Welcome to a tropical paradise where turquoise waters meet powdery white sands, and adventure and relaxation seamlessly coexist. True Blue Waters Travel had the amazing opportunity to partner with the Cayman Islands Department of Tourism in October 2023 for a grand experience around Grand Cayman. Grand Cayman Island is a destination that promises the perfect blend of natural beauty, culinary delights, and unforgettable experiences.
This 2-part guide will unveil the best properties to suit your travel goals (part 1) and take you on a ride through the incredible experiences that make Grand Cayman Island a must-visit destination. Prepare to be enchanted by the allure of this Caribbean gem!
Top Experiences on the Water
Private Charter to Stingray City
Stingray City is an absolute must-visit attraction. This unique site allows you to interact with Southern Stingrays in their natural habitat, making it a thrilling and educational experience. You can wade in the shallow, sandy waters while these gentle creatures gracefully glide by, and the local guides provide fascinating insights into their behavior and biology.
Not all experiences to this top Grand Cayman attraction are created equal. We went with Five Star Charters and they absolutely elevated the experience. Onboard their beautiful 48 foot yacht, we enjoyed a light breakfast, mimosas, and enough space for 10 of us. We were the first to arrive to Stingray City and enjoyed this private experience for about 40 minutes until the cruise ship excursion boats started arriving in the masses. Once the area became populated with boats we jetted off to Starfish Point and had fun on the jet ski! Their service was top notch with a crew of three.
To enjoy this excursion as a family or group of friends, I’d recommend going private or with a small-group tour that prioritizes departures to avoid the cruise excursions. You can select half-day or full-day cruises to see the best of Grand Cayman on the water.
Sunset Sailing
Sunset catamaran sailing in Grand Cayman is like a dreamy boat ride at dusk. You hop on a comfy catamaran, and as the sun goes down, the warm breeze takes you for a relaxing sail. It’s perfect for a romantic date night or just unwinding with friends. It’s a fantastic way to end your day in Grand Cayman.
We sailed with Red Sails, they have offices in town and conveniently by the Kimpton Seafire Resort if you’re staying on property. They have an evening catamaran cruise that serves drinks and a 3-course dinner onboard. This would be a perfect signature event for larger groups!
Seven Mile Beach
Seven Mile Beach, often called “Paradise in the Caribbean,” is Grand Cayman’s crown jewel and a top attraction for visitors.
Despite its name, this stunning stretch of powdery, white sand actually measures around 5.5 miles, but its beauty and allure are immeasurable. The beach offers a picture-perfect setting with crystal-clear waters and gentle waves, making it a haven for sunbathers, swimmers, and water sports enthusiasts. With a plethora of beachfront resorts, restaurants, and water activities, Seven Mile Beach is not only a place to unwind and soak up the sun but also the hub for vibrant island life.
Cemetery Beach
Cemetery Beach, tucked away on the northwestern coast of Grand Cayman, is a hidden gem that offers a quieter and more serene beach experience compared to the bustling Seven Mile Beach. It’s a favorite among locals and a great choice for those looking to escape the crowds and embrace the natural beauty of Grand Cayman. It was recommended multiple times to me for the best snorkeling!
The name might seem a bit unusual, but it has a historical significance dating back to a nearby cemetery. The clear, shallow waters are perfect for snorkeling, and you’ll find a colorful underwater world filled with marine life.
Scuba Dive in 365 Dive Sites
You could dive a new site every day for a year! Grand Cayman offers over 300 dive sites, making it a paradise for divers of all levels of expertise. These sites include vibrant coral reefs, stunning wall dives, shipwrecks, and underwater formations that cater to a wide range of diving experiences, from shallow and beginner-friendly sites to more advanced and challenging options.
As a PADI Open Water certified diver, I dove two tanks with Living the Dream Divers and spotted an Eagle Ray for the first time and a giant loggerhead turtle.
Top Experiences on Land
Turtle Center
The Cayman Turtle Centre is a fascinating attraction on Grand Cayman that combines conservation efforts with education and entertainment. It’s the only facility of its kind in the Caribbean, dedicated to the preservation and rehabilitation of sea turtles. Visitors of all ages can learn about these remarkable creatures through interactive exhibits, educational programs, and guided tours. One of the highlights is the opportunity to get up close and personal with various sea turtle species, including the enormous green sea turtles.
For an extra special experience, you can sponsor a private turtle release and name the turtle. This was a truly special moment to release our turtle back into the ocean.Did you know this turtle will return to the exact location later to hatch eggs?
Helicopter Tour
A helicopter tour in Grand Cayman offers a truly unforgettable and bird’s-eye view of the island’s breathtaking beauty. From the moment you lift off, you’ll be treated to panoramic vistas of the island’s pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush landscapes. These tours provide a unique perspective of the island’s top attractions, including Seven Mile Beach, Stingray City, and the stunning coral reefs. With expert pilots providing commentary and interesting facts along the way, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation of the island’s natural wonders.
For History Lovers - Pedro St. James & Cayman Islands National Museum
Pedro St. James, often referred to as the “Birthplace of Democracy in the Cayman Islands,” is a historically significant site that offers a captivating journey into the island’s past. The elegant and meticulously restored Pedro St. James Castle, originally built in the 1780s, is the oldest existing stone structure on the Cayman Islands. Visitors can explore its rich history, including the 1831 meeting that led to the islands’ first elected parliament.
The Cayman Islands National Museum, located in George Town, provides further insights into the cultural and natural heritage of the islands, with exhibits ranging from geological history to the island’s seafaring traditions and pirate lore. These attractions together offer a comprehensive and enlightening exploration of the Cayman Islands’ heritage and make for a thought-provoking cultural experience
For Art Lovers - the National Gallery of the Cayman Islands
The National Gallery of the Cayman Islands (NGCI) is a cultural gem that showcases the vibrant art and creativity of the Cayman Islands. This dynamic institution features an extensive collection of both traditional and contemporary Caymanian art, offering visitors a deep dive into the island’s rich artistic heritage.
A visit to the National Gallery is not only an opportunity to appreciate art but also to connect with the Cayman Islands’ cultural pulse, making it a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts and those eager to embrace the island’s creative spirit. Entry into the gallery is free! Plan to spend about an hour. This would be a great activity when you get some unexpected showers.
Experience Grand Cayman
If you’re ready to step outside of the typical Caribbean all-inclusive, and get deep into a local culture, cuisine, and wildlife, Grand Cayman might be for you! Contact True Blue Waters Travel to get more insider knowledge when planning your next Caribbean vacation.
Check out part 1: the best places to stay on Grand Cayman Island. Subscribe to our monthly newsletter for more destination updates!
