Unlike some Caribbean islands, Grand Cayman has a more sophisticated culture not overshadowed by tourism and travel. It’s evident in Rum Point, where expats slightly outnumber native Caymanians. Spend your first day on the island checking in to your hotel, getting a rental car (remember, they drive on the left side of the road!), and managing your jet lag.
Book Your Activities
Public sector agencies like the Cayman Islands Department of Tourism (CIDOT) ensure you have the best time visiting Grand Cayman without legal concerns. As a top Caribbean destination for families, Grand Cayman offers plenty of activities to please the entire family.
Indulge your senses by visiting the island’s impressive botanical gardens and conservation park for the endemic blue iguanas, or explore the local culture at the Cayman Islands National Museum.
Compared to many Caribbean destinations, Grand Cayman feels less touristy than expected. Though the rest of the island has its unique charms, Seven Mile Beach is not without its glitz and glitter. Visit from November through May in the off-season. This time frame offers a sweet spot of lower prices, fewer tourists, and gorgeous weather.
Renting a car is necessary for exploring the island, as it can be pretty significant and there are no public buses. Begin your adventure by driving across the west end of the island to discover beaches, views, coconut stands, and blowholes along the way.
Then, take a guided tour of the Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park and Pedro St. James National Historic Site in Bodden Town, which includes a stop at the famous Tortuga Rum Cake Factory.
Book Your Flights
The most affordable flights to Grand Cayman are available when you book your tickets early. Flights are expensive during the summer and around school breaks and popular vacation periods, so it’s best to plan when booking your travel. Consider bundling your hotel, flight, and car rental into a vacation package to maximize your savings.
After catching your arrival flights to Grand Cayman, make sure you have a rental car in place to explore as soon as possible. As a British Overseas Territory, driving is on the left side of the road, and while it may be disorienting at first, it’s easy to navigate and relatively safe.
Those on a budget might prefer to skip the rental car and take advantage of public transportation, which is easily accessible through George Town’s city center. You can also check out the island’s dazzling array of marine life on an exciting snorkeling excursion. Enjoy dinner at a waterfront restaurant in the evening, or head to Seven Mile Beach for its renowned nightlife scene.
Rent a Car
Getting around Grand Cayman is easy when you rent a car. While many of the best hotels are clustered along Seven Mile Beach, the rest of the island has enticing sights and activities. Renting a car is also cost-effective compared to booking an organized tour, plus it gives you the freedom to explore on your own time and terms.
A rental car is also ideal for traveling to Rum Point, where you can swim with stingrays and other marine life. You’ll find various restaurants and bars in the area and numerous galleries and museums featuring the island’s burgeoning art scene.
Remember that cars must drive on the left side of the road because the Cayman Islands are a British Overseas Territory. While this is a minor deal for most Americans, it can disorient first-time visitors. Fortunately, drivers are generally relaxed and courteous, so you shouldn’t have any problems on vacation!
Book Your Accommodations
When planning your trip to Grand Cayman, where you stay is just as crucial as your airfare and rental car. There are many hotels in Grand Cayman to choose from, so you can find the perfect fit for your needs.
You’ll find many options to match your vacation style, from budget hotels to luxury resorts. Most tourists visiting Grand Cayman land at Owen Roberts International Airport. It’s located right outside of George Town and is the central hub for flights to the Cayman Islands. You can easily rent a car or taxi to your hotel from there.
If you plan excursions like Stingray City or Rum Point, many tours include a hotel pick-up and drop-off. Once you get settled in your hotel, enjoy some of the island’s delicious food! Grand Cayman is home to various restaurants that offer everything from breakfast to dinner. Make sure to try some of the local favorites like conch fritters and jerk chicken.
Book Your Tours
There are a variety of tours that can be enjoyed on your trip to Grand Cayman. Every traveler can find something to enjoy, from basking in the sun on stunning beaches to learning about the island’s capital’s best-kept secrets.
Take a guided snorkel tour to discover the beauty of Grand Cayman’s marine life. It is the perfect tour for beginners and experienced divers alike. Get up close and personal with stingrays in warm crystal clear water. Swim and feed these gentle creatures and even steal a kiss for seven years of good luck!
Alternatively, enjoy a unique tour of the island on horseback. Ride along an isolated beach with pristine sand and through shallow waters while taking in the gorgeous scenery of the Cayman Islands.
A boat charter is another great way to experience the Cayman Islands. It is the perfect way to avoid crowds and make memories on the water. Enjoy a private trip to Stingray City, Starfish Point, and Rum Point while sipping a cocktail at the floating bar!
