Grand Cayman is a beautiful island paradise that offers travelers a wealth of activities to enjoy. From snorkeling and scuba diving to sailing and kayaking, there is something for everyone to enjoy on Grand Cayman. In this article, we will share with you the best Grand Cayman excursions that you won’t want to miss out on during your travels. So whether you’re looking for an action-packed adventure or a relaxing day in the sun, be sure to check out our list of the top things to do on Grand Cayman island!
Where Is Grand Cayman?
Grand Cayman is an island in the Caribbean Sea, located roughly 150 miles south of Cuba and 167 miles northwest of Jamaica. It is part of the British Overseas Territory of the Cayman Islands, and is the largest of three inhabited islands.
The main language is English and the average temperature is 28 degrees Celsius.
Top Grand Cayman Excursions
There are plenty of activities to explore in Grand Cayman such as soaking up sun on its white sand beaches, sailing through its crystal blue waters, and even discovering hidden secrets around its main city of George Town. Whether travelers prefer tranquility or adventure – or a combination of both – there’s something for everyone to experience in this breathtaking Caribbean island.
1. Take a Stingray City tour
For those looking for an exciting adventure, a Stingray City tour is the perfect activity on Grand Cayman! Tour goers can swim with friendly stingrays and marvel at their majestic beauty as they visit the famous Stingray City sandbar at North Sound.
Grand Cayman has tranquil water with 100 ft. + visibility. We recommend taking a private tour with John from Island Breeze Charters or Pat from Sail With Friends Cayman. They’ll make sure that you get the most out of your day, taking you to all the best places to spot sting rays around Grand Cayman island.
During our Stingray City tour, the water was choppier than usual and John and Pat helped us to feel safe. They stayed close to us and pointed out all the incredible marine life. Don’t miss this unforgettable experience to get up close and personal with the friendly stingrays of Grand Cayman!
2. See the Blue Iguanas at Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park
When you visit Grand Cayman, be sure to check out one of its most famous attractions, Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park. Here, visitors can catch sight of the native species of blue iguanas living in their natural habitat – the only place in the world where blue iguanas are found.
This unique setting is extremely popular among animal-lovers, as it allows them to observe the animals in their natural environment. Measuring up to 1.2 m long, these bright blue iguanas were previously close to extinction.
From the Visitor’s Centre to the Children’s Garden and the Orchid Boardwalk, a trip to the Botanic Park will offer plenty of lasting memories and fun activities! We recommend taking a private tour with a guide – they know all the iguanas by name and will easily spot them.
Address: Off Frank Sound Road, North Side, Cayman Islands
3. Visit the Cayman Crystal Caves
Exploring the Cayman Crystal Caves is one of the best activities that Grand Cayman has to offer! During your walking tour, a knowledgeable and experienced tour guide will take you through three mysterious and wondrous underground caverns.
You will see fascinating formations of stalagmites and stalactites. You will also have the incredible opportunity to learn more about the importance of this site and uncover secrets that make the caves truly special.
There’s a gift shop and also a snack bar close to all three caves. A trip to the Cayman Crystal Caves is sure to make your stay on Grand Cayman unforgettable!
Address: 69 North Side Rd, Old Man Bay, Cayman Islands
4. Explore Pedro St. James National Historic Site
Grand Cayman is best known for its stunning beaches, but there are also a variety of best excursions to explore beyond the sea. One such excursion that is a must-see is Pedro St. James.
This stop on your best excursions in Grand Cayman takes you to the historic site where the first seat of government was established in 1831. Learn about Cayman’s history from the knowledgeable tour guide as you visit this colonial landmark overlooking the sea. Dating from 1780, this is the oldest surviving house on Grand Cayman.
Address: Pedro Castle Road, Savannah, KY1-1501, Cayman Islands
5. Enjoy Starfish Point
Starfish Point is an amazing spot to visit in Grand Cayman. This beach offers visitors the chance to see hundreds of colorful starfish in their natural habitat.
Swimming around Starfish Point, visitors can spot an array of these beautiful creatures. It also provides visitors with the perfect opportunity for a photo op on picturesque Starfish beach surrounded by blue Caribbean waters.
Whether you are looking for a great swimming location or simply want to admire the local wildlife, Starfish Point will be sure to impress. Make sure not to lift the starfish out of the water, as they will not be able to breathe.
Address: Water Cay Road, Rum Point, Cayman Islands
6. Visit George Town
George Town, located at the cruise port and cruise terminal on Grand Cayman, is an ideal spot to begin your Grand Cayman excursion. Rich in culture and history, this coastal capital invites exploration of spots like the Cayman Islands National Museum, where you can delve into exhibits dedicated to harvesting the island’s numerous treasures.
Filled with vivid displays of nature and cultural artifacts, it’s a great way to learn more about the people and customs of George Town and its surroundings – as well as preview several activities that await visitors during a stay on this remarkable Caribbean island. Duty-free shopping is another popular activity in George Town.
Address: 3 Harbour Drive, George Town, Cayman Islands
7. Chill out on Seven Mile Beach
Seven Mile Beach on the west side of Grand Cayman has become famous for its stunning pristine white sands, vividly blue waters, and tropical palm trees. A trip to the beach is a must-do while visiting the island- it’s a great place to just relax and chill out in paradise!
This is one of the most popular Grand Cayman cruise excursions. Here you can build sand castles, lounge around on the beach with a refreshing drink, or take a swim in beautiful crystal clear waters. With plenty of public access along Seven Mile Beach, visitors have plenty of options to experience one of Grand Cayman’s most famous beaches.
8. Visit the Cayman Turtle Centre
A visit to the Cayman Turtle Centre in West Bay is an absolute must for anyone looking for an incredible experience during their Grand Cayman excursion. This turtle farm not only serves as a refuge for many green sea turtles, but also provides an opportunity to bond with them as you observe turtle feedings.
Visitors get a unique chance to see up close how such majestic animals thrive in their natural environment while learning about the turtle conservation programmes implemented here. At certain times of the year, the Cayman turtle farm carries out turtles releases where they help baby turtles into the sea – an unforgettable experience!
Address: 786 Northwest Point Road, West Bay Grand Cayman KY1, West Bay 1303, Cayman Islands
9. Tour the Tortuga Rum Cake Factory
One of the premier activities on Grand Cayman Island is to visit the Tortuga Rum Factory. Normally, visitors can purchase a tour to explore the rum-making process and sample various rum varieties, although this was closed when we visited in December 2022.
The factory tour will take guests through the rum-blending room, the bottling and packaging portion of production, as well as an introduction to rum’s history. Even if the tour is not running, you can buy rum products and rum cakes as a unique souvenir from your island vacation. Each Tortuga rum cake is hand glazed with 5 year-old oak barrel aged Tortuga Gold Rum.
Address: Tortuga Way, North Sound Road, KY1-1106, Cayman Islands
10. Relax at Cayman Kai
If you want to sunbathe and enjoy tasty food in a relaxed setting, then Kaibo Beach Club at Cayman Kai is the perfect place for you. Located in the northern tip of the island at Rum Point, Kaibo is a luxurious dining destination.
There’s a 26 berth marina, two restaurants and a coffee shop, Kaibo Beach Espresso. Play beach games, swim in the crystal clear water or kayak in the Bioluminescence Bay just around the corner. No matter what you choose to do, Kaibo offers a perfect day out suitable for everyone.
Address: 585 Water Cay Road, Grand Cayman KY1-1701, Cayman Islands
11. Go to Hell and Back!
If you’re looking for a unique experience on Grand Cayman Island, then you’ll certainly want to visit Hell. This unique attraction is celebrated by locals and tourists alike.
Its unique attraction lies in the unique black jagged limestone rock formations. Hell may appear desolate and unwelcoming, but visitors of this unique site will be amazed by the abundance of vibrant red, yellow, and green flora that provides a striking contrast to the backdrop.
The unique atmosphere of this place makes it an essential part of any experience in Grand Cayman. As well as the geological formations, there are some slightly cheesy gift shops and a Post Office so you can send a letter from Hell.
Address: Hell Road, West Bay, Cayman Islands
Getting to Grand Cayman
There are direct flights from London Heathrow taking around 11 hours. You fly via Nassau in the Bahamas but do not need to disembark. Same day connections are also available through Miami.
Getting to Grand Cayman is easy and straightforward for cruise passengers, as the cruise port of George Town is near. Those who prefer to fly may do so as well, direct flights from many cities in the US and other countries are available. Once in Grand Cayman, cruise passengers can explore beautiful West Bay Beach or cruise along Seven Mile Drive. Notable attractions include Hell Point, Stingray City and Rum Point. With amazing shopping opportunities in Georgetown, it provides a memorable Caribbean cruise experience for cruise passengers!
Where to Eat in Grand Cayman
You’ll be spoilt for choice when choosing places to eat in Grand Cayman – there are more than 200 restaurants! All the different types of cuisine are represented, from Caribbean specialities to Mexican food and French fine dining.
Enjoy Caymanian specialties such as conch in creole sauce, lionfish tacos or coconut sauce snapper. The Mudslide is a delicious cocktail combining vodka, coffee liqueur and Irish cream, that was invented at Rum Point.
Cayman Restaurant Month takes place every October, and the Cayman Cookout with chef Eric Ripert is a popular event in January.
Some of our favorite Grand Cayman restaurants include:
- George Town Yacht Club
- Tortuga Beach Grill & Bar at The Westin
- Ms. Piper’s Kitchen + Garden
- Tukka East End
- Agua Restaurant in Camana Bay
- Heritage Kitchen
Where to Stay in Grand Cayman
For a truly luxurious experience in Grand Cayman, the Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort & Spa is the destination of choice. With its stunning white sand beach and sparkling turquoise water, this resort is sure to tantalize your senses.
Dining options include the Beach House, Ferdinand’s Restaurant, Tortuga Beach Grill & Bar, Woto for sushi, The Cayman Coffee Exchange and Catboat Bar in the hotel lobby. The Westin Grand Cayman also features two outdoor swimming pools, The Hibiscus Spa and activities such as kayaking and snorkeling.
Whether it’s a weekend getaway or an extended vacation, you will be sure to enjoy your stay at The Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort & Spa. Everyone is friendly and helpful
Final Thoughts on Grand Cayman Excursions
Grand Cayman islands are truly unique and offer visitors an array of exciting experiences. From snorkeling with stingrays and crystal cave adventures to cultural exploration at Pedro St. James and Kaibo beachside relaxation, the possibilities are seemingly endless on Grand Cayman.
Take a day trip to see the blue iguanas or learn some rum-making history at the famous Tortuga Rum factory. End your week by visiting ‘Hell’ – it’s definitely worth checking out!
There’s something for everyone here, from cruise shore excursions to nature hikes and more. To learn more about great Caribbean destinations like Grand Cayman Islands be sure to read our other articles.
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