The Cayman Islands is one of the most popular destinations in the Caribbean. Incredible food, mind-blowing beaches and glimmering, translucent waters. The luckiest visitors are the ones who get to stay for more than just a day, although, even if you stop over for just a few hours on a cruise ship, you wont be disappointed. As well as the food, beaches and water, there's a surprising amount of activities to and unique experiences to be had in Cayman and here are some of our faves.
1. Explore the Cayman Crystal Caves
A new attraction in Cayman, although these caves have of course been around for thousands of years. Only recently open to the public for tours, the beauty of this attraction is that it's tucked away, deep in the forest, and seems so far from the tropical beauty Cayman is regularly associated with. There are multiple caves to explore, and the local informative guides add a distinctive Caribbean flavour to your tour. If you're in Cayman for a day or 10 days, make sure you stop by the Cayman Crystal Caves for some off-the-beaten-track exploration.
2. Hop on a catamaran to Stingray City
Most people who come to Cayman know we're famous for our oh so curious stingrays. This is a top attraction and has been for many years. It's unique, invigorating and makes for an unforgettable experience. The stingrays are friendly, playful and love human interaction. There are a few ways to get to this part of the island, but chartering a catamaran with Paradise Sailing and Snorkeling is the best possible way. The boat is spacious, fast and cuts through the waves in the North Sound leaving you feeling rejuvenated and like you're truly in paradise. There's nothing like lazily stretching out on the trampoline as the Caribbean sea rushes beneath you.
3. Swim with turtles at the Cayman Turtle Centre
Hold or swim with green sea turtles, watch a croc eat its lunch and feed exotic, tropical birds. All of this can be done in just a few hours at the Cayman Turtle Farm and it's an experience you will only find in the Cayman Islands. If you're brave you can dive into the lagoon and see predators like nurse sharks and barracuda from an underwater glass wall, as you snorkel along the other side of the tank. For a bit of adventure and interaction with nature, pop over to the Cayman Turtle Centre and don't forget your waterproof camera.
4. Pick up some souvenirs at Pure Art
When you think of art, you might immediately think of paintings and sculptures. Pure Art does have this, but they also have everything else you can think of all packed into a charming Cayman cottage, in which the owner, Debbie Van der Bol lives. Handmade gems, jewellery, something for your home or a gift for a friend, this is the place to go.
5. Ride Along The Beach With Cayman Segways
What makes this segways tour different is that you get a true local experience while exploring the island. All of the guides are from Cayman, so you'll learn a bit about the culture, and even some Caymanian slang. You'll get a great tour of Camana Bay, but the best part is off-roading onto the beach. Easy to ride and a lot of fun, If you have a few hours during the day, and want to explore Seven Mile without being crammed onto a bus, this is the way to go.
6. Go 100ft Below With Atlantis Submarine
You might want to lay in the sun all day, soaking in the rays and getting some rest, but while you're in Cayman, don't spend all of your time on the beach. You'll need to get below the water to truly experience this island. Yes, diving in Cayman is incredible, but being on a submarine 100ft beneath the surface is a whole different kind of excitement. Atlantis Submarine Adventures offers an exhilarating experience, while keeping you dry at the same time.
8. Take A Trip To The Sister Islands
If you get the time, a trip over to Little Cayman and Cayman Brac will ensure you get the whole Cayman Islands experience. These bare-foot, laid-back islands are reminiscent of Grand Cayman before development and westernization. Abundant with nature, beautiful beaches and a sense of peace you won't find anywhere else, no trip to Cayman is truly complete without stopping by all three islands. Book your trip at www.itsyourstoexplore.com
9. Spot Green Parrots At The Mastic Trail
A 200-year-old dense forest path, great for hiking, bird-watching and taking in colourful nature and plants. The Mastic Trail runs through the eastern side of the island and will take you around 3 hours to complete. Take a guided tour with the National Trust to find out the history behind this natural attraction and see things you'd never spot if you hiked alone.
10. Rent A Jeep From Avis And Drive Along The Coast
A must-do when you come to Cayman, renting a jeep from Avis and driving out east is a great way to get explore the island. Stop off at the Blowholes, Lovers Wall and the pristine, peaceful beaches, drive up to Rum Point or head out West to Hell. There's nothing that will make you feel more like you're on an island than cruising, top-down along the gorgeous Cayman coastline.
Want more Cayman travel advice? Head over to www.thisiscaymantv.com for videos on the best things to see, do & places to stay in the Cayman Islands.
If you're in Cayman , tune into Logic TV channel 36 in your hotel room or condo to watch 'This is Cayman' to guide you through the best way to experience the islands.
