Grand Cayman

Grand Cayman

Discovered by Columbus in 1503, these islands are a popular resort and British Crown Colony that still provides travelers with unspoiled beauty. As a destination known for its superb diving opportunites, the Caymans are home to unforgettable ship- wrecks, brilliantly colored fish and Caribbean-clear water.

Attractions

Experience a once-in-a-lifetime adventure: snorkeling with stingrays at Stingray City Sandbar. These relatively tame creatures will swim right into your arms and eat from your hand. They have velvety soft skin and love to have their bellies rubbed. Despite their frightening name, they are very gentle and won't hurt you as long as you stay away from their tails.

Activities

The Blow Holes are an amazing natural wonder. These geologic formations on Grand Cayman provide a wonderful photo opportunity. Waves crash on to rocks, forcing water into caverns and sending geysers shooting up through the ironshore. Visit Bodden Town, the Island's original south-shore capital. Here you'll find an old cemetery on the shore side of the road. Graves with A-frame structures are said to contain the remains of pirates. There are also the ruins of a fort and a wall erected by slaves in the 19th century. At the Cayman Island Turtle Farm you can see turtles in various stages of growth, and some can be picked up from the tanks -- a real treat for children and adults. The tiny village of Hell is little more than a patch of incredibly jagged rock formations called ironshore. The big attraction here are the small post office and a nearby gift shop, where you can get cards and letters postmarked from Hell. Formerly known as the West Bay Pink House, Old Homestead is probably the most photographed home in Grand Cayman. The pink-and-white Caymanian cottage was built in 1912 of wattle and daub around an ironwood frame. Built in 1780, Pedtro St. James Castle is Cayman's oldest stone structure and the only remaining late-18th-century residence on the island. The buildings are surrounded by 8 acres of natural parks and woodlands. You can stroll through landscaping of native Caymanian flora and experience one of the most spectacular views on the island from atop the dramatic Great Pedro Bluff. Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park is a 65-acre wilderness preserve that showcases a wide range of indigenous and nonindigenous tropical vegetation.

Shopping

• Calico Jack's is a good source for T-shirts, casual resort wear, sun tan oil, and dive gear.
• The coral and jewelry creations of Bernard Passman have won the approval of the British royal family. Even the pope owns a piece of Passman's work.
• Joe Tourist, carries locally made products, T-shirts, leather bags, and refreshing smoothies.
• You'll find beautiful coral pieces at Richard's Fine Jewelry, where designers Richard and Rafaela Barile attract celebrities
• The Tortuga Rum Company has scrumptious rum cake (sealed fresh) in addition to many bottles of the much-loved drink. Sweet and moist, these cakes make excellent souvenirs.

Currency

The official currency of the Cayman Islands is the Cayman Islands dollar (KYD). U.S. dollars, credit cards, and traveler's checks are widely accepted.

Weather Forecast

Sailing Calendar

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