The Cayman Islands: An Artistic Escape

The Cayman Islands are more widely recognized for banking than for their artistic endeavors. However, this destination is rich in galleries and museums waiting to be explored.

1. A Unique Beach Experience

During my visit to Grand Cayman’s Seven Mile Beach, I found the sand to be as soft and white as I remembered, with the water’s turquoise hues proving just as mesmerizing. This time, however, the beach was devoid of cruise ships and hordes of day-trippers, creating a tranquil atmosphere that allowed me to appreciate its beauty fully.

Grand Cayman’s premier beach is technically less than six miles long, but it has always captivated my heart. I have enjoyed refreshing beverages at its beach bars, browsed through hotel boutiques, and reveled in the warmth of its sugar-fine sands countless times. Following the lockdown initiated in March 2020, the Cayman Islands emerged cautiously into tourism, choosing to prioritize the health of its residents, while reopening ultimately took nearly two years.

2. Cultural Interaction

According to Hannah Ebanks, a public relations officer from the Department of Tourism, “We did miss the tourists. They’re an important part of our economy. But, as a local, it was really nice to enjoy Seven Mile Beach and have that little slice of heaven all to ourselves.”

The island hosts a diverse population with over 100 nationalities, with expatriates representing nearly half of the 65,000 residents.

3. Artistic Venues and Local Creativity

Upon restarting tourism in November, strict regulations were enforced, yet the allure of the islands remained strong. As I flew into Grand Cayman, I knew any inconvenience faced would be worth it.

The Cayman Islands stand out in the Caribbean as the wealthiest nation, where tourism is not the primary economic driver—banking and financial services take precedence instead. This financial security allowed the islands to restrict cruise ship access, effectively sacrificing millions in revenue, but prioritizing public health.

The richness of cultural exchanges is a highlight of any visit. On my exploration of Grand Cayman, I sought to uncover elements of the culture I had overlooked in previous trips focused solely on sun and sand. I quickly learned that there is much more to discover.

4. Discovering Caymanian Culture

The National Gallery of the Cayman Islands is an artistic hub that showcases the works of Caymanian artists. It features exhibitions highlighting the relationship the islanders share with their marine environment, such as “Saltwater in Their Veins,” presenting works created by contemporary artists living on the island.

As I toured the gallery, I admired beautifully woven straw baskets that pay homage to traditional craftsmanship. The evolution of the local art scene reflects broader themes such as immigration, ethnicity, and the preservation of cultural identity.

To conclude, while the idyllic beaches of the Cayman Islands serve as a primary attraction, the rich tapestry of local arts and culture adds depth to any visit. The islands invite exploration beyond the usual sunny retreat, revealing a vibrant side that is often overshadowed.

A version of this story first appeared in the November 2022 issue of GoTravelDaily under the headline Treasure Island.