Here is a list of essential things to know when traveling to Grand Cayman!
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Grand Cayman is a beautiful island in the Caribbean Sea, known for its pristine beaches, crystal clear waters, and amazing marine life. If you’re planning a trip to Grand Cayman, here are some tips to help you get there.
All Covid travel restrictions to Grand Cayman have been lifted.
The main entry point to Grand Cayman is the Owen Roberts International Airport, which is in George Town, the island’s capital. Many major airlines, including American Airlines, Delta, and United, offer direct flights to Grand Cayman from various cities in the United States, Canada, and Europe. The flight duration varies depending on the departure location, but it typically takes between 2 and 4 hours to reach Grand Cayman.
If you’re traveling from a location that does not have direct flights to Grand Cayman, you may need to connect through a nearby city, such as Miami, Ft Lauderdale, Tampa, Charlotte, or Houston. From there, you can catch a connecting flight to Grand Cayman. The Cayman Islands Department of Tourism provides a complete list of airlines and cities that fly to Grand Cayman.
Once you arrive in Grand Cayman, there are several transportation options to get you to your destination. Taxis are readily available at the airport, and many hotels offer shuttle services. You can also rent a car.
Believe it or not, most visitors to Grand Cayman arrive by cruise ship. Those folks typically arrive in the morning, stay for 4-6 hours and depart for their next destination before nightfall.
If you plan to travel to the Cayman Islands, it’s essential to understand the passport, immigration, and customs requirements for entry into the country.
First and foremost, all visitors to the Cayman Islands must have a valid passport that does not expire within six months of their travel dates. No exceptions. This requirement applies to children and infants too. If you are a U.S. citizen, you do not need a visa to enter the Cayman Islands as long as you stay for six months or less. However, if you are a citizen of another country, you may need a visa, so it’s essential to check the requirements beforehand.
When you arrive in the Cayman Islands, you must go through immigration and customs. The good news is that Cayman Islands Customs and Border Control has added new kiosks in the airport to help speed up the process. These new kiosks are particularly helpful on Saturdays during high season as many flights arrive. Immigration officers will check your passport and travel documents to ensure you are eligible to enter the country.
The Customs office may check your luggage and ask questions about the items you bring into the country. It’s essential to declare any items you bring with you that may be subject to duty.
If you enjoy an alcoholic beverage, you may want to stop at the Duty-Free stores in the airport from which you depart. Spirits are 50-100% more expensive in the Cayman Islands. Each person over 18 is allowed 1 liter of spirits duty-free. Visitors can find more information and duty-free allowances on the Cayman Islands Customs and Border Control site.
Here is a list of Prohibited Items for visitors entering the Cayman Islands.
Visitors to the Cayman Islands are not allowed to work or engage in business during their stay. Additionally, you must have a return or onward travel ticket to show that you will leave the country within six months.
Overall, entering the Cayman Islands is relatively straightforward as long as you have the necessary travel documents and follow the rules and regulations set by immigration and customs. By planning ahead and ensuring that you have everything in order, you can make the most of your trip to this beautiful Caribbean destination.
The Cayman Islands has its own currency, the Cayman Islands Dollar (KYD), fixed to the U.S. dollar. For every $1KYD, it is equal to USD $1.20, and for every USD $1.00, it is equal to KYD 0.80. So, if your dinner costs $100, KYD will amount to $120.USD. However, the good news is that most places in the Cayman Islands accept U.S. currency and U.S. credit cards. Additionally, local ATMs accept U.S. bank cards and offer withdrawals in either USD or KYD. It’s important to note that if you pay in U.S. currency, you will receive your change in KYD.
If you’re looking for a destination with stunning weather, the Cayman Islands are perfect. The best time to visit Grand Cayman is between November and May when the average daytime temperatures range from 82-85°F (27-29°C). You can leave your sweaters and jackets at home since the nighttime temperatures are around 80°F (27°C). The locals love December on Grand Cayman due to the “Christmas Winds,” which provide a lovely breeze. The late spring and summer months are 5-10°F warmer than the rest of the year.
To stay current on the island’s weather, the Cayman Islands National Weather Service provides an excellent weather forecast for Grand Cayman. You can also use the Grand Cayman Weather Radar to check whether the rain will pass quickly, which is typical.
It’s essential to note that the rainy season in Grand Cayman is from mid-August through early October. The hurricane season, similar to the rest of the Caribbean and the Eastern U.S., is from June to November.
The Cayman Islands boasts a unique culture influenced by the Afro-Caribbean and British colonial heritage. Caymanians are friendly and respectful and take pride in their identity. When interacting with locals, pleasantries and greetings are expected, and the language has a friendly formality. For instance, it’s common to address people as “Mister” or “Miss” followed by their first name, such as “Hello, Mister Rick” or “Thank you, Miss Christine.”
English is the official language of the Cayman Islands, spoken with a distinctive melodic cadence. Hearing the local accent, which Caribbean and British English influence, is fascinating. Whether you’re a native English speaker or not, you’ll find the language easy to understand, and locals are always happy to chat and make you feel at home.
Religion plays a significant role in shaping the culture of the Cayman Islands. Most of the population follows Christianity, with various Protestant denominations, Catholicism, and Anglicanism being the most prominent. As a result, Christian values and beliefs are woven into the fabric of society, shaping everything from social customs and practices to the arts and entertainment.
If you stay on the Seven Mile Beach Corridor or George Town, you can walk to many stores and restaurants. Important: When crossing the street, look RIGHT first. If there is a crosswalk, use it!
There are plenty of taxis available. In most cases, you will have to call for a pickup. Taxi rates are neither overly expensive nor particularly cheap. If you stay on the East End of Grand Cayman, a taxi from the airport can run $100 or more. CI: G.O. is an app that will calculate the fare base on your destination, the number in your party, and any luggage. It will not hail a taxi for you.
A public mini-bus system connects all districts on the island. Short trips are about $2.50. There are many bus stops along major routes. You can also flag a passing bus to stop. Find more information at https://www.caymantransport.ky/transportation-services/public-bus.
Driving and Rental Cars
You do not need a Cayman Islands license to drive on the island as long as you have a valid driver’s license. Driving is reasonably easy on Grand Cayman if you keep a few things in mind. Like in the United Kingdom, driving in Cayman is on the left-hand side of the road. Most, but not all, cars are righthand drive. There are only a few traffic lights on Grand Cayman, but you will find plenty of roundabouts. Remember, the vehicle in the roundabout has the right of way. Here is a guide to the roundabouts. Another thing to remember is whether you have a right- or left-hand drive vehicle, the turn signal is always closest to the window. Speed limit signs are posted in miles per hour, not kilometers.
There are plenty of car rental companies in Grand Cayman. Cayman car rentals are available at Owen Roberts Airport, George Town, along the Seven Mile Beach corridor, and in the East End of Grand Cayman. Andy’s is a local company with reasonable rates, service, and locations around the island.
Cayman Ferries offers a water taxi service between Camana Bay and Kaibo at Rum Point.
Grand Cayman shopping includes a great variety of well-stocked stores and shops. You will find good access to grocery stores, pharmacies, home centers, clothing stores, luxury goods, fishing, diving, sporting goods, liquor, convenience, and most other retail stores. It is important to note that except for convenience stores, most are closed on Sundays, Government, and religious holidays.
Fosters (4 locations), Kirks Market and Hurleys, and Cost-U-Less (warehouse-style store) are the major supermarkets on the island. Supermarkets are well stocked with popular brands from the U.S. and U.K. Fresh food sections are top-notch. Produce, dairy, deli, bakery, meat, seafood, and prepared foods are comparable to those in your local supermarkets. Note: if you have reusable bags, bring them as plastic bags cost 5₵ each.
Fosters, Hurleys, and Kirks offer online ordering and delivery for a fee. This service is helpful if you don’t like to or don’t have time to shop. A delivery fee applies.
If you arrive on a Saturday and stay in a condo or private home, remember that the grocery stores are closed on Sunday. Your best choice is to plan a trip to the grocery store on Saturday or place an online order for delivery.
Other Grand Cayman Shopping includes small shops in the center of George Town, small plazas along West Bay Road, and upscale stores at Camana Bay. Camana Bay shopping is an excellent way to spend an afternoon. The shops are very nice; the outdoor lifestyle center includes shady walkways, plenty of food choices, a fountain for the kids, and a small marina.
Grand Cayman restaurants are top-notch! Perhaps the best in all the Caribbean. Variety, quality, service, and food safety are all excellent. You will find nearly any type of food to suit all tastes and preferences. You will notice that the service is better than average, as servers and bartenders are professionals. Those jobs are filled by many ex-pats requiring an (expensive) work permit. The restaurants pay for those work permits. Hence, restaurants are very selective about whom they hire.
For the most part, prices are reasonable and comparable to the U.S. It is important to note that most places include a 15%-18% gratuity. Most folks add a few dollars if they find the service to your liking.
It would be best if you considered making reservations during the high season (December – May). Most places will take reservations far in advance. Most restaurants will take reservations by email if you want to save the overseas phone charges.
Attire is casual. During the day, shorts, tee shirts, or beach coverups are acceptable. During the evening, dress up a bit more. Casual Island attire is acceptable—sundresses, shorts, golf shirts, jeans, etc. There is no need for men to pack a blazer or tie.
There are too many good restaurants for this post. Caymanresident.com provides a good listing of Grand Cayman restaurants.
Nearly all restaurants offer take-out or takeaway, including some of the best restaurants in Grand Cayman. Food Delivery is common. A few restaurants like Domino’s and Wok-N-Roll have their delivery fleet. Others use the delivery services on the island. Let’s Eat, and Bento will deliver food from almost every Grand Cayman restaurant. Both have an app to place your order, pay, and track the delivery. The systems work well for the most part. Restaurant and delivery companies may have longer wait times during busy dinner hours.
Grand Cayman is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. From powdery white sand to crystal clear water, there are plenty of options for beachgoers to choose from. Here are some of the top beaches to visit on the island and what to expect regarding facilities and parking.
The most popular beach in Grand Cayman, Seven Mile Beach, offers a long stretch of soft sand and clear waters. SMB stretches from West Bay to George Town. The entire beach is open to the public. The ocean and the sand (up to the vegetation line) are for all to use. This is sometimes referred to as the “Queens Bottom.” This makes SMB great for folks that enjoy long beach walks. SMB is west facing, so it is perfect for enjoying sunset. There are many well-marked access points and paths where you can walk on the beach.
Here are a few of the popular beach sections:
West Bay Beach: Located on the island’s northwest side, West Bay Beach is a quieter option with calm, clear waters. Facilities include restrooms, showers, and a few beachfront food choices. Parking is available along the main road or at a designated lot near the beach.
Public Beach: Located in the heart of Seven Mile Beach, Public Beach is a popular spot for both locals and tourists. Facilities include restrooms, showers, picnic tables, and food vendors with surprisingly good jerk dishes. There is free parking available on-site. Be aware that this is the beach that most cruise ship passengers are bused to. The crowds are large, and the beach chairs (available for a fee are packed in tightly. Try Governor’s beach down West Bay Road if this is not your scene.
Governor’s Beach: This beach is near the Governor’s mansion on West Bay Road. This is an excellent choice to enjoy the sun and water. There is plenty of sand area to sit and enjoy and even a few trees for shade. The water is clear, and the bottom is soft clean, and sandy. There is free parking, but it sometimes fills on the weekend as this is a popular beach with visitors and locals. There is an excellent shallow reef for snorkeling about 100 yards off the beach. This beach is popular with visitors and locals; on weekends, expect larger crowds, but still not crowded. There are no real facilities except for a Porta-John.
Cemetery Beach: Situated on the northern end of Seven Mile Beach, Cemetery Beach is a quieter option with good snorkeling opportunities. Facilities include picnic tables, but parking is on the street.
Spotts Beach: Located on the southern end of the island, Spotts Beach is a popular spot for swimming and snorkeling. Facilities are limited. There is a Porta-John and a small parking lot.
East End Beaches: The eastern side of Grand Cayman is home to several beautiful beaches, including Colliers Beach and Barefoot Beach. Facilities are limited, but the beaches are less crowded and offer a more secluded experience. Parking is available on-site.
No matter which beach you visit in Grand Cayman, pack plenty of sunscreen and enjoy the stunning scenery!
There are many other great beaches on Grand Cayman. You can find a complete list of Grand Cayman Beaches here:
Grand Cayman deep-sea fishing for big game species is the most popular option. In addition to deep-sea fishing, Grand Cayman offers reef fishing, shore fishing, and flats fishing.
Grand Cayman deep-sea fishing is unique because the ocean floor drops off very close to the island. That means you can be at the deep-sea fishing grounds with lines in the water just 15 minutes from the dock. The big-game or pelagic species include wahoo, yellowfin or blackfin tuna, marlin, sailfish, and barracuda.
Deeps-sea pelagic species require some skill and expertise to catch. It is best to book an experienced Grand Cayman fishing charter for this type of fishing. Grand Cayman fishing charters know the correct gear, bait, depth, fishing grounds, and how to boat the fish. Save time and money while increasing your chances of a prized catch by booking a trip with a Grand Cayman fishing charter.
Grand Cayman Reef fishing is more manageable and generally more productive than deep-sea fishing. It is better for groups with your children or novice anglers. Reef species include snapper, jacks, grunts, grouper, and others. Fishing Charters fish the shallow reefs close to the island. It is also possible to book a reef fishing, snorkel, or stingray combination trip.
There are many excellent Grand Cayman fishing charters available on the island. Fishcaymanislands.com works only with the best and most experienced charters. Deep-sea charters run 4, 5, 6, or 8 hours. Grand Cayman fishing charter Prices range from $225 to $400 per hour, depending on the charter company and the boat size. Reef fishing tends to be a bit less expensive because less fuel is used.
In addition to fishing, All the charters on fishcaymanislands.com are excellent at Stingray Sandbar ( Stingray City) and North Sound snorkeling trips. During conch and lobster season, they can even take you snorkeling for these delights.
Book one of Grand Cayman’s best fishing charters today.
Stingray City Sandbar in Grand Cayman is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the Caribbean. It’s a shallow sandbar in the North Sound, home to dozens of southern stingrays. Visitors can take a boat ride to the sandbar and stand in waist-deep water to interact with the friendly and gentle creatures. Stingrays will swim around and sometimes even brush against visitors seeking food, which makes for a memorable and unique experience. The crystal-clear waters and pristine surroundings make it a beautiful spot for snorkeling and swimming, and there are plenty of opportunities to capture some amazing photos. Your guide will show you how to feed and hold these graceful swimmers. Legend says if you kiss a stingray, you will have good luck for seven years! Be sure to bring your camera!
Grand Caymans’ waters are warm, clean, and crystal clear. Much of the marine life in the coastal water around the island is protected, making for great snorkeling. When snorkeling the shallow waters and reefs of the North Sound, expect to see a wide variety of beautiful reef fish and corals.
All the Grand Cayman Fishing Charters on fishcaymanislands do fishing, stingray, and snorkeling trips. Our charters specialize in combination trips that include fishing, snorkeling, and swimming with stingrays.
Scuba diving in Grand Cayman is an unforgettable experience. The island is a diver’s paradise with crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and abundant marine life. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, Grand Cayman offers a variety of dive sites to explore, including the famous Bloody Bay Wall and the Kittiwake shipwreck. Many dive operators offer guided tours and certification courses, making it easy for anyone to experience the beauty of the underwater world. With year-round warm temperatures and excellent visibility, scuba diving in Grand Cayman is a must-do for any diving enthusiast. For more info, check out one of the many dive companies located in Grand Cayman.
The Cayman Islands is an independent nation and has its government.
Grand Cayman is the largest and most populous of the three Cayman Islands nation. Cayman Brac and Little Cayman are the two “Sister Islands.” The nation’s population is approximately 80,000, with all but 2000 living on Grand Cayman. There are about 37,000 generational Caymanians. The rest of the people are Ex-Pats from other nations living and working on the island.
The Cayman Islands is an independent nation and a British Overseas Territory, meaning it has strong ties and follows many traditions from the British but has its own government. Britain appoints a governor responsible for internal security, external affairs, police, defense, and civil service.
The Cayman Islands Government is responsible for creating laws and the day-to-day administration. The government is elected every four years. There is a Premier and a 19-member Legislative Assembly. The legal, judicial, and court system is based on English common law with additions for local statutes.
The Firm (1991) by John Grisham is perhaps the most famous book set in the Cayman Islands. But if your looking for a read that is more current, squarely based in Cayman and full of local flavor, look a little further than books by author Nicholas Harvey.
Nicholas Harvey’s books offer the perfect escape. With romantic adventures featuring AJ Bailey and thrilling mysteries with Nora Sommer, these books are certain to fulfill your desires. Let yourself be transported to a world of sun-kissed beaches and verdant scenery by diving into the captivating stories of Nicholas Harvey. Experience a large dose of local knowledge and flavor of the Cayman Islands through his writing and discover a new world of adventure!
Twelve Mile Bank is the first in the AJ Bailey series. The series follows Cayman Islands divemaster AJ Bailey. Twelve-Mile Bank, the first book in the series, finds AJ searching for a long-forgotten WWII U-boat at the bottom of the Caribbean Sea. Armed with little more than an adventurous spirit and her late grandfather’s tale, she’s determined to find the submarine and the secret it protects. To date, the AJ Bailey Series includes 14 novels.
Harvey’s second series is edgier, falling firmly into the suspense genre. Nora Sommer’s dry wit and direct manner add a sprinkle of humor to the fast-paced action. Nora is a young woman whose troubled past has landed her in Grand Cayman. Deadly Sommer is Book 1 in the series. Nora Sommer’s first case for the Royal Cayman Islands Police Service is one she’ll never forget – if she survives. When the daughter of a wealthy businessman is taken, Nora is first on the scene and unwittingly ‘chosen’ by the kidnapper. To date, the Nora Sommer Series includes four novels.
Both Series appeal to ocean lovers and readers of adventure, mystery, and suspense novels. Find all books by Nicholas Harvey on Amazon in various formats.
