The Quieter Side to Grand Cayman Island

The Beach Life

Grand Cayman is known for its pristine beaches and there are plenty of them — it is an island, after all! Step outside your resort and you’ll find yourself on the sand surrounded by the beauty of the Caribbean. Relaxing in a lounge chair under a palapa is a must, but you will quickly find that every beach has its own unique atmosphere. You will find secluded beach access everywhere as you drive the island but do not miss a stop at my favorite ones in the East End and North Side.

Rum Point: Rum Point is simply gorgeous with its white sand and clear blue water. Walk the pier or snorkel the shallow waters to view colorful fish, baby stingrays, sea turtles and nurse sharks. Lounge chairs and umbrellas are free to all visitors. Rum Point Club features a restaurant and casual bar, watersports, and a small gift shop. Fun fact: Be sure to get a picture by the Rum Point rum barrels! Rum Point gets its name from the rum barrels that once washed ashore here.

Starfish Point: This is the perfect beach for a sunset picnic. The water is calm, the sand is soft and the shallow water is inviting. You will see boats parked along the shoreline and people admiring the many starfish in the water. Insider tip: You will be able to gently hold starfish of all sizes and colors, but be sure not to lift them out of the water or they will not be able to breathe.

Morritt’s Beach: Morritt’s Beach on the East End is part of the Morritt’s Resort and is a quiet beach retreat. Even if you are not staying at Morritt’s, you can snorkel under the dock. You will be able to snorkel with tarpon and plenty of colorful fish. Visit Tortuga Divers, the dive shop on the resort, to schedule a dive trip to some of the most amazing reefs on the island. Insider tip: Snorkelers can head out with the divers (at a very reasonable rate) when room is available. You can also schedule a private charter fishing trip with Captain Herman. Stop by the Vacation Club Office to book your trip. Captain Herman is a local fisherman who will not only teach you how to catch grouper, barracuda and more but will also give you the opportunity to dive for conch. If you are staying at Morritt’s, he will come to your room and cook a Caymanian dinner with your fresh catch.

Cayman Kai: This is the perfect spot for sun and shade. Cayman Kai is truly an unspoiled part of Cayman’s coastline and offers a gorgeous beach surrounded by palm trees and calm, clear waters, perfect for swimming or paddle boarding, kayaking and more. Insider tip: Set up a bioluminescence tour through Cayman Kayaks located right on Cayman Kai or schedule a snorkeling tour with All Sea Sun Tours. You will not be disappointed with this four-stop tour. Snorkel Coral Gardens, the Barrier Reef, swim with the stingrays at Stingray City and watch the sunset at Starfish Point while David serves the best rum punch!

When you need a break from the beach, you won’t want to miss out on these iconic sites on the North Side and East End.

Cayman Crystal Caves: The crystal caves are the oldest landmark on the island. This is a memorable underground tour where you will be amazed by the unique natural beauty of the caves. Tropical forests surround the caves, and there is also a restaurant and souvenir shop on the grounds.

Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park: This 65-acre park is home to a woodland walking trail, floral gardens, a lake and wetlands where you will see wildlife, a children’s garden and a heritage garden with a traditional Caymanian house where you can see how early settlers lived on the island. Insider tip: This is the spot to see the endangered Blue Iguana.

Lighthouse Park: Here you can climb Cayman’s first lighthouse. The views from the top are incredible.

Pedro St. James Castle: The Pedro St. James Castle is seven acres of gardens overlooking the Caribbean Sea. You can explore the castle, watch a 3-D movie and indulge in a rum tasting.

The East End and North Side of Grand Cayman have some of the best restaurants on the island. As a foodie, eating local cuisine is a must. You will not be disappointed by these culinary experiences.

Tukka East: This is my absolute favorite. Tukka’s is a waterfront restaurant that serves fresh local seafood with a mix of Australian and Caribbean tastes. Go for Australian Night, Fresh Fish Friday or Sunday Brunch for a spectacular experience. Insider tip: Go for happy hour and order a variety of small bites. This is a great way to try many menu items. My favorites are the Lion Fish Tacos and the Kangaroo Lolli-Pops & Satays. Plus, at 5 PM, when happy hour is ending, you can view or experience the feeding of the Frigate Birds!

Kaibo Beach Restaurant: Located on Cayman Kai, you can sit at a table in the sand and watch boats come and go while you enjoy the best wood-fired pizzas, burgers, catch of the day and more. Insider tip: Each month, Kaibo Beach Restaurant is also home to the full moon party “Luna del Mar.”

La Casita: La Casita is a small, authentic Mexican restaurant with a fun atmosphere. They are known for using local ingredients from the farmers of the East End, and their craft cocktails and margaritas are top-notch.

Thatch & Barrel: Located on the oceanside bluffs of St. James, Thatch & Barrel has some of the best sunset views on the island. The romantic yet casual atmosphere pairs perfectly with the exciting menu. The menu features locally sourced ingredients in its modern Caribbean style. Their craft cocktails are incredible as well. Insider tip: Make a reservation for a table at sunset.