Cayman ISLANDS Travel Guide
Grand Cayman has become one of our favorite Caribbean destinations (but the U.S. Virgin Islands comes in second). The largest of the Cayman Islands, it’s a paradise for beach lovers, snorkelers, and adventurers looking to see the turquoise water and the reef creatures that are in it. After our week-long stay on the island, we found it truly has something for everyone.
Best Time to Visit Grand Cayman
The ideal time to visit Grand Cayman is between December and April, during the dry season when the weather is warm, and humidity is lower. This is peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and larger crowds. If you’re looking for a quieter experience with better rates, consider traveling in late Spring (late April to early June). The summer and fall months can bring occasional rain and a risk of hurricanes, but they also offer great deals on accommodations. We chanced it, and stayed during August. It was stormy at times, but they didn’t last long and we had some amazing weather between the showers.
Typical Weather in Grand Cayman
Grand Cayman enjoys tropical weather year-round, with average temperatures ranging from 77°F to 88°F (25°C to 31°C). The summer months (June–November) are warmer and more humid, with occasional afternoon showers. The winter months (December–April) are drier and slightly cooler, making it the perfect escape from colder climates.
Top 10 Must-Do Experiences in Grand Cayman
- Snorkeling at Seven Mile Beach – The waters are crystal-clear, and the marine life is abundant. We stayed at Regal Beach Club, where the snorkeling was fantastic!
- Stingray City Excursion – A must-do! We had an unforgettable time interacting with friendly stingrays in their natural habitat.
- Starfish Point – A serene spot where you can see and hold beautiful starfish in shallow waters.
- Cayman Turtle Center – Learn about sea turtles, swim with them, and even see some rare species up close.
- Dine at Cracked Conch – Amazing seafood and waterfront views made for an incredible dining experience.
- Explore Georgetown – Walk around the capital, browse duty-free shops, and grab a bite at a local café.
- Camana Bay – A vibrant area with upscale restaurants, great Instagram-worthy spots, and even outdoor movies.
- Rum Point – Relax in a hammock, sip on a mudslide cocktail, and enjoy the laid-back Caribbean vibe.
- Bioluminescent Bay Night Tour – A magical experience where the water glows as you kayak through the bay.
- Take an Island Taxi – More affordable than shuttles, taxis are a great way to explore the island’s hidden gems.
WHERE TO STAY IN GRAND CAYMAN
There are more hotels than you’d ever need in the Cayman Islands. While they are very convenient, they can also be expensive. We chose a VRBO at Regal Beach Club which had an even larger beach area than the nearby hotels. When we wanted a beach beverage, we just walked to the hotel bar next door. Rentals offer more privacy, space, and fewer crowds compared to large resorts.
Is Grand Cayman Safe?
Yes! Grand Cayman is one of the safest islands in the Caribbean. It has a low crime rate, and we felt very secure. We felt comfortable walking around, even at night in the tourist areas, and even took public bus transportation several times. Use common sense—lock up valuables, and mindful of traffic when walking along busy roads.
Sargassum Update
Sargassum (seaweed) levels in Grand Cayman vary by season. While Seven Mile Beach is usually clear due to its location, some areas may experience occasional seaweed influxes, especially on the east and southern shores. If sargassum is an issue during your visit, the western side of the island, including Seven Mile Beach, is your best bet for clear waters. We didn’t find much at all during our time there, but it was a low season.
Unique Tips for Visiting Grand Cayman
- Grocery Delivery is a Game Changer – We had our groceries delivered to our VRBO, which made things super convenient and helped us save on dining out.
- Budget for Higher Prices – The island is expensive, but knowing that in advance allowed us to plan and splurge wisely.
- Opt for Taxis or Busses – We found island buses to be more affordable but taxis are more flexible for getting around.
- Sunset at Camana Bay – This area is buzzing in the evening and perfect for dinner, shopping, and capturing beautiful photos.
- Book Excursions in Advance – Popular activities like Stingray City can fill up quickly, so secure your spots ahead of time.
GETTING AROUND THE ISLAND
Grand Cayman was a dream destination, and we definitely plan on returning. It’s so easy to get around the island even if you don’t want to rent a car. We paid for several taxis to get around, and while reliable, they are more expensive. If you’re looking to dash up and down 7 Mile Beach, we learned (late) that taking a Cayman public bus was a cheaper option. Buses operate various routes on Grand Cayman. They’re mostly used by Caymanians who are commuting to work so you’re meet some locals on there. Also they won’t bother stopping if they’re full. The routes reach all parts of the island, including frequent stops every 10-20 minutes or so along Seven Mile Beach. If you’d like to hop on the bus, simply flag it down from the side of the road. Literally, anywhere. Depending on the route, bus fares range from CI$2 (about $2.50) to CI$5 (about $6) per ride.
