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, introduce you to some of our favorite restaurants serving up culinary masterpieces, 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! Part 1 will review first impressions and the best properties to experience.
A short flight away...
Sitting just below Cuba, the Cayman Islands are one of the closest Caribbean islands with direct flights from the major cities listed below. In a few hours, you’ll set your eyes on the calmest, blue waters and white sand beach.
| Departure City | Grand Cayman (Approx. Duration) |
|---|---|
| Houston, TX | 2.5 – 3.5 hours |
| Dallas, TX | 2.5 – 3.5 hours |
| Atlanta, GA | 3.5 – 4.5 hours |
| Miami, FL | 1.5 – 2.5 hours |
| Los Angeles, CA | 6 – 7.5 hours |
| Denver, CO | 4.5 – 5.5 hours |
First Impressions
Upon arriving to the island, my first impression was wow, the island looked very clean and developed. I later learned Cayman Island has the highest GDP in the Caribbean. Why does this matter for visitors?
#1 is safety! The crime rate is very low and there’s a lack of soliciting on the beaches that you might experience in other Caribbean destinations. In October, a slow season, the beaches remained uncrowded. If you’re looking for swimmable beaches, the Seven Mile Beach is unbeatable with almost no waves, no sargrassum, and clear waters.
Stunning Properties to Delight
Although small, Grand Cayman has a curated offering of luxury properties to fit your needs and budget. Properties cater to small families, multi-generational group and couples. The place to be is on Seven Mile Beach.. You’re walking distance to the beach and restaurants.
Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa
We stayed at the Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa for for five nights and the experience was unforgettable! The resort is located slightly north on Seven Mile Beach and the surrounding area still has a touch of nature. This resort would be perfect for small families, a relaxing girls getaway or romance. Most room categories offered an ocean view and 90% have the ability to connect. Most memorable rooms included the family rooms with bunks for the kids, ocean front bungalows with ultimate privacy for a group, and the corner ocean front room with the best beach view. I’d 100% send a group here that’s looking to unwind at the Seafire Spa. The wellness menu is anything but ordinary and extensive.
Service was exceptional! They only downside might be the distance to the main Seven Mile Beach for restaurants isn’t walkable. Onsite Seafire has four restaurants and poolside service. We tried all the dining selections that they were great!
You might consider renting a car for a couple days to have full freedom to explore and get a taste of the local cuisine. A highlight of Seafire was their incredible and intimate Library by the Sea speciality cocktail bar. The bartenders had created a unique cocktail menu to surprise and delight.
Palm Heights
Caribbean unstated glamour. This is the place to be seen or unseen. Imagine being invited to your wealthy friends vacation villa. That’s the image the hotel is putting off. A-listers like Gigi Hadid have stayed here.
The rooms are a mid-century unstated, and some might say underwhelming , style. It’s all intentional. The standouts are the shared spaces like the music room and cocktail gathering room. If you love art, music, interior design, creative spaces, this is a wonderful property to experience.
If you are a serious fitness lover, you will be wowed by the indoor AND outdoor gym. The gym is world class with free weights and expansive spaces.
If you’re looking to run into locals, come to one of the dining venues. Their restaurant, Tillies was my favorite meal on the island. So good we returned for their burger, lobster and bubbles night! They’re still under development with a speakeasy, chef’s table and hammam spa opening soon!
The Ritz-Carlton Grand Cayman
For classic luxury, you can’t beat a stay at the Ritz-Carlton Grand Cayman. It’s located in the prime center of the Seven Mile beach. From modest rooms to grand suites and residences, you’re stay on property will be fill with indulgence. The Ritz-Carlton is known to be one of the best family-friendly luxury brands around the world and this property is no different.
We experienced lunch created by one of their chefs, and the meal was incredible. Breakfast was also extensive with a buffet or a la carte option. You get free breakfast when booking with True Blue Waters at the Ritz, Seafire and Palm Heights!
The Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort & Spa and Grand Cayman Marriott Beach Resort
Both of these properties are great options that gives room in a budget. Both are located directly on Seven Mile Beach. However, through natural erosion, Marriott Beach Resort no longer has direct beach access. Beaches in Grand Cayman are open to the public so it’d would be possible to spend a beach day somewhere nearby.
Caribbean Club (Condos)
For groups and families looking for kitchen spaces, Caribbean Club offers 2 and 3 bedroom condos with access to a pool and is also on the beautiful Seven Mile Beach. This property is ideal for vacationers looking for more space. Caribbean Club is a 37 all suite boutique hotel that offers traditional concierge services to help make your stay stress-free.
Stay tuned for part 2 of our Grand Cayman guide!
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! Need more convincing?
Don’t miss out on the best activities on Grand Cayman Island in part 2 Subscribe to our monthly newsletter for first access.
