Grand Cayman is not your traditional Caribbean cruise port. Unlike the straw markets and jewelers catering to tourists that you will see in other islands, the Cayman Islands is a banking center. It is modern, metropolitan and easy to get around. That’s not to say it’s not without island charms. No trip to the island is complete without a trip to Hell – if for not other reason than to get a postcard or T-shirt. Still it’s a landscape like no other and is worth the trip to the area. Just be careful of the chickens (you’ll find out when you get there.).
There are many unique things about the Cayman Islands; however, one of the most interesting is the eclectic mix of diverse settlers originally found there. These original settlers came in the form of pirates and sailors. While you will not see any original pirates, there are many hidden treasures in the Cayman Islands.
Cayman Islands Beaches
Seven Mile Beach is the Grand Cayman Islands’ biggest tourist attraction. This particular stretch of beach was given the distinct honor of being known as the ‘Caribbean’s Best Beach’. And for good reason.
Here you can go for a long stroll on a beautiful beach. You can also take in sights such as the many open-air restaurants and beachside bars. You can listen to music, sunbathe, and swim. Reefs located throughout these waters are perfect for first-time snorkelers.
Cayman Kai is another amazing attraction, especially for those seeking the beach experience that it is off the beaten path. Snuggled away on the northern tip of Grand Cayman Island, water sports, glorious water views, and a scenic lagoon are all awaiting to enchant you.
Cayman Islands Diving
Grand Cayman is a also great place to go diving. The best place to dive is by the North Wall in the islands. The most famous area is called the Babylon. While diving you will see many different things such as black coral, barrel sponges as well as purple sea fans. You’re also bound to spot parrot fish, barracuda, eagle rays, green and hawksbill turtles and even the hammerhead.
Stingrays and Turtles
If you aren’t a certified diver and still want a closeup encounter with the aquatic wildlife there are two great choices. Stingray city is a sandbank where fishermen dump the unused parts of their catch. The stingrays have gathered there for snacks for so long that they now hang out to play with the tourists. Standing in chest deep water you can hold and play with these gentle rays as you feed them squid. It’s a lot of fun. Keeping an eye on the watchful barracudas – not so much. If you want something a little more controlled, the turtle farm is just plain fun for all ages. You can stay dry and watch, or you can go swimming with sea turtles.
Entertainment
Grand Cayman is not as open with its alcohol-serving laws as some of the other Caribbean islands. Many establishments close as early as 1 a.m. A handful have permits to stay open until 3 a.m. And on Saturdays, all the bars have to be shut down and emptied out by midnight, So if you want to pack in a full evening of partying on Saturday, you’d better start early.
