The Cayman Islands have some of the best dive spots in the world, but did you know there were mermaids? This and seven other quirky tourist attractions make this Caribbean island a Getaway Maven favorite.
Welcome to the breathtaking Grand Cayman, where every moment promises a unique adventure. From diving into crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life to exploring the historic wonders of George Town and savoring local cuisine, we’ll unveil a world of unique things to do in Grand Cayman that will make your visit unforgettable.
Where Is Grand Cayman?
Grand Cayman is a stunning tropical paradise nestled in the heart of the Caribbean Sea. It is the largest and most well-known of the Cayman Islands, which are situated in the western Caribbean, south of Cuba and northwest of Jamaica.
This beautiful island is known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and vibrant marine life, making it a popular destination for beach lovers, divers, and those seeking a serene escape in the Caribbean. Grand Cayman’s strategic location in the Caribbean makes it easily accessible by air and sea, welcoming visitors from around the world to explore its unique charm and natural beauty.
Unique Things To Do In Grand Cayman
DIVE: Underwater Mermaid Statue
Amphitrite, the 9-foot-tall bronze mermaid known as the Siren of Sunset Reef, is found 55 feet deep in the coral reef offshore at Sunset House Hotel.
Created by Canadian artist Simon Morris, the piece was named by a fourteen-year-old girl who won a trip to the islands for her contest entry. The resort offers diving packages to this and other sites as well as hosting the Cathy Church Photo Center where you can rent underwater cameras and learn how to use them.
Locals also recommend diving with Ambassador Divers, “Grand Cayman’s premier valet dive operator.”
GO: Stingray City
One of the most popular cruise ship excursions, Stingray City brings guests up close and personal with stingrays in shallow waters that are so clear you’ll question whether or not you’re in a natural pool.
Multiple tour groups–we went with Red Sail Sports–offer boat trips to Stingray City. Standing on a sandbar in shallow water, visitors interact with southern stingrays.
The only way to have a more exciting marine encounter would be to go to Hawaii to go snorkeling with Manta Rays.
Dozens of the creatures congregate at this feeding spot, and some are so accustomed to humans that they allow people to handle them.
DO: Bareback Swim
A horseback ride on a deserted beach is the stuff of dreams, but in Grand Cayman, you can kick it up a notch. Pampered Ponies Riding Tours will let experienced riders gallop on the shore in Barker’s National Park, and even novice riders can experience the amazing feeling of riding bareback into the ocean.
VISIT: Hell
Get your passport stamped at the most unlikely destination: Hell. Named for limestone formations that are now embellished with a statuette of the devil, the attraction boasts a gift shop, photo portrait stations, and, of course, a post office so that you can send a postcard from the underworld.
SEE: Cayman Shoe Tree
Begun as a cautionary statement about litter and recycling, the Cayman Shoe Tree makes for an interesting roadside attraction and a colorful backdrop for a photo opportunity.
RELAX: Rum Point
Named for the rum barrels that once washed ashore from shipwrecks, Rum Point Club’s claim to fame is the invention of the Mudslide. As the story goes, the Wreck Bar came up with the idea of replacing the cream in a White Russian, and so a star was born.
Today, Rum Point is a fun beachside hang-out spot, with good snorkeling, great food, and even better drinks.
GO: Seven Mile Beach
As one of the most popular spots in Grand Cayman, it might be a stretch to place Seven Mile Beach on a list of unusual attractions. Except that, despite the name, Seven Mile Beach is 5.5 miles long–more than long enough that you can find plenty of quiet corners, especially in the early morning.
HIKE: Mastic Trail
Explore one of the Caribbean’s untouched old-growth forests on the Mastic Trail guided tour offered by the National Trust for the Cayman Islands. The hiking trail is a little over two miles long and can take up to three hours to walk, with opportunities to encounter the native Parrot, West Indian Woodpecker, and/or Caribbean Dove amidst rare trees such as Cedar, Mahogany, and the massive Mastic.
VISIT: Pedro St. James
Pedro St. James, often known as the “Birthplace of Democracy in the Cayman Islands,” is a captivating historical site located just a short drive from George Town. This impressive 18th-century Great House stands as a symbol of the island’s rich heritage and offers visitors a chance to step back in time. Explore its beautifully restored architecture, lush gardens, and informative exhibits that recount the island’s history, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts.
BONUS: More Grand Cayman Excursion
Grand Cayman Restaurants
EAT: Sunshine Grill
Relaxed, open-air restaurant by the ocean’s edge, right by the Underground Mermaid Statue dive. Best Burgers, Fish Tacos, and Painkillers on the island.
EAT: Vivine’s Kitchen
Excellent local food is served at the seaside open patio; arrive early for the best selection. On the East End, it’s a far cry from popular franchise restaurants near Seven Mile Beach.
Locals also recommend:
- Peppers Bar & Grill
- Craft F&B Co.
- Rackam’s Waterfront Bar & Grill
- Guy Harvey’s Restaurant
- Chicken! Chicken!
Hotels In Grand Cayman
STAY: Cayman Sunset at Coconut Bay
Comfort and easy access to excellent diving make these townhouse-style condos a great choice for families and larger groups. Located a good distance from the action near Seven Mile Beach, this is where to go if you prefer a quieter vacation.
Find condo units on VRBO.
LUXURY: Palm Heights
Newly reopened under a new brand in 2019 (formerly Beach Suites) this boutique hotel attracts a glamorous clientele. Guests rave about spacious suite-style rooms, an excellent location on Seven Mile Beach, and unparalleled service.
You Might Like These Caribbean Destinations Too:
- Nassau, Bahamas; Fun In Paradise Island
- St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands: The Definitive Travel Guide
- St. Barths, French Caribbean Luxe
- Cabrera, Dominican Republic, the All-Inclusive Alternative
- It’s Better In the Abaco Islands; The Other Side of the Bahamas
- Travel To Cuba; What You Need To Know
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