cayman islands tourism

Cayman Islands' best experiences to put on your Caribbean bucket list

Dec 6, 2021 • 9 min read

Soft white sand, culinary treats, and swimming amongst stingrays are all waiting for you in the Cayman Islands © Jeffrey Richards / Getty Images

Plush hotels and powder-soft sand beaches are just the tips of the iceberg when it comes to the Cayman Islands. The trio of idyllic isles sits in the Western Caribbean and they’re a playground for sun-worshippers and adventure-seekers.

Relaxation is king in this part of the world, with beach resorts, catamaran trips, and sunset cocktails all featuring as standard. Prefer a little more action and adventure? Some of the most interesting things to do in the Cayman Islands make the most of the region’s many natural wonders. A decent chunk of them are on the largest island, Grand Cayman , but you’ll also have no shortage of other activities on Cayman Brac , or the small and serene Little Cayman.

Get up close to extraordinary marine life at Stingray City

Stingray City is easily one of the most popular attractions on the island, and you’ll find it in Grand Cayman’s North Sound, just a short hop from Rum Point . 

According to local legend, fishermen used to stop off at this shallow sandbank to gut their catches before heading back to shore. All those guts attracted rays like moths to a flame and, consequently, they still congregate there to this day. The only difference is the fishing boats have now been replaced by yachts and sightseeing vessels. 

Despite its popularity, Stingray City is unmissable. Join an organized tour, such as those offered by Red Sail , and jump down into shallow water to witness dozens of these majestic sea creatures gliding below the surface around you. Go mid-week or early morning to share the sandbar with fewer boats.

Climb across Cayman Brac Bluff

The Cayman Islands is a notoriously flat archipelago. In fact, the highest point on Grand Cayman is just 24m (78ft) above sea level! If you fancy gazing out to sea from a slightly loftier location, your best bet is on Cayman Brac.

This is the second-largest of the Cayman Islands and its craggy limestone ridge has long attracted rock climbers and hikers to its shores. Walk along the top of Cayman Bluff or, if you’re feeling brave, abseil down 40m (131ft) of sheer cliff face during an organized climb with Rock Iguanas. 

Meet the blue iguanas at Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park

It’s not just marine life that the Cayman Islands does well. One of the nation’s most iconic indigenous species is the blue iguana (also known as the rock iguana). These endangered creatures are best seen at the Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park that sits on the sleepy east side of Grand Cayman. 

Back in 1990, there were less than 30 of these large lizards left on the planet. A conservation program was set up and that figure has since jumped to over 1000. If you’re lucky, you might bump into some blue iguanas wandering around in the undergrowth. For an almost guaranteed sighting though, check out the blue iguana breeding center at the top end of the gardens where you can peer through small windows into sheltered enclosures.

The park is also teeming with tropical flora and fauna, including some very impressive palms and a few humongous agave plants. Visiting in spring? The Orchid Garden will be a riot of color. There’s also the Cayman Heritage Garden that gives you a detailed idea of what life was like on the islands in centuries gone by. 

Explore ancient caves once used as hurricane shelters

Not just great for climbing and hikes, Cayman Bluff also hides a series of incredible caves. Many have been made safe for visitors, including Rebecca’s Cave that’s poignantly named after Rebecca Bodden, a local child who died while sheltering there from a hurricane in 1932. Peter’s Cave on the opposite side of the island is also worth a visit (there are even purpose-built steps leading into it) and it’s still used as a hurricane shelter today.

Only visiting Grand Cayman? There are opportunities for subterranean adventures there, too. A trip to the Crystal Caves in Old Man Bay is easily one of the most interesting places to visit on the island. They’re made up of 100+ ancient caves dripping in spectacular stalagmites and stalactites. Pull on some comfy shoes and join an organized tour to learn the secrets of three of the caves, including their intriguing past as pirate hidey-holes. Just watch out for the bats.

Laze around on Seven Mile Beach

This long stretch of soft white sand lapped by calm, crystalline water is the crowning glory of Cayman’s beaches. Large parts of public Seven Mile Beach are taken over by hotels, holiday rentals and beach clubs. What’s more, you’ll find one of the top things to do on a cruise to the Cayman Islands is to spend a few hours lounging around on the shoreline. 

If you’d rather escape the crowds, there’s plenty of space to swim and snooze away from the sun loungers and water sports. Venture to the most northerly end of the beach to find a relatively undeveloped stretch of sand between the Kimpton and Discovery Point Club. The water here is also a lovely turquoise and calm enough for snorkeling. 

Seven Mile Beach is additionally one of the best places for nightlife. Most hotels have bars right on the sand, with popular picks being the Royal Palms Beach Resort and Coccoloba at the Kimpton. You could also stroll along West Bay Road for a few pints at cool and casual Craft F&B. Alternatively, hop across the pedestrian bridge to Camana Bay , a contemporary dining and shopping complex with a handful of lively bars.

Enjoy total isolation on Owen Island

Looking for a little solo time? Escaping to uninhabited Owen Island fits the bill. With its wild vegetation and virgin beaches, it’s the epitome of going off the beaten path. The tiny isle is privately owned but open to the public, and just a short distance off Little Cayman’s south coast. While accessible by boat, hiring kayaks from the nearby Southern Cross Club and making your own leisurely way across really adds to the sense of adventure.

Gorge on great gastronomy 

Food lovers rejoice! The Caymans Islands is often referred to as the Caribbean's unofficial culinary capital, with restaurants ranging from flash Michelin-starred restaurants such as Blue by Eric Ripert on Seven Mile Beach to locally-loved takeout places like Barry’s Golden Jerk , which occupies a tiny wooden shack on Cayman Brac.

Enjoying a taste of the Cayman Islands is recommended. Spicy jerk chicken, fresh seafood ceviche drizzled in lemon juice, and sticky cassava cake are all on the menu. Vivine’s Kitchen and Big Tree BBQ number among the best venues for local grub (the latter even serves up traditional turtle stew). There are heaps of places to suit veggies and vegans on Grand Cayman, too. Vivo is known for its coconut ceviche, while Island Naturals Cafe is perfect for sandwiches and salads.

Seek out the elusive Cayman Brac Parrot 

Keen bird-watchers will want to keep their eyes peeled for several local species. The most celebrated is the endangered Cayman Brac Parrot that’s a truly impressive sight thanks to its vibrant blue and green feathers. Your best chance of seeing one is at the National Trust Brac Parrot Reserve . Go in the morning or late afternoon when the sun is low and follow the well-worn nature path, gazing overhead at the trees as you go to spot these well-camouflaged birds.

Study up on the local history

Like all Caribbean nations, Cayman has a rich heritage stretching back several centuries. Before visiting historic sites like Pedro St James , do some background reading at one of the region’s museums.

Each island has its own local history venue. The largest is in George Town, the region’s capital on Grand Cayman, that’s postcard-perfect with its candy-colored buildings and harbor views. The Cayman National Museum has a series of exhibits on the islands’ natural and human history, including an entertaining visual show that summarises their eclectic cultural heritage. 

Elsewhere, the free-to-enter Cayman Brac Museum has a small yet intriguing collection of items relating to local life, plus a great display on the devastating 1932 hurricane that ravaged the island. Little Cayman Museum also hosts particularly good exhibits on local ecology and underwater wildlife.

Dive in the deepest part of the Caribbean Sea

Dive schools are two a penny in the Cayman Islands - and that’s all down to the region’s breath-taking underwater sites. Always wanted to swim through the hull of a ship? Cayman’s shorelines host over 200 different wrecks!

The Kittiwake - a former USS submarine vessel - sits just off Seven Mile Beach and was purposefully sunk in 2011 to create an artificial reef. Cayman Brac’s Captain Keith Tibbets Wreck - a former Russian frigate - has a similar story. Both are now crusty with bright corals and provide brilliant natural habitats for huge shoals of grouper fish, in addition to rays, turtles, eels and barracudas. 

Let’s not forget Little Cayman, either. It sits close to the Cayman Trench - the deepest point in the Caribbean - and is the location of Bloody Bay Marine Park. The rather gruesomely named reserve is one of Cayman’s most unmissable dive sites thanks to the Bloody Bay Wall. Plunging an unfathomable 300m (980ft) below the ocean’s surface, it’s home to awesome anemones, fantastic fan corals and vast schools of fish in all shapes, shades and sizes. 

Take a tour of the Central Caribbean Marine Institute

If you like to give back during your travels, a trip to the Central Caribbean Marine Institute (CCMI) in Little Cayman is ideal. It conducts vital research on the region’s reefs, in addition to running various marine conservation projects. As well as arranging a tour of the center, keen divers might want to plan a dive trip alongside a CCMI underwater researcher.

Embrace Cayman culture at a festival

Caymanians love to party, so it’s no surprise that the nation’s calendar is littered with festivals. 

Pirates Week Festival is the pick of the bunch. It takes place in November and attracts visitors from far and wide. Sip on free-flowing rum punch and mingle with actors dressed as fearsome buccaneers (look out for Jack Sparrow’s doppelganger). Various events are hosted throughout the week across all three islands. The main one is a procession through George Town which ends with the Governor of the Cayman Islands being captured and made to walk the plank of a replica pirate ship.

Foodies might prefer to visit in January when Taste of Cayman , one of the biggest food festivals in the Caribbean, occurs. Beach BBQs, culinary masterclasses and pop-up stalls from Grand Cayman’s best restaurants feature on its mouth-watering program. And, last but not least, there’s Batabano . This fun festival happens in May and it’s a lively celebration of Caymanian culture, complete with live calypso music and a parade featuring 100+ revelers garbed in colorful (and often richly feathered) costumes.

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TRAVEL GUIDES TRIP TOOLS FOR YOUR CARIBBEAN VISIT

Use our guides to dot the i’s and cross the t’s in your itinerary. With these helpful tools in your hands, the big picture of Cayman will soon come into view. 

TRAVEL GUIDE

Legendary as being one of the world’s premier places to indulge in romance, recreation or relaxation.

Nestled in an unparalleled tropical setting. Offering that luxurious blend of sun-kissed beaches and calm, turquoise seas. World-renowned for dining, snorkelling and diving, the Cayman Islands offers an adventure for people of all ages – and interests. With such a diverse range of pursuits to enjoy and explore, your visit here can be filled with activity, day and night. Do it all. Or do nothing at all, except savour the delicious view, the warmth of the people and the perfect weather. Either way, one thing is certain, your time in the Cayman Islands will be one you’ll treasure forever. Three islands. Endless possibilities. PDF file

Pioneers of Recreational Diving

The Cayman Islands is one of the pioneers of recreational diving. The Cayman Islands has justifiably earned the coveted distinction as being among the most magnificent dive locations in the world. Our underwater world has an abundant marine life, vibrantly coloured reefs and dramatic walls less than a quarter mile off shore. Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac and Little Cayman are more than a diver’s paradise. PDF file

CULINARY GUIDE

The best and freshest in world cuisine in every corner of this tropical paradise.

Heralded by the well-travelled as the Culinary Capital of the Caribbean, this trio of islands – Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac and Little Cayman, has long been known for culinary excellence and divine dining experiences. PDF file

WELLNESS GUIDE

What sets the Cayman Islands apart goes beyond its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters.

Here, you can pamper your body, relax your mind, and soothe your soul while on vacation. With a community that embodies a Caymankind spirit, it is truly a destination that will allow you to tune in and add to your happiness and wellbeing. PDF file

CONDOS & VILLAS

The Cayman Islands offer a wide selection of accommodations from spacious guest houses to condominiums and villas – the perfect home away from home for an entire family or friends vacationing together. PDF file

EXPERIENCE MORE THIS SUMMER

Experience more this summer in Cayman and create lifelong memories. Book your getaway now and make this summer one to remember! BOOK SUMMER DEALS

Summer Love

Adventure Seekers

Wellness Guru

Cayman Islands   Travel Guide

Courtesy of IreneCorti | Getty Images

14 Best Things to Do in the Cayman Islands

Set amid the turquoise waters of the western Caribbean, the Cayman Islands welcome travelers with idyllic white sand beaches, adventure tours and elevated culinary experiences. Comprising three islands – Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac and Little Cayman –

• All Things To Do

Seven Mile Beach (Grand Cayman) Seven Mile Beach (Grand Cayman) free

U.S. News Insider Tip: No matter where you land on Seven Mile Beach, be sure to stop in at woto, a restaurant in the Westin Grand Cayman, for the island's best sushi and some seriously good cocktails. – Taryn White

For several years now, Seven Mile Beach has been lauded as one of the Caribbean's best beaches . Take one glance at this crescent-shaped shore and let your toes sink in the soft, coral sand and you'll easily understand why. Many of Grand Cayman's best resorts are situated on Seven Mile, and there are a number of casual beach bars and restaurants, a playground, restrooms and showers to boot. What's more, it's also a great spot to try snorkeling for the first time – the clear water allows snorkelers to see the vibrant fish and beautiful coral. 

Stingray City (Grand Cayman) Stingray City (Grand Cayman)

U.S. News Insider Tip: For the best experience, bring a snorkel mask and towel, and aim to visit on a day with low tide and calm seas. – Taryn White

Located in the North Sound area of Grand Cayman about 25 miles from the shore, Stingray City is the most popular attraction on any of the three Cayman Islands. The "city" is actually a shallow (three to five feet) sandbar where you can interact with and feed the wild Atlantic stingrays that live freely in those waters (there are no penned enclosures). The area has been a popular gathering spot for these creatures for decades; the stingrays were initially attracted to the sandbars by fishermen, who would clean and discard the scraps from their daily catches in the calm waters. Today, the stingrays associate the sound of boat engines with food, making them comfortable with human contact.

Kittiwake Shipwreck & Artificial Reef (Grand Cayman) Kittiwake Shipwreck & Artificial Reef (Grand Cayman)

The USS Kittiwake was an ex-U.S. Navy submarine that served for more than 50 years before it was sunk off the coast of popular Seven Mile Beach in Grand Cayman in 2011. An interesting tidbit about the ship's history is that it played a significant role in recovering the flight recorders from the Challenger space shuttle disaster in 1986. The submerged submarine and artificial reef now delight scuba divers with its swim throughs and sea life, including shrimp, eels, barracuda, turtles and grouper.  

Because Kittiwake is a popular snorkel and dive site, recent travelers highly recommend booking your tour reservation well in advance. Others say it's a great wreck dive for beginners and advanced divers, alike. The high visibility and shallow placement of the ship at around 12 to 60 feet deep make it accessible to all diving levels. It's a place where you can spend several hours swimming through the wreckage. It's equally fun for snorkelers, too, since the submerged submarine is easily visible from near the surface.  

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Cayman Crystal Caves (Grand Cayman) Cayman Crystal Caves (Grand Cayman)

Once submerged under the sea millions of years ago, the Cayman Crystal Caves were shaped by water erosion, creating rooms filled with stalagmite and stalactite formations. Over time, dripping water caused mineral deposits, which eventually turned into crystals. It's believed that pirates like Blackbeard used these caves as hideouts hundreds of years ago. In addition to using the caves as a shelter during hurricanes, it's also believed that they stashed their treasure here.

Discussion to turn the caves into a tourist attraction began in the 1990s, and the caves finally opened to the public in 2016. Today, visitors can embark on a guided tour that lasts approximately 90 minutes, exploring three caves and learning about their formation and history.

Cayman Spirits Co. Distillery (Grand Cayman) Cayman Spirits Co. Distillery (Grand Cayman)

What started in 2008 as a small distillery producing ocean-aged rum has become the 5,000-square-foot Cayman Spirits Co. Distillery. What's unique about the Cayman Islands' only distillery is the where they age their rum: on the ocean floor. In fact, it was the first distillery to do so. These days, in addition to producing its famous Seven Fathoms rum, the distillery also produces flavored rums, vodka and liqueurs.  

Recent visitors highly recommend taking a tour of the facility, stating that it's not a sales-y commercial presentation, but fun, informative and entertaining with the ability to sample outstanding small batches of rum and distilled spirits.  

Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park (Grand Cayman) Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park (Grand Cayman)

U.S. News Insider Tip: To experience the full breadth of colors, visit the park in May and June when the orchids are in bloom. – Taryn White

Spanning more than 65 acres on Grand Cayman's North Side, the Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park was opened by Queen Elizabeth II in 1994. The park's seven main attractions are accessible via a mile-long loop trail that invites visitors to admire the Floral Colour Garden, the Orchid Boardwalk and the Blue Iguana Habitat, as well as an approximately 3-acre lake serving as a habitat and breeding ground for native birds and other rare aquatic animals native to the Caribbean. In 2019, the park debuted a new interactive children's garden with a splash pad, observation tower, rock climbing wall, maze, lawn and a tunnel area.

George Town (Grand Cayman) George Town (Grand Cayman) free

U.S. News Insider Tip: To avoid crowds, visit George Town when there are no cruise ships in port (typically between Friday and Monday). Cruise schedules can be found on the port authority's website . Keep in mind that most shops are closed on Sundays. – Taryn White

George Town is the capital and largest city in the Cayman Islands and the largest city of any of the British Overseas Territories. The city is the financial hub of the islands' robust financial services industry. It's also the port of call for cruise ships, where visitors take advantage of luxury shopping and duty-free finds. Because of its small port, most cruise ships anchor at sea and utilize local tender boats to transfer passengers to and from the ship.

Bioluminescent Bay (Grand Cayman) Bioluminescent Bay (Grand Cayman)

U.S. News Insider Tip: Opt for a boat tour instead of a kayak tour if you want the chance to snorkel in the water and interact directly with bioluminescent organisms. – Taryn White

Imagine being surrounded by millions of twinkling lights, illuminating the night sky. However, instead of the display being in the sky, it's in the water in an area known as Bioluminescent Bay in Grand Cayman's North Side near Starfish Point. Also known as Bio Bay, this natural wonder showcases bioluminescence, a phenomenon caused by millions of single-celled plankton called dinoflagellates that emit light when disturbed in the water. The high concentration of these bioluminescent organisms is extremely rare, making the Bio Bay one of only a few places in the world where you can experience it.

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Camana Bay (Grand Cayman) Camana Bay (Grand Cayman) free

Considered the town center of Grand Cayman, Camana Bay is a waterfront district with luxury condominiums, a cinema, trendy bars and restaurants, boutique shops and a sports complex. There's also a Wednesday farmers market and weekly live performances by local musicians. Adventure seekers can explore the ocean with water sports companies operating out of the Camana Bays Harbour, including Crazy Crab, Anchor Tours, Point Blue Sailing, Cayman Boat Adventures and Cayman Ferries. For families, the interactive fountains in Jasmine Court and on the Crescent provide endless fun for children.

It's no wonder that both locals and tourists flock to this vibrant district, with many describing it as a great place to spend a few hours. Among the highlights for tourists is enjoying the panoramic views of Grand Cayman from the top of the 75-foot Observation Tower, accessible via stairs or elevator. The tower features a colorful marine-themed mosaic mural made up of more than three million Venetian tiles.

Rum Point (Grand Cayman) Rum Point (Grand Cayman) free

Whether you're sipping a cocktail, spotting starfish or simply lounging in a hammock, Rum Point is worth a visit. Known as the birthplace of mudslide cocktails, Rum Point has been a beloved spot for locals and tourists for decades. Situated on Grand Cayman's North Side, Rum Point is an ideal destination for swimming and snorkeling, with clear and calm waters just offshore. The beach is adorned with sun loungers and umbrellas, shady trees and picnic tables, making it a perfect place to relax.

While some visitors were disappointed by recent development at Rum Point, others touted the dining at Rum Point Club , a beachside restaurant serving casual bites and cocktails. When it comes to accommodations, Rum Point Club Resort and the Island Houses of Cayman Kai, two of the most popular options, are just a short 200-yard stroll from the Rum Point Club. There are also several private villas available to rent in the area.

Kaibo (Grand Cayman) Kaibo (Grand Cayman)

Kaibo is a beachfront restaurant complex in Rum Point on the North Side of Grand Cayman. Recent diners enjoyed the relaxing atmosphere, friendly staff and creative dishes, such as s'mores pizza, as well as its ocean perch.

The complex has two restaurants, the casual Kaibo Beach Restaurant and the more refined Upstairs at Kaibo. It's also home to a coffee shop, Kaibo Beach Espresso, and a boutique 26-berth marina. The menus of each venue focus on local dishes, showcasing modern Caribbean cuisine. Among the menu items that have been featured at Kaibo Beach Restaurant are Caribbean slaw, local rum cake and callaloo fritters. Upstairs at Kaibo serves seasonal tasting menus with dishes like smoked wahoo pate, roast red snapper, and banana soufflé with gingerbread ice cream. In addition to delicious food and drinks, Kaibo offers various activities, such as beach games and snorkeling in nearby coves. It also hosts special events throughout the week, such as the Barefoot Beach BBQ, as well as live music.

Eden Rock & Devil's Grotto (Grand Cayman) Eden Rock & Devil's Grotto (Grand Cayman) free

Just south of  Seven Mile Beach  and less than 50 feet below the surface are Eden Rock and Devil's Grotto, two of the most popular diving spots on Grand Cayman that can be enjoyed by both beginner and intermediate divers and snorkelers. Both are known for their labyrinthine system of caves and tunnels where you can find tarpon, silversides, parrotfish and barracuda. A unique feature of Devil's Grotto are its shafts, where sunlight filters through gaps in the overhead rocks, creating ethereal scenery.

Recent cruisers appreciated the proximity of the diving center to the cruise ship terminal, making for a quick and easy shore excursion. Visitors also love the serene setting and the fact that the dive sites are also very close to each other and to the shore, and contain an impressive variety of marine life.

Mastic Trail (Grand Cayman) Mastic Trail (Grand Cayman) free

If you're a nature lover, you should add the Mastic Trail to your list of Grand Cayman must-dos. Established in 1992 to protect the largest contiguous area of old-growth forest in Grand Cayman, the 2.3-mile trail (one-way) is home to rare Mastic trees and winds through a native mangrove swamp surrounded by some of the island's most colorful and rare plant life.

If you decide to tackle the trail, you'll want to wear the appropriate footwear and insect repellant as the mosquitoes can be relentless. Because it's sheltered from the sea breeze, the trail can get quite hot and humid. If you're planning a trip, you'll have a more pleasant experience if you visit in the morning. Though you can hike the trail for free on your own, many past visitors said you'll get more out of the experience by hiring a guide, who can point out the unique wildlife, such as Cayman's native parrot, the West Indian woodpecker, and the Caribbean dove. If you time your visit for June, you'll likely spot the wild banana orchid – the national flower of the Cayman Islands – blooming along the trail.

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Bloody Bay Marine Park (Little Cayman) Bloody Bay Marine Park (Little Cayman)

Containing about one-third of the dive sites in Little Cayman, Bloody Bay Wall Marine Park is one of the most sought-after spots for avid scuba divers. The park offers some of the most dramatic underwater scenery anywhere in the world. Its top sight is its namesake Bloody Bay Wall, an incredible reef with a vertical drop-off that plunges more than 6,000 feet to the seafloor. The wall's surface has an abundance of marine life, including soft and hard corals, sponges and sea fans, and it's common to spot schools of colorful fish, stingrays, turtles and sharks.

Exploring the Bloody Bay Marine Park will be expensive, but the specific cost depends on the dive company you choose. Still, habitual visitors and first-time travelers to Little Cayman insist the expense is worth it, thanks to the variety of marine life and high visibility. Some of the top dive companies that visit the Bloody Bay Marine Park include Little Cayman Divers 

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Plan Your Trip to Cayman Islands: Best of Cayman Islands Tourism

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16 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in the Cayman Islands

Written by Karen Hastings Updated Apr 6, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Karen Hastings lived and worked in the Cayman Islands and enjoyed scuba diving along the coral reefs and basking on the beautiful beaches.

A British Overseas Territory in the Western Caribbean, the Cayman Islands offer beautiful beaches and some of the best diving in the world . Crystal-clear waters in striking shades of blue slosh upon the shores of this trio of tropical isles. Coral reefs ring all three islands, shipwrecks are scattered off their shores, and steep underwater walls teem with marine life.

Grand Cayman is the largest of the islands. Stunning Seven Mile Beach here is one of the best beaches in the Caribbean , with a range of water sports and beachfront resorts. Popular things to do include swimming with stingrays, diving, snorkeling, hiking, and duty-free shopping in the colorful capital of George Town . Grand Cayman is also where you'll find the most happening Cayman Islands nightlife.

Cayman Brac lures nature lovers with its craggy coastline, deep caves, and slower pace.

Little Cayman is positively sleepy, but it offers some of the best dive sites in the world, as well as excellent fishing. If you're looking for a romantic couples' holiday, this is the place to visit.

For more details on the best places to visit, read our list of the top attractions and things to do in the Cayman Islands.

1. Stingray City

2. seven mile beach, 3. cayman turtle centre: island wildlife encounter, 4. cayman crystal caves, 5. diving in the cayman islands, 6. queen elizabeth ii botanic park, 7. dolphin discovery grand cayman, 8. mastic reserve and trail, 9. kittiwake shipwreck and artificial reef, 10. george town, 11. camana bay, 12. the bluffs and caves of cayman brac, 13. pedro st. james national historic site, 14. bloody bay marine reserve, little cayman, 15. east end, the cayman islands - climate chart.

Anyone with a fear of stingrays will be cured after this trip. Stingray City is one of the most famous shallow water snorkel and dive sites in the Caribbean and one of Grand Cayman's top tourist attractions.

Custom-built boats zip out to a shallow sandbar surrounded by crystal-clear water where you can feed, kiss, and cuddle these satiny creatures. Bring the kids along for some unforgettable fun. If they're a little frightened to touch the stingrays , you can all kneel on the sandy bottom and just watch in awe as these gentle creatures glide all around you.

Snorkeling, diving, and swimming are all popular ways to enjoy this attraction.

Seven Mile Beach frequently graces lists of the best beaches in the Caribbean , and for good reason. Fringed with casuarinas and coconut palms, this ravishing sweep of flour-soft sand and turquoise sea is the kind of place you dream about.

Despite its name, it's actually only about 5.5 miles , but even with cruise ship passengers flocking to its shores, this broad stretch of beach provides a peaceful patch of sand. It's also usually free of roaming vendors.

Some of the top Cayman Islands resorts fringe the shores, and you'll find plenty of places steps from the sand to buy snacks and refreshments.

The entire beach is public and impeccably maintained. It flanks the island's main road north from George Town, making it hard to keep your eyes on the road when you're driving along this stretch.

Thanks to this alluring stretch of sand and sea, the Cayman Islands is one of the best places to visit in the Caribbean for a relaxing beach vacation.

Ever wanted to snorkel with turtles? At Cayman Turtle Centre , you can do this and so much more.

This research and breeding farm houses green sea turtles. The center raises turtles to counteract poaching in local waters and is also a conservation facility, releasing turtles into the wild. But that's not all. You'll find a diverse array of attractions here, with something for every member of the family.

Touch tanks and wading pools provide plenty of opportunities for animal lovers to see these gentle creatures up close. You can even hold baby turtles and snorkel with them and other sea creatures in Turtle Lagoon. But beware of Smiley's Saltwater Lagoon, which is home to a nine-foot saltwater crocodile, the first found in the islands since the mid-1950s.

Other fun attractions include an aviary full of tropical birds , and Breaker's Lagoon , the largest pool in the Caymans , complete with waterfalls and an underwater viewing window that peers into the predator tank. You can even stroll along a replica of a typical Cayman street lined with gingerbread houses.

Visiting Cayman Turtle Center is one of the most popular things to do for families in Grand Cayman. Little ones will also love the Butterfly Garden , and if you feel like you need a little more space, you can head out on the nature trail and look for more wildlife.

Address: 825 NW Point Road, West Bay, Grand Cayman

Tourists to Grand Cayman can now see a different side of the island by descending deep beneath the earth at Cayman Crystal Caves.

In 2016, Christian Sorensen began offering guided tours of caves on his lushly forested property on the north side of Grand Cayman, and they have quickly become a popular tourist attraction.

Formed over millennia, the caves are covered in contorted stalactites and stalagmites. Colonies of bats huddle in crevices, and a crystal-clear lake holds rainwater filtered through the rocks.

The 90-minute guided tours share fascinating information about the plants and animals of the area as well as the geology of the caves.

Surrounded by reefs, the Cayman Islands are one of the best diving destinations in the Caribbean. Best of all, many of the top sites lie only minutes from shore. Diving highlights include diverse coral formations, caverns, grottos, tunnels, wrecks, and steep walls, and the visibility is typically excellent

Off Grand Cayman, Stingray City is one of the most famous shallow dives in the world.

If wreck diving is more your thing, the Kittiwake Shipwreck & Artificial Reef , off the northern tip of Seven Mile Beach, is worthy of a visit.

Devil's Grotto offers crevices and swim-throughs, as well as tarpon at certain times of year, while divers at the North Wall might glimpse stingrays, eagle rays, and turtles (Babylon is a favorite site here).

Prefer to snorkel? You can see some of the island's spectacular underwater life right from the beach at Smith Cove, and turtles swim the clear waters off Spotts Beach .

Off Little Cayman, Bloody Bay Marine Park is an underwater wonderland, with Jackson's Bight and the famous Bloody Bay Wall, which plunges to depths of more than 1,800 meters.

Cayman Brac also boasts numerous excellent dive sites. The sunken Russian frigate, MV Captain Keith Tibbetts , off the island is one of the most famous wrecks in the world.

The Grand Cayman Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park preserves the island's flora and fauna, and if you're lucky, you might even spot the endangered blue iguana.

You can stroll the garden's peaceful paths past lily-topped ponds, palm gardens, woodland habitats, orchids, and colorful flowers. Plants and trees are labeled, and benches beckon from shady nooks.

Other animals living in the park include snakes, birds, lizards, turtles, and agoutis. History buffs and green thumbs alike will enjoy the Heritage Garden, with medicinal plants and a restored Caymanian cottage.

The best way to spot a blue iguana is to book a guided tour.

Nature lovers will also enjoy hiking the Mastic Trail , about a five-minute drive from here.

Address: Frank Sound Road, North Side, Grand Cayman

If you've wanted to swim with a dolphin since you were a kid, this is your chance to check the activity off your bucket list. Dolphin Discovery Grand Cayman offers visitors a chance to get up close and personal with the friendly sea creatures in Cove Cayman.

An ideal activity for families , this fun experience allows tourists of all ages a safe and exciting way to get nose to fin with their favorite water mammals.

Whether you're hoping to kiss a dolphin on the nose, swim with one while perched on a boogie board, or be pulled around the pool by two of these amazing creatures, you're in for an experience of a lifetime.

Address: Northwest Road West Bay, Grand Cayman

Need a break from the beach? The Mastic Reserve on Grand Cayman offers a different perspective of the island's natural attractions. It's designed to protect an area of dry subtropical forest, which is typical to the Caribbean but disappearing through deforestation, and you'll find a fascinating array of critters living here.

The best way to explore the reserve is along the Mastic Trail . This 3.7-kilometer-long trail takes you across jagged iron shore and through dry forest, silver thatch palms, and black mangrove wetland.

Originally built more than 100 years ago, the trail was no longer used and became overgrown when the island's roads were developed. With much help and repair the trail was reopened in the mid 1990s.

Today, nature lovers can stroll along the well-marked trail and spot wild orchids; birds; and small animals such as lizards, frogs, and hermit crabs. This is a romantic place to visit for couples, and you'll want to schedule at least a couple of hours here.

Guided tours are a great way to learn about the reserve's flora and fauna and are highly recommended. (Wear sturdy shoes and bring mosquito repellent and plenty of water.) You can arrange tours through the National Trust for the Cayman Islands Visitor Centre.

Address: Frank Sound Road, Grand Cayman

The USS Kittiwake sunk off the northern tip of Grand Cayman's Seven Mile Beach in 2011. Most famous for recovering the Challenger Space Shuttle , this Ex-US Navy ship is now a popular dive site for scuba and snorkeling enthusiasts.

At less than 60 feet deep, this interesting wreck is easy to discover for water explorers of all levels, and it's a great place for beginner divers to get their faces wet. Visitors to the site are rewarded with multiple ship decks that have been transformed into a vibrant reef over the past years. The clear water and shallow locale make it an exciting point of interest.

Frequent sightings of stingrays and eagle rays have been reported here, making this one of the best places to visit for snorkeling and diving in the area.

To get here, book a tour with a local dive company. We'd suggest organizing this early (as in before your trip) to ensure a spot for you and your family.

George Town, the Cayman's attractive capital, comes alive when cruise ships arrive. Shopping is one of the most popular things to do here, and many of the duty-free shops and art galleries are housed in colorful gingerbread buildings along the harbor front.

This cute tourist town also offers a clutch of other worthwhile tourist attractions. Cayman Islands National Museum displays historical and ecological exhibits.

For art lovers, the National Gallery of the Cayman Islands is a must-see. This bright, modern venue exhibits an exceptional collection of local art, as well as themed temporary exhibitions featuring Caymanian and international artists. You can also admire the beautiful sculpture gardens and relax at the Art Café. This is one of the top free things to do in the Cayman Islands, and it's a great place to visit on a rainy day.

Need a shopping fix? Camana Bay offers more than 40 shops and services, with more than 75 brands to satisfy your urge to splurge.

This palm-studded, pedestrian-friendly outdoor mall sits on the waterfront a few minutes north of George Town, and you'll find more than just shops here. Specialty restaurants, a six-screen cinema, interactive fountains, and an Observation Tower round out all the attractions.

Climb the Observation Tower for 360-degree views across Seven Mile Beach , George Town, and the North Sound. The Town Square also hosts community events, as well as a popular farmers' market.

Are you looking for things to do in the Cayman Islands at night? Many of the more than 15 cafés and restaurants here are open until 10pm.

Address: Market Street, Grand Cayman

A 30-minute flight from Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac is the second biggest of the three Cayman Islands . It's known for its dramatic coastal scenery, deep caves, and breathtaking bluff-top hikes.

The island is named for the 45-meter-high limestone bluff or "Brac" on its eastern tip, the highest point in the Caymans. Along the Brac, you can climb the steep walkway to a lighthouse with beautiful ocean views and look for nesting seabirds along the way.

Cayman Brac is also famous for its caves. Peter's Cave , Bat's Cave , Great Cave , Skull Cave , and Rebecca's Cave are among the easiest to access and the most popular. You can explore the caves on your own to see bat colonies, as well as stalactites and stalagmites.

Other things to do on Cayman Brac include hiking the scenic trail through the National Trust Parrot Reserve and diving the island's wrecks and coral reefs — the MV Captain Keith Tibbetts , a sunken Russian frigate, is one of the top dive sites in the Cayman Islands.

Ready for some Cayman Islands' history? About a 20-minute drive east of George Town, the Pedro St. James National Historic Site is home to a restored 18th-century plantation house known as Pedro's Castle.

One of the oldest buildings on the island, this elaborate three-story stone structure is known as the "Birthplace of Democracy in the Cayman Islands." It was here in 1831 that the decision was made to form the nation's first elected parliament. Today, you can tour the restored house and learn about its history during a 3D multimedia presentation in the theater.

Also on the grounds, the Hurricane Ivan Memorial tells the tragic story of the 2004 natural disaster. After touring the house, you can explore the surrounding woodland and admire the bluff top views.

Address: Pedro Castle Road, Savannah, Grand Cayman

The smallest and sleepiest of the three Cayman Islands, Little Cayman is known for its superb fishing and diving. Bloody Bay Marine Reserve lies just offshore here, with wreck sites and the famous Bloody Bay Wall .

Divers and anglers flock to the Southern Cross Club , a venerable resort with a top-notch dive operation and expert fishing guides, who take you to prowl the flats for bonefish or cast a line in the island's Tarpon Lake .

Little Cayman is also home to the Booby Pond Nature Reserve , a large breeding colony of red-footed boobies and frigate birds, and if you really want to feel like a castaway, you can paddle over to Owen Island , a deserted sliver of sand 180 meters from shore.

Far from the cruise ship crowds of George Town, the East End offers a slower-paced alternative to the popular attractions on the island's west coast.

This side of the island also offers superb snorkeling, authentic island food, blowholes, secluded beaches, and excellent dive sites. It's also much quieter here, which makes it a popular spot for couples in search of romance.

Only 15 minutes from the East End on the island's northern tip lies Rum Point , a peaceful pine-fringed cove slung with hammocks and volleyball nets. Lounging on the shores here with a cool refreshment and that special someone is one of the most romantic things to do in Grand Cayman.

Wondering about the most unique things to do in Grand Cayman? How about a visit to Hell.

Sinister black rock formations on the north coast of Grand Cayman inspired the town's name, and it's an almost obligatory stop on the tourist sightseeing trail.

Most visitors stop by the town's tiny post office to send a "Greetings from Hell" postcard to their friends, and you can also officially mark your visit to hell with a stamp in your passport. At the tiny gift shop, a resident "devil" dispenses witticisms, along with souvenirs.

Want to take some photos of the hellish landscape? You can wander along the sturdy boardwalk for easier access to the jagged limestone rocks, which have been ravaged by the elements over millions of years.

Address: West Bay, Grand Cayman

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Exploring Jamaica : A short flight from the Cayman Islands, Jamaica has a colorful African vibe and gorgeous scenery, from lush mountains and waterfalls to palm-lined beaches. For information on the top attractions, best areas to stay, and tropical adventures on the island check out our pages on Montego Bay , Ocho Rios , and Negril .

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How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Grand Cayman

This stunning Caribbean island combines an incredible food scene with white-sand beaches — and it's easy to get to.

• Best Hotels & Resorts

Best Things To Do

Best restaurants, best time to visit, how to get there, neighborhoods to visit, how to get around.

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The legendary white sands of Seven Mile Beach put the Cayman Islands firmly on the map as a beach destination, chosen by Travel + Leisure editors as one of the  best places to travel in 2023 . However, beaches are just the start in Grand Cayman, an island increasingly known for everything from its  budding art scene  to its foodie bona fides that extend beyond the Caribbean.

Home to the annual  Cayman Cookout  at  The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman , the island is considered the culinary capital of the Caribbean. "It earns the title. Grand Cayman is small enough that all the chefs know each other and can collaborate. It makes for great synergy," says Sandy Tuason, the executive chef at  The Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort & Spa .

Innovation from Grand Cayman's tastemakers continues beyond the food. Several new, elevated cocktail bars, with Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa's  Library by the Sea  at the helm, are transforming the island into a full-blown mixology destination. 

Refurbished beachside accommodations and new, stylish boutique properties like  Palm Heights  add a healthy dose of style to the island. With one of the most extensive flight lifts in the Caribbean, Grand Cayman looks more accessible and appealing than ever.

Courtesy of Palm Heights

Best Hotels & Resorts

The westin grand cayman seven mile beach resort & spa.

The largest pool in Grand Cayman and the longest stretch of white sand on Seven Mile Beach make  The Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort & Spa  one of the most impressive resorts on the island. Extensive health, wellness, and activities offerings, plus a kids club, the Hibiscus Spa, and innovative dining options like Woto are highlights.

Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa

Voted one of the best resort hotels in the Caribbean, Bermuda, and the Bahamas  in 2020 by T+L readers, the  Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa  sits on the heart of Seven Mile Beach. This 264-room property   also boasts the   impressive Library by the Sea cocktail bar and Mexican street food-inspired beach eatery Coccoloba, which warrant a visit even among travelers staying elsewhere.

The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman

Home to the largest luxury suite in the Caribbean,  The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman  shines after an extensive refurbishment in 2021. "It sits along the Seven Mile Beach so the stunning beach is conveniently accessible," says Susmita Baral, T+L's travel editor. "While guests should leave the property and explore the island, you could stay on-site the entire time and have a great time."

The resort's  Cayman Cookout  festivities every January are a must for foodies, though the tasting menus at Blue by Eric Ripert make the resort a culinary destination year round. "Guests at the Cayman Cookout can experience great food and famous chefs, but it's really about making memories," Marc Langevin, general manager of The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman tells T+L at the 2024 Cayman Cookout. "We hope to create a myriad of experiences — a moment and memories — that they'll remember when they go home."

Palm Heights

Opened in October 2019,  Palm Heights  is a stylish boutique property and one of the newest resorts in Grand Cayman. As  Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon recently reported for T+L , Palm Heights is "a haven for creative types — and those who want to be near them — who crave a bit of visual stimulation with their relaxing resort vibes." With just 52 rooms and suites, it offers a refreshing boutique experience amidst nearby mega-resorts.

Related:   Top All-inclusive Cayman Islands Resorts

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Stingray City

A short cruise takes visitors to a sand bar surrounded by crystal-clear waters to swim with giant yet gentle stingrays at  Stingray City . One of the most popular experiences in Grand Cayman, these excursions also offer optional snorkeling at colorful Coral Gardens.

Kittiwake Shipwreck

"Throw on a snorkel anywhere in Grand Cayman, and it's like National Geographic out there," says Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa's Jim Wrigley. However, one of the island's most unique dive sites is the  shipwreck of the USS Kittiwake , sunk in 2011. Turtles and tropical fish now populate the wreck, known for being easily accessible even for less-experienced divers.

National Gallery of the Cayman Islands

The National Gallery of the Cayman Islands is "the best place to discover Caymanian art and to understand its evolution,"  says Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon for T+L . It's just the start of numerous galleries and art exhibits for travelers looking to discover a burgeoning art scene on the island.

Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park

Visit Grand Cayman's impressive  botanical gardens  to see all the richness of the island's flora, including species of orchids you won't find anywhere else on the planet. The park also welcomes visitors to its conservation facility for the island's endemic blue iguanas.

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Library by the Sea

Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa's  Library by the Sea  serves a curated collection of literary-inspired cocktails that offer "a slice of time and history with each sip," says the resort's beverage manager Jim Wrigley. Highlights include a glowing blue  Dune -inspired drink and a Hemingway daiquiri made using 1932 Bacardí rum, just like the author would have had at El Floridita in Havana. Drinks are "served" with first-edition and vintage copies of the tomes that inspired their creation.

Located in the shopping and entertainment hub of Camana Bay,  Next Door  is a new cocktail bar offering some of the most innovative drink creations on the island. A commitment to using sustainable ingredients and frequent live music events have made it one of the island's best happy hour spots.

Blue by Eric Ripert

The Caribbean's only AAA Five-Diamond restaurant,  Blue by Eric Ripert  at the Ritz-Carlton offers tasting menus highlighting local seafood, making it the undisputed fine dining star of Grand Cayman. "Blue by Eric Ripert created the dining scene in the Cayman Islands, Langevin tells T+L. "It's the flagship restaurant at the Ritz-Carlton and elevates the dining experience on the island."

Ms. Piper's Kitchen + Garden

Patterned after a bohemian backyard oasis, Ms. Piper's Kitchen + Garden might just be the coolest place to eat in Grand Cayman. The retro 70's vibe woven into every detail and international-inspired menu are refreshing and unique.

As Grand Cayman's first dedicated poke, sushi, and ceviche restaurant, The Westin's  Woto  has quickly become a favorite dining destination. Chefs trained in Japan make dishes authentic, while locally-sourced ingredients root them in Caribbean flavors. 

Peppers Bar & Grill

Tastemakers, foodies, and chefs across the island all recommend beachfront  Peppers Bar & Grill  as one of the best local restaurants in Grand Cayman. "The jerk chicken, rice, and peas are the best on the island," says Wrigley.

Coccoloba  at Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa is Seven Mile Beach's elevated beach bar experience. The Mexican street food-inspired menu offers everything from fresh-catch tostadas to churros and an incredible piña colada.

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Grand Cayman enjoys warm, tropical weather year round, with temperatures hovering around the 80s. Wet weather and tropical storms are possible during the Atlantic hurricane season between June and November.

Travel high season falls from December through April. While prices are the highest and beaches the busiest, consistently mild weather and sunny skies make these months one of the best times to visit the island. For a sweet spot combining lower prices, fewer tourists, and nice weather, the late spring months of April, May, and June are another great time to visit Grand Cayman.

Cayman Cookout is held annually in mid-January and is worth planning your trip around. The event brings celebrity chefs to the forefront with cooking demos, wine tastings, curated dinners, and an array of exclusive activities. (In 2024, guests could go deep sea fishing with chef Emeril Lagasse and take a private jet to Jamaica's GoldenEye resort with chef Eric Ripert and the CEO of New Zealand-based winery Craggy Range.)

Visit in early May for  Cayman Carnival Batabano . Batabano isn't as over-the-top as the carnival celebrations of some Caribbean neighbors, but it’s a fantastic time to experience Caymanian food, music, and dance traditions.

Grand Cayman is one of the most accessible Caribbean islands for North American travelers. Numerous airlines offer frequent direct flights to Grand Cayman's Owen Roberts International Airport from cities such as New York, Los Angeles, Atlanta, and others. Miami, just under two hours away, is a gateway city to the Cayman Islands, with up to four daily direct flights to Grand Cayman during the high travel season.

Cayman Airways  offers small daily inter-island flights between Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac, and Little Cayman. While there is no public ferry service between the islands like you might find in other Caribbean destinations, travelers can also choose private boat charters, which are relatively affordable.

Many visitors also arrive in Grand Cayman by cruise ship at the port in the capital city of George Town. The cruise port allows for up to four ships to anchor at once; any additional ships remain in harbor. Passengers are tendered to shore and arrive at one of three terminals.

Seven Mile Beach

Nestled along the white sands of one of the  most beautiful beaches in the world  is the indisputable center of the action in Grand Cayman. The Seven Mile Beach area is home to Grand Cayman's buzziest resorts, bars, and restaurants, all within short walking distance of each other.

Just a stone's throw from Seven Mile Beach is the  Camana Bay  area. Jump on a catamaran cruise from the harbor or explore the bustling Town Centre, which features frequent events and a Wednesday farmers and artisan market from 12:00 - 7:00 p.m. This modern neighborhood has lots of shopping and some of the island's best eateries and bars, including Next Door and chef-favorite  Agua .

Kick back and relax on the breezy white-sand beach at Rum Point for a quintessentially Caribbean escape from the island's built-up resort area. Rum Point's Wreck Bar holds the distinction for creating the iconic Caymanian cocktail known as the mudslide. While the recipe differs from many classically Caribbean beverages - think vodka, Kahlua, Bailey's, and cinnamon — it's an island classic. 

Head east for the antithesis of the built-up Seven Mile Beach area. Weekend farmers' markets and more remote beaches are favorites. "East End is more of a trek, but the local food here is worth it. You'll find food shacks where you just walk up and receive a plate of delicious food from grandma in the back who has been doing this for ages," says Wrigley. 

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With so many of the best resorts, bars, and restaurants in Grand Cayman clustered along Seven Mile Beach, booking a rental car is only a necessity for travelers looking to explore Rum Point or the island's East End. The airport is the best place to rent a car, with a number of large companies here. Remember that cars drive on the left side of the road in the Cayman Islands, though you can find cars with the steering wheel on either side of the vehicle.

Taxis tend to be the best transportation option for most travelers in Grand Cayman, though they can be comparatively expensive. Download  CI:GO , an app the Cayman Islands government created to calculate taxi fares between locations, which will estimate your fare in USD and Cayman Islands Dollars (KYD).

Grand Cayman doesn't have the ridesharing companies most visitors will recognize from home. The local app  Island Ride  is an alternative, though many travelers tend to stick with taxis, as ridesharing can be even more expensive than a standard taxi.

Local Buses

Mini-buses run on predetermined routes around the island and cost just a few dollars per trip, though they tend to get crowded and won't stop if they're already full. Catch a bus at a stop along the route or by flagging one down as it passes. More information on routes and schedules is available on the  Public Transportation Unit website .

8 Reasons to Visit the Cayman Islands Now

Unmatched Sunrises and Sunsets

Early risers can head to the East End of Grand Cayman to take in some of the destination’s most picturesque sunrises, while Seven Mile Beach, Rum Point, and Smith Barcadere offer some of the best spots to settle into the sand and watch the sun descend over the horizon.

Bespoke Culinary Experiences

Whether you desire a romantic candlelit dinner amid the sound of crashing waves or an organic, locally sourced farm-to-table meal at an acclaimed restaurant, the Cayman Islands’ culinary scene has something to whet every foodie’s appetite.

Paradise for Love

Perfect for a romantic escape, wedding, or honeymoon, the Cayman Islands takes an already monumental day to another level with some of the most beautiful locales across all three islands—from The Bluff on Cayman Brac to a private picnic on Little Cayman’s Owen Island.

Party and Parade Like a Local

Gear up for the Cayman Islands’ biggest party of the year: Batabano, in May. An electric celebration of the islands’ vibrant culture featuring local music and decorative costumes, this is one festival you won’t want to miss.

Shannon McMahon

CNT Editors

Hannah Towey

Unbelievable Dive Sites

Featuring 365 dive sites (a different one for every day of the year), the Cayman Islands has no shortage of spectacular wrecks, reefs, and other unique dive experiences to explore—all of which feature amazingly colorful marine life. The destination’s calm crystal-clear waters also provide some of the best conditions for snorkeling and other underwater activities like SNUBA®.

Natural Beauty Abounds

Beyond the beach, Grand Cayman’s Sister Island Cayman Brac (gaelic for “bluff”), boasts stunning views from cliffs and hiking paths overlooking the deep blue sea to delight any nature lover. Venture through untouched forests, intricate caves, and more, in addition to a 180-acre parrot reserve, which hosts the rare Brac Parrot.

The Key to Relaxation

Beautiful resorts like Carib Sands and Le Soleil d’Or on Cayman Brac will turn your trip into a true escape. Pamper yourself at the islands’ luxury spas and find the most perfect spot for an afternoon nap.

Stretches of Unspoiled Beaches—need we say more?

It’s no surprise that Seven Mile Beach is consistently rated one of the world’s most beautiful. The soft white sand and impossibly turquoise waters might be the only reason you need to visit the Cayman Islands after all.

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From Subterranean Caverns to Dazzling Gardens, 8 Ways to Explore the Cayman Islands

Enjoy outdoor adventure, dazzling wildlife and gardens, and a glimpse into the history of cayman democracy..

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Meet endangered blue iguanas on a trip to the Cayman Islands.

Photo by Joshua Stoner

If you’re looking for a beach vacation in paradise, it doesn’t get much more iconic than Grand Cayman’s Seven Mile Beach. Gracing numerous lists of the top stretches of sand in the Caribbean—if not the world—this quintessential shoreline is a destination in and of itself: 6.3 fully traversable miles (the name is the only thing that over-promises) of white sand and crystal waters. It makes for an epic beach walk, the ideal setting for yoga or water sports, or the perfect place for simply soaking up the sun.

But Grand Cayman and its sister islands, Cayman Brac and Little Cayman, offer much more than sun and sand. With a wide range of exciting experiences, each of the islands is invitingly accessible, which makes it easy to hit the abundant natural and cultural attractions they offer, including unique forest hikes, opportunities for viewing art, and important historical sites, without sacrificing your beach time.

Here we’ve rounded up some of the top things to see and do during your visit to the Cayman Islands.

1. Connect with the Caymans’ (literal) roots

These days, the Cayman Islands’ economy might be synonymous with offshore banking, but not long ago its industry was tied up in rope woven by hand from native silver thatch palm trees. At the thatch rope industry’s peak, the Cayman Islands exported 1.3 million fathoms of rope—nearly the flight distance from Grand Cayman’s capital of George Town to New York—every year. In fact, the Cayman Islands’ silver thatches grace the country’s flag and are its official national tree.

While you can find silver thatch palms all over the islands, an excellent spot for viewing them—along with a wealth of other native flora and fauna—is along the Mastic Trail on the northern side of Grand Cayman. Retracing a more than century-old agricultural footpath, the trail winds through the Mastic Reserve, the largest (and still untouched) old-growth forest on the island.

Following the boundary between low-lying semi-deciduous dry forest and mangrove wetlands, the trail is full of massive mahogany trees, old mango and citrus trees, towering royal palms, and seasonal blooms, such as the wild banana orchid—the Cayman Islands’ national flower—which blossoms every June. Trekking the 2.4-mile route is also a birder’s dream; you’ll spot parrots, West Indian woodpeckers, and rare Caribbean doves, plus snakes, lizards, butterflies, and other wildlife.

The best way to experience the Mastic Trail is via a guided tour with the Cayman Islands National Trust , which restored the trail in the 1990s. More a storytelling session than a workout, the tour is helmed by Stuart Mailer, a botanist who helped lead the restoration project. It provides a true—though often muddy—walk on the island’s wild side.

2. Soak in the homegrown art scene

From vivid island scenery to abundant underwater life, there’s no shortage of artistic inspiration in the Cayman Islands. Many visitors, however, don’t realize that the nation has a rich visual art scene, with many artists depicting the evolution of island life over the decades.

Take in the opulent variety of styles, media, and subject matter at the National Gallery of the Cayman Islands , an exhibition and gathering place dedicated to promoting homegrown artists. From pioneers such as Gladwyn K. “Miss Lassie” Bush —a fourth-generation Caymanian who taught herself to paint at age 62 (her former home is now a heritage site )—to contemporary graphic works from Wray Banker (a founder of the Native Sons Artist Collective), the collection is dedicated to preserving the nation’s cultural heritage and identity through visual art.

Cayman Crystal Caves encompass hundreds of caverns.

Photo by Katie Thorpe/Shutterstock

3. Wander through an underground wonderland

Hidden in a forest, the Cayman Crystal Caves are full of otherworldly rock formations forged by the interaction of rainwater and Grand Cayman’s foundational limestone. Here you’ll find hundreds of subterranean caverns full of massive stalagmite and stalactite crystals created by calcium deposits left over as acid in rain dissolved the limestone over millions of years.

Believed to have once been a hiding place for pirates, the Crystal Caves are now one of the islands’ unique attractions. On a 90-minute tour, you can wander through three caves that house an abundance of photogenic rock formations, making your way to the clear green subterranean pool at its center, the source of the cave system’s name.

4. Lose yourself in a colorful paradise for nature lovers

Bustling with freely roaming blue iguanas (huge, endangered lizards found only on Grand Cayman and named for the hue of their skin), kaleidoscopic parrots, and 65 acres of gardens, the Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park is heaven on Earth for nature lovers.

With red giving way to pink giving way to orange, yellow, and so on, the dazzling Color Garden is arranged by hue and is a visual delight. The park features seven sections, including a heritage garden with a model of an old-fashioned island home flanked by traditional plants and fruit trees that Caymanians have used for food and shelter for generations, a boardwalk orchid garden with four native varieties among its many blooms, and a blue iguana habitat that serves as the headquarters of the island’s conservation program.

5. Take in a nighttime light show

To enjoy the best after-dark light show in the Cayman Islands, look down, not up. While on a clear night the Cayman Islands’ starry skies are certainly appealing, a much rarer display takes place below the surface of the sea in the tranquil waters not far from Rum Point on Grand Cayman’s north side.

Join a tour with Tom Watling of Cayman Kayaks , and it’s a short paddle to a quiet bay full of bioluminescent sea life. As Watling explains how the perfect combination of factors—warm water, salinity, and plant matter—produce this unique phenomenon, paddlers can splash and thump their oars to light up the water with the white and blue eruptions of illumination produced by microscopic organisms under the surface.

Tours are scheduled based on the lunar cycles, running only on the darkest nights each month for best viewing. For those who want to take in the lights minus the DIY transportation, Cayman Kayaks also offers a tour by electric boat.

6. An early morning pedal around the sleepy side of Grand Cayman

Over the past few decades, Grand Cayman has become known for its restaurant scene and the many resorts that line Seven Mile Beach. But once upon a time, the island was mostly made up of sleepy fishing villages connected by scenic coastal roadways. You can pedal back in time to those earlier days on an early morning bike tour with Eco Rides Cayman .

Eco Rides was founded by Shane Edwards, who wanted to marry his love of cycling with his passion for protecting Grand Cayman’s relatively untouched East End from development. There are no hotels or souvenir shops out this way. Instead, you’ll spend approximately three hours pedaling past colorful cottages and waving locals, stopping along the way to scope the site of the Cayman Islands’ most famous shipwreck disaster—the Wreck of the Ten Sail—photograph blowholes along the shoreline, sample local fruit, and check out the secret caves on Edwards’s family property. Tours include bike and helmet rental and a home-baked snack along the way.

7. Dive down to a submerged mountain range

Surrounded by shallow coral reefs, the Cayman Islands offer some of the best diving and snorkeling sites in the Caribbean. One of the most awe-inspiring of these submarine experiences is Bloody Bay Wall, an underwater cliff off Little Cayman that starts a little more than 20 feet below the water’s surface and plunges down 6,000 feet.

The sheer drama of this immense cliff makes for an astounding swim for advanced divers, with tropical fish, turtles, eels, stingrays, and barracudas swimming among the corals that line the wall. But you don’t have to be a PADI-certified expert diver to enjoy it. In addition to some 24 diving sites, it also features six designated areas that are appropriate for snorkelers.

The Cayman Islands elected its first democratic government in 1831 at Pedro St. James.

Photo by Joymsk140/Shutterstock

8. Pay homage to freedom and democracy at Grand Cayman’s oldest—and most important—house

Pedro St. James —or Pedro’s Castle, as the locals call it—is the oldest surviving stone structure in the Cayman Islands, but that’s not what makes it so noteworthy. Pedro (pronounced Pee-dro) St. James is the most important historic site on the islands thanks to its role in the establishment of democracy.

It was here in 1831 that this island nation elected its first democratic government. Also on this site, five years later, a delegate of the Governor of Jamaica issued a proclamation to abolish slavery in the British Empire, which was read from the stone stairs of the Great House built 50 years earlier by enslaved people. In the ensuing 150 years, the building was used as a courthouse, jailhouse, and parliamentary house—and was battered down by hurricanes, fire, and an earthquake along the way—until the government purchased the site in 1991, restoring the Great House and other traditional buildings that dot the property.

Today, you can take a guided tour of this celebrated site, sample a flight of Cayman Spirits rum, and enjoy a lunch of marinated conch and red snapper pasta at the new Thatch and Barrel—an on-site restaurant launched by the team behind George Town favorite Cayman Cabana. It’s a tasty way to experience an essential aspect of Caribbean history.

18 Must-Do Things In The Cayman Islands

A trio of isles that falls under the United Kingdom politically, the Cayman Islands are a little slice of Caribbean heaven not far northwest of Jamaica . Generally flat and made of limestone, the islands are known as much for what lies offshore as the land itself. This is an affluent destination, not only thanks to the strong tourism industry but also because the Cayman Islands serves as a robust banking hub in the Caribbean, especially popular for holders of offshore accounts. 

The Cayman Islands have phenomenal waters teeming with marine life and vibrant reefs that contribute to amazing snorkeling and diving. The beaches are just as astonishing, ranging from compact coves to grand sweeps of sand. But the sea and sand aren't the only things in the Cayman Islands worth seeking out, and this Caribbean getaway has much more to entice visitors, from historical sites to equine adventures. The list below, based on our first-hand knowledge of the islands and carefully compiled to ensure that visitors can enjoy a range of experiences, is a smart place to learn more.

Read more: 50 Of The Most Mesmerizing Places On Earth

Bioluminescent Bay

The waters off Rum Point, on the north coast of Grand Cayman, are a sight to behold in their own right, but at night, they become even more special. In a small area known as Bioluminescent Bay, the water lights up when agitated, a phenomenon caused by tiny marine creatures emitting light. This excursion is bucket-list worthy and is likely to instill childlike wonder in anyone who participates. Cayman Kayaks takes visitors out to the bay under the cover of darkness, departing from Rum Point and weaving along the coast to the bay. 

Once there, travelers will notice the magical waters light up when they swish a paddle through the shallows, a marvel that is almost hard to believe. Tours can be done aboard an electric boat as a less physically demanding option. Whatever mode of transport is chosen, guests will enjoy the sparkling water and commentary from guides who can point out the bounty of stars and planets in the night sky.

The Blowholes

While the water around the Cayman Islands is blissfully calm in many spots, allowing for some sublime swimming and snorkeling, other areas accurately convey the power of the sea. This is especially apparent at the blowholes in the eastern part of Grand Cayman, sights that are both thrilling and terrifying, with unbridled spouts and surges of water leaping into the sky. 

There are a few blowholes along here, formed when the strong sea currents roll into the shore and find space inside sea caves before squeezing out through holes in the roof of the cave. The force of the water that shoots up can be overpowering, so visitors are advised not to get too close to these blowholes. The majority of them are located along Seaview Road on the south coast of Grand Cayman, and when the winds and surges are strong, the water from a blowhole can rocket up as high as 20 feet.

Cayman Brac

Unlike Grand Cayman and Little Cayman, this island has some noticeable elevation, making it an excellent spot for any sporting activity — specifically rock climbing. Made of limestone, the cliffs sit above gorgeous turquoise waters, adding incredible vistas to the excursion and allowing climbers to take a break to look over beautiful seascapes. The climbing here isn't only for seasoned pros; travelers new to the sport can acclimate themselves to the vertical discipline with the simple option of a rappel trip. 

Operator Rock Iguana takes visitors out onto the cliffs, with choices such as a rappel tour where adventurers can hang above the sea and spy blowholes or a two-day beginner climbing course that covers topics such as tying knots, gear, and a primer on holds and techniques. The most taxing tour is climbing the Point, which involves tackling a 140-foot cliff on the eastern part of the island.

Cayman Spirits Company Distillery

One of the joys of visiting the Caribbean is just chilling by the sea, maybe under the shade of a beach umbrella or palm tree, sipping an ice-filled, soothing tipple. One of the most popular spirits in the region is rum, and it's one of the drinks made at the Cayman Spirits Company Distillery, a producer of fiery alcohol-based in Grand Cayman. On a tour of its facility, visitors can see how rum and vodka are made. 

Opened in 2013 on the outskirts of the capital, George Town, the outfit is, in fact, the only distillery in the territory. Tours are reasonably priced, costing $15, and last a little over 30 minutes. During one, visitors will saunter around the 5,000-square-foot area, see a 1,200-gallon copper still, a 30-foot tower used for vodka, and the apparatus used to distill rum. Guests will be able to sample some of the company's products during a tasting session after the tour ends.

Cayman Turtle Centre

There's something so heartwarming about seeing a turtle slowly swish its way through the water, gliding along as it uses its front flippers to propel itself. For anyone who is a fan of a turtle — that might just be about everyone — this spot is one place on Grand Cayman not to be missed. Run by the government of the Cayman Islands, the Cayman Turtle Centre features different sections where visitors can learn about and interact with these tranquil sea creatures, which can be found living in the waters around the Cayman Islands. 

In the Greens' Breeding Bay, you can spot turtle eggs (in the right season, of course) and sit in small pools where young turtles swim. In the lagoon area, families can enjoy rides on curling waterslides, lounge inside a large swimming pool, or even snorkel in clear water with juvenile turtles as they get to grips with their nascent existence.

Crystal Caves

Deep in a forest, this cave system has some pretty impressive limestone formations. Trips here aren't unsupervised wanders but are guided tours, which usually last about 90 minutes, and that venture into three caves as well as around the forest around the formations. The setting for this natural attraction is in the north-central part of Grand Cayman, an area known as North Side. Participants will be able to learn about the processes that create stalactites and stalagmites formed when water interacts with limestone. 

Many eons ago, these caves were underwater, and, at a later time, when above ground, were used by pirates to evade captors and the elements (some believe that treasure is hidden here). Guides help visitors discover the wonders of the forest, a place where parrots, strangler balsam trees, and other flora and fauna thrive, and learn about how bat guano was a key fertilizer for local farmland.

Deep Sea Fishing

Thanks to a sudden drop-off of the seabed close to shore, travelers don't need to venture far to be able to fish in the depths, allowing them to spend most of their time on the water with a rod and reel at the ready. After boarding a boat at the harbor in Grand Cayman, an angler needs to travel about a quarter of a mile to encounter water that plummets down thousands of feet, and a little bit further out is the Cayman Trench, where the seabed sits 20,000 feet below the water's surface. 

This is a realm teeming with sport fish, and guests on a boat can expect to find tuna, mahi mahi, and blue marlin. Different fish are present depending on the month, but there is always something big to fish, so a visitor will be able to catch something sizable any time of the year. Boat trips leave early in the morning and offer a half-day (approximately four hours) or a full-day adventure.

Horse Riding

While the riding schools are aimed more at people wanting to fine-tune their skills on an ongoing basis, they allow visitors to get on horseback or even visit a pony. The Equestrian Center lets newcomers to the sport take beginner lessons, starting with children as young as five years old, where they will learn the basics of riding, with a strong focus on safety. More advanced students can progress to the disciplines of dressage and jumping. 

For casual visitors, the Pony Park will be of great appeal. It opens every Saturday morning and is where youngsters can interact with Pebbles, a small horse, Lulu (a donkey), and even a few goats, all accustomed to human contact. Entry to the park even includes a ride on a pony. At the Cayman Riding School, a full roster of lessons and learning pulls in youngsters galore, especially those training for competition.

Kittiwake Shipwreck

There is lots of excellent diving and snorkeling around the Cayman Islands, thanks largely to the pristine waters found here. One of the prime diving sites by Grand Cayman, also good for snorkelers, the "Kittiwake," was a former American ship that sank at the beginning of 2011. Keen observers of history might recognize the name of the vessel. It was used by U.S. forces from 1945 to 1994 since it helped recover the Challenger Space Shuttle, a mission that failed when the shuttle exploded shortly after take-off in January 1986.

The "Kittiwake" sits in about 50 feet of water and slowly, over time, has become an artificial reef of sorts, one where sponges, large groupers, and urchins prosper. Thanks to its relatively shallow placement and the clarity of the water here, the wreck can be seen by snorkelers. However, for real exploration, it is divers who will have the best views of the boat's five decks.

Mastic Reserve

First opened in 1992 and home to the largest tract of native forest on Grand Cayman, this reserve is a boon for nature lovers. Perhaps the central core of the reserve is the Mastic Trail, which officially debuted in 1995. Its genesis, however, dates back more than a century, when rocks from beaches and sections of mahogany trees were laid down to help islanders voyage across an area of wetland. The trail grew in importance, but once more roads were built around the island, it became abandoned. 

Work started in 1994 to revitalize it, removing new growth and trees that had fallen and blocked the route. Today, the trail winds along more than 2 miles of forest, weaving between mangroves, canyons of palm trees, old agricultural pastures, and past cedar and mastic trees. Visitors here in June will see the annual blooming of the Wild Banana Orchid on the trail (it is the territory's national flower). The reserve also promises incredible birdwatching opportunities, with the West Indian Woodpecker among the resident species.

Pedro St. James

This National Historic Site once belonged to a wealthy Englishman and was his home in the 1700s. It was built by slaves who were captured and brought to the island from Jamaica. The Cayman Islands government purchased the house three decades ago, and it set about returning the space to its original splendor, from the interior décor to the period furnishings. Today, this is a fabulous place to take a look into the past, to a time when the island was nothing more than a fishing settlement. 

In fact, in the late 1700s, the total population of the Cayman Islands was only about 500 people. The focal point of Pedro St. James is the Great House, rising three stories and notable for its solid stone walls that are more than one foot thick. It was a grand structure, using slate from England for its roof. The building has since been used as a jail, government facility, and even a restaurant, but now its role is as a historical record.

Point Of Sand

For some visitors, the most enjoyable moments in the Cayman Islands are those spent doing very little, soaking up the tranquility or the purity of the environment. When looking for a spot that allows for quiet reflection and one that is memorable for its sheer, simple beauty, it's hard to beat this small beach. Located on the coast of Little Cayman, Point of Sand is, just as its name suggests, a slip of powdery sand that extends into the clear turquoise seas. 

This is the kind of place that beach lovers fantasize about, a curve in the shore that almost feels like it lives at the edge of the world. Beyond the obvious attractive qualities of the location, it is also an excellent place to snorkel, with a reef where fish wander, and swimmers might spot parrotfish, tangs, and stingrays. Large queen conch shells also populate the sand, washed up by the tide.

Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park

Situated on the North Side of Grand Cayman, The Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park, named after the late British monarch, has much to admire. Activity centers around the lake, 2 acres in size, and where birds and animals tend to congregate. The park is divided into seven zones, including the Floral Garden and a Children's Garden under construction. One of the highlights is the Orchid Garden, which features 10 of the 28 types of orchids found in the territory, four endemic to the Cayman Islands. 

The Grand Cayman Blue Iguana only exists on this island and is an endangered species, which is why the Blue Iguana Conservation Facility, located in the park, is so important — a breeding site that aims to help safeguard the future of this creature. Visitors can see this stunning, scaly reptile at the facility, which sits on the Woodland Trail, and appreciate how the animal, almost extinct 30 years ago, is on its way to recovery.

Rum Point Beach

The departure area for bioluminescent kayak trips is an ideal spot for relaxation and enjoying the water. Rum Point Beach sits at the end of a peninsula jutting out from the center north of Grand Cayman and has grown in popularity thanks to its comely form, with calm, shallow waters that hypnotize with their dazzling shades of blue and sand, nearly blinding to the eye.

It's an excellent choice for families looking for a leisurely swim or an easy snorkel, and there are places to unwind, from hammocks by the waterfront to picnic tables where groups can take lunch and marvel at the view. There are also places to eat nearby, and numerous villas are a short walk away. Even for those visitors staying near George Town, the drive here isn't too taxing — less than an hour by car. For fans of water sports, outfitters offer water toys to take out on the sea.

Seven Mile Beach

If one bit of the Cayman Islands were ever its claim to fame, it would be this stretch of sand. Even in a territory with many outstanding beaches, this one is as glorious as its name suggests. On the west of Grand Cayman, and thus protected from the rolling, open surges of the east, the beach does seem to go on forever. It is lined with plenty of businesses and some of the plushest properties in the Cayman Islands, and travelers can explore its grandeur during a beach stroll along the entire stretch. 

Water sports are on offer here, and parasailing canopies are often seen billowing offshore, but the beach is the main attraction. That said, snorkelers will enjoy access to some fantastic sites, such as Cemetery Reef. Located just off the Cemetery Beach section of Seven Mile Beach, the snorkeling lies a couple hundred feet offshore and is immensely rewarding.

Smith's Barcadere

There is also some fine snorkeling at this natural destination on Grand Cayman, where limestone outcroppings help to keep the water calm. It sits south of George Town and not too far from the cruise terminal, so it can get a little crowded if a large ship is in town. Some guides might list the location as Smith Cove, but rest assured that this is the same place, near South Sound Public Beach. 

Whatever name it goes by, the experience for visitors will be the same — inviting white sand, clear water, and bridges of limestone that extend out into the sea, backed by a thicket of shrubs and trees that add a little variety of color to the surroundings. It's an excellent choice for families, with calm water perfect for smaller kids, while the more adventurous can kick out a little further into the sea to experience sudden drops in the sea floor and the chance to plunge into the depths.

Starfish Point

Out on a finger of land south of Rum Point, this point is prominent for what lies in the waters just offshore. Sure, it is a beautiful beach, with water on many sides and clear water that will come as no surprise to anyone who has spent time on the islands, but what really sends travelers into raptures of delight are the scores of starfish sitting on the sea bed, or sometimes washed up on the shore. This is a popular spot, for sure, thanks to the placid conditions and the fact that even young kids can wade into the shallow water without fear of being swept away. 

The starfish are Red Cushion sea stars; technically, they are not fish. With a life span of more than three decades, these stars vary in color, morphing from greens and browns when they are juvenile to oranges and reds when they age. Visitors often come here to pick up the stars and have them wrap their limbs around the holder's hand; if you do, ensure you never take the star out of the water; it can be fatal for the life form.

Stingray City

This is a very touristy site; some might say it is overly commercial, but it's still worth seeing. This is where placid stingrays congregate around waders, swimmers, snorkelers, and divers, and if you've ever seen an Instagram post of someone trying to kiss a stingray while lounging in chest-high water, there's a good chance that the shot was taken here. Stingray City can be, during popular times, like a circus, with tons of boats and scores of travelers in the water desperate to get a little stingray affection. 

But time the visit smartly — preferably when there aren't any cruise ships in port, so ideally over the weekend — and you will have a much more enjoyable adventure. The stingrays are accustomed to humans and will come close by, and since the location is some distance off the shore of Grand Cayman, by sand bars, this place can only be visited as part of a tour (we'll assume you won't have your own boat). The experience is thrilling, a little surreal, and one that will promise some unforgettable photos.

Read the original article on Explore .

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NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

Thousands protest tourism in Tenerife saying Canary Islands are ‘exhausted’

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Tens of thousands of people hit the streets in Tenerife today to protest against tourism on the island, with UK tourists among the targets of anger.

Messages in English left on walls and benches in and around Palm Mar in the southern of the island included ‘My misery your paradise’ and ‘Average salary in Canary Islands is 1,200 euros’.

In an apparent UK backlash, a response left in English on a wall next to a ‘Tourists go home’ message said: ‘F**k off, we pay your wages.’

Chanting and whistling, protesters waved placards emblazoned with slogans reading ‘The Canary Islands are not up for sale!’ and ‘Respect my home’.

The Spanish islands off the coast of North Africa are an ever-popular destination among Brits hoping to escape the cold on the mainland.

One demonstrator said: ‘It’s not a message against the tourist, but against a tourism model that doesn’t benefit this land and needs to be changed.’

Protests also took place in the other islands in the archipelago, including Lanzarote and Gran Canaria, with support demos scheduled for the Spanish mainland in cities like Malaga and Madrid as well as London and Berlin.

The Canary Islands protests were organised under the slogan ‘Canarias Tiene Un Limite’ which in English translates as ‘The Canary Islands have a limit.”

The backdrop to the demos is an ongoing hunger strike six men and women began on April 11 outside a church in the northern Tenerife town of La Laguna.

Speaking ahead of the start of today’s demonstrations, a spokesman for protest platform Canarias Se Agota, which the hunger strikers are affiliated to, said: ‘Today, April 20, marks the 10th day of the hunger strike.

‘Today we cannot forget these people who are putting their lives at risk for our Earth.

‘Their determination inspires, their bravery moves us, their sacrifice reminds us that this struggle is everyone’s and for everyone.

‘We are writing a new chapter in the history of our islands, a chapter marked by the unwavering perseverance of those who bravely defend our home.

‘Today the Canary Islands will scream and fight, and tomorrow it will continue to do so.’

Protest groups including Canarias Se Agota, which in English translates literally as ‘The Canary Islands are Exhausted’, want the authorities to paralyse two tourist projects including one which involves the construction of a five-star hotel by one of Tenerife’s last virgin beaches.

They are also seeking a commitment from regional politicians to change the tourist model and protect islands like Tenerife from the worst excesses of mass tourism, including sea pollution, traffic gridlock and lack of cheap affordable housing linked to the pushing-up of property prices because of Airbnb-style holiday lets.

Other demands include the protection of natural spaces, a tourist tax and better working conditions for hotel cleaners, who joined today’s protest in Santa Cruz as they insisted to local press: ‘We are not slaves.’

The archipelago of 2.2 million people was visited by nearly 14 million foreign tourists in 2023, up 13% from the previous year, according to official data.

Authorities in the islands are concerned about the impact on locals.

A draft law expected to pass this year toughening the rules on short lets follows complaints from residents priced out of the housing market.

Canary Islands president Fernando Clavijo said on Friday he felt ‘proud’ that the region was a leading Spanish tourist destination, but acknowledged that more controls were needed as the sector continues to grow.

‘We can’t keep looking away. Otherwise, hotels will continue to open without any control,’ he told a press conference. 

In the Gran Canaria capital Las Palmas, marchers carried banners in Spanish which said: ‘It’s not phobia, it’s love for my land.’

A woman protestor held up another which said: ‘Fourteen million tourists a year but 36 per cent of Canarians at risk of poverty.’

One of the other banners exhibited by protestors said: ‘The Canary Islands government is an estate agency.’

Another said: ‘With so much Airbnb where are we going to live?’

Paula Rincon told local press: ‘It pains me that Canarians cannot afford to live in their own neighbourhoods.’

Insisting the current tourism model led to ‘more people paying lower prices and badly-built hotels that destroyed beaches and protected areas’ she added: ‘I don’t know why we aspire to so many numbers when this doesn’t filter down to the rest of the population.

‘The current system doesn’t benefit us, it impoverishes us.’

The protests in the Canary Islands are mostly taking place away from the main tourist areas, which in Tenerife and Gran Canaria are in the south of the islands.

Some British holidaymakers have shown their support for the issues raised by the islanders but others have accused them of biting the hand that feeds them.

The Canary Islands’ tourism minister Jessica de Leon urged British holidaymakers not to cancel their holidays ahead of today’s demos.

Canary Islands regional president Fernando Clavijo initially admitted he was worried tourists might be put off coming to the area, before softening his message last week and describing the April 20 protests as an opportunity to ‘revise’ the current tourism model.

Jorge Marichal, president of regional hotel association ASHOTEL, has claimed tourists were ringing establishments to ask whether it was safe to come.

He has also insisted ‘non-regulated’ holiday lets are a big problem and the reason there is less control than there should be on the numbers of tourists in places like Tenerife.

Protest platform Canarias Se Agota has insisted it has nothing to do with the graffiti that has appeared in parts of Tenerife over recent weeks – and has accused regional politicians of blaming them of tourism-phobia as part of a ‘dirty tricks’ campaign.

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US tourists face 12 years in prison for accidentally bringing ammo to Caribbean island

The u.s. state department is warning travelers about strict new laws in turks and caicos islands that carry a mandatory minimum sentence of 12 years for bringing guns or ammunition to the island: "if you bring a firearm or ammunition into tci, even inadvertently, we will not be able to secure your release from custody", by leslie gaydos • published april 23, 2024 • updated on april 24, 2024 at 5:42 pm.

An Oklahoma woman was reunited Tuesday with her young children after being detained for almost two weeks in Turks and Caicos Islands for allegedly violating their strict guns and ammunition law. Her husband is being held in the British Overseas Territory near the Bahamas.

Ryan and Valerie Watson, who live in Oklahoma, left for Turks and Caicos Islands on April 7 to celebrate the 40th birthdays of Ryan and two friends. When they went through security for their return flight, their carry-on was flagged and searched and officials found a Ziploc bag of bullets.

"They were hunting ammunition rounds that I use for whitetail deer," said Ryan, "and I recognized them and I thought, oh man, what a bonehead mistake that I had no idea that those were in there."

The two shared their story virtually with NBC10 Boston last week before their first court hearing. They were stuck on the island, their passports confiscated, separated from their young son and daughter.

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"When I heard that, I immediately was terrified because I was like, we can't both be in prison for 12 years. We have kids at home. And this is such an innocent mistake that we didn't even know we weren't– we didn't even know it was there. So yeah, my immediate thought was our kids and them being, you know, parentless for, for that long," Valerie said.

The Watsons were questioned and charged with possession of ammunition. In 2022, Turks and Caicos passed an amendment with stiffer penalties for possession of weapons or ammunition, increasing the mandatory minimum prison sentence to 12 years.

This is something that we may never recover from Ryan Watson, American tourist charged with possession of ammunition in Turks and Caicos Islands

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Mother's warning after son's 8-month Turks and Caicos prison sentence: ‘It's not behind us'

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Last September, the U.S. Embassy in the Bahamas issued a travel alert warning Americans after a tourist from Indiana got an eight-month prison sentence for possession of ammunition.

The alert says: "We wish to remind all travelers that declaring a weapon in your luggage with an airline carrier does not grant permission to bring the weapon into TCI [Turks and Caicos Islands] and will result in your arrest.

"We strongly encourage you to carefully check your luggage for stray ammunition or forgotten weapons before departing for TCI. If you bring a firearm or ammunition into TCI, we will not be able to secure your release from custody. You are subject to TCI laws and must follow local law enforcement procedures," the alert continued.

Bryan Hagerich was detained by Turks and Caicos authorities after a family vacation in February when hunting ammunition was found in his luggage before he boarded a flight home. He said the ammunition was found in a bag he frequently used for weekend hunting trips.

"I've been here for almost 70 days now after posting bail. I've been out, right now just waiting to go to the hearing. That's where my case would be heard, then following that would be sentencing," Hagerich said.

Hagerich, who played baseball professionally and was once drafted by the Florida Marlins, lives in Pennsylvania with his wife and two young kids. He spent eight days in prison before posting bail and is awaiting a May 3 court hearing.

"It's incredibly scary. You know, you just don't know what the next day may bring. You know, what path this may take. You know, you're in a completely different culture, a different country by yourself. You know, it's certainly a lot different than packing your bags and going away with your family for a few days. It's been the worst 70 days of my life," Hagerich said.

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He and the Watsons are also dealing with the financial strain of paying for an extended stay and being away from their jobs.

"We've already talked, and we're like, what if, you know, what if we lose our house? Which, when we moved to Oklahoma, we built a home that we thought was our forever home. And to think that this is going to ruin us..." said an emotional Valerie.

"This is something that we may never recover from," Ryan said.

"I'm just very anxious, eager to get home to my family," said Hagerich. "This has been too long. You know, it's just had so much irreparable harm to my family, that, you know, I just can't continue to see them struggle anymore. I just want to hug my family and start this healing process together."

After their hearing yesterday, Ryan was sent to jail; he was granted bail at a hearing on Wednesday. Charges were dropped for Valerie on Monday and she is now back in Oklahoma with her two children.

The judges in Turks and Caicos Islands are able to make exceptions to the mandatory minimum sentence if they determine there are "exceptional circumstances" in a case.

NBC10 Boston reached out to the U.S. Embassy in the Bahamas and Turks and Caicos Islands' tourism bureau about the Watsons' situation and have not heard back. We contacted the State Department and a spokesperson told NBC10 Boston they are aware of the arrest of U.S. citizens in Turks and Caicos and that, "The U.S. Department of State and our embassies and consulates abroad have no greater priority than the safety and security of U.S. citizens overseas."

The spokesperson added, "When a U.S. citizen is arrested overseas, we stand ready to provide all appropriate consular assistance. In a foreign country, U.S. citizens are subject to that country's laws, even if they differ from those in the United States… As our security alert from September 22, 2023 states, in the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI), firearms, ammunition, and other weapons are not permitted. TCI authorities strictly enforce all firearms related laws. The penalty for traveling to TCI with a firearm, ammunition, or other weapon is a minimum custodial sentence of twelve (12) years. If a traveler brings a firearm or ammunition into TCI, the U.S. Department of State will not be able to secure their release from custody. Travelers are subject to TCI laws and must follow local law enforcement procedures."

The State Department said they are unable to provide the number of U.S. citizens charged with weapon/ammunition possession since the department is unable to track local arrests.

But law enforcement officials in Turks and Caicos Islands acknowledged Wednesday in a statement that three Americans are out on bail in such cases.

"The Firearms Ordinance applies to all persons present within the Turks and Caicos Islands regardless of status or origin," read the statement from the offices of the attorney general and the director of public prosecution.

pic.twitter.com/Kz31Ng5wJk — TCIG Communications Directorate (@TCIG_Press) April 24, 2024

Also Wednesday, the U.S. Embassy in the Bahamas issued a new statement urging all travelers to take care looking for weapons or ammunition when leaving the U.S.

" Carefully check your luggage for stray ammunition or forgotten weapons before departing from the United States ," the warning says in bold, going on to note that enforcement in Turks and Caicos Islands is strict, legally declared weapons aren't allowed in the territory and TSA screening may not turn up ammunition in baggage on the way out of the country.

" If you bring a firearm or ammunition into TCI, even inadvertently, we will not be able to secure your release from custody. You are subject to TCI laws and must follow local law enforcement procedures," the statement said.

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