Breathtaking beauty, rich history, luxurious dive resorts, and marine treasures under the sea - these are among the top reasons why tourists keep coming back to the Cayman Islands. Who can resist the Caribbean island’s tropical climate and thriving local scene? Cayman combines the experience of swimming with stingrays, dipping with starfish, exploring dark caves, and diving with some sharks all in one destination. Three of its major islands each boast hot tourist destinations - a waterfront restaurant, sculpture garden, and even a quiet beach - and endless activities to do to keep the island guests entertained. Seven Mile Beach is a major vacation spot for tourists from all over the world. So, while you have booked one of the stunning Airbnb luxe accommodations for your trip, continue reading to find out more about the top things to do on the Cayman Islands.
1. Explore the North Sound's reef and the Mangrove Reserve Environmental Park (from USD 1200.0)
One of the interesting activities on the Cayman Islands is to explore the North Sound’s reef and the Mangrove Reserve Environmental Park as it promises a captivating eco-adventure. The North Sound is a stunning marine area known for its vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life. Snorkeling or diving in these crystal-clear waters allows you to witness an underwater paradise teeming with colorful fish, rays, and even friendly sea turtles.
Next, venture into the Mangrove Reserve Environmental Park, a pristine ecosystem of mangrove forests, wetlands, and diverse wildlife. Kayaking or paddleboarding through the tranquil mangroves offers a serene and educational experience as you learn about the ecological importance of mangroves in the Cayman Islands.
George Town: North Sound Lagoon Boat Tour with Snorkeling
Duration: 3.0 hour
2. Learn about the science behind bioluminescence (from USD 599.0)
You can engage in one of the fun things to do in the Cayman Islands by learning about the science behind bioluminescence. This unique natural phenomenon occurs when certain marine organisms, like tiny plankton, emit a glowing light when disturbed.
Guided bioluminescence tours take you on a magical journey into the waters after dark. As you paddle through the bioluminescent bay or lagoon, every movement creates a mesmerizing display of blue-green sparks, illuminating the surrounding darkness. The experience is educational and an awe-inspiring adventure as you witness the beauty of nature’s light show.
Private: Bioluminescence Tour
Duration: 2 hours
3. Sample real Caribbean rum in the colossal Cayman Spirits Co. Distillery
When it comes to handcrafted rum and vodka, only Cayman Spirits Company Distillery can satisfy you in this part of the Caribbean. The distillery has been the only one of its kind in the island since 2013. With a Distiller’s Tour that starts from 11am, 1pm, and 3pm, guests are given a taste of how the island’s best crafted spirits are made. The tour concludes with a sampling session where fresh batches of the famous Seven Fathoms Rum and Gun Bay Vodka are up for tasting! Can’t make it to the tour schedule? They might let you book special tour times or give discounts if you’re bringing a large group.
Cayman Spirits Co. Distillery Tour
Address: 68 Bronze Road, Georgetown, Grand Cayman
Website: Cayman Spirits Co. Distillery Tour
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 11am - 3:45pm (closed on Sun)
Price: 15 USD (per person)
You might be interested in these Airbnbs!
4. Hike through the scenic Mastic Trail
The Mastic Trail is undoubtedly one of the scenic spots in the Cayman Islands. Experience a trail that is more than a century in the making. Restored in 1994 after disuse and overgrowth, this 2.3-mile (3.7-kilometer) trail now leads to Grand Cayman’s largest protected forest reserve. The flora and fauna truly represent the Cayman Islands with its national flower, Wild Banana Orchid, growing around the trail by June. Rare trees like the Mastic tree and interesting creatures like the West Indian woodpecker and Carribean dove might greet you in the wild. Tours are conducted on Tuesday and Thursday mornings for participants aged eight years old and above.
Mastic Trail Tours
Address: Grand Cayman KY1-1205, Cayman Islands
Website: Mastic Trail Tours
Opening hours: Tue, Thu (closed from Fri - Mon & Wed)
Price per head: 55 USD
5. Snorkel to witness the wild stingrays at Stingray City (from USD 73.0)
Get a close encounter with some of the most adorable marine creatures. This Stingray City snorkel tour is one of the most unique things to do in Grand Cayman. It gives you either a morning or afternoon tour of two exciting water destinations. Find stingrays in their natural habitat in the shallow sandbars of Stingray City. Move to Coral Gardens and be surprised by the diversity of tropical fish that you can find in the Caribbean. The tour lets you enjoy each destination for about 45 minutes per stop! You can take your time with your new marine friends. A photographer will also join the boat’s captain to ensure that your memorable experience is documented. This marine adventure is a one-of-a-kind experience you can’t miss.
Grand Cayman Stingray City, Coral Gardens Swim and Snorkel
Duration: 2 to 3 hours
6. Marvel at the short, black limestone formations of the rocks of Hell
Looking for a trip to hell? Cayman Islands can give you a rocky tour in the West Bay area. Don’t worry; it’s not a dark, burning experience but a beautiful landscape made of limestone formations. With witty souvenirs on the gift shop on the site, you can brag to your friends that you’ve been to hell and back - with proof. This particular road to hell is actually one you might enjoy!
Hell
Address: Hell Rd, West Bay, Cayman Islands
7. Go swimming in the turquoise waters of Starfish Point
Posted by CAYTOURS on Friday, 23 August 2019
If Stingray City is already in your itinerary, you might as well take a trip to Starfish Point which is just 15 minutes away. Fresh breeze and clear, blue water await you along with beautiful starfish creatures you can hold (carefully). With a minimum of six people in your group, you can book this four-hour experience that you can mix with a stop to Royal Palms Beach or a few other close destinations.
Starfish Point Tour in Grand Cayman
Address: Water Cay Rd, Cayman Islands
Website: Starfish Point Tour in Grand Cayman
8. See West Bay Loop (from USD 44.0)
If you were not able to map out an entire Grand Cayman tour plan, why not take this West Bay tour? Explore the culure and history embedded in this part of Grand Cayman with a friendly guide and an air-conditioned ride along with a trip to its exciting spots. Aside from lounging at Seven Mile Beach and taking photos of the rocks of Hell, you can also visit the Governor’s Mansion!
Cayman Islands West Bay Tour Plus Seven Mile Beach Visit
Duration: 4 hours
9. Have a meal at Big Tree BBQ
Big Tree BBQ has been serving the best ribs in the island for about five years under a big tree. They know how to turn your lunch into a party! Many Carribean tourists keep on coming back for their stews, lobsters, and pulled barbecue every time they return on Cayman. Nothing beats excellent food from the locales combined, which explains why this place is always attracting an amazing crowd. Patrons might tell you to try the Mahi-mahi fish for a start.
Big Tree BBQ
Address: #503 Austin Conolly Dr, East End, Cayman Islands 11801
Website: Big Tree BBQ
Opening hours: Tue - Fri: 11am - 6pm; Sun: 11am - 6pm (closed on Mon & Sat)
10. Dive across Bloody Bay Marine Reserve
Posted by Little Cayman Divers on Thursday, 8 November 2018
When it comes to diving matters, many would probably say that Bloody Bay Marine Reserve is the island’s best. Coral gardens and sharks await your guided dive service that can accommodate up to 20 guests. Check out their morning and afternoon dive options to see which fits your itinerary. Look out for things you must bring to the trip such as your diving certification card or prepare to get one in the island for an additional fee.
Little Cayman Dive Experience
Address: Guy Banks Road, KY3-2501 Blossom Village, Cayman Islands
Website: Little Cayman Dive Experience
Price: From 65 USD
11. Discover Skull Cave in Cayman Brac
Live life on the edge in #CaymanBrac. Learn more here: http://po.st/4Wal5u
Posted by Visit Cayman Islands on Tuesday, 20 August 2019
It’s not surprising how this famous cave got its name, it will look like you’re entering a giant skull once you get there. This Half-Way Ground cave is just one of the few accessible caves you can find on Cayman Brac - the highest point of Cayman Islands. The caves are home to breathtaking rock formations and creatures in the dark. Don’t worry about the bats - they’re not hungry for your blood. Past tourists would even call them friendly. Have fun in the skull!
12. Sunbathe at Little Cayman's Owen Island or Point of Sand
Little Cayman has more tricks up its sleeves! Kayaking to Owen Island is a grand way to greet the sunrise and get an early headstart. Bring a pack of friends to have a picnic with on the serene beach after your sailing trip. If you’re in a sentimental mood, then go forth and sail alone and sunbathe in peace at the island. Owen Island suffers the same problem that most beaches face today: plastic waste washing ashore. Remember to leave none of your trace and waste behind except for your footprints in the sand.
Owen Island
Address: Owen Island, Cayman Islands
Website: Owen Island
13. Experiment with deep-sea fishing in the Caribbean waters
Posted by Reelesea Charters on Tuesday, 17 March 2015
If fishing is your hobby, take it up a notch on your vacation to the Cayman Islands with a deep-sea fishing experience. Get on board ReelEsea and make memories of a lifetime on this special fishing charter. Reel in whopping fishes and go bird-watching while aboard the vessel. You can even personalize your trips for a more enjoyable experience.
ReelEsea Charters Deep Sea Fishing
Address: #25 Courtyard Dr., George Town, Cayman Islands KY1-1500
Website: ReelEsea Charters Deep Sea Fishing
Opening hours: 8am - 7pm (daily)
14. Treat yourself to some delicious food at Bacaro
Come and enjoy our beautiful waterfront lounge! Every Saturday from 5-8pm our GINTONIC event brings you tasty Gin...
Posted by Bàcaro on Thursday, 14 November 2019
Fancy dinner, late-night date or unwinding drinks? Whichever you’re up to, some Italian-inspired cuisine served in a waterfront restaurant can’t fail your expectations. Bacaro serves you delightful Venetian-inspired seafood and meat courses in a contemporary, elegant ambience. The menu consists of an expanded food selection made from the freshest ingredients with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. The top-notch service completes the experience! Don’t miss out on their full bar and their recommended seafood platter.
Bacaro
Address: Governors Creek Cayman Islands Yacht Club, KY1-9006, Grand Cayman
Website: Bacaro
Opening hours: Tue - Fri: 11:30am - 12am; Sat - Sun: 12pm - 12am (closed on Mon)
15. Dance the night away on a beach party at Club Havana
When the tranquil island tours and diving sessions are over, the Caribbean nightlife begins. The Club Havana Cigar Lounge is the perfect spot to unwind and dance the night away with a lively mix from their best DJs. Meet the best tourists and locals in this night scene that provides both a chill cigar sessions or a raving party time. The lounge also hosts a number of performances and events such as the Sunday Game Night with raffle prizes and drink specials. Club Havana doesn’t only have the typical contemporary club decor - complemented by sparkling cleanliness, the artwork on the club walls are already things of entertainment themselves. Check them out when you get there!
Club Havana Cigar Lounge & Club
Address: Caribbean Club, 878 West Bay Road, Seven Mile Beach, Cayman Islands
Website: Club Havana Cigar Lounge & Club
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 4pm - 2am; Sat - Sun: 4pm - 12am
16. Delve into history at Pedro St. James Castle (from USD 147.0)
Knowing a place’s history and heritage creates a deeper connection. It’s time for an educational tour, perfect to get the geekiest of you excited! This tour comes with a list of Cayman’s major heritage sites such as the National Museum, Governor’s Residence, and Rum Cake Factory. The most awe-inspiring stop of the tour might be Pedro St. James Castle on the southern coast. This restored manor, the oldest building in Cayman, was originally built in the 1780s. There truly is a regality and magnificence that comes from withstanding the test of time, as you’ll discover!
History & Heritage Tour of Grand Cayman Island
Duration: 5 hours
17. Taste the best seafood at Heritage Kitchen
People all over the globe wish they were being served fresh catch from the Caribbean waters. If you’re already on the island, don’t pass on this chance. For a tiny restaurant, Heritage Kitchen might often be underestimated at first glance, but tourists don’t flock the highly rated kitchen for nothing. Their popular courses are served in the outdoor wooden tables or on seats by the sea wall. You’ll discover creative ways of cooking - and devouring - local seafood and fish with Heritage Kitchen’s menu. Aside from the marvelous ways of preparing fresh seafood catch, their meat on the grill is also a crowd favorite. Barbecue days on Sundays are the best with the kitchen serving the special BBQ Ribs and Chicken that leave the patrons craving!
Heritage Kitchen
Address: Boggy Sand Rd, West Bay, Cayman Islands
Website: Heritage Kitchen
Opening hours: Tue - Thu: 12pm - 6pm; Fri - Sun: 12pm - 9pm (closed on Mon)
18. Be amazed by Davinoff’s Concrete Sculptures
Posted by Christopher Columbus Condos on Wednesday, 11 September 2019
To wrap up the list, let’s put something light and quick to your itinerary. Davinoff’s Concrete Sculpture Garden is an open park filled with lifesize and almost-real concrete structures of the island’s wildlife. Artist Davinoff details on the park website and on Youtube the meticulous process of making each concrete depict large animals such as scorpion, octopus, and fish which you’ll get to see upclose while strolling here. Davinoff’s sculpture garden is a perfect family and kid-friendly site.
Davinoff’s Concrete Sculpture Garden
Address: 249 Old Robin Road, North Side KY1-1700, Grand Cayman
Website: Davidoff’s Concrete Sculpture Garden
Opening hours: 8am - 6pm (daily)
Price: Free
19. Soak in the amazing view and the Caribbean waters on a horseback ride (from USD 150.0)
A horseback ride and a Caribbean beach dip in one go? Yes, the dual adventure is possible! This horseback trek along the beach is a two-hour experience complete with a tour guide - so you don’t have to worry about an unattended ride. On the day of your swim-ride trip, bring clothes that you’re comfortable dipping into water and wear sunglasses to let you enjoy the scenery without the sunlight glare. Savor the feeling of riding through the amazing landscape and heading freely into the water.
Grand Cayman Private Ride 'n' Swim
Duration: 2.0 hour
20. Trek along the shore on horseback (from USD 100.0)
Not in the mood to be dipped into the ocean? You can still enjoy a horseback ride while staying dry. Join this horseback beach riding group activity in Grand Cayman where you only trek along the edge of the water. Compared to ride-and-swim, this ride offers a more relaxed and flexibly paced tour that prioritizes the group’s comfort. Enjoy the smooth ride amid the Grand Cayman’s amazing beach setting.
Horseback Beach Riding in the Grand Cayman
Duration: 75.0 minute
21. Visit Seven Mile Beach (from USD 31.0)
Stop worrying about how to plan your way to the best beach in town. Here’s a getaway plan that you can book to get a four-hour Seven Mile Beach experience with various activities to enjoy! You’ll get an air-conditioned ride from George Town and free snorkel masks and fins that’ll come in handy you’re planning to dive in. Don’t forget: bring cash for food and drinks as well as for kayak renting or access to water sports games. Spend your four leisure hours well by getting a tan, relaxing on a beach float, exploring marine life, or socializing with the locales.
Cayman Islands Seven Mile Beach Getaway
Duration: 4 hour
22. Experience an outstanding Cayman shore excursion that goes deep beneath the Caribbean Sea (from USD 116.0)
Do you ever feel called to the deeper end whenever you swim at the surface? Here’s how to answer that calling: board the Grand Cayman Atlantis submarine! Stay dry and safe as you explore the wonders of the Caribbean 100 feet (30.5 meters) below the surface. The Atlantis submarine great provides seats to ensure your comfort while listening to marine facts and checking out deep sea creatures. You’ll get two trips: a relaxing boat trip to the submarine that will take about 5 minutes and the submarine excursion itself that takes 40 minutes.
Grand Cayman Shore Excursion: Atlantis Submarine Expedition
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
23. Try parasailing for a unique view (from USD 25.0)
If you want to take a break from being immersed in water, you can try a wild, aerial experience - parasailing! Conquer the Caribbean sea and sky at once through this parasailing excursion that lasts from eight to twelve minutes. Stay safe and enjoy a unique island view from above! Get your adrenaline rushing and see the Grand Cayman through an incomparable perspective.
Grand Cayman Parasailing at Seven Mile Beach, Shopping Option
Duration: 1 hour
24. Go shopping at George Town (from USD 25.0)
This tour combines a trip to the distillery and a free ride to George Town’s shopping site. Before you wrap up your tour, support the local scene by visiting artisan and specialty shops beyond George Town! Hop on a ride and explore other craft shops that are just minutes away, starting with the popular handmade soap at Beach Bubbles. To preserve your best underwater memories in print, check Cathy Church’s Photo Shop by Sunset House Resort for some breathtaking photographs.
Cayman Spirits Distillery, George Town Shopping Tour
Duration: 1 hour
25. Get enlightened about the native flora and geologic history of Cayman Crystal Caves (from USD 46.0)
The treasures of the Caribbean are not just below sea level. Some are hidden in the Cayman Crystal Caves. In this tour of these majestic Cayman caves, get ready to refresh your geology knowledge, be amazed by the stalactites and stalagmites, and meet the flora and fauna across the lush forest on the way to the cave. The 45-minute tour will take you to three spots: an open-ceiling cave, roots cave, and lake cave. Don’t forget to dress comfortably and be prepared for lots of walking!
Guided Tour of Cayman Crystal Caves
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
26. Explore the unique plants and animals at Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park (from USD 23.0)
One way to intimately learn about a place is to learn about its flora and fauna! This gives you plenty of information about how a community takes care of its surroundings and co-exists with nature. Take this green adventure at Grand Cayman’s Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park and see exotic flowers, rare aquatic birds found only in the Caribbean, and the famous Cayman blue iguana! Get your cameras ready for some panoramic shots near the lake area. This is a good destination for a nature-loving family. Little kids might not appreciate the importance of all the ecological information but it’s a good way to start them young in learning about the environment. Here’s some interesting trivia: this world-class facility was launched by Queen Elizabeth II herself back in 1994.
Skip the Line: Admission Ticket to Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park
Duration: 1 day
27. Embark on a scenic evening cruise (from USD 58.0)
Sailing along the Caribbean at sunset is at the top of many couple’s romantic date wishlists. Make it possible by embarking on a Grand Cayman sunset catamaran sail and relish the amazing views! Here are some tips you may want to take note of. Check the schedule of sunset on the date of your tour and book your sail trip ahead of time. If you want some quiet and intimate time enjoying the ocean breeze, avoid the bar area as it could get noisy. But if you’re in the mood to socialize, indulge in small talks with fellow guests! Don’t forget to bring cash for the drinks. The sail only covers a 7-mile (11.2 kilometers) path spanning the beach, but it will still be worth the try!
Grand Cayman Sunset Catamaran Sail with Snacks, Cash Bar
Duration: 2 hours
28. Explore Stingray City in a glass-bottom boat (from USD 72.0)
Stingray City can be enjoyed in many ways. Apart from snorkeling and dipping into the water, an added twist is you can view marine life through the boat’s glass viewing window! The hosts of this glass-bottom boat tour are among the most welcoming and accommodating, according to very pleased guests. They’ll make sure you’re going to have lots of fun. Take note that stingrays might not go under the boat once you’ve reached shallow water so take a swim anyway to maximize the experience.
Stingray City Glass-Bottom Boat Tour with Snorkeling
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
29. Learn scuba diving (from USD 169.0)
Touring the Carribean without knowing how to scuba dive? You don’t want to miss out. Take this Grand Cayman scuba diving experience for beginners and you’ll finish your tour with more knowledge and skills underwater. The experience includes a beginner’s course in open water, scuba equipment, complete instructions, and transportations to and from your beach hotel. Get ready to meet some underwater friends on your course and of course learn something new on the way!
Grand Cayman Scuba Diving Experience for Beginners
Duration: 4 hours
30. Witness the USS Kittiwake wreckage (from USD 88.0)
Exploring sunken ships can be a rich experience. Immerse in a deep and long history buried under the sea with this Grand Cayman Kittiwake and reef sail tour! It’s not as scary as horror movies make it seem. The USS Kittiwake was a vintage rescue vessel launched in 1945 and sunk in 2011 to turn into an artificial reef. You’ll be guided by a professional and welcoming crew that will also take you to see thriving coral reefs on an afternoon cruise. To prevent delays, always check the weather forecast before booking your trip.
Grand Cayman Kittiwake and Reef Sail
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
31. Relax and explore the ocean on a private charter for a party of 10
If you have a flexible budget with you on the trip, why not throw a tour party in a private boat? The advantage of touring with your private ride is that you can customize your visits however you like! The ride already comes with snorkeling gear and visits to Starfish Point and Stingray City. You can bring up to nine friends to enjoy this private ride and request to add additional stops and activities. Get ready for the lavish Grand Cayman cruise of your dreams!
Private Charter 29ft Sea Ray Bowrider. Stingrays, Snorkeling, Starfish
Duration: 3 to 6 hours
Packing a fun-filled Cayman Islands itinerary
The magnificent seawater and lush forests await you on the Cayman Islands. From scuba diving and parasailing trips to hanging out and enjoying the best seafood, this amazing destination has you covered. Plan your Caribbean trip well with these dozens of things to do on the Cayman Islands and don’t forget to book one of the luxury villas for a truly indulgent trip.
Frequently asked questions about things to do on the Cayman Islands
History
Get Trip101 in your inbox
Unsubscribe in one click. See our Privacy Policy for more information on how we use your data
Create an account to