The Ultimate Guide to the Grand Cayman Islands

April is typically the best time to visit the Cayman Islands due to this being the month with the least amount of precipitation and comfortable but warm daily temperatures.

History of the Island

​The Cayman Islands received their first recorded visitor in the late 1500s, although Christopher Columbus was said to have spotted them in 1503. The islands were originally a hot spot for turtle fishing. In 1734, the first permanent settlement was established by pirates, slaves, shipwrecked sailors, and refugees. Island inhabitants often took advantage of weary sailors, using donkeys with lights attached to them to draw in passing ships in the night. The boats would become stuck on the surrounding reefs and the island's inhabitants would then paddle out to the ships and proceed to loot them. England and Jamaica took control of the islands in 1670, until 1962 when it became solely a British territory. Today, the Cayman Islands are home to over 64,000 residents.

Island Geography

The three Cayman Islands (Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac, and Little Cayman) are the peaks of an undersea mountain range called the Cayman Rise. This undersea mountain range extends from Cuba toward Costa Rica. The total coastline between the three islands measures 99 miles. The islands are comprised mostly of limestone with surrounding coral reefs. The islands barely stick up above sea level, with the highest point being only 155 feet.

Climate and Weather

​The islands experience both a wet and dry tropical climate. The wet season lasts from May to October, while the dry season lasts from November to April. The average high temperature generally hovers between 82 to 89 degrees Fahrenheit year-round, while the average low temperature ranges between 72 and 78 degrees Fahrenheit year-round. April is typically the best time to visit the Cayman Islands due to this being the month with the least amount of precipitation and comfortable but warm daily temperatures. The Cayman Islands do occasionally experience hurricanes.

Culture

​The Cayman Islands share a unique blend of different cultures, pulling from those of the United States, Great Britain, and Jamaica. Religion and family are highly regarded on the islands. Food, music, dance, nature, and art are all important to Cayman Islands' residents, with many festivals, museums, parks, and other events celebrating these themes.

Food

The Cayman Islands are home to a multitude of delicious restaurants, cafes, and other eateries. From casual to fine dining, there are options for every occasion. Seafood is a go-to, from turtle soup to lobster to freshly caught fish options. Conch, a type of sea snail, is also featured in many dishes. Coconut dishes are quite popular among locals and travelers as well. A Jamaican influence is often noted in many restaurants in jerk-seasoned dishes. For vegetarian and vegans, several eateries cater to more specialized diets.

Transportation

Getting around the islands is quite simple. There are several transportation options available. Taxis are available at the airport, as well as at many resorts. Travelers can also rent cars and scooters; however, a temporary license is required and can be obtained at the rental car establishment. To rent a car, you must be at least 21 years old. On the Cayman Islands, motorists drive on the left side of the road, which can take a little getting used to if you're not familiar with this. Public buses are also available on the island, as well as limo services. There are no services like Lyft or Uber yet, due to agreements with taxi drivers. However, there has been a transition from cash-only pay to credit card- and online payments for taxi services through an app called Flex.

Seven Mile Beach

​Seven Mile Beach is a popular destination for visitors to the Grand Cayman. Located on the west side of the island, the entire white sand beach is open to the public and is lined with hotels, bars, shops, and eateries. Ocean-lovers can enjoy nearby snorkeling, scuba diving, parasailing, and boat tours in the breathtaking clear blue waters. Seven Mile Beach doesn't exactly measure seven miles, as the beach has eroded over time.

Entertainment

​In addition to parasailing at the beach, visiting museums, and shopping on Seven Mile Beach, Grand Cayman island is home to the Truman Bodden Sports Complex. Sports such as professional soccer, rugby, basketball, track, and swimming are played here. The complex also has a gym.
 
If you're a lover of theater or comedies, check out Harquail Theatre on Grand Cayman. This theater seats over 300 people and regularly hosts different events, from operas to fashion shows. The island is also home to The Prospect Playhouse, which offers shows and acting classes.
 
Nature enthusiasts should consider a visit to the Cayman Turtle Center. Home to Green Sea Turtles, sharks, saltwater crocodiles, and even a butterfly garden - there are many exhibits worth checking out. The center also has feeding shows, a playground with water slides, and an option to swim with the sea turtles.

Author - Brittany Waddell 

Brittany  ​is a contributing writer and media specialist for Privilege Club. She often produces content for a variety of travel blogs.