Curator’s statement
Escape to the Cayman Islands, where luxury and adventure combine for an unforgettable experience. Stay at world-class resorts, dine by the ocean, and immerse yourself in unique wildlife encounters. Whether you're lounging on the pristine Seven Mile Beach or embarking on a private yacht to Sting Ray City, the Cayman Islands promise a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement. Below, you'll find my top recommendations for where to stay, eat, and explore.
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Where to stay in Cayman Islands
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Things to do in Cayman Islands
Sting Ray City
A must-see experience in the Cayman Islands. Sting Ray City allows you to swim with and feed friendly stingrays in the shallow, crystal-clear waters. Don’t forget to kiss a stingray for seven years of good luck!
Scuba Diving Lessons
The Cayman Islands are known for their incredible dive sites, with crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life. Beginners can take lessons from local dive shops, and more experienced divers can explore shipwrecks and vibrant coral reefs.
Sunset Catamaran Cruise
Sail into the sunset aboard a luxury catamaran. This relaxing evening adventure is perfect for couples or families looking to enjoy the beauty of the Caribbean Sea with a gentle breeze and incredible sunset views.
Helicopter Tour of Grand Cayman
For a bird’s-eye view of the island, book a helicopter tour. You’ll get a unique perspective of the stunning coastline, coral reefs, and lush interior of Grand Cayman, making this an unforgettable experience.
Lounging on Seven Mile Beach
Seven Mile Beach is one of the best in the Caribbean, offering soft white sand, turquoise waters, and plenty of beach bars. It’s ideal for a lazy day of sunbathing or enjoying water sports like paddle boarding.
Luminous Kayak Tour
Experience the magic of bioluminescence as you paddle through glowing waters on a luminous kayak tour. This nighttime adventure takes place in the Bio Bay, where millions of microscopic organisms light up the water with every movement. The effect is mesmerizing, and it's an otherworldly way to explore the island’s natural beauty. Pro tip: Book during the new moon for the best visibility of the glowing water.
Horseback Riding on the Beach
Take a peaceful ride along the beach on horseback. Several stables in Grand Cayman offer beach rides, allowing you to trot along the shoreline and even wade into the shallow waters on horseback. It's a serene way to experience the island’s beauty, perfect for both beginners and experienced riders.
Cayman Turtle Centre
The Cayman Turtle Centre offers an interactive experience where visitors can learn about turtle conservation and even participate in a turtle release ceremony. This experience is both educational and heartwarming, and it highlights the importance of preserving the island’s natural heritage.
Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park
A serene escape from the beaches, the Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park showcases the rich biodiversity of the Cayman Islands. You’ll wander through beautifully landscaped gardens, discover native flora, and have the chance to spot the endangered blue iguana in its natural habitat. It’s a peaceful way to connect with the island’s nature beyond the coastline.
Visit Hell
One of the most unique and quirky attractions in Grand Cayman is Hell, a small area with jagged black limestone formations that resemble, well, Hell! While there, you can explore the surreal rock landscape and stop by the small gift shop and post office to send a postcard “from Hell” to friends and family. It’s a fun and unusual stop that adds a bit of humor to your island tour.
Cayman Islands National Museum
The National Museum in George Town provides a deep dive into the island’s history and culture. With engaging exhibits that cover everything from the island’s early settlers to its rich maritime traditions, this museum is a must for history buffs.
National Gallery of the Cayman Islands
For a more artistic experience, visit the National Gallery. It showcases both contemporary and traditional art from Caymanian artists. The gallery also hosts rotating exhibitions, making it a place worth visiting more than once.
Cayman Cookout
The Cayman Cookout is a premier food and wine festival that takes place annually in January, celebrating the best of Caribbean and international cuisine. The event is hosted by world-renowned chef Eric Ripert, who is the culinary genius behind the famous Blue by Eric Ripert restaurant at the Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman, where much of the event is held.
The Cayman Cookout draws an impressive lineup of celebrity chefs, sommeliers, and mixologists, including the likes of José Andrés, Emeril Lagasse, and Andrew Zimmern. It’s been running for over a decade, solidifying itself as one of the most prestigious food festivals in the Caribbean. The event is a gourmet paradise, featuring beachside barbecues, cooking demonstrations, exclusive tastings, wine pairings, and even excursions where you can fish with the chefs or enjoy lunch prepared on private islands.
Places to eat & drink in Cayman Islands
Tillie's at Palm Heights: Tillie’s offers a beachfront dining experience that combines local Caribbean flavors with international influences. The stunning setting, particularly at sunset, makes it a popular spot for both lunch and dinner. The menu focuses on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, with seafood being a standout.
Agua Restaurant & Lounge: Agua is a favorite for its creative seafood dishes and chic ambiance. The menu combines Peruvian and Italian influences, making it a unique dining experience on the island. With an extensive wine list and fresh daily catches, Agua is perfect for a romantic dinner or an upscale lunch.
Seven at The Ritz-Carlton: Located within the luxurious Ritz-Carlton Grand Cayman, Seven is the ultimate brunch spot on the island. Offering an expansive buffet with everything from tropical fruits to made-to-order omelets, it’s perfect for those looking to start their day with a high-end experience. The serene setting and impeccable service make it a must for anyone staying nearby.
Coccoloba Bar & Grill: Located at the Kimpton Seafire Resort, Coccoloba offers a laid-back, beachside taco experience with incredible views of Seven Mile Beach. The restaurant blends Mexican flavors with a Caribbean twist, making it ideal for a casual lunch or dinner with your toes in the sand.
Rooftop Bar at Hotel Indigo: For those looking for great views and excellent drinks, the Rooftop Bar at Hotel Indigo is a fantastic spot to wind down in the evening. It’s a trendy, upscale space that offers a wide selection of craft cocktails and a tapas-style menu. The views of the island are stunning, making it ideal for sunset drinks.
Library by the Sea at Kimpton Seafire: The Library by the Sea is an intimate, cozy bar located at the Kimpton Seafire Resort. It’s the perfect spot for a quiet evening cocktail with ocean views. The selection of craft cocktails is impressive, with many inspired by local Caribbean flavors. The atmosphere is laid-back, ideal for a relaxed evening after a day of exploring.
Avecita at the Kimpton Seafire: Also located at the Kimpton Seafire, Avecita is a special culinary experience offering an intimate, chefs-table-style dinner. The focus here is on small plates with Spanish influences, and each dish is beautifully crafted with attention to detail. This is a more upscale option compared to Coccoloba, but equally as enjoyable.
Anchor & Den: Located at the Marriott Grand Cayman, Anchor & Den is a trendy spot known for its eclectic cocktails and tapas. The lounge offers a mix of international and Caribbean flavors, making it a great spot for a laid-back evening with friends or family.
The Brasserie: The Brasserie is well-known for its farm-to-table approach, with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. They have their own organic garden and fishing boats, ensuring that the seafood and produce are always fresh. The atmosphere is both elegant and laid-back, making it a great option for dinner after a day of exploring.
The Wharf Restaurant and Bar: Located on the waterfront, The Wharf is a classic Cayman dining experience, offering stunning views and an extensive seafood menu. It’s perfect for a romantic dinner or a special occasion. Be sure to stay for the nightly tarpon feeding, a unique and fun experience for diners.
Casa 43 Mexican Kitchen and Tequila Bar: For a lively and flavorful dining experience, Casa 43 offers authentic Mexican cuisine with a Caribbean twist. Their street-style tacos, house-made guacamole, and extensive tequila selection make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Travel Advisor
Seasen Acevedo-Zullo
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Cayman Islands. For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Sara Sandman’s guide, The Quieter Side to Grand Cayman Island.