Annell's picks: Seven Mile Beach Restaurants

Annell's picks: Seven Mile Beach Restaurants

“The people who give you their food give you their heart”, and that’s especially true at the restaurants on Seven Mile Beach, Grand Cayman. Having visited the island with my family on eight different occasions during the last decade or so, I can honestly that I have been blessed with some outstanding meals at various eateries at this great location.  The restaurants here are filled with passion, love and high-quality food. After a day resting in the Cayman sun, there is no better way to prepare for another day’s relaxation than to indulge oneself in a heart-warming meal on Seven Mile Beach. Here are some of my favourite restaurants on Seven Mile Beach, starting with a touch of Italy.

Visit Cayman Brac For a Cheeky Escape This Summer

Tired of Grand Cayman? You’re not completely done with it, you just need a quick getaway, to another place, preferably bigger, but smaller would do, an island even. A spit of sand. Something. Anything. Luckily, you don’t have to travel far…

If you’ve lived in Grand Cayman all your life, chances are you’ve never been to Cayman Brac and Little Cayman. The thought of hopping on a plane to visit the younger, more rugged siblings across the pond hasn’t even crossed your unadventurous mind. Shame on you.

Refresh your zest for Grand Cayman (island fever is real) and take a trip to drop-dead gorgeous Cayman Brac to take in the fresh air, lusher than lush scenery and sweet, sweet serenity.  In just under half an hour you can be sunning your limbs on a deserted beach, traipsing around a bluff-top organic farm or stuffing your face with enough food to send you into a jerk-infused food-coma and leave you wondering why you never did this before.

STAY

Your bank balance might take a beating (depending on when you go), but S’oleil D’or has one of the prettiest grounds on the island. Tucked under the cliff face of the bluff lies this boutique hotel, a short climb to the top and you’ll be greeted by a sprawling organic farm. Here you’re encouraged to roam freely among eggplants and the odd chicken.

Beach more your thing? Brac Reef sits like a wedding cake on a platter on the sandy shore, complete with a large bar, pool and hot tub and a more cost-effective alternative.

DO

If balancing by a string on a sheer drop-off is your idea of a good time, then rock climbing will be right up your street. Or wall. There are plenty of instructors who’ll teach you the ropes.

Diving doesn’t get much better than in the Brac. The Captain Keith Tibbetts Wreck is the star attraction underwater, while on land, it’s the hidden caves cloaked in history that steal the show. You’ll find them tucked away in the Bluff dotted across the island. 

When you’re done eyeing the caves and sprinting from bats, make tracks for local road-side eateries like Pat’s Kitchen, Barracuda’s, Star Island or Captain’s Table for fish soup and then a must-do for sunset— the dramatic hiking trails of the bluff.

More than 200 bird species, including the endangered Cayman Brac parrot flutter about on the bluff between quirky houses and gigantic fauna that reaches as high as your shoulders. 

The view from the top is endlessly blue and salt-sprayed. 

Don’t leave until you’ve wander the hallowed halls of the Cayman Brac museum, which is a window to Cayman’s past and home to artefacts thousands of years old. And for the souvenir suckers, Nim Tings in Stake Bay is a must-do.

If you’re in search of a secluded summer escape or impromptu trip that will refresh your love for the island — this is it. Just make sure you come back to Grand Cayman — K?

11 Romantic Ways to Celebrate Valentine’s Day in Grand Cayman

What is more romantic than celebrating Valentine’s Day in a tropical paradise? Grand Cayman, with its palm-tree lined promenades and sun-drenched oceanscapes, sets the scene for a dreamy, Day of Love celebration.

This February offers something special for every couple on the island; from refined experiences like massage workshops to more breezy activities like Seven Mile sunsets, we’ve got you covered. Keep reading to discover our 11 romantic ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day in Grand Cayman this year.


1. Relax into Luxury 

If ever there were a perfect occasion for pampering, Valentine’s Day is it. La Prairie Spa of Ritz-Carlton represents the epitome of luxury treatments in Grand Cayman, boasting glamorous, ‘relaxation sanctuaries,’ and en vogue facial blend ingredients such as caviar and gold. Book into a private couples massage workshop and learn how to perform the art of relaxation on your partner or choose from a wide array of other blissful spa offerings.


2. Cruise the Camana Bay Culinary Scene

Dinner is the bread and butter of Valentine’s Day celebrations; certainly not something to skimp on. Grand Cayman is well-equipped in the arena of gorgeous, gourmet eateries, a generous collection of which are located in Camana Bay. Stroll the palm-tree lined promenades leading to premiere dining destinations such as Agua, a stylish, Peruvian-inspired seafood restaurant on the waterfront. Alternatively, set the scene, à la Lady and the Tramp, by diving into a plate of fresh, homemade noodles with your sweetheart at Pane and Pasta

3. Revel in the Roaring 20’s

Nothing says ‘romance’ like the dimly-lit lounge and speakeasy vibes of Next Door. Take your date on a trip of the senses: mellow sounds of jazz, red velvet couches, artisan cocktails -- all whilst cloaked in an intimate sheath of darkness. Treat yourselves to their expertly crafted flavors, aimed to tantalize, with concoctions like the rum-based Deja Vu or vodka-based Violet Death. 

4. Give the Perfect Gift

This year it’s time to step up your game from flowers and chocolates. Head to Rocky’s Diamond Gallery for a gift that is sure to ‘wow,’ or drop a healthy hint upon your significant other. You can’t go wrong with the delicate and trendy island-inspired necklace featuring the map of Grand Cayman. Buy it in sterling silver, 14k yellow-gold, white-gold, or rose-gold. 

5. Ride in Style

You’re not basic, and your Valentine’s Day plans shouldn’t be either. Pack a picnic, your favorite shades, and ride off into the sunset in a Moke, the ultimate island car with a dreamy vintage aesthetic. Ride shotgun or take the wheel, the sunshine on your face and soft Caribbean breeze whipping through your hair. Make stops at the very Instagrammable Lover’s Wall, the bohemian Barefoot Beach, or the charming Botanic Park (see below). Check out Avis for more information on how to rent. 

6. Take a Scenic Stroll

Valentine’s Day isn’t all about night moves. Grand Cayman boasts a wide variety of fanciful daytime activities, a particularly scenic one being the Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park. Picture you and your Valentine, traipsing hand in hand through the winding, colorful gardens, inhabited by the endangered Blue Iguana and rare native aquatic birds. Managed by the Tourism Attraction Board, the Botanic Park is situated on 65 acres of land in North Side on Frank Sound Road, a perfect stop to make on an East End road trip!

7. Have Dinner…But With a Twist

Kick off your evening with a cocktail in Camana Bay, then hop aboard Cayman Ferries for a scenic 30 minute ride across the sound to Kaibo. You will be greeted by twinkling lights, swaying palm trees, and views of the dark, shimmering sound at night. Relax into a beachy vibe on the main floor or escape upstairs for a more refined dining experience. The Cayman Ferries schedule changes weekly, so be sure to consult their website for departure times. Purchase tickets by downloading the Cayman Ferries app.  


8. Salsa Dance the Night Away

Turn up the heat on your V-day plans by taking to the dancefloor with your enamorado. Cuba Libre morphs from a restaurant into a slick, Habana Vieja-esque club, complete with an old Cuban car and an inviting dance floor. Order a mojito and test out your steps in a sea of dancers, beginners and professionals alike. Still new to the salsa scene? Dip your toes in by taking lessons with Fuego Latino. They will have you swiveling your hips like an expert in no time. 

9. Sip on Sunset

An absolute classic -- Sunset on Seven Mile Beach; but let’s dress it up. First stop is Tortuga Rum, adjacent to Sunshine Suites, where you and your date can pick out the perfect bottle of wine. Be sure to bring glasses and a wine opener as well. Next, cross West Bay Road and hit the sand via Westin’s beach access. Set up shop, the expansive Caribbean sea and setting sun as your backdrop. It’s a simple but gorgeous way to spend a Valentine’s evening.

10. Throw it Back for Movie Night

Keeping it classic, nothing flexes your romantic muscles like an outdoor movie -- on a white sand beach of all places. The Westin hosts an outdoor movie night nearly every Thursday. Beach chairs line the sand, a large blow-up screen takes center stage, and barefoot movie-goers gather at sundown. The movie is free with the purchase of a menu item from Tortuga Beach Grill & Bar, like the delectable tune poke bowl for a main and a piña colada for a bevvy. The casual setting and relaxed vibes makes for a unique, laid-back island date night 

11. Bask in the Beauty of Pedro St. James

An understated yet captivating Valentine's rendezvous -- love with a side of history. Pedro St. James is a sprawling, 7-acre historic site boasting uninterrupted seascapes and authentic Caribbean charm. Attractions of the site include the Thatch and Barrel restaurant, rum-tasting, and the Great House, an impressive three-story stone home built in 1780. After touring the grounds, go for a globally-inspired cocktail with a cliffside vista.

Three Nights At Grand Cayman's Newest Luxury Cottages

Three Nights At Grand Cayman's Newest Luxury Cottages

An understated luxury experience inside a pristine Caribbean oasis. The cottages provide all the modern convenience of being at home but with a generous touch of tropical indulgence and coastal design aesthetic. Catering to sophisticated travellers and families alike, guests enjoy the proximity of Seven Mile Beach without sacrificing a single ounce of comfort.

Beautiful Under The Radar Beaches In Cayman

Beautiful Under The Radar Beaches In Cayman

A visit to the tranquil Cayman Islands is about as idyllic as island living gets. The holy grail of what is Seven Mile Beach – is perhaps the biggest draw to Grand Cayman, extending 6.3 miles along the pristine beach is filled with plenty of foot traffic, via the multiple luxury hotels, shops, and exquisite restaurants offering the best culinary experience and options in the Caribbean.

Cayman's Most Instagrammable Restaurants

Cayman's Most Instagrammable Restaurants

Here in Cayman, seaside eateries are a dime a dozen. While sweeping ocean panoramas are a definite selling point, we also appreciate a restaurant that can stand alone with its quintessential essence and cleverly-curated aesthetic. A trendy local spot to show off on social media, perhaps? Read on to discover the most instagrammable restaurants in Cayman, sure to impress with their signature design and of course, appetizing menus.

The Best Juice Bars in Cayman

The Best Juice Bars in Cayman

Living in perpetual beach season calls for liquid encouragement, and I’m not talking about Mudslides. For as many tropical cocktails as Cayman has to offer, this Caribbean paradise also boasts a plethora of health-conscious options with pressed juices taking a front seat on the wellness scene. Sip your way through our top 7 island juice spots with an unexpected bonus at the end.

Pizza Joints You Need To Hit To Get A Slice Of The Action

Pizza Joints You Need To Hit To Get A Slice Of The Action

What kind of person doesn’t like pizza?

A weirdough.

Speaking of dough— with your help we’ve gone through the daunting task of rounding up the best on the island (excluding gas station pizza — which we know you love), we’re talking pillowy soft Neapolitan to thin, stringy New York slices.

Check out these unmissable pizza joints in Cayman and get out there to cheese the day, (these pizza jokes can’t be topped). Ok we're done, so without further preamble, read on to get a slice of the action.

Staycation Guide | The Ritz - Carlton Grand Cayman

Staycation Guide | The Ritz - Carlton Grand Cayman

Rediscover The Cayman Islands all over again with a staycation at one of the most prestigious hotels, the Ritz-Carlton Grand Cayman. Wake up to jaw-dropping views of Seven Mile Beach without leaving your king-size bed, with ocean-side rooms offering expansive seating areas, spacious bath tubs, complimentary morning coffee and wifi.

With a reputation for opulent accommodation, impeccable service and an acclaimed culinary scene, the epitome of tranquility, a luxurious staycation here will leave you recharged and revived.

How to Start and Maintain a Fitness Routine While Living on an Island

How to Start and Maintain a Fitness Routine While Living on an Island

When you’ve chosen to spend your days living a laid-back existence on an idyllic island, or you’ve traveled from afar to enjoy the fruits of your concrete-bound labour on a pretty little pebble lined with lush green palms, it can prove challenging to prioritize fitness. Read on for a few insights that could assist you in starting and keeping to a running or fitness schedule while faced with the daily challenges and temptations of living on a beach.

The Charm of Cayman Cuisine

The Charm of Cayman Cuisine

As the culinary-enthused crowds evacuate our fine shores, hearts full and bellies bursting after the gastronomical extravagance of Grand Cayman’s most loved food festival, Cayman Cookout, we take the opportunity to reflect on classic Caribbean dishes that excite and draw people to Grand Cayman. Gluttons and gourmands from all over the world, every creed, religion, and culture come here to experience Cayman cuisine and the rich food history of Cayman. ..

How To Set (and Stick to) Resolutions in Grand Cayman

How To Set (and Stick to) Resolutions in Grand Cayman

The central theme for many of us when trying to set new goals every year, is a general worry over which approach best suits our temperament, in order for us to have the biggest chance of success at keeping to them. A 'bite-sized' approach can often help when the goals seem larger-than-life, and you feel weak of will. Finding creative ways to stay motivated is key.

Best Christmas Events in Cayman

Best Christmas Events in Cayman

Christmas, a magical time of year. Snowflakes on pine trees, hot chocolate next to open fire and toasty nights cuddled up. In Cayman, however, Christmas is spent soaking up sun rays and stretching out on snow white beaches instead. Having a summer Christmas definitely has its advantages. What you lose in terms of eggnog and roasted chestnuts, you gain doubly in coconuts, Vitamin D and tropical tans.