Top 15 Must-See Attractions in the Cayman Islands

Rising from the underwater Cayman Ridge to form the trio of large islets that constitute the Cayman Islands, this British archipelago territory has become synonymous with affluence, wealth, and luxury, making it a sought-after destination among the Caribbean Islands.

This reputation is predominantly attributed to the thriving affluence of cities like George Town, recognized globally as a tax haven, replete with the offices of multinational corporations and esteemed business names.

Nevertheless, this tropical paradise encompasses much more than mere figures and affluent individuals.

Consider the idyllic Little Cayman, adorned with fringes of coconut palms that emerge directly from the pristine sands and the virtually unending coral reserves of Bloody Bay.

Alternatively, one could explore the secluded Cayman Brac: a rugged enclave characterized by bluffs and escarpments cascading into the Caribbean supported by mangrove and salt-sprayed stone.

However, Grand Cayman remains the primary attraction, boasting the renowned Seven Mile Beach, the stingray encounters around Rum Point, along with countless picturesque coves and centers devoted to endangered sea turtles.

Let us delve into the top activities to experience in the Cayman Islands:

1. Enjoy seven miles of sand on Seven Mile Beach

Consistently featured on lists of the world’s premier beaches and undoubtedly the touristic centerpiece of the Cayman Islands, the radiant Seven Mile Beach is a quintessential illustration of tropical paradise.

Stretching nearly the entire length of western Grand Cayman from the outskirts of George Town in the south to West Bay in the north, visitors can indulge in soft talcum-powder sands and clear aquamarine waters, bordered by swaying coconut palm groves, sunbeds, and cabanas spilling from nearby resort hotels.

Water sports are prevalent here, and the clarity of the sea allows snorkelers and swimmers to easily spot exotic fish and vibrant coral formations!

2. Join the millionaires in George Town

Often associated with Switzerland and Panama, George Town stands as one of the world’s prominent safe havens for hedge fund managers and banking conglomerates seeking to minimize their global tax obligations, making it a remarkable destination to explore.

The waterfront promenade along the Grand Cayman port represents the epicenter of activity, featuring rows of pastel-colored buildings and colonial-style structures bordering the water.

Nearby, the remnants of Fort George reflect the rich history of 18th-century colonial times, while numerous duty-free outlets offering Caymanite gemstones and sophisticated wine bars frequented by tourists and affluent visitors line the surrounding streets.

3. Cayman Spirits Co. Distillery: bespoke rum at its best

There is no better place in the sunlit Cayman Islands to experience authentic Caribbean rum than at the Cayman Spirits Co. Distillery.

A relatively recent addition to the attractions in George Town, the distillery began crafting their unique batches in 2008, and has since evolved into the archipelago’s most renowned rum label. Visitors are invited to tour the distilling house on Bronze Road, where they can observe the production of the highly regarded Seven Fathoms rum.

The tour guides are recognized for their engaging and friendly demeanor, and at the conclusion, there are opportunities to sample various shots and mixers.

4. Check-off the bucket list at Stingray City

Undoubtedly the most acclaimed activity and attraction in the Cayman Islands, Stingray City offers an unparalleled opportunity to fulfill one’s bucket list.

Visitors are taken to a series of shallow reefs and sandbars reaching a maximum depth of just a meter between Rum Point and West Bay on the northern extremes of Grand Cayman.

This site has long been known as a gathering place for southern stingrays, and today tour operators provide exciting chances to interact with these iconic Caribbean creatures.

Guests can touch and swim with the stingrays beneath the water, all while enjoying the stunning views of the Caribbean Sea and Booby Cay.

5. Follow the Mastic Trail

Meandering into the heart of Grand Cayman through the expansive protected landscapes of the Mastic Reserve, the Mastic Trail presents an excellent introduction to the more unrefined and natural aspects of this archipelago.

Surrounded by sprawling mangroves, wetland swamps, and abundant palm trees along with black mastic forests, hikers traverse over four kilometers of the island’s interior.

Along the way, observers may encounter elusive lizards and rare bird species, including Cuban amazons, Yucatan vireos, and the striking white-crowned pigeons.

It is advisable to wear appropriate hiking footwear!

6. Wonder at the rocks of Hell

A brief journey from the bright red post offices and souvenir shops of Hell town (where locals have ingeniously embraced their municipality’s unconventional name) reveals the magnificent rock formations that inspired the area’s infamous moniker.

Here, a football field-sized expanse features dagger-like spires and hoodoos, alongside unique phytokarst formations adorned with whimsical sculptures.

Access to the rocks themselves is restricted, however, several viewing platforms are available for eager visitors.

7. Enjoy local company and local flavours at Big Tree BBQ

Operated by the ever-smiling local Caymanian Henry Harris, the Big Tree BBQ at Gun Bay in eastern Grand Cayman may initially appear as a simple outdoor cooking setup.

Nevertheless, the delectable meat cuts, marinated ribs, succulent steaks, and legendary conch stews produced on these grills have become widely renowned within the culinary landscape of the islands.

These dishes are generous in portion and are served beneath the shade of a magnificent green tree.

This is an experience that should not be overlooked!

8. Dive down to the Kittiwake Shipwreck

Only certified dive operators are permitted to lead excursions to the underwater site where the USS Kittiwake was sunk in 2011.

As one of the most visually captivating SCUBA diving locations in the archipelago, it represents a fascinating remnant of the United States navy increasingly enveloped by the marine flora and fauna of the Caribbean.

Recently, photographic exhibits were established on the submerged vessel to commemorate its decommissioning, enhancing its appeal as an artificial reef and establishing the Kittiwake as one of the premier dive sites in the area.

9. Snorkel and sleep at Rum Point

Comprising swaying hammocks, saltwater beach huts, shaded pine groves, and palm-fringed shores, Rum Point extends into the northern expanse of Grand Cayman.

In contrast to the bustling stretches of George Town and bright Seven Mile, this location offers a serene atmosphere (partly due to its distance from the main cruise ship ports!). As a result, visitors can relax with a rum punch and observe the world around them, while the adjacent coral gardens are immensely popular with snorkelers eager to encounter sea turtles and schools of vibrant fish.

10. Bloody Bay Marine Reserve

The second of the Cayman Islands’ globally recognized dive locations featured in this article is the Bloody Bay Marine Reserve.

This vast expanse of deep ocean and thriving coral ecosystems hugging the coastlines of unspoiled Little Cayman is among the most sought-after SCUBA destinations globally.

Shallow dive spots are located just 20 meters below for PADI beginners, while more advanced divers can discover rare sponges and the sheer-cut Bloody Bay Wall, plunging vertically to the ocean floor.

Prepare for encounters with nurse sharks, sea turtles, sea lions, and lionfish!

11. Wax the walking boots for Cayman Brac

Cayman Brac represents the most remote of the principal Cayman Islands and serves as a haven for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Significantly less developed and less frequented than both Little Cayman and Grand Cayman, this narrow strip of land is renowned for its rugged 50-meter-high bluff, extending in heroic stone walls along its coastline.

Consequently, the hiking possibilities are exceptional.

Trails weave along the powdery beaches of Cotton Tree Bay and ascend to the sinkholes and fissures that dot the bluff.

Other paths circle the mangroves and pass by beach shacks along Spot Bay in the east.

Indeed, Cayman Brac is truly a hidden gem for trekking enthusiasts!

12. Get some local history at Pedro’s Castle

This delightful manor house, situated between Bodden Town and George Town on the southern outskirts of Grand Cayman, is recognized as the oldest surviving structure in the entire Cayman archipelago.

Its status as a National Historic Site makes it a prime location for those seeking to learn about the local history.

Now beautifully restored, with charming verandas and some of its original 18th-century stonework, this site has played a significant role in the evolution of democracy within the islands and was where the decree abolishing slavery was first proclaimed.

Qualified guides regularly conduct informative tours.

13. Cayman Turtle Farm: crocs and green sea turtles aplenty

For a firsthand look at some of the rarest and most stunning marine life indigenous to the Cayman Islands and the broader Caribbean, a visit to the Cayman Turtle Farm is essential.

This small conservation, entertainment, and research facility located near the westernmost edge of Grand Cayman showcases everything from endangered green sea turtles to saltwater crocodiles.

Guests can interact with turtles in the touch tanks, observe the celebrated loggerhead sea turtles, and even swim in the island’s largest outdoor swimming pool known as Breaker’s Lagoon.

14. Get some fish fritters at the Heritage Kitchen

Situated within a vibrant and distinctly Caribbean structure at the northern end of Seven Mile Beach, the popular Heritage Kitchen is celebrated for its fresh seafood and fish fritters in Grand Cayman.

Straightforward yet hearty, the local seafood is grilled to perfection, enriched with spicy flavors or simply dressed with crunchy salt and accompanied by rice and salad.

Specialties include pan-fried grouper, fish soups, curried and coconut wahoo, and pineapple-topped fish fillets.

One thing to note: credit cards are not accepted, and options for vegetarians are quite limited!

15. Wonder at Davidoff’s Concrete Sculptures

Enormous concrete crabs, blue-hued iguanas the configuration of a horse, octopuses with their tentacles spread wide, and oversized reclining lizards represent just a glimpse of the extraordinary creations populating Davidoff’s Concrete Sculpture Garden.

Located on the northern side of Grand Cayman, approximately halfway between the east coast and Rum Point, this quirky art park is a surprising addition to the shoreline, decorating the sandy banks beneath the palms along Old Robin Road.

All of these unique statues are the work of local artist David Quasius, who has been adding new thought-provoking creations for years.