Here are 17 awesome ideas for things to do in Grand Cayman. We had so much fun on this island, we can’t wait to go back. Not only does Grand Cayman have everything needed for an exciting and adventurous escape, but it also has enough comfort and amenities to make you want to stick around.
There are many Caribbean islands that make for excellent tropical vacations, but there is something about Grand Cayman that made Dave and I say, “I could live here.” It has a laid-back vibe with everything you need. So let’s explore all the amazing Grand Cayman things we discovered.
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About the Cayman Islands
The Cayman Islands are made up of three islands: Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac, and Little Cayman. Grand Cayman is the largest and most developed, and that’s where we based ourselves. From here, we took day trips and boat tours to see the best attractions across the islands.
Take a Helicopter Tour over the Cayman Trench
Seeing the Cayman Trench from above is absolutely surreal. With Cayman Islands Helicopters, we flew over the coastline and watched the water change from sapphire blue to deep black as the shelf dropped off. Our pilot blasted classic tunes and pointed out Stingray City, the Kittiwake shipwreck, and the coral reefs along the coast. A must-do for aerial views.
Explore the Cayman Crystal Caves
Located on the North Side, the Cayman Crystal Caves are filled with underground lakes, stalactites, stalagmites, and black limestone formations. Until recently, they were privately owned, which helped preserve their natural beauty. The guided tours are informative and give a different perspective beyond the beaches.
Visit Bioluminescent Bay
One of the most unforgettable experiences we had was a bioluminescence tour near Rum Point. Cayman Kayaks offers an eco-friendly electric catamaran tour that allows you to witness the glow of microscopic organisms in the water. It feels like magic. You dip your hands in and the water lights up with sparkles. Bio Bay is one of the most unique places to visit in Grand Cayman.
Lounge on Seven Mile Beach
This world-famous beach is as dreamy as it gets. Soft sand, crystal clear water, and tons of water activities. We stayed at the Ritz-Carlton on Seven Mile Beach and loved our morning walks and sunset swims. You can snorkel right off the shore, rent paddleboards, or just sip cocktails in a cabana.
Visit the Cayman Turtle Centre
This is one of the best family-friendly attractions in Grand Cayman. The Cayman Turtle Centre is home to sea turtles of all ages, from tiny young turtles to full-grown adults. You can learn about turtle conservation, see the breeding pond, and even swim in the saltwater lagoon. It’s educational, fun, and a great way to support wildlife protection.
Sample Local Cuisine on the Flavour Tour
Grand Cayman is considered the Culinary Capital of the Caribbean for a reason. The Flavour Tour in Camana Bay introduces you to some of the best restaurants on the island, with food and drink pairings at each stop. We tasted fresh seafood, lamb, cocktails, and a divine cheesecake to finish it off.
Enjoy Teppanyaki at Mizu
Still in Camana Bay, Mizu puts on one of the most entertaining dinners we’ve had. Chef Johnny is a showman, preparing meals tableside with flair, flames, and flying spatulas. The setting is lively and right on the water, making it one of our favorite fun things to do in Grand Cayman.
Cool Down with Gelato and Co.
Owned by an Italian family, Gelato and Co. offers authentic Italian gelato and sorbet. We know our gelato, and this place is the real deal. After a day in the sun, this is the perfect sweet treat.
Snorkel at Starfish Point
Located on the North Sound, Starfish Point is a quiet, secluded beach where starfish gather in the shallow waters. Please keep them submerged if you pick them up. It’s peaceful, scenic, and great for a picnic or a short paddle.
Take a Private Charter to Stingray City
A trip to Grand Cayman isn’t complete without visiting Stingray City. We booked a private charter to avoid the crowds and it was worth every penny. Dozens of stingrays glide through the shallow waters and will swim right up to you. It’s wild.
Relax at the Spa at the Ritz-Carlton
After a few days of snorkeling and sun, treat yourself to a spa day. The Ritz Carlton spa offers deep tissue massages and quiet relaxation lounges. We ended our session with a glass of bubbly, feeling like jelly.
Ride the Ferry to Rum Point
From Camana Bay, you can catch a ferry to Rum Point on the island’s quieter side. It’s a great spot for sunset drinks and dinner. The seafood at Kaibo Restaurant was fresh, and the mudslides were as good as they say.
Climb the Camana Bay Observation Tower
This tower offers 360-degree views of Grand Cayman. Take the stairs and enjoy the underwater-themed mosaic walls, or ride the elevator to the top for a panoramic look at the sea and the urban center below.
Dive the Kittiwake Shipwreck
Grand Cayman is famous for scuba diving, and the Kittiwake is one of the top dive sites. The sunken ship rests in shallow water, making it accessible for both beginners and experienced divers. Along with the Kittiwake, you can also explore sites like Eden Rock, Devil’s Grotto, and Babylon Reef.
Snorkel at Cemetery Reef or Smith Cove
If diving isn’t your thing, snorkeling at Cemetery Reef or Smith Cove is just as rewarding. These spots offer excellent sea life and coral, and you can swim straight from shore. The water is calm and visibility is fantastic.
Best Non-Touristy Things to Do in Grand Cayman
Shop the Farmers and Artisans Market
Held every Wednesday in Camana Bay, this market showcases local crafts, produce, and treats. We picked up Cayman Pepper Patch jelly and chatted with friendly locals. It’s a great way to support the community and find authentic souvenirs.
Explore Skull Cave and Davinoff’s Sculpture Garden
Just off the East End, Skull Cave is a small but fascinating natural cave that adventurous travelers will love. Nearby, you’ll find Davinoff’s Concrete Sculpture Garden, filled with handmade sculptures of Caymanian wildlife. It’s one of those hidden gems you’ll want to tell your friends about.
Discover Cultural Heritage at Pedro St. James Castle
Located in Bodden Town, Pedro St. James Castle is the oldest surviving stone structure in the Cayman Islands and is known as the “Birthplace of Democracy” in Cayman. It’s beautifully restored and offers a look into the island’s past.
Tour the Cayman Spirits Co. Distillery
For something a little different, head to George Town for a distillery tour at Cayman Spirits Co. You can sample handcrafted rum and learn about how it’s made. The tour is laid-back, informative, and includes some generous tastings.
Catch Live Music in George Town
In the evenings, head into George Town for drinks and live music. Many bars and restaurants feature local bands playing everything from reggae to jazz. It’s a fun, low-key way to wrap up the day.
Take a Day Trip to Cayman Brac
Cayman Brac is smaller, quieter, and perfect for adventurers. The island is known for its dramatic bluff, scenic hiking trails, and excellent diving. Explore caves like Rebecca’s Cave, enjoy panoramic views from The Bluff, and visit the lighthouse for incredible photo ops. It’s a short flight from Grand Cayman and gives a totally different vibe.
FAQs About Visiting Grand Cayman
Yes, Grand Cayman is one of the safest islands in the Caribbean for tourists.
Canadians, Americans, and UK citizens do not need a visa for short visits.
The Cayman Islands Dollar (KYD), but US dollars are accepted nearly everywhere.
Absolutely. Attractions like the Cayman Turtle Centre, Stingray City, and Seven Mile Beach are great for all ages.
Grand Cayman Travel Tips
- Best time to visit: December through April offers the best weather, but May to November has fewer tourists and better deals.
- Currency: Cayman Islands Dollar (KYD), but US dollars are widely accepted.
- Getting around: Rent a car to explore beyond Seven Mile Beach. Driving is on the left.
- Flights: Owen Roberts International Airport is well connected to the US, Canada, and the UK.
Why We Loved Grand Cayman
There are so many things to do in Grand Cayman, from adventure to luxury to nature. Whether you’re watching the sun dip below the horizon at Rum Point, swimming alongside turtles, or sipping rum at a local distillery, this island leaves a mark. We’ve traveled the world, and Grand Cayman still stands out as one of our top picks. We’ll be back. And maybe next time, we’ll stay longer.
Read More Grand Cayman and Caribbean Travels:
Wow, awesome post, CRYSTAL CAVES I really want to go there.
Can we go there in November?
Wooow, such a beautiful and interesting location, the images show the beauty of the destination, you just have to visit this island.
Thanks for sharing this special location with us.
Great ideas, we’ve traveled often to many islands including Caymen Islands. Always more ideas are needed to get others excited to return. Thanks again!
Those are great options, Cayman seems to be a quiet place but theres plenty of things to do.
Last time there I enjoyed a lot swimming with dolphins, I was nervous because of my grandparents age but the staff of Dolphin Cove was amazing, and my grandpa said it was one of the most amazing experience of their life, and well , they are on their 80s …
Thank you for the tips, hopefully soon we´ll be able to visit Cayman again !
Thanks for the amazing post…..keep sharing.
I like doing and seeing things on my trips, but I always try to find some time for pure relaxation.
Keep up the great work with your articles – it’s a pleasure to read them.
Here we come washington d.c.
Seems lots of fun over there :-). Will try to visit in the next couple of months.
There is a beautiful collection of images. Love in with these images. Thanks for the wonderful post.
It’s amazing!! Great lists to do things, to be precise the top lists. I would love to see you coming to Dubai.
Love these ideas!
Wow, what an amazing list. I wish I could do the all!
It’s true, Cayman island is one of the family, lovers, kid’s favorite destination where they enjoy snorkeling, stingray city tour and so on. If someone want to go grand cayman then book private boat charters grand cayman.
Grand Cayman is located in Cayman
Location Caribbean
Coordinates 19°20?N 81°13?W
Archipelago Greater Antilles
Area 196 km2 (76 sq mi)
Highest elevation 18 m (59 ft)
Coordinates: 19°20?N 81°13?WGrand Cayman is the largest of the three Cayman Islands and the location of the territory’s capital, George Town. In relation to the other two Cayman Islands, it is approximately 75 miles (121 km) southwest of Little Cayman and 90 miles (145 km) southwest of Cayman Brac.
hanks for all that info!
Thanks for sharing these all wonderful memories with us. This was a bucket list check-off! We are not big swimmers, but enjoyed feeding the stingray on the 4 foot sandbar. This is a must do. The private charter made the experience all the better.
your post Is amazing There’s nothing more romantic than a couple’s massage. The quiet waiting areas, complete with velvet curtains, sets the tone for a relaxing afternoon. and many other thing i love it
Wooow, so beautiful and fascinated place, the pictures reflect the beauty of the destination, really this island needs to visit.
Thank to share with us this unique place.
wow really nice place, all images are very nice…
CAYMAN IS AWESOME. THE BEACHES LOOK GREAT COLOURFUL TRADITIONS THE LUXURY HOTELS & LAST BUT NOT THE LEAST THE SUNSET COCKTAIL PARTY. NICE WORK…
Wow, what amazing post! Great!
Loving these photos! Do you license them on any of the stock photo sites? We’d love to use one in an upcoming project about Grand Cayman.
Congratulations on great pictures
OMG! The Starfish Point in Grand Cayman is super amazing. Will be planning a trip down this October. Carribean, here I.come
Have a great time! We’re looking forward to going back to the Carribbean too!
Wow! Awesome pictures. I visited this island with my family. You should try Grand Old House for dinner. It is a waterfront restaurant. The underwater dive in a submarine is a unique thing on the island. Go for that!
Tricia and I started following your blog when researching our opportunity to travel in our RV and start our own travel blog. Although we will focus on traveling in the U.S. and Canada, we will occasionally travel to places that our wheels can’t reach. It would be very easy for us to make a second trip to Grand Cayman and focus on the beach, snorkeling and SCUBA diving. Thanks for introducing us to additional things to do when we return. Great article, and photos, as usual. Your blog and adventures inspire Tricia and I to continue our efforts to explore and travel.
Amazing post! thanks for sharing.
Love this article – I live in Cayman and it’s very thorough! Glad you had a great time and saw so much! I still haven’t been to the caves and am waiting for our next guests to come so we can check them out! I’ve heard such good things.
Maya x
http://www.caribbeansnowflake.com
Where did you stay?? I’d like to do this trip.
We stayed at the Ritz Carlton Cayman Islands. have a great time!
The Cayman Islands have become some of the most popular Caribbean destinations for an active vacation: hiking, golfing, snorkeling, diving, sailing and much more are popular. Cayman Brac or Little Cayman make for great day trips or relaxing, longer getaways.
Simply amazing article and even more so the pictures. Can help feeling a little jealous of your trip there. Really love the photos from the 7 mile beach and starfish point. I like doing and seeing things on my trips, but always try to find some time for pure relaxation.
Keep up the great work with your articles – it’s a pleasure to read them.
Its informative i like it. It’s a good article. Its more attractive and effective for people.
Awesome place!! A memorial at this stunning view of the reef and stingray city, which is 10 minutes from the Turtle Farm. Then Cayman turtle farm, where nice turtles are found.
Oh wow! You’ve listed quite a lot here. I’m fascinated by the starfish at the Starfish Point. I didn’t know one can actually touch them as I’ve always thought one will be stung when they’re touched. Goes to show, I’ve yet to learn something new!
Amazing post, beautiful pictures !! helicopter ride, Beach and the Crystal caves are stunning, surely an interesting place to visit. Every activity should is worth trying for. I am really looking forward to visit this place. Thanks for sharing 🙂 🙂
Yes indeed. There was a lot to do on Grand Cayman. I expected there to be only water sports, but this island is filled with adventure, cuisine, beauty and marinelife.