Grand Cayman

Grand Cayman

Things to do - general

Grand Cayman is one of a group of three magnificent tropical islands Christopher Columbus called “Las Tortugas” (the turtles) for the sea creatures he found in the ocean water. The designation did not endure, however, for on later maps the islands were labeled the Caimanau, the Carib Indian word for “crocodile.” The name “Caimanas” refers inaccurately to the iguanas native to the islands, which were perhaps at one point mistaken for crocodiles. Among other attractions, visitors to the island will enjoy learning about the turtles, visiting the town of Hell, exploring Seven-Mile Beach and enjoying the undersea world.

Country United States
Languages spoken English
Currency Cayman Dollar
Visa requirements No Visa required for US Citizens

Sports and nature

Sports and nature Swimming in the clear and warm sea will surely relax and refresh you. For those who wish more, the beaches of Dubrovnik offer additional options. Rent a pedallo or scooter and visit picturesque coves in the vicinity of the beach, take a banana boat ride, water-ski and windsurf.

Nightlife

Nightlife Even though Grand Cayman is far and away the liveliest of the islands, evening entertainment remains rather low-key. One reason is that most cruise ships depart the island in late afternoon. If you find yourself in town for the night, don't expect lots of excitement. Many bars close before midnight. The most popular activity is grabbing a cold drink and watching the sunset (especially on Friday, when most people on the island head somewhere for happy hour). If you're planning your own sunset cocktail, visit the liquor store before 7 pm Monday-Friday.

Culture and history

Culture & history The Cayman Islands and Jamaica were governed as a single colony until 1962, when Jamaica declared its independence from Britain. The Cayman Islands remained a British Overseas Territory. The islands pride themselves on their own constitution and government. The Cayman Islands Order, also known as the Constitution, was created in 1972 and was revised in 1994.

What to See

Shop, eat and shell-scavenge your way along Seven Mile Beach; hike and nature-watch along the Mastic Trail; take a walking tour of George Town; stroll through the Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park.

Where to Shop

Shopping is good on Grand Cayman, but prices are a bit high. There's no shortage of duty-free shops stocked with a wide variety of jewelry, watches, crystal, china, perfume, clothing, woolens, linens, liquor and other items. We suggest that you know the going price at home before you buy: Just because something is duty-free doesn't mean it's a bargain. Shopping Hours: Monday-Friday 8:30 am-5 pm, Saturday 8:30 am-12:30 pm. Most George Town businesses lock up tight after noon on Saturday. Some shops stay open until 9 pm on weeknights. All businesses are closed on Sunday, except restaurants and dive shops. Hours vary depending on whether a cruise ship is in port.