Grand Cayman is the largest of the three Cayman Islands, a British colony. Located in the western Caribbean about 150 miles south of Cuba, the name comes from the caiman crocodiles that once rambled freely on the island. With its sparkling waters, impeccable beaches, hustling nightlife and attractions abound, Grand Cayman is an upscale paradise.
The famed Seven Mile Beach is a lengthy stretch of fantastic white sand and perfectly blue sea water. Snorkeling and scuba diving are among the main activities to partake in, with many stunning reefs and walls, and a great underwater world. Have your photo taken with a turtle at Boatswain’s Beach Turtle Farm, the only one of its kind in the world. At Stingray City, located in the northwest corner of the island, visitors can swim, feed and interact with the abundance of stingray fish that live here.
For the more energetic traveler, the Mastic Trail is a chance to explore the interior woodland of the island, untouched for nearly two million years and home to animals such as the green parrot and agouti. Bodden Town is an interesting drive from George Town Harbour, with the graves here said to be those of pirates. The festival of Batabano in April brings the streets to life with live steel band music, exotic food and plenty of Caribbean rum. The main strip along Seven Mile Beach is a hub of activity at night with a host of restaurants, bars and nightclubs.
Highlights
George Town: this is Grand Cayman’s capital, a center of duty-free shops and restaurants located on the waterfront.
Hell: the name is the main reason to visit; send a postcard with the official postmark ‘Hell’ stamped on it.
Submarine underwater journey: there are a number of operators offering submarine rides with spectacular views of the underwater world.
Cayman Islands National Museum: offers information on Cayman heritage, history and environment.
Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Gardens: offers walking trails, a 1900 farmhouse and a sand garden as well as examples of Cayman flora and fauna.