The three islands that make up the archipelago of the Cayman Islands are filled to the brim with culture, stunning natural beauty, history – and some of the best resort style accommodation in the Caribbean. The Cayman Islands are a haven for those who want to lose themselves in a paradise and throw off the worries of the modern world – at least for a while. The sheer number of attractions and activities that are available to any one of the almost 2 million visitors who head for the Cayman Islands each year make it extremely difficult to choose what activities to prioritize. After all, you can choose to laze on the pristine sands of Seven Mile Beach, swim with stingrays. Drift over unspoiled coral reefs, venture into the deep to enjoy a day of sport fishing or explore the wonders of the rain forests that blanket the islands. The Cayman Islands offer a world of possibility. The choice is difficult – – but here are eight of the best activities just to make that choice a little easier.
1. Tantalize your Tastebuds.
The Cayman Islands are regarded by many as the culinary epicenter of the foodie scene in the Caribbean. Visitors can enjoy anything from international cuisine to the freshest of seafood and local favorites. There are also a number of food festivals that take place throughout the year, for example, the Cayman Cookout which as once hosted by the late Anthony Bourdain – so you know that you are in for a treat. Of course, seafood should be on the dining agenda of any visitor to the Islands. Try a hole in the wall version of charred Wahoo or coconut shrimp. How about fresh (caught daily) chili oil flavored lobster tails. Or go for something exotic at Tukka – the blackened lionfish tacos (invasive species – so eat all you can). Enjoy live music at many of the venues – and simply chill.
2. Go Deep.
There are many who believe that the Cayman Islands are home to some of the best diving experiences in the Caribbean. Local lore suggests that given the fact that there are three islands in the chain it is possible to find a new dive site every day of the year. Great sea life, wreck drives and dramatic drop-offs combine with exceptional visibility to make diving the Cayman Islands an experience that will not be forgotten.
3. Look on the Bright Side – Kayaking.
A nighttime kayak experience off the islands should not be missed – the magic of bioluminescence lights up the ocean at the aptly named ‘Grand Cayman’s Bioluminescent Bay‘ on Grand Cayman. Take in the sparkling caused by tiny marine organisms that make it feel as if you were paddling through a galaxy of shining stars.
4. Saddle Up.
The sheer freedom and joy of riding a horse along the fringes of the Caribbean across pristine powder white sands should not be underestimated. A number of your operators are ready to make that dream a reality.
5. Dive, Dive, Dive?
No, not SCUBA – take some time to admire the underwater wonders of the Cayman Islands from the comfort of a submarine. Atlantis Submarines’ embarks from Seven Mile Beach and takes guests on a trip through an underwater wonderland. Along with 48 other people, you will experience the wonders of the coral reefs and the magical drop-offs where marine life abounds as you descend to 100 feet below the surface.
6. Go Caving.
The Crystal caves are a wonder of nature. The group of 105 caves formed out of limestone feature natural formations that glitter in the light. Guided tours make the experience both fun and educational. For the brave, there is the Bat Cave and for those who simply want to bask in natural wonder, there is the Lake Cave with its still expanse of deep green waters.
7. Don’t Ignore the Iguana.
Grand Cayman is home to the impressive Blue Iguana – which those interested in natural history will find fascinating. the blue color becomes even more striking. they can be seen at the ‘ Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park‘. They are a conservation success story. The population had consisted of only a dozen individuals at one point – but a conservation program has seen them bounce back.
8. See a Galaxy of Starfish.
You don’t have to strap on tanks to really experience the natural wonders of ocean life while visiting the Cayman Islands. Get to Starfish Point where thousands of red cushion sea stars can be seen on the sands only a foot from the surface. Easy to access – head to Rum Point and take Water Cay Rd to the end.
A trip to the Cayman Islands will be filled with wonder. Make paradise your destination today.