Stingrays are surprisingly doglike. When you wade into the sea with a few dozen of them — and especially if you offer a squid treat — they gather to play, nibble gently, rub against you and allow themselves to be petted. Their skin is not slimy as many expect but velvety and smooth.
My children and I experienced this firsthand in the clear waters of the North Sound off Grand Cayman, the largest of the three Cayman Islands at 76 square miles. The rays here, Atlantic southern stingrays, are relatively accustomed to people and remarkably friendly.
Stingray City, a world-famous series of shallow sandbars, attracts divers, snorkelers and casual waders who stand in calm surf to mingle with these graceful animals. For those who prefer to stay dry, glass-bottom boats provide an excellent viewing option.
The stingray encounter is a must-do on Grand Cayman, an island ringed by coral reefs and tranquil turquoise waters where nature takes center stage.
Christopher Columbus sighted the tiny islands now known as Cayman Brac (14 square miles) and Little Cayman (10 square miles) in 1503 when his ship was blown off course en route to Hispaniola. He called them Las Tortugas because of the many sea turtles in the surrounding waters. By 1523 the three islands appeared on maps as Lagartos, meaning large lizards; later names evolved from indigenous words and the islands’ marine life.
While early explorers such as Sir Francis Drake noted “great serpents,” the giant sea turtles were the real draw for passing ships, providing fresh meat for crews. Settlement began in the 17th century, with newcomers arriving from Jamaica — including settlers, deserters, shipwreck survivors, refugees and a number of pirates — creating a diverse cultural mix.
Today the Cayman Islands are a British Overseas Territory known for safety, tourism and a significant offshore banking industry.
Grand Cayman’s famous Seven Mile Beach is a long crescent of white sand along the island’s west coast. Although closer to 5.5 miles, it’s widely regarded as one of the Caribbean’s finest beaches, backed by Australian pine trees and lined with resorts, restaurants and bars. The shoreline’s soft sand and warm water helped make the beach a memorable backdrop in the film Cocktail.
The water averages about 80 degrees Fahrenheit, perfect for extended family swims. Operators offer an array of water sports, including kayaking, snorkeling, jet-skiing, waterskiing, banana boat rides, sailing, parasailing and windsurfing. Horseback riding is also available for land-based fun.
For quieter snorkeling, head to Rum Point about 25 miles north of George Town. Its sheltered, clear waters teem with colorful fish and offer excellent visibility. Many local tour operators run snorkeling and diving trips to nearby reefs and wrecks.
A notable artificial reef is the intentionally submerged USS Kittiwake. Decommissioned after World War II, the five-deck vessel was sunk in 62 feet of water at the northern edge of Seven Mile Beach in December 2010. The 47-foot-tall structure rests about 15 feet below the surface, making it accessible to recreational divers.
Turtles remain a highlight for many visitors. The Cayman Turtle Centre at Boatswain’s Beach in West Bay is a combined breeding facility and marine park focused on green sea turtle conservation. Rebuilt after a 2004 hurricane, the center allows visitors to see large adult turtles — which can weigh up to 600 pounds — and touch smaller turtles in breeding tanks. The facility also houses predator tanks with barracuda and nurse sharks, an artificial lagoon for snorkeling, one of the island’s largest pools, a free-flight bird aviary, restaurants and shops.
Near the Turtle Centre, a unique attraction is an area of black limestone marked by a post office that designates the spot as “Hell,” a playful photo opportunity for older kids and adults alike.
Nature-focused attractions include the Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park, where visitors can spot native birds such as the protected Cayman whistling duck and observe blue iguanas as part of a recovery program for this endangered species.
For panoramic island views, the Camana Bay Observation Tower in George Town rises about 75 feet and features a spiral staircase decorated with colorful mosaics of reefs and marine life; an elevator is also available for those who prefer it.
Families looking for playful entertainment can board the Jolly Roger for a two-hour pirate-themed cruise. The replica 17th-century galleon offers family-friendly theatrics: firing mock cannons, staged swordplay and playful “walk the plank” moments.
Older kids and teens may enjoy the Black Pearl Skate and Surf Park, one of the world’s largest skate parks and home to a unique wave machine capable of producing 11-foot waves. The park provides gear and protective equipment for participants.
For a quieter escape, Cayman Brac and Little Cayman offer low-key alternatives to Grand Cayman. Both islands are excellent for diving and snorkeling and known for friendly local communities. Cayman Brac features a National Trust Parrot Reserve protecting the endangered Cayman Brac parrot, while Little Cayman hosts the Booby Pond Nature Reserve, home to a large colony of red-footed boobies.
Info To GoGrand Cayman’s Owen Roberts International Airport (GCM) is about a 10-minute drive from George Town. Taxi fares to resorts on Seven Mile Beach typically run $20–25; public buses serve resort areas for $1.85–$3.65. Other options include private van services and rental cars (note: driving is on the left). Gerrard Smith International Airport (CYB) on Cayman Brac also receives flights, and Cayman Airways operates interisland service among all three islands. |
LodgingGrand Cayman Marriott Beach Resort: The 297-room Marriott offers La Mer Spa, Camp ECO Kids’ Club, family activities and kids’ meal options at on-site restaurants. 389 West Bay Road, Seven Mile Beach. $$–$$$ The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman: This luxury property stretches from Seven Mile Beach to the North Sound and features golf, tennis, La Prairie Spa, nature excursions and kids’ programs. West Bay Road, Seven Mile Beach. $$$$ Westin Casuarina Resort & Spa, Grand Cayman: A 341-room beachfront hotel with a spa, three restaurants and a kids’ club for ages 4–12. West Bay Road, Seven Mile Beach. $$$–$$$$ |
DiningCalypso Grill: A local favorite on the waterfront serving fresh fish and other Creole-style dishes with scenic views of fishing boats. Morgan’s Harbour, West Bay. $$$ Corita’s Copper Kettle: A family-friendly spot where you can sample local breakfasts like green bananas and fritters, as well as heartier lunches such as conch stew or lobster. Edward Street, George Town. $ Hemingway’s: A popular beachside restaurant once ranked among the top eateries in the Caribbean; reservations are recommended. Grand Cayman Beach Suites, Seven Mile Beach. |