With its palm-fringed beaches, crystal waters, lush landscapes and plentiful wildlife; the Cayman Islands has all of the essential elements for a winter sun getaway. But beyond that, there is so much more to be discovered.
Gourmands, nature lovers and culture lovers are spoilt for choice when it comes to visiting this trio of islands – Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac and Little Cayman; from adventure to historic; dining to diving, and wildlife to wellness.
For tingling taste buds
Foodies will be more than surprised at the melting pot of flavours available on the Cayman Islands, with seafood often the star. Frequently named the ‘Culinary Capital of the Caribbean’, all three islands offer an extensive and diverse range of gastronomic experiences beach-side, farm-to-table and sea-to-spoon.
2023 highlights include the annual Cayman Cookout, which is making a post-Covid comeback in January, bringing with it global chef talent from across the world; the regular Farmer’s Market at the Cricket Grounds in George Town where travellers can sample the delicious taste of Cayman while speaking to locals; fascinating stories and tours at Cayman Spirits distillery where the rum is matured in oak barrels submerged seven fathoms under the sea, and hands on cooking classes at the National Trust owned historic Mission House.
For nature lovers
Soaking up the stunning scenery and wildlife on the Cayman Islands offers visitors an up close and personal opportunity to explore nature close at hand. Hiking the 120-year-old Mastic Trail which stretches 2.3-miles from north to south on Grand Cayman is a must, as is a nighttime kayak in the water’s bioluminescence – like paddling in stars. Criss-cross the lush green forest walking trails of Cayman Brac and explore Little Cayman’s Booby Pond Nature Reserve – home to rare native plants and animal, as well as one of the largest colonies of red-footed booby birds in the western hemisphere.
For wildlife watchers
The Cayman Islands is home to more indigenous species than the Galapagos. From the endangered Blue Iguana and Sister Islands Rock Iguana, to three species of sea turtle, the red-footed booby and the Banana Orchid, the abundance of wildlife, flora and fauna is jaw-dropping.
As well as swimming with wild stingrays at Stingray City natural sandbar on Grand Cayman, the largest island is also home to the Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park where the Blue Iguana Conservation programme is based. The Blue Iguana is only found on Grand Cayman and was considered critically endangered in 2000, but now, thanks to the Blue Iguana Conservation programme, there are over 1300 in the wild.
For the thrill seekers
For adventure-seekers, the Cayman Islands offers just as much thrill as they do chill. Immersed in the great outdoors, from kayaking through mystical mangrove forests to rock climbing or abseiling ‘the Bluff’ on Cayman Brac, hiking, biking and – of course- world-class diving (note: there are 365 dive sited – that’s one for every day of the year!) and snorkelling, there are plenty of ways to get an adventure fix.
Other adrenaline-filled highlights include kitesurfing on Barker’s Beach on Grand Cayman, underwater shipwreck explorations, magical cave adventures and looping coastal cycling trails.
And when visitors want to retreat from action-packed days, the Cayman Islands offers a breadth of accommodation to suit all needs and budgets with hotels, apartments, home lets and villas available.
About the Cayman Islands
Located south of Miami and a short hop from Cuba, the British Overseas Territory of the Cayman Islands is a premier lifestyle destination for adventurous travellers where there’s as much thrill as there is chill. Friendly locals, no all-inclusives, incredible wildlife and mouthwatering culinary experiences to boot, the 2023 summer season launching 26th March, sees British Airways welcome a fifth weekly direct flight from London Heathrow.
To discover more about the Cayman Islands please visit: www.visitcaymanislands.com
