Top 15 Beautiful Places to Visit in the Cayman Islands

In a region of beautiful tropical islands with dazzling beaches, the Cayman Islands manages to stand above the rest.

Abounding in natural beauty, this Caribbean destination boasts pristine beaches, lush tropical forests, and some of the best dive sites in the world. Here are the top 12 most beautiful places to visit in the Cayman Islands…

1. Seven Mile Beach – the most beautiful beach in the Cayman Islands

No trip to the Cayman Islands would be complete without spending time on Seven Mile Beach. Often voted as the most beautiful beach in the Caribbean, this is exactly the reason why people fall in love with the region.

With inviting turquoise waters, beautiful white sand, and palm trees swaying in the warm breeze, it’s a remarkable locale to live out your Caribbean dreams. Swim, snorkel, sunbathe – this is a beach you don’t want to miss.

See the beauty of Seven Mile Beach in 4K…

• Peak times to visit: From the end of June through the beginning of September

My must-do highlights of Seven Mile Beach

• Spend half-day by taking a boat tour to Stingray City where visitors can go snorkeling and visit Starfish Beach
• Explore a cool ecological half-day tour on e-bikes where you will come across tranquil coastal paths, isolated forest trails and rare wildlife 
• Have a self-drive scooter tour of the Cayman Islands where you can customize your experience and learn more about the Islands’ history and culture

2. Kittiwake Shipwreck – a unique place to explore on the Cayman Islands

In a region filled with spectacular dive sites, the Kittiwake shipwreck is one of the best to explore in the entire Caribbean.

Deliberately sunk in 2011 for divers, there are plenty of pathways through the interior of this former US Navy ship. It’s a spooky and unreal experience and one that will stay with you long after you’ve returned home. If you’re going under, don’t forget to take out travel insurance.

• Peak times to visit: During summer months from November to March

My must-do highlights of Kittiwake Shipwreck

• Explore the former US Navy Submarine Rescue Vessel by diving or snorkeling 
• Take a boat trip to Kittiwake

3. Rum Point – one of the most popular and best spots to visit on the islands

The tranquil northern side of Grand Cayman Island is home to the illustrious Rum Point. With perfectly white sand, clear shallow water, and hammocks swinging underneath swaying palms, this beach is the definition of island paradise.

Picnic tables allow you to bring your own food for the trip, but many opt to try the fresh seafood served at the Rum Point Club, one of the island’s most famous foodie destinations. You won’t go hungry here.

• Peak times to visit: Mid-October until the beginning of May. Monday to Friday from 10 am until 4 pm.

My must-do highlights of Rum point

• Perfect spot to escape from the urban busy life and totally zone out
• Have a picnic on the white sands of this picturesque beach or simply enjoy the crystal clear water by having a swim

4. Crystal Caves – a beautiful natural attraction to explore on Grand Cayman

Lying at the heart of Grand Cayman are the Crystal Caves. This is one of the most pristine and beautiful natural attractions in the Cayman Islands – the island’s tourism authority only recently started allowing tours.

Inside you’ll find beautiful stalagmite and stalactite crystals, shaped over thousands of years. Knowledgeable guides also take groups to visit an open-ceiling cave, and another with a beautiful lake of sapphire water.

It’s a truly special experience in Grand Cayman.

• Peak times to visit: From the end of June through the beginning of September

My must-do highlights of

• Experience the stunning Crystal Caves on a half-day tour to admire different kinds of trees and rare wild iguanas
• Ideal option for hiking and spending time outdoors

5. Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park – an idyllic Caribbean Garden

Located near the East End of Grand Cayman, Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park is a gorgeous example of a Caribbean garden, perfect to immerse yourself in the nature of the region.

Paths meander through lush tropical gardens, past dazzling flower beds, and underneath shady trees.

Guests are also welcome to retire to the historic tea house, and can also spy some Cayman Blue Iguana’s scampering around the small lake.

• Peak times to visit: From the end of June through the beginning of September

My must-do highlights of Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park

• Embraced by pure nature, visitors can appreciate majestic orchids and beautiful birds such as parrots
• Have a driving tour to learn more about the fauna and flora of the island and to see the rare blue iguana

6. Starfish Point – one of the most stunning places to visit in the Cayman Islands

Even more of the local wildlife can be seen at Starfish Point – no points for guessing what kind. This idyllic stretch of sand is of course home to plenty of colorful starfish, living on the sandy seafloor.

You can easily see the starfish by going for a quick snorkel, but be careful not to disturb them.

Don’t forget to pack yourself a picnic lunch as well, as you can easily spend a whole day here.

• Peak times to visit: Morning or lunchtime (better during weekdays) – From the end of June through the beginning of September

My must-do highlights of Starfish Point

• Enjoy a great experience by having a swim with snorkel reefs, rays and get to see starfish – all in one trip
• Hire a lavish charter boat to visit Starfish Point and other touristic spots

7. Hell – ancient rock formations which is one of the best places to visit in the Cayman Islands

Going to Hell might not sound like a whole lot of fun, but on Grand Cayman Island, it’s a must-do. 

The name refers to a collection of black limestone rock formations, lying chaotically amidst some lush island foliage. After having a poke around this ancient and beautiful area, don’t forget to send your friends a postcard – greetings, from Hell!

• Peak times to visit: from January through September and also November and December

My must-do highlights of Hell

• Have a day out to explore the surrounding area by bicycle or scooter
• Admire the rock formation view by taking photos and visit gift shops

8. Owen Island – a perfect spot for a kayaking adventure

For those spending some time on Little Cayman, Owen Island is a beautiful destination to maroon yourself for a day of swimming, exploring, and relaxing. Visit in the summer and you might even have the entire island to yourself.

But before you can do all that, you’ve got to get across to the island. Located a short way off Little Cayman, it’s the perfect opportunity to rent a kayak and paddle across for a bit of an adventure.

• Peak times to visit: April

My must-do highlights of Owen Island

• Great place to have a picnic
• Have a swim in the warm and calm waters of the island
• Hire kayaks for an amazing adventure

9. Bloody Bay Coral Reef Wall – one of the most beautiful dive sites in the Cayman Islands

It’s time to head back underwater for another jaw-dropping location: the Bloody Bay Wall. This is the most famous dive site in the Cayman Islands – and with good reason.

Starting at 25 feet underwater, this colorful coral reef wall stretches down an incredible 1000 feet further into the depths of the ocean. Filled with bright sponges, beautiful corals, and tropical marine life, diving here is an incredible experience in the Cayman Islands.

• Peak times to visit: April and May

My must-do highlights of Bloody Bay Coral Reef Wall

• Have a dive in this iconic and popular spot
• Discover beautiful marine life and the natural world

10. Cemetery Beach – one of the best beaches on the Cayman Islands

While it might not sound like it, Cemetery Beach is actually a very gorgeous stretch of sand to visit. Especially when it comes to watching a sunset. 

Rather than jostle for space on Seven Mile Beach further south, head a little bit north to this secluded spot to enjoy the final stages of an afternoon. It’s peaceful, relaxing, and utterly gorgeous.

• Peak times to visit: From November to May

My must-do highlights of Cemetery Beach

• Relax at this tropical beach to unplug and unwind
• Have a go at swimming or snorkeling within close proximity

11. Mastic Trail – a beautiful hiking trail to visit in the Cayman Islands

The Mastic Trail is a great choice for those who want to leave the Caribbean beaches for a day and get into some nature. 

This gravel path meanders through some of Grand Cayman’s most gorgeous landscapes, including a mangrove swamp and a 2 million-year-old woodland area. It’s an easy-going route and takes about 2 to 3 hours to walk the entire length and return to the car park.

• Peak times to visit: April

My must-do highlights of Mastic Trail

• Try to go hiking to witness Cayman’s natural heritage
• Have a tour guide to have an extraordinary experience
• Perfect place for birdwatching 

12. East End – a beautiful place with a rich culture in the Cayman Islands

To get away from the hotels and development around George Town, visitors should make a beeline for the East End. It’s the perfect area to experience the rich culture of the Cayman Islands.

This region has a more rural and off the beaten track feel, with traditional Cayman cuisine, culture, and a relaxed pace of life. It’s also a great place for those solo travelers in the Caribbean looking for a quiet place to explore and recharge.

It feels as if we’ve barely scratched the surface of the Cayman Islands; there are plenty more natural attractions to discover, not to mention the brilliant festivals, shopping, and cuisine.

Long or short, any trip to the Cayman Islands will be one to remember! 

• Peak times to visit: April

My must-do highlights of East End

• Visit Pedro St. James National Historic Site, known as a castle that is home to many cultural and historic tales
• Explore Cayman Parrot Sanctuary which is a great option for a family day to see Cayman’s native animals, plants and natural landscapes
• Have a fun tour in a three-wheeler minicar to explore the East End side 

13. Camana Bay – a lively and cool place to visit, shop and enjoy delicious Caymanian dishes

This vibrant small waterfront town located just north of George Town is based right in the center of the stunning Seven Mile Beach.

An entertainment district that was developed 15 years ago boasts great choices of restaurants where you can try the popular tuna and turtle dishes, first-class shops, cafés and beautiful coastal residences.

Camana Bay is home to over 40 shops that serve over 2,000 people. The town is a global business hub distributed on 685 acres. This is a must-visit in the Cayman Islands.

• Visitor Center Address: 10 Market St, KY1-9006, Cayman Islands
• Peak times to visit: From May to August

My must-do highlights of Camana Bay

• Explore the many shopping options and go souvenir hunting
• Try Tuna and Turtle dishes in the specialty eateries 
• Attend amazing events that cater to all, visitors will find over 300 throughout the year

14. George Town – an eccentric town surrounded by the most wonderful scenery

The majestic George Town is the Cayman Islands capital and the largest city and it’s widely known as a financial hub.

It’s a prominent and very popular cruise ship destination in the Caribbean thanks to all-year-round tropical weather, crystal clear seas and golden sand beaches.

If you are planning a shopping trip then look no further, George Town offers a great variety of duty-free shops, top restaurants and lovely cafes.

• Visitor Center Address: 558a S Church St, George Town, Cayman Islands
• Peak times to visit: Between March and June

My must-do highlights of George Town

• Take lavish boat tours, the island has plenty to offer in order to explore the area
• Experience rum distillery tours
• Go on trips such as submarine tours, snorkeling, diving, and parasailing

15. Little Cayman – the perfect place for a romantic and peaceful break

This charming and petite island is one of the 3 islands that form the Cayman Islands and is also one of the best places to visit in the world if you are a scuba diving aficionado or a fishing fan. 

Little Cayman offers a sense of tranquillity if you are looking to escape from the chaotic urban life and the only “loud” noise you’ll hear it’ll be the bird chirpings, the waves of the beaches and the breeze rustling the palm trees.

• Peak times to visit: Between March and June

My must-do highlights of Little Cayman

• Visit Little Cayman Museum, a place that will teach you the history and culture of Little Cayman
• Be stunned by Booby Pond Nature Reserve home to one of the largest breeding populations of red-footed boobies in the world
• Fall in love with Point of Sand a secluded beach on the eastern part of the island

We also have posts on… 

• The most beautiful places to visit in the Dominican Republic
• The most beautiful places to visit in Barbados
• The most beautiful places to visit in Puerto Rica
• The most beautiful places to visit in Mexico
• Most beautiful places to visit in Jamaica
• The most beautiful places to visit in Antigua
• The most beautiful places to visit in Anguilla
• The most beautiful places to visit in The Bahamas
• The most beautiful places to visit in Bermuda