Plan Your Trip to Grand Cayman: Best of Grand Cayman Tourism
Grand Cayman
Essential Grand Cayman
Food & drink



Where to find local eats in Grand Cayman
- VIVO! Restaurant & Catering21A hidden gem under the Lighthouse Point Hotel is a slam-dunk for anyone looking for tasty gluten-free and vegan options. But I’m here to testify that this spot is a paradise for all taste buds. The kitchen creates dishes with a local twist; choosing between the fish burger and the vegan curry is the kind of decision I live for). And those pumpkin fritters—yum. Extra bonus: There’s a breathtaking view, too.
- Pepper's Bar and Grill1,783Pepper’s delivers it all: a lively crowd of sun-kissed tourists and easy-going locals, killer live music when you want to get on the dance floor, and a menu overflowing with local flavours. The fish and chips, ceviche, and jerk chicken are all show-stoppers.
- Big Tree BBQ729I stumbled upon this roadside gem and now can’t stop talking about the downhome cooking. The menu is written on a blackboard; I recommend the fried snapper served with yuca, plantain, and the classic rice and beans if it’s available. For meat lovers, the oxtail is a rib-tickling delight. Wash it all down with a non alcoholic “Swanky”—it's like if an Arnold Palmer took a Caribbean holiday and added a zesty ginger kick.
- Heritage Kitchen880Good luck putting your fork down at Heritage Kitchen, a local hideaway behind the Tortuga liquor shop in quaint Heritage Square. This is where I land for some no-nonsense, flavour-packed eating. The hearty fish soup and coconut mahi mahi here are the stuff of legends. Grab a seat on a picnic bench or, my personal sweet spot, the sea wall for water views with your meal.
- Vivine's Kitchen468Dining here is like hitting a Caymanian food jackpot. Park where you can—everyone's here for Vivine's legendary eats—then grab a waterfront seat. The menu is a mystery until you spot the hand-scribbled daily dishes on the chalkboard—think stewed turtle or curried goat for the adventurous. The less exotic chicken and chips (fries) get a perfect “10” from me. Tip: Skip the booze and opt for fresh tamarind juice.
- Chicken! Chicken! Caribbean Wood Roasted1,345If these walls could cluck, they'd boast about the best-kept secret in Grand Cayman: a place where rotisserie chicken is a legend. Picture chicken so tender it practically falls into your lap, roasted over a hardwood hearth. It's generally a grab-and-go situation here, but the old-timey Cayman cottage vibes might just make you want to linger. Dig into sides that'll make your taste buds do a happy dance—honey-rum beans and island cornbread, among them.
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Grand Cayman travel advice
Availability and Pricing
Some travelers have mentioned options like Turtle Nest Inn, which offers a rental car included in the price, daily housekeeping, and a pool, with no additional fees aside from taxes. Rates at Sunset House without a dive package are around $400 per night during the winter season. Paradise Pointe is also suggested as a more economical choice, potentially available for $150 a night off-season.
Location and Amenities
According to forum posts, accommodations such as Sunshine Suites & Morritts or the Wyndham Reef on the East End provide various amenities. The Turtle Nest Inn is praised for being on the beach in Bodden Town, while Sunset House is located just south of Georgetown. For those looking for budget-friendly options, accommodations like the simplest rooms at Sunset House or rentals in the Kaibo area or in Bodden Town are recommended.
Considerations and Tips
Travelers have called out that Grand Cayman can be a pricey destination, and finding lower-cost accommodations is increasingly challenging as it becomes a luxury destination. It's important to consider the timing of your visit, as rates typically drop after April 15, which is the end of the high season.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?Beach Bar Recommendations
According to forum posts, Macabuca in West Bay is highly recommended for its ocean view and casual eats, with multiple users emphasizing it as a must-visit. Coccoloba at the Kimpton on Seven Mile Beach is also praised for its great drinks and bar food right on the beach.
Additional Options
Some travelers mentioned Royal Palms and Calico Jacks as fun beach bars, especially for cruise visitors looking to enjoy music and a lively atmosphere on Seven Mile Beach. However, it's noted that these locations can be quite crowded due to their popularity with cruise ship passengers.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?Renovations and Accessibility
According to forum posts, Rum Point is currently undergoing renovations, which may affect the availability of certain activities and facilities. Some travelers mentioned that the area is not fully open and advised waiting until the renovations are complete for a better experience.
Beach and Water Activities
Travelers have called out that Rum Point offers good snorkeling opportunities, although it requires swimming out a considerable distance. The beach area is undergoing significant development, which has altered some of its original rustic charm. The water near the shore can be less clear due to seagrass growth.
Dining and Amenities
For many users, the dining options at Rum Point are a highlight, with several recommending nearby restaurants like Tukka and Kaibo for good seafood and rum selections. However, the prices for food and amenities at Rum Point can be high, as indicated by a traveler's report of a $200+ lunch for five people.
Overall Experience
Some travelers suggest that despite the ongoing developments and changes, Rum Point remains a worthwhile visit for those seeking a quieter, less developed part of the island compared to more commercial areas like Seven Mile Beach.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?Popular Choices
According to forum posts, Red Sail is a common recommendation among divers due to its convenience for those staying in central areas of Seven Mile Beach. It is noted for its large boats which some divers prefer for comfort and less crowding.
Small Group Preference
For divers interested in smaller group experiences, some travelers suggested Living the Dream, which is owned by Gary and Liz and is known for its personalized service. InDepth Watersports and Cayman University Divers are also recommended for smaller group dives, particularly on the West Bay or northern Seven Mile Beach.
East End Options
Ocean Frontiers is highly recommended for those staying on the East side of Grand Cayman. It provides easy access to unique dive sites that are difficult to reach from the Seven Mile Beach area. This operator is known for accommodating both novice and experienced divers with a variety of dive profiles.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?Safety and Availability
According to forum posts, travelers generally feel safe using taxis in Grand Cayman, even when traveling solo. Taxis are readily available, and it is common for drivers to provide personal contact information for direct calls, enhancing convenience and safety.
Booking and Costs
Some travelers suggested pre-arranging rides with specific drivers like Shawn Smith, who is highly recommended for his professionalism and reliability. There is also an app called CI:GO that helps users estimate taxi fares beforehand, ensuring transparency in pricing.
Specific Recommendations
Travelers have called out specific taxi drivers by name, indicating a preference for personalized service. For instance, Shawn Smith is mentioned multiple times for his excellent service, suggesting that building a rapport with a particular driver could enhance the taxi experience in Grand Cayman.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?Hotel Options
According to forum posts, the Westin, Ritz Carlton, and Kimpton Seafire are highly recommended for their larger beachfronts along Seven Mile Beach. Travelers have noted that while these hotels offer extensive amenities, they can become crowded when at full occupancy.
Condo Options
Some travelers suggest considering condo rentals for a more spacious and potentially less crowded beach experience. Recommended condos include the Caribbean Club, Meridian, Beachcomber, Coralstone, and Casa Caribe, which are noted for their large beachfronts and central locations on Seven Mile Beach.
Alternative Hotel
Palm Heights is another hotel option highlighted by users. It has a smaller scale compared to the Ritz and Westin, which might give a perception of a more extensive beachfront due to fewer guests.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?Current Beach Condition
According to forum posts, the beach near the Marriott in Grand Cayman has suffered significant erosion, with the water now reaching the sea wall. This has resulted in a substantial reduction of the beach area, often leaving little to no sand space available for beachgoers.
Beach Access and Alternatives
Travelers have reported that direct beach access from the Marriott is limited, with ocean entry points now primarily through stairs leading directly into the water. Some users recommend checking nearby beaches like Governors Beach for better sand and less erosion, which is within walking distance and offers a more traditional beach experience.
Traveler Insights
For those considering staying at the Marriott, it's suggested to set expectations regarding the beach conditions. While the hotel continues to offer excellent service and amenities, the beachfront may not meet the typical desires for a beach resort experience due to ongoing erosion issues.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?Proximity to Airport
Some travelers have indicated that GTYC restaurant is close to Grand Cayman Airport and offers a shuttle service to and from the air terminal, making it a convenient dining option for those on layovers or awaiting flights.
Restaurant Recommendations
According to forum posts, George Town Yacht Club is highly recommended for its delightful food and drinks in a tropical setting, with cracked conch being a particularly praised dish.
Additional Options
For a broader range of choices, the central Seven Mile Beach area, though more exclusive and expensive, is within reach and offers various eateries and shops, accessible especially if staying nearby or renting a car.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?