Explore the mysterious caves of Cayman Brac
Learn more about the tragic history of the 1932 hurricane at Rebecca's Cave where many families fled in an attempt to seek shelter from the storm. Inside the cave you can find the memorial tomb of Rebecca, a poignant reminder of how the hurricane destroyed human life in Cayman Brac.
One of the best caves to enter is Skull Cave, which gets its creepy name because the rock entrance is shaped like a skull from the inside. Listen to the echoing sounds of roosting bats and pose for some fun photographs!
Another cave that is worth visiting is the largest cave in Cayman Brac, the mighty Great Cave. Climb up the wooden ladder to enter the cave where you can see the amazing stalagmites!
36 – Think Cayman Brac East End Lighthouse
The lighthouse helps ships navigate past and avoid treacherous reefs! Before the 19th century the coastal waters were even once called the 'Graveyard of the Caribbean'.
Today the East End Lighthouse is powered by solar energy and is surrounded by a park which is managed by the Port Authority and the National Trust. You have to climb several stairs before reaching the lighthouse so make sure you have comfortable hiking shoes!
37 – Walk around the Cayman Brac Heritage House
Heritage Houses are cultural centers used for community and arts events, for example artists' social gatherings or local exhibitions. From time to time they conduct special book reading sessions or craft markets.
The building is an interesting reproduction of a typical Cayman cottage. Learn more about everyday island life for example traditions such as straw rope work. Entrance is free and there are souvenirs for sale in the small gift shop area.
38 - Embark on a scuba diving experience at Brac Scuba Shack
BRAC Scuba Shack offers the ideal scuba diving experience for both novice and advanced divers. Opt for an exciting wreck diving excursion to discover the old Russian frigate 'Captain Keith Tibbetts' hidden deep in the ocean!
Alternatively opt for an unforgettable night dive experience to spot some nocturnal marine life like octopus, eels and lobsters!
For those looking to improve their scuba skills, Brack Scuba Shack also offers training courses for PADI certification, Advanced Open Water, Rescue Diver and more.
39 - Treat yourself to a massage at Le Soleil d'Or spa
Relax and unwind at the spa at Le Soleil d'Or, an organic farm sanctuary with a botanical garden that also doubles as a luxury boutique hotel. Le Soleil d'Or is conveniently located along the South Side Road, not far from the National Trust Parrot Reserve.
Nurture your well-being with an exfoliating body treatment or a revitalizing facial. After a restorative full-body massage, lay back in one of the garden hammocks and sway gently to the symphony of ocean breezes and birds chirping. Make sure you feel like new!
40 – Enjoy a cold beer at the best nightlife spots
Coral Isle Restaurant has an outdoor bar with amazing ocean views, the perfect place to watch a spectacular sunset. At night floodlights illuminate the water below the patio so visitors can try to spot some of the marine life hiding in the sea grass while enjoying some delicious cocktails! Top cocktails include the Blue Lagoon, a refreshing mix of vodka and tequila!
Or head to the Tipsy Turtle Bar at Cayman Brac Beach Resort with great views of the pool and ocean. Make the most of their happy hour and there is often live music on weekends. Sometimes they host events like bingo trivia nights. This place is popular with those who want a BBQ night on a Friday for meat dishes.
FAQs about Cayman Islands:
Are there any safety precautions for Stingray City snorkeling?
Absolutely. While stingrays are gentle, it's crucial to avoid stepping on them. Listen to your guide's instructions, and you'll have a safe and unforgettable experience.
What is the best time to witness bioluminescence in Cayman Islands?
The best time to experience bioluminescence is during the new moon phase when the night sky is darkest. Plan your visit accordingly for the most magical display.
Are there vegetarian options available in Caymanian cuisine?
Certainly! Caymanian cuisine caters to diverse palates, offering delicious vegetarian options alongside the abundant seafood choices.
Can I explore Seven Mile Beach on a budget?
Yes, Seven Mile Beach offers budget-friendly options for visitors. Public beach access and affordable water activities make it accessible for all.
Is island-hopping suitable for families?
Absolutely. Island-hopping allows families to explore different facets of the Cayman Islands, catering to both adventure seekers and those seeking relaxation.
Are there any local festivals to attend during my visit?
Yes, Cayman Islands host various festivals throughout the year, celebrating local culture, music, and cuisine. Check the event calendar to coincide your visit with these vibrant celebrations.
Conclusion:
Embark on a journey of discovery in the Cayman Islands, where every corner reveals a new adventure. From the iconic Seven Mile Beach to the cultural charm of George Town, this destination promises a vacation of a lifetime. Indulge in the diversity of activities, immerse yourself in nature, and create memories that linger long after the sun has set on the horizon.
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