Gah! You’re heading to the Cayman Islands! Whether you’re a beach lover, looking for adventure, or someone who enjoys a great meal while overlooking the water, there’s no shortage of things to do in Grand Cayman!
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With world-famous beaches, Grand Cayman is exactly what you think of when imagining paradise. Whether you’re visiting on a Caribbean cruise, for a honeymoon, girls’ trip or a family getaway, you’ll find a variety of activities on Grand Cayman Island.
👉Don’t have time to read the whole article? Here’s one of the top tours in Grand Cayman – boat tour to Stingray City! And the best news about this tour is that there are no unethical animal experiences!
Use this guide to plan your perfect Cayman Islands vacation. Of course there’s beautiful beaches and amazing places to eat in Grand Cayman, too.
Best things to do in Grand Cayman
From crystal-clear waters to rich culture and amazing food, Grand Cayman offers something for everyone. So, what to do in Grand Cayman? Here’s your ultimate guide to the best activities on this stunning island, whether you have a day or a week!
Let’s dive in!
1. Chill at Rum Point
Rum Point is an iconic destination in Grand Cayman, offering a laid-back vibe and beautiful waters. It’s especially popular with the cruise ship crowds. A truly great way to spend your time on the island if you’re only here for a few hours!
It’s the ideal spot to kick back, enjoy a cocktail, and soak up the sun. Note that if you’re looking for a great swimming beach, this isn’t it. But if you just want to lounge by the beach and take a dip to cool off, it works!
There are plenty of waters ports for rent here too, including kayaking, snorkeling, and stand-up paddleboarding. If you’re feeling hungry, grab a bite at The Rum Deck, which offers Carribean-inspired drinks and food.
2. Marvel at the starfish at Starfish Point
Starfish Point is one of the most unique things to do in the Cayman Islands. This secluded beach is home to an abundance of starfish, making it a perfect place during your Grand Cayman vacation.
You can walk along the shore to spot the starfish, or snorkel in the shallow waters to spot these fascinating creatures up close. It’s an amazing way to experience Grand Cayman’s marine life, and it’s ideal for families and kids who love to learn while having fun.
Note: do not pick up the starfish out of the water. They cannot breathe and it can kill them! Pay attention to the signs and respect nature and marine life.
3. Visit the exotic birds at Cayman Parrot Sanctuary
The Cayman Parrot Sanctuary is a hidden gem! Located on the East End of Grand Cayman, it’s a bit of a trek to get there but worth it, especially for families or nature lovers.
This sanctuary offers a peaceful escape for birds and a chance to learn about these vibrant creatures that call the Cayman Islands home. You can explore the sanctuary’s lush grounds while spotting parrots in their natural habitat. It’s a wonderful place to take photos and spend a few hours connecting with nature while supporting local conservation efforts.
Seeing these birds up close reminds me of the time I saw toucans and macaws in the wild near Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica!
4. Hang out with stingrays at Stingray City
When it comes to things to do in Grand Cayman, Stingray City is definitely the most famous attraction! This shallow sandbar is a natural phenomenon, and home to dozens of friendly southern stingrays that swim up to visitors, allowing you to interact with them in their natural habitat.
While you can’t snorkel at the sandbar (the stingrays can become aggressive with too much kicking, etc), you can wade in the water and get up close with these gentle creatures. It’s an unforgettable experience, and a must-do activity for anyone visiting Grand Cayman.
Book it now: stingray city boat tour (this is the tour I took and it was amazing!)
5. Visit the East End Lighthouse
For a taste of the island’s history, the East End Lighthouse is a quick visit. The East End is less crowded, so you’ll enjoy a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path experience while learning a bit about the island’s maritime history, and how the lighthouse was at the port of entry from the late 1800’s to the early 1900’s.
It’s a little difficult to find – be sure to watch for signs along the road. There are several informational markers on site to learn about the lighthouse’s history.
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6. Relax on the famous 7 Mile Beach Grand Cayman
No visit to Grand Cayman is complete without spending some time at 7 Mile Beach. I can definitely see why it’s continuously ranked one of the best beaches in the Caribbean!
With powdery white sand, crystal-clear turquoise waters, it’s a perfect way to spend the afternoon. During my week-long trip to the island, I spent the most time on Seven Mile Beach versus anywhere else!
Whether you want to lounge in the sun, take a swim, or try out some water sports like paddleboarding or jet skiing, Seven Mile Beach has it all. Plus, it’s lined with beachfront resorts, restaurants, and bars, making it the perfect place to spend an entire day.
Note: if you’re looking for a place to park, Governor’s Beach (still 7 Mile Beach but just beside the governor’s residence) is a great spot.
And if you’re coming to Grand Cayman on a cruise, you can rent chairs and and umbrellas on 7 Mile Beach. There’s even shuttles that leave every 20 mintues to and from the port. Plus a few food vendors – it’s easy to make a day of it here!
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7. Experience Macabuca Tiki Bar
Located right on the water’s edge, Macabuca Tiki Bar is not just a great place to grab a drink, it’s also one of the best spots for snorkeling and diving in Grand Cayman!
The bar is situated next to one of the island’s best reefs, offering you direct access to vibrant underwater life.Whether you’re a seasoned diver or just looking to snorkel, this spot is a must-visit in the Cayman Islands.
I saw two puffer fish and barracuda, along with a plethora of other fish while snorkeling. After your underwater adventure, relax with a cold drink or food!
Note: the fish tacos here are my favorite on the island!
More amazing things to see in Grand Cayman
Honestly this is an amazing spot on this earth! I can’t get over the vivid turquoise water and the fascinating actives away from the beach. Here’s more fun and unique Grand Cayman activities.
8. Check out the blowholes
Located along the rugged northern coastline of Grand Cayman, the Blowholes are one of the island’s most dramatic natural features.
Formed by waves crashing into the cliffs, forcing sea water through small holes in the rock and shooting it into the air like a geyser, these are fun to see up close.
I love that this free activity is good for kids and families, making it one of the best things to do on Grand Cayman for budget travelers!
9. Shop and dine at Camana Bay
If you need a break from the beach or all the exploring, head on over to Camana Bay.
This vibrant waterfront town center offers everything from high-end shopping to casual dining with beautiful water views. Camana Bay also hosts events, from local markets to music performances.
Whether you’re grabbing a bite at one of the many restaurants or simply strolling along the waterfront, Camana Bay is a fun spot on the island to visit.
10. Explore history at the Cayman Islands National Museum
The Cayman Islands National Museum is a place for local history, culture and art. Located in George Town near the port, the museum offers interactive exhibits about the island’s history, from its indigenous people to its colonial past and modern-day development.
It’s a great option if you’re looking for an educational yet fun experience during your trip. Or especially if you’re visiting Grand Cayman on a cruise and you want to stay close to the port.
11. Go snorkeling
Grand Cayman is home to some of the best snorkeling spots in the Caribbean. Whether you’re diving into the crystal-clear waters off Macabuca or exploring the vibrant reefs near, there’s no shortage of underwater beauty.
The island’s coral reefs are teeming with life, from colorful fish and tons of rays, making it a snorkeler’s paradise. Many local tour companies offer guided snorkeling trips, so you can make the most of your time in the water. I loved snorkeling during my boat trip to Stingray City!
Alternatively, you can bring your own snorkel gear if you’re planning to be on the island awhile, so you can have the convenience of snorkeling when you want!
12. Explore the Cayman Crystal Caves
For something a little different, head to the Cayman Crystal Caves. It’s so bizarre to think there’s an underground cave system on an island. It reminds me of other weird island/cave combos like Put-in-Bay, Ohio (on Lake Erie) and Aruba.
Anyway, these stunning limestone caves are filled with stalactites, stalagmites, and crystal formations, creating a unique underground world. Guided tours take you through three of the caves, sharing the fascinating history of how these natural wonders were formed. And even more impressive – there are 110 caves on the island! 🤯
It’s a fun experience for anyone looking for a bit of adventure and a chance to explore the island’s natural beauty beyond the beaches.
Note: use the free bug spray they have while you wait for your tour to start. You’ll thank yourself later! Oh, and make a reservation in advance!
13. Enjoy the Botanic Park
The Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park offers a peaceful retreat from the island’s beach crowds.
The park is home to a wide variety of tropical plants, including native species and flowers that thrive in the Cayman Islands’ warm climate. There’s also a lovely butterfly garden and a nature trail, perfect for a relaxing stroll or a photo op.
14. Step back in time at Pedro Saint James
Pedro Saint James is a National Historic Site with the oldest building on the island. The plantation house or three-story ‘castle’ was built in the 1700’s when the Europeans were settling in the Cayman Islands.
Pedro Saint James offers a fascinating glimpse into Grand Cayman’s history and culture, with exhibits that cover everything from the island’s colonial past to its role in the abolition of slavery. The house is set on a beautiful piece of land with stunning ocean views, making it an ideal spot to learn about the island’s history while enjoying the natural beauty of the surroundings.
Note: be sure to check the hours before you visit – I found them to be tricky to plan a visit.
Beach essentials to bring to the Cayman Islands
Before wrapping this up, here are a few things you’ll want in your luggage before heading to Grand Cayman!
- Mineral sunblock. Traditional sunblock kills the reef system and harms marine life (including all the stingrays!). This is my favorite mineral sunblock. A little goes a long way!
- Long sleeves for swimming. I love my long sleeve swimming suit and swim shirt to reduce the amount of time I have to spend applying sunblock.
- Beach hat. Keep the sun off your face with this adorable beach hat.
- Beach towel with hidden zipper pocket. I bought this on my first trip to Belize years ago and it’s been with me on every beach trip since!
- Bug repellent. My favorite is this Picardin lotion, and then this natural bug spray that works great in Grand Cayman.
- Bug bite thing. In case you don’t remember to re-apply, this incredible tool helps remove the venom if you catch it soon after a bite. It’s seriously like magic.
See my full beach packing list here!
Ultimate guide to what to do in Grand Cayman – that’s a wrap!
Gah! Can you believe this island?! Grand Cayman is truly a paradise with so many opportunities for adventure and relaxation.
Whether you’re spending your days snorkeling in Caribbean waters, learning about the island’s history, or simply lounging on the beach, there’s something for every traveler. Enjoy your trip to Grand Cayman!
Related travel guides:
15 Things I Wish I Knew Before Visiting the Cayman Islands
Do’s and Don’ts of a Cayman Islands Vacation for First Time Visitors
Exactly What to Pack for a Beach Vacation (Say Goodbye to Stress with this Guide)
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