EXPLORE Cayman 2023

Page 16

www. explorecayman .com
The definitive guide to exploring Cayman

LOVE IN VERONA COLLECTION

HTUOS C HURCH ST Doctors Hospital CTMH
Silver Thatch Plaza Beach Deck Ritz-Carlton Golf Course Hampton by Hilton Palm Heights Foster’s
©Acorn Media 2023
Cayman Parrot Sanctuary LONGINES SPIRIT ZULU TIME BAYSHORE MALL: THE STRAND
DAVENPORT DEVELOPMENT LTD SALES OFFICE (345) 949 4979 • INFO@DAVENPORT.KY WWW.DAVENPORT.KY WE ARE HEADING OUT EAST...
WE GO THE EXTRA MILE Embracing the world-renowned ‘Cayman-kind’, our Cayman Villas specialists go the extra mile to create your memorable, locally infused vacation experience. 70+ VACATION PROPERTIES BOOK DIRECTLY FOR BEST RATES SECLUDED GEMS Relax in one of our luxurious beachfront villas or set out on adventures to experience the local culture and find the island’s hidden gems. We strive to ensure that you have a truly memorable vacation. It’s why our guests come back time and time again! +1 800 235 5888 | +1 345.945.4144 | reservations@caymanvillas.com | 431 West Bay Road, SMB www.caymanvillas.com |
$5369 1.50ct -14K (243593) $2989 1.00ct -14K (244205) $2989 1.00ct -14K (256226) $7129 2.25ct -14K (207306) 345-749-8804 SALES@THEJEWELLERYPALACE.COM UNIT B2, CAYSIDE GALLERIES, GEORGE TOWN WATERFRONT CONTACT WITH EVERY PURCHASE FREE GIFT

Our three Islands have so much to offer: Grand Cayman offers the world famous Seven Mile Beach, historic sites like Pedro St. James, as well as a cosmopolitan atmosphere and duty free shopping. As the culinary capital of the Caribbean, Grand Cayman also offers a choice of world-class restaurants. Cayman Brac has the dramatic landscape of the ‘Bluff’ –the highest point of all three islands; caves to explore and the warmth and friendliness of a small village. Little Cayman is known for its phenomenal diving, unspoilt nature and an air of pure relaxation. All three islands offer an opportunity to see a wealth of biodiversity - both on land and in the water - in a spectacular natural environment. In all you will find friendly, welcoming people, stunning beaches and crystal clear waters.

I hope that you enjoy exploring the Cayman Islands, one of the safest places in the Caribbean, as much as I have, and that you will want to return. You will always be assured of a very warm “Caymankind” welcome.

Roper Governor The Cayman Islands

EXPLORE 2023 • Explore more with the free Explore Cayman iPhone and iPad app 6 Intro
Best of Land Best of Water
Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay Services/Index 6
West Bay George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer As the Governor of the Cayman Islands it is with great pleasure that I welcome you to our wonderful and beautiful Islands.
Welcome Message from the Governor of the Cayman Islands Martyn
7 Introducing the Iconic Flexi Diamond Bangle 6 FORT STREET (ACROSS FROM HOUSE OF PARLIAMENT) • GEORGE TOWN • GRAND CAYMAN TEL: 1-345-746-4500 • GCM@KAYSFINEJEWELRY.COM • WWW.KAYSFINEJEWELRY.COM ARUBA • BAHAMAS • GRAND CAYMAN • ST. KITTS • ST. MAARTEN • ST. THOMAS

Letter from the Editor

Welcome to the latest edition of Explore Cayman – the award-winning guide to exploring the Cayman Islands.

It is a true honour to be publishing this magazine again after a two-year break. The COVID-19 pandemic was a tough time for the tourism industry in the Cayman Islands, with our borders being closed for over a year and a half. Thankfully, in August 2022, all travel restrictions were finally lifted and Cayman welcomed tourists back with open arms. We are over the moon to see the streets bustling with tourists from all over the world, bringing our Islands back to life again!

The 2023 edition of this magazine has been meticulously researched and we are proud to bring you the most up to date information on things to do in Grand Cayman. We have covered everything from watersports, Stingray City boat trips and fishing to shopping, cultural mustdos and family friendly activities. We also highlight our all-important restaurant scene which continues to cement Cayman’s position as the Culinary Capital of the Caribbean.

To help your holiday budget go further, we proudly feature over 30 promotions throughout the magazine, so make sure to let businesses know that you learnt about them in this magazine!

Everything you will find on these pages is also on the Explore Cayman app; download to have the Islands at your fingertips. It also includes maps of Cayman, the latest event information, activities, tours, discounts and much more.

Have fun exploring our beautiful Islands!

Explore Cayman is published annually in December. Complimentary copies can be found Island-wide and at all the hotels, condos and car rental agencies. This information and more can also be found at www.explorecayman.com or by downloading the Explore Cayman iPhone app or the iPad app. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means: electronic or mechanical, including photography and recording without the prior consent of the publisher. While every effort has been taken to provide information that is as accurate as possible, the publishers and respective contributors do not accept any responsibility for injury, loss or damage occasioned to any person as a result of material in this book.

We always welcome contributions, suggestions or photos to make this magazine even more informative and visually appealing. Please send us anything from the smallest update to substantial suggestions. If you are a budding photographer and would like to get some of your photos published then send us your best. As you can see we publish a wide variety of images so don’t be shy! Email Joanna Boxall on Joanna@acorn.ky.

Editor Jessica Wright Publishers Joanna Boxall Charles Grover Sales Charles Grover Deborah Roberts Marketing Lauren Hazlewood
Writers / Researchers Joanna Boxall Lauren Hazlewood Emily Richardson Jessica Wright Design & Production Julian Dalton
Cover Photography Julie Corsetti Deep Blue Images
Additional Photography Cathy Church Julie Corsetti
Cayman Islands National Archive DRCL Camana Bay Rebecca Davidson Deep Blue Images Jennifer Marshall Brenda Miller John Molyneux Marc Montocchio Picture This PW Office Don Riddle Jonathan Sparrow Gary White Monika Wojtkiewicz Richelle Salvador Tracey Rose
Acorn Media Co Ltd. PO Box 31403 Grand Cayman KY1-1206 Tel: (345) 946 3200 Email: info@acorn.ky www.explorecayman.com
EXPLORE 2023 • Explore more with the free Explore Cayman iPhone and iPad app 8

Best

Inspiration and thanks for this year’s Explore Cayman cover goes to the following people:

Julie Corsetti from Julie Corsetti Photography for taking the stunning photo on our front cover this year. www.juliecorsettiphotography.com.

Natasha Torres, this year’s cover model, for another incredible shot.

Julian Dalton for his creative direction on another amazing front cover this year!

EXPLORE 2023 • Explore more with the free Explore Cayman iPhone and iPad app 10 Intro Best of Land Best of Water Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay West Bay George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer Services/Index
Table . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Geography, History, Formalities . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Getting Around . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Map . . .
. .
.
About Cayman Members’
Bus
. .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . 25
Recommendations
Best of Land & Air Based Activities . . . . . . . . 26 - Best of Free Activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 - Best of Health & Relaxation . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 - Best of Cultural Activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Best Shopping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Fabulous Food . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
. 53 Area Recommendations West Bay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 Seven Mile Beach . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64 Camana Bay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86 George Town . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96 Eastern Districts & North Side . . . . . . . . . . . 114 Staying Longer Staying Longer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 128 Cayman Real Estate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 130 Medical Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136 Safety & Security Considerations . . . . . . . . . 140 Useful Numbers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141 Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 142 Table
for ‘Explore Cayman’ in the Apple store, or scan code, to download the free offline app for essential island information, maps, things to do, promotions, flight info and much more!
Best After Dark . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Best Live Music . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Best of Boating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 - Stingray City . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 - Fishing & Bioluminescence . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 - Boat Tours . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Best of Watersports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Best Beaches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Best Snorkelling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 Best Diving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Search
of Contents
EXPLORE 2023 • Explore more with the free Explore Cayman iPhone and iPad app 14 Intro Best of Land Best of Water Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay West Bay George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer Services/Index Food & Drink 93 Abacus Stylish restaurant overlooking the Paseo in Camana Bay 623 8282 CB 70 Anchor & Den Global cuisine and trendy bar serving handcrafted cocktails 949 0088 SMB 77 Bàcaro Authentic Italian tapas restaurant and wine bar on the water 749 4800 SMB 11 Blackbeard’s A liquor store with seven locations, stocks leading brands of alcohol 640 7260 ALL 60 Cracked Conch & Macabuca Restaurant and bar overlooking the water with diving 945 5217 WB 112 Harbour Grille Beach chic American restaurant with indoor and outdoor dining 945 5200 GT 12 Jacques Scott Six liquor stores selling wines, beers and spirits on-Island 949 5397 ALL 78 LUCA Contemporary Italian and seafood, indoors and outdoors 623 4550 SMB 79 Ragazzi Great Italian food with a wood burning pizza oven 945 3484 SMB 80 Scoops Luxury ice cream shop with seasonal flavours 946 1434 SMB 72 The Falls Steakhouse Premium steakhouse with an extensive wine list 945 4755 SMB 81 Tortuga Beach Grill & Bar Casual beach and poolside bar serving delicious food 945 3800 SMB 22 Tortuga Fine Wines and Spirits Family-owned liquor store with nine locations 623 7701 ALL 127 Tukka East Waterfront restaurant serving Australian food with a twist 947 2700 ED/NS 94 Union Grill & Bar A chic upscale grill with cocktails made by master mixologists 640 5660 CB 95 West Indies Wine Company Unique wine tasting and retail store with 80 wines by the glass 640 9492 CB Accommodation 74 Caribbean Club Cayman’s most exclusive boutique hotel on Seven Mile Beach 623 4500 SMB 4 Cayman Villas Over 90 vacation beachfront condos, cottages and private homes to rent 945 4144 ALL 9 Grand Cayman Condos & Villas 85+ villas and 150 condos to rent for your vacation 946 9524 ALL 113 Sunset House Waterfront hotel, popular with divers, with a range of room options 949 7111 GT Key Camana Bay CB Seven Mile Beach SMB George Town GT ED/NS Eastern Districts & North Side WB West Bay Explore Members’ Table
www.ExploreCayman.com 15 Intro Best of Land Best of Water Seven
Bay West Bay George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer Services/Index Diving 60 Sun Divers Friendly dive shop offering dive courses and fantastic shore diving 949 6606 WB 113 Sunset House Award-winning dive company offering boat and shore dives 949 7111 GT Boating 40 Cayman Eco Adventures Private fishing, snorkelling and Stingray City trips 916 0503 SMB 41 Cayman Luxury Charters Luxury private boat charters for snorkelling or exploring 938 2525 CB 42 Crazy Crab Private boat charters and Bio Bay tours 927 2722 CB 43 Five Star Charters Private charter aboard a luxury boat equipped with a jet ski 525 7827 CB 44 Frank’s Watersports Snorkelling, fishing and Stingray City trips 925 2783 SMB 45 Get Bent Charters Private boat charter with snorkelling and fishing trips 925 6425 SMB 46 Paradise Pontoons Private boat charters along Seven Mile Beach 321 0000 SMB 47 Reel-Fin-Addict Private deep sea and reef fishing charters 929 2396 SMB Shopping 104 Artifacts A very special antique shop in George Town 949 2442 GT IBC Balaclava High-end, unique jewellery including rings, necklaces and earrings 945 5788 SMB 105 Cathy Church’s Photo Centre & Gallery Photography store, gallery and classes 949 7415 GT 122 Chisholm’s Grocery A family-owned grocery store with a good selection of fresh produce 947 9418 ED/NS 76 Funky Monkey Cayman’s hippest fun wear boutique 943 8659 SMB 106 Island Plaza Jewellery, sunglasses, cigars, Swarovski and Pandora 949 7098 GT 75 Jewels in Paradise, Cayman High-end jewellery store selling jewels, watches and sunglasses 323 9900 SMB 7 Kay’s Fine Jewelry Family-owned jewellers with a large selection of diamonds and gems 746 4500 GT 107 Kirk Freeport Cayman’s largest jeweller carrying major brands 949 7477 GT 13 Kirk Market A full service supermarket with plenty of American and British brands 949 7022 GT 108 Rocky’s Diamond Gallery A family-owned boutique jewellery store 946 7851 GT 92 Silhouette Premier lingerie and underwear store 943 5223 CB 109 The Jewellery Palace High quality jewellery including rings, earrings, necklaces and bracelets 749 8804 GT
Mile Beach Camana
EXPLORE 2023 • Explore more with the free Explore Cayman iPhone and iPad app 16 Intro Best of Land Best of Water Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay West Bay George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer Services/Index Watersports 126 Cayman Kayaks Eco-adventure wildlife and bioluminescent tours 926 4467 ED/NS 84 Kitesurf Cayman Kitesurfing and windsurfing lessons plus equipment rental/sales 916 5483 WB 85 Parasailing Professionals Single, double or triple parasailing rides 916 2953 SMB Tours & Activities 83 Cayman Safari Adventures Open air vehicle tours to see the real Cayman 925 3002 ALL 110 CI Helicopters Helicopter sightseeing rides of the Island 943 4354 GT 61 Coral Stone Stables Horseback riding on the beach and in the water 916 4799 WB 62 Spirit of the West Horseback riding on the beach and in the water 814 0193 WB Attractions 120 Cayman Crystal Caves Guided tours of caves where pirates once hid 949 2283 ED/NS 111 Cayman Islands National Museum Modern interactive exhibits of Cayman culture and history 949 8368 GT 123 Cayman Parrot Sanctuary An interactive experience with Cayman’s native animals 936 4400 ED/NS 58 Cayman Turtle Centre A one-of-a-kind wildlife and cultural attraction 949 3894 WB 82 National Gallery of the Cayman Islands Home of the National Art Collection plus major exhibitions 945 8111 SMB 124 Pedro St. James Cayman’s premier historic site with 3D theatre 947 3329 ED/NS 125 Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park Over 65 acres of local flora, fauna and walking trails 947 9462 ED/NS Health and Wellbeing 137 Doctors Express Walk-in service for urgent care and GP services in George Town 745 6000 GT 139 Kirk Pharmacy Prescription and non-prescription drugs plus a delivery service 949 7180 GT 138 Pensum Regenerative Medicine A state-of-the-art stem cell clinic 949 8676 GT 137 Total Health A walk-in service offering urgent care, pharmacy and much more 333 2222 SMB Key Camana Bay CB Seven Mile Beach SMB George Town GT ED/NS Eastern Districts & North Side WB West Bay Explore Members’ Table

Weddings & Vow Renewals

Cayman’s beautiful beaches, hotels and condos are the perfect place to say ‘I do’, or ‘I do again’. Choose from a simple beach wedding, civil union or a wedding blessing on one of Cayman’s stunning beaches or at your hotel, condo or villa. Or celebrate your love and reaffirm the promises you made to each other on your wedding day, with a vow renewal service, surrounded by your children and family. Contact Joy at Simply Weddings for more information on weddings and vow renewal packages, with prices starting from US$400.

first choice for
wedding blessings and vow renewals (345) 525 6551 I US (502)233 4521 I e: mywedding@candw.ky w: www.simplyweddingscayman.com
Simply Weddings Cayman’s
weddings,

The

GEOGRAPHY

The Cayman Islands are made up of three islands: Grand Cayman, which occupies 76 square miles and is approximately 22 miles long, Cayman Brac (15 square miles) and Little Cayman (10 square miles). The Islands are the tops of pinnacles reaching up from the Cayman Trench – one of the deepest sections of ocean on Earth, with depths of around 25,000ft. The three Islands are separate uplifted fault blocks that were pushed up by friction between the North American and the Caribbean plates. The uppermost layer is composed of carbonates created by living organisms such as corals, algae and shells laid down during sea level changes over the past 30 million years.

CLIMATE

The most pleasant weather is during the winter (November-March) when daytime temperatures average 72-80ºF and generally the skies are clear and the is sea calm. The occasional Nor’wester blows through during the winter, bringing cool winds and rough seas on the north and west coasts. You may need a jacket for cooler evenings in the winter.

The summer months (May-October) coincide with the rainy season. Average temperatures range from 80-88ºF, with July and August being the hottest and most humid months. Rain can be heavy and persistent, but is a welcome relief from the humidity. Sea temperatures average 85ºF in the summer and 78ºF in the winter.

Hurricane season runs from 1st June to 30th November. If you visit during hurricane season, take all hurricane or tropical storm warnings seriously.

HISTORY

PIRATES

Cayman remained uninhabited except for the turtles, alligators and lizards, until the 1660s. The first people who attempted to settle on Little Cayman soon fled after being attacked by pirates. Pirates used the Islands as a base from which to attack the galleons bound for Europe. During the 18th century some of the most infamous pirates of the Caribbean, including Blackbeard, Lowther and Henry Morgan, roamed these seas, stopping off on the Islands for repairs and to stock up on water and turtle meat. Cayman hosts an annual Pirates Week Festival, complete with a mock-pirate ‘invasion’ where old-time pirate vessels loaded with peg-legged pirates ‘invade’ the shores of Cayman to the delight of the gathered crowds.

TIME ZONES

The Cayman Islands are on Eastern Standard Time (or GMT –5) but daylight savings are not observed. From April-October we are one hour behind Eastern Time.

EXPLORE 2023 • Explore more with the free Explore Cayman iPhone and iPad app 18 Intro
of
Best Services/Index
Land
Best of Water Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay
West Bay George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer Cayman Islands Stingray City photo by Deep Blue Images Christopher Columbus first sighted the Cayman Islands in 1503 on his fourth voyage to the New World. Noting that the Islands and the seas around them were teeming with turtles, he named them Las Tortugas. This abundance of turtles soon led to ships sailing through the Caribbean to stop off in the Cayman Islands and stock up on turtle meat – a great source of protein for the crew. Sadly, so many turtles were hunted that their population remains severely depleted.

EARLY SETTLERS

The Treaty of Madrid, signed in 1670, officially decreed the Cayman Islands a British possession and a dependency of Jamaica, although the Islands were not permanently settled until the 1730s. The earliest settlers, who are thought to have been deserters from Oliver Cromwell’s army in Jamaica, survived on farming and trading turtle meat with passing ships. An 1802 census recorded the population of Grand Cayman at just 933, roughly half were of British descent, the other half being of African descent (enslaved until 1833).

SHIPWRECKS & TAX

In February 1794 ten merchant ships, led by the HMS Convert, foundered on the reef at Gun Bay in the East End of Grand Cayman. Local settlers went out to rescue the crew and not one life was lost. Legend has it that one of those rescued was a royal prince, and in gratitude to the people of Cayman for their bravery and gallantry, King George III declared that the Cayman Islands should forever be free from taxation and war conscription. While there is no hard evidence to support this story, it is a popular way of explaining the continued tax free status of the Islands. A more realistic explanation is probably the fact that up until the middle of the 20th century, most of the population was engaged in subsistence farming or fishing, or worked as merchant seamen on foreign ships. There was therefore little, if anything, to tax.

MOSQUITOES

Another factor in the slow development of the Cayman Islands was the vast number of mosquitoes that bred in the swamps. So severe was the problem that it was almost impossible to venture outside at night without smoke pots to ward off the bugs. Thanks to the outstanding work of the Mosquito Research and Control Unit (MRCU), nowadays you will probably only be aware of the odd mosquito around sunrise and sunset.

1503 1670 1802 1962 1970 2022 1730

Timeline

Christopher Columbus first sighted the Cayman Islands Treaty of Madrid decrees that Cayman is British and a dependency of Jamaica

First recorded land grants were made in Cayman Population of Grand Cayman is 933

www.ExploreCayman.com 19
Intro Best of Land Best of Water Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay Services/Index
West Bay George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer Cayman ’ s
Jamaica becomes independent and Cayman remains a British Overseas Territory Population of Cayman reaches 10,000 Population of the Cayman Islands: 78,554

CAYMAN CULTURE

formalities, customs & attire

Caymanians are usually polite and respectful and will appreciate this being reciprocated. It is customary to open any conversation with “Good Morning” or “Good Afternoon”. If you know the first name of the person you are talking to, it is polite to preface their name with Miss or Mr. (Miss Annie, Mr. Charles).

Expats and Caymanians usually dress in a smart casual fashion. Visitors are urged to be sensitive to the modesty of the local people and not to venture away from the beach in swimwear. Topless sunbathing and public nudity are forbidden.

Photo from The National Archive

MONEY & BANKING

The official currency is the CI dollar (KYD). The exchange rate is fixed to the US dollar: CI$1 is US$1.25 or US$1 is CI$0.80. Banks do not offer a better exchange rate. US$ are accepted throughout the Islands, although you will probably be given your change in CI$. Credit cards are widely accepted and always charged in US$. Banks are open 9am-4pm throughout the week and some are open on Saturday mornings. ATMs are located throughout the Island.

TIPS, TAXES & HAGGLING

A government tourist tax of 13% will be added to your hotel bill unless you can prove you are a Cayman resident. Many resorts also add a 10%15% service/gratuity fee. There is no sales tax.

If gratuities are not already included, it is customary to tip 15% for good service. Haggling for a discount is not practised, however some businesses may offer a special discount if you mention this Explore guide!

EXPLORE 2023 • Explore more with the free Explore Cayman iPhone and iPad app 20 Intro
Best of Land Best of Water Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay Services/Index
West Bay George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer Things changed quite abruptly in the 1950s. 1953 saw the opening of Grand Cayman’s first airfield, first hospital and first commercial bank – Barclays Bank. A few hotels also opened in the early 1950s and then in 1957 dive pioneer Bob Soto opened a commercial dive centre on Grand Cayman. A few years later the Government enacted legislation designed to take advantage of the absence of taxation and encourage the growth of the banking industry. Suddenly, the Cayman Islands were on the map – both as a tourist and diving destination and as an international financial centre. In the past few decades the changes in Cayman have been dramatic: the Islands have gone from a subsistence economy in the 1950s to enjoying the highest standard of living in the Caribbean today. The COVID-19 pandemic had a big impact on the tourism industry when the Cayman Islands Government closed the borders to tourists from March 2020 to December 2021. In August 2022 all final travel restrictions were lifted for both vaccinated and unvaccinated tourists and Cayman welcomed back its visitors – we missed you! TOURISM & FINANCE
If you would like to immerse yourself in Cayman culture you could visit Pedro St. James, the Mission House, the National Museum or the Botanical Gardens where you will get a glimpse of a bygone era. You can visit local restaurants and try some traditional cuisine like conch stew or fish rundown. Music and singing are another big part of Caymanian culture and local bands, such as the ‘Swanky Kitchen Band,’ sing a variety of folk music with strong European and African influences. Their lyrics have been passed down through the generations. Finally, visiting a local church for a Sunday service and then driving around the Island to see local families gathered on their porches is another nice way to feel a part of the social fabric of Grand Cayman!

Photo by Gary White

GOVERNMENT

The Cayman Islands are referred to as a British Overseas Territory and have a governor who is appointed by Britain. The governor is responsible for internal security, external affairs, defence, police and the civil service. The local government, elected every four years, is responsible for the daily administration of the country and the creation of laws. It is made up of a 19-member Legislative Assembly and seven members of cabinet. The Cayman Islands have a solid legal, judicial and court system which are based on English common law, with additions of local statutes.

BUSINESS HOURS

Most businesses operate from MondayFriday (8.30am–5pm) and some open on Saturday mornings. On Sundays, only hotels, restaurants, the cinema, some pharmacies and gas stations are open, so be sure to stock up on groceries beforehand. Bars close at 1am (or later) on Monday to Friday and at midnight on Saturdays and Sundays. In observance of the Sabbath, no live music or dancing is permitted on Sundays.

Flag: Navy blue with the UK flag in the upper left hand corner and the Caymanian coat of arms in the centre of the other half of the flag.

Bird: Grand Cayman Parrot

The Grand Cayman Parrot is iridescent green with a white eye ring, red cheeks, black ear patches and brilliant blue wing feathers.

Flower: Wild Banana Orchid

The Wild Banana Orchid is the most well-known of Cayman’s 26 species of orchids. It has a scented flower with purple lips and white petals.

Tree: Silver Thatch Palm

The tall, slender Silver Thatch Palm was an important natural resource for early settlers who used the leaves to make rope, brooms and roofs.

National Song: “Beloved Isle Cayman” Written by the late Mrs. Leila Ross Shier in 1930.

Motto: “He hath founded it upon the seas” This is taken from Psalm 24 in the Bible and reminds us not only of Cayman’s strong Christian heritage, but also the seafaring history of the menfolk of the Islands.

www.ExploreCayman.com 21
Intro Best of Land Best of Water Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay Services/Index
West Bay George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer Cayman’s National Symbols
W W

DRIVING

In Cayman we drive on the left. Bear the following things in mind:

• You may turn left on a red light, but only after a full stop

• Centre lanes are NOT for overtaking but are designed to help drivers turn without causing traffic

• On roundabouts give way to traffic approaching on the right

• Do not stop on the roundabout and indicate before exiting the roundabout

• Four way stops operate on the basis that whoever arrives first, proceeds first

• Drinking and driving is dangerous and the law is strictly enforced. The blood alcohol limit is 0.07%

• The minimum age for driving is 17 and 21 for renting a car

• It is illegal to text or talk on a mobile device while driving unless hands-free

• Breaking the speed limit will result in a fine

When driving in Cayman you must have your driving licence and a copy of the car insurance with you at all times. If you are visiting family/ friends and will be driving a privately owned car then you must have a valid overseas driving licence and the car must be insured for you to drive it. You don’t need a Visitor’s Permit to drive legally. Please refer to the up-to-date and accurate maps in this magazine to help you find your way around the Island.

SCOOTER & BICYCLE RENTALS

Grand Cayman: Cycle Cayman (www. cyclecayman.com) rents bicycles by the hour and has eight bike pick up stations. Paddle Wheel (www.paddlewheel.ky) offers bike rentals with half-day, full-day, three-day and weekly rates. They also offer guided bike tours.

Bird electronic scooters can be found around the Island. Download the Ride Bird app to learn more. Cayman Brac: No scooter rentals are available. Little Cayman: Scooten Scooters (www.scootenscooters.com) rent Yamaha 50cc scooters for three or eight hours. On the Sister Islands, most of the resorts have bicycles which you can borrow to go exploring.

CAR RENTALS

Rental prices start at around US$50-US$80 per day depending on whether it’s high or low season. Grand Cayman: Hertz (345) 943 4378 and Avis (345) 949 2468. Cayman Brac: B&S Motor Ventures (345) 948 1646, CB Rental (345) 948 2424 and Four D’s (345) 948 1599. Little Cayman: Little Cayman Car Rentals (345) 948 1000.

TAXIS

You will find numerous taxis in the Cayman Islands. You will find plenty of taxis at the airport and at the major hotels, or contact one of the firms below.

George Town & SMB: Truly Blessed Taxi (345) 517 2274, Ace (345) 949 3676, Blue Iguana Taxi (345) 916 3306 and Crown (345) 916 0111. Eastern Districts: McCurley’s (345) 947 9626 Cayman Brac: Mossy Taxi (345) 939 9517.

Alternatively try Flex, a cashless Uber-style taxi service. The free app is available on Apple and Android.

Taxi fares are set by the government. To check how much your fare will be, download the CI:GO app. Plug in your route, the number of passengers, how much luggage you have and see what the fare should cost in both US and Cayman dollars. Available in the Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

Sample fares for up to three passengers: Airport → Central George Town CI$15 Airport → Marriott Hotel & Resort CI$20 Airport → Bodden Town CI$46 Airport → East End (Morritt’s Resort) CI$104

www.ExploreCayman.com 23
Intro Services/Index
Best of Land Best of Water Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay
West Bay George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer Getting Around

Grand Cayman’s Bus System

A public mini-bus transport system connects all districts of Grand Cayman. The buses have a number in a coloured circle, making them easy to identify. There are some bus stops along major routes, but you can flag down a passing bus at any point. When you want to get off, just let your driver know. Fares are CI$2-CI$2.50 for short trips, CI$3.50 to East End and CI$8 to Cayman Kai. If you are going to the end of the line, check with the bus driver that there will be a bus coming to pick you up, especially if you’ll be travelling back late in the afternoon.

Approximate bus running times Monday to Thursday 6am–11pm Friday and Saturday 6am–1am A limited service operates on Sundays.

For an additional fee of CI$1–CI$3, it is possible to ask your driver to deviate a little from the bus route, and then they can arrange for you to be picked up on the return journey by another bus driver, although you might have to wait a bit!

1

WB1 (Yellow – Every 4 Minutes) Seven Mile Beach, Governor’s Residence, Cayman Turtle Centre, Hell

WB2 (Dark Green – Every 6 Minutes) Seven Mile Beach, Governor’s Residence, Cayman Turtle Centre, Hell

Cove, Mind’s Eye, Pedro St. James Castle, Bodden Town Public Beach, Gun Square, Wreck of the Ten Sail, Colliers Beach, Botanic Park

8A 8A (Orange – Every 15 Minutes) Bodden Town Public Beach, Gun Square, Botanic Park, Cayman Kai

8B 8B (Light Green – Every 15 Minutes) Smith Cove, Mind’s Eye, Pedro St. James Castle, Bodden Town Public Beach, Gun Square, Botanic Park, Cayman Kai

4B

(Purple – Every 15 Minutes) Airport, George Town, West Bay 4A 4A/4B (Bright Blue – Every 30 Minutes) Government Hospital, Field of Dreams Sports Complex, University College of the Cayman Islands 7A 7A (Red – Every 15 Minutes) Bodden Town Public Beach, Gun Square, Blow Holes, Wreck of the Ten Sail, Colliers Beach, Botanic Park 7B 7B (Light Green – Every 15 Minutes) Smith

9A 9A (Dark Blue – Every 15 Minutes) Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park, Colliers Beach, Wreck of the Ten Sail, Blowholes

9B 9B (Light Green – Every 15 Minutes) Smith Cove, Mind’s Eye, Bodden Town Public Beach, Gun Square, Botanic Park, Wreck of the Ten Sail, Colliers Beach, Blowholes

www.ExploreCayman.com 25 Intro
Best of Land Best of Water Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay West Bay
Services/Index
George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer
S a v an n a h Bo dd e n T o w n N o r th Sid e E ast E n d Nor t h So u n d Cayman Kai Colliers Beach Blowholes Botanic Park Pedro St James Castle Smith Cove Hell Governor’s Residence Cayman Turtle Centre Wreck of the Ten Sails Seven M ile B e a c h BUS DEPOT Ge o rge Tow n 3 2 WB 1 WB 8B 9B 7B 9A 7A 4A 4B 8A
WB
3
WB
2
3

Best of land & air activities

 Explore the Island with a local guide. Book a tour with Cayman Safari Adventures aboard one of their open-air vehicles. Enjoy a cultural tour of the Island, sample local food and experience true Caymanian hospitality. SEE PAGE 83

 The Cayman Turtle Centre offers the opportunity to meet and learn about some of the most majestic and ancient animals in the world. You can interact with turtles and marine life, meet Smiley the crocodile, feed exotic birds, enjoy a day in the snorkelling pool and ride the Turtle Twister waterslide. A free shuttle from Seven Mile Beach is available. SEE PAGES 58-59

 Go Horseback Riding along Barkers Beach or in the water for a unique experience with Coral Stone Stables (SEE PAGE 61) or Spirit of the West. (SEE PAGE 62) The latter even offers incredible moonlit rides.

 The Cayman Parrot Sanctuary offers a friendly, interactive and educational experience. Meet native animals, including Cayman Parrots, agoutis and the ‘rasta caterpillar’. You’ll also find goats, rabbits, guinea pigs, cockatiels, snakes and lots of other reptiles. There are also two playgrounds, a zip line and plenty of shaded areas. SEE PAGE 123

 During a Blue Iguana Safari you’ll meet Grand Cayman’s famous ‘Blue Dragons’ behind the scenes at the breeding facility at the Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park. Guided tours are held Thursday to Sunday. The cost is CI$12 for adults and CI$6 for children. Your guide will explain how the Blue Iguana Recovery Programme was able to bring this endangered species back from the brink of extinction and they will introduce you to their star breeders. SEE PAGE 125

 Take a Helicopter Ride for an awesome view of Seven Mile Beach, Stingray City and remote areas of Cayman with Cayman Islands Helicopters. SEE PAGE 110

 Visit the Crystal Caves and enjoy an underground adventure into a fascinating world. You will be guided through amazing caves where you will see stalactite and stalagmite crystal structures, before exploring the surrounding tropical forest under which the caves are formed. A café and gift shop are also on-site. SEE PAGES 120121

 Learn to Cook ‘Cayman-Style’ at Bon Vivant (345) 623 2665 or the National Trust (345) 749 1121.

 Sample Wine, Rum or Beer at one of Cayman’s tasting rooms. Try wine tasting at West Indies Wine Company (SEE PAGE 95) and sample some of the 80 different wines on offer. Take a tour of the Cayman Islands Brewery, the 19-81 Brewery or visit Cayman Spirits Company Distillery.

 Enjoy Dining with a Twist at Tukka East (SEE PAGE 127) Every day at 5pm you can feed the Frigate birds. Watch as these magnificent birds swoop and dive for their food! You can also watch the tarpon feeding every evening at 7pm and 9pm at The Wharf. Kids will love this feeding frenzy!

 Cool Off at one of Cayman’s Refreshing Splash Pads. The Children’s Park at the Botanic Park (SEE PAGE 125) offers plenty of water-based fun with lots of shade and picnic spots. Camana Bay (SEE PAGES 86-95) has two styles of fountains to choose from; mini fountains for toddlers to splash around in and fountains that spout water 30ft in the air for bigger kids to enjoy.

www. explorecayman.com/rainy-day-

Best
Land
of
WET WEATHER EXPLORE 2023 • Explore more with the free Explore Cayman iPhone and iPad app 26 Intro Best of Water Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay West Bay George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer Services/Index
Should you experience a rainy day in Cayman, don’t fear, we have plenty of wet weather ideas. Visit
options to find out more!

Best of Free ACTiVITIes

 The Beach is, without a doubt, Cayman’s best natural resource and it provides an easy way to keep the whole family entertained. From building sand castles along Seven Mile Beach to combing shores further afield.

 Camana Bay is a great option with two fountains to play in, the observation tower to climb, a harbour island, landscaped courtyards and the Rise to explore. SEE PAGES 86-95

 Meet the Locals and learn about Cayman’s home-grown produce and traditional dishes at the Farmer’s Market at Camana Bay on Wednesdays or the Market at Cricket Grounds on Monday-Saturday.

 Peruse Local Art at the National Gallery of the Cayman Islands. The 9,000sq ft space is home to the permanent collection of Cayman’s most prominent artists.

 Take a Walking Tour of downtown George Town. See Cayman’s capital, the fishermen in the harbour, do some duty free shopping and find some interesting landmarks. See pages 102-103 for details.

 Get Off the Beaten Track and explore some of the less-frequented beaches in East End. Jump in a car and discover some well-hidden coastline and terrain. See the Eastern Districts section on pages 114-127.

 Beach Volleyball Nets on Seven Mile Public Beach are available for use throughout the week or watch local teams play every Sunday.

 Explore Historical Bodden Town and learn about Cayman’s former capital. Start at Bodden Town Park and explore the area that incorporates a playground, caboose and a small Caymanian-style house.

 Hike the Mastic Trail and explore the largest contiguous area of untouched, old-growth forest in Cayman. Start in the cool of the morning and follow the two-mile trail. Selfguide leaflets are available from the National Trust’s visitor centre inside Dart Park on South Church Street. (345) 749 1121.

 Explore the Parks & Playgrounds which offer climbing frames, swings, slides, restrooms and plenty of shade. Visit www.caymanparent. com for a map of Cayman’s parks.

Top Tip: Download the free Explore Cayman app and get the most out of your time in Cayman. The app now includes offline maps of Cayman, the latest event information, activities, tours, discounts and much more. Scan to download.

Best of Land
Photo by Julie Corsetti
www.ExploreCayman.com 27 Intro
Best of Water
Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay Services/Index
West Bay George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer

Best of Health & Relaxation

Beauty Treatments

Holidays are a great time to pamper yourself. Most of the hotels in Cayman have spas that offer a wide range of health and beauty treatments including aromatherapy, massage therapy as well as skin and nail treatments. The Westin (345) 945 3800, The Ritz-Carlton (345) 943 9000 and the Kimpton Seafire (345) 746 0000 all boast saunas, steam rooms and relaxation rooms, which you can enjoy before and after your treatment. Botanika Union at the Marriott Beach Resort offers massages, anti-ageing treatments, facials, pedicures and more. Eclipze Hair Design & Day Spa in Camana Bay (SEE PAGES 8695) offers a range of hair, nail and spa treatments. And out East there is a Le Soleil Spa (345) 946 3338.

Body Fitness

There are many places in Cayman where you can get a workout. Gym bunnies should check out Anytime Fitness, Crossfit and Ryde in Camana Bay (SEE PAGES 8695) . Other fitness options are yoga at One Heart Yoga (345) 938 9642, Pilates at Energy (345) 946 6006 and Balance in Caribbean Plaza (345) 326 8111. For mobile personal trainers contact Fitness Connection (345) 949 8485. Cardio Tennis is on offer at The Ritz-Carlton (345) 943 9000 or improve your game with a lesson at the CI Tennis Club (345) 949 9464 or the Cayman Tennis Academy (345) 547 6257. Horse riding is available at Spirit of the West (SEE PAGE 62) or Coral Stone Stables (SEE PAGE 61) . Camana Bay is a great spot for a walk and if you want to increase your heart rate, try climbing to the top of the Observation Tower. Last, but certainly not least, there is the sea and beach. Seven Mile Beach is perfect for a safe sea swim in calm waters, or a beach walk or run.

Golf

There are two golf courses on-Island: a ninehole and an 18-hole, plus two indoor golf facilities. At both courses you can rent clubs and improve your swing with a lesson from a pro. The courses are quieter during the week when residents are at work.

North Sound Golf Club (345) 947 4653 is an 18-hole course with a driving range and two putting greens. The par-71, 6,605 yard course has a USGA course rating of 73.1 and a slope of 139. The signature hole, #11, is a long par-3, playing into the wind with the picturesque North Sound as the backdrop. If you need to improve your swing, consider taking a lesson or two with their PGA professional coach. Once you have finished your game, head to the open-air bar for a nice cool beverage.

The Ritz-Carlton has a nine-hole golf course but is only open to hotel guests and members.

Cayman Golf Lab is an indoor golf facility located in George Town. They offer two HD golf simulators and 300sq ft of putting green, as well as golf lessons for adults and children. (345) 546 6786.

Insider Tip

Both golf courses offer cheaper twilight rates, so enjoy a round of golf with a drink in hand as the sun sets.

Best
of Land
EXPLORE 2023 • Explore more with the free Explore Cayman iPhone and iPad app 28 Intro
Water
Services/Index
Photo of Golf Course by John Molyneux
Best of
Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay West Bay George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer

Best of Cultural Activities

The Cayman National Museum is a great introduction to Cayman’s culture. The museum houses permanent exhibits, themed displays and artefacts promoting Cayman’s art, traditions and natural history, including boats, furniture, textiles, paintings and ceramics. Many of the museum’s exhibits are interactive and innovative, and will be fascinating for children. SEE PAGE 111

The Mastic Reserve and Trail is the largest area of untouched, old growth dry forest remaining on the Island. It represents some of the last remaining examples of the Caribbean’s subtropical, semi-deciduous dry forest, and is home to a wide variety of animals unique to the Cayman Islands. Tours are available for CI$52 for adults and CI$30 for children age 8 to 12 years old. Minimum of six people per group. (345) 749 1132.

The National Gallery is home to the Cayman Islands’ national art collection. It hosts a range of exhibitions each year showcasing a variety of Caymanian and international artists. Admission is free. Located on the Esterley Tibbetts Highway. (345) 945 8111. SEE PAGE 82

Pedro St. James was built in 1780 and is set in over seven acres of beautifully manicured gardens. Explore the Castle, learn about its history, watch the multimedia show and walk the grounds. SEE PAGE 124

The Mission House is a unique replica of one of Cayman’s oldest buildings. It showcases original artefacts from the house dating from the 19th century. Uncover Cayman’s history and take a walk back in time to hear about the teachers, preachers and families who lived in the Mission House. CI$10 for adults, CI$4 for children ages 5 to 12 years old. Call (345) 945 3769 for opening hours and to arrange a visit.

Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park is a 65acre site made up of woodland, walking trails, a lake and wetland for wildlife, and a heritage and colour garden. You’ll see butterflies, birds, turtles and the endangered Blue Iguana. The new Children’s Garden opened in 2022. SEE PAGE 125

Mind’s Eye Tour of the home of the late Miss Lassie Bush, Cayman’s acclaimed visionary and intuitive artist. The tour provides valuable lessons on what inspired the artist and her work, along with information about traditional Caymanian architecture, Caymanian shipbuilding and pivotal moments in the history of the Cayman Islands. Visit www.artscayman. org/minds-eye.

Festivals & Carnivals abound in Cayman. Pirates Fest is a three month festival culminating in November with pirates invading Cayman’s shores. Cayman has two annual carnivals, Batabano (May) and CayMas (July) which are both hugely popular and include a colourful street parade where people dress up in stunning costumes and dance to pulsating Soca music. The carnivals celebrate the Caribbean’s diverse African and religious roots, and they reflect the Island’s rich heritage.

INSIDER Tip

For more information on cultural events, festivals and other entertainment across the Cayman Islands, download the What’s On Cayman app.

Best of Land
www.ExploreCayman.com 29 Intro
The Cayman Islands National Gallery Best of Water Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay West Bay George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer Services/Index

Shopping

Cayman is such a popular shopping destination that it’s fast becoming known as a Caribbean shopping mecca. Famed for its tax free shopping status, it attracts thousands of shoppers each year looking to take advantage of cheaper retail prices than can be found in the US or Europe. Duty free cameras and leather goods are often considerably cheaper. Visitors will also find a wealth of high-end goods such as jewellery, watches, precious stones, antiques and more, all from world-class brands.

Top Tip: Cayman’s main shopping area, George Town, can get very busy with cruise ship passengers, so head there after 3pm or on Saturdays when it is much quieter.

Locally Produced Goods

Cayman offers an abundance of high quality locally produced items that make unique gifts and souvenirs. From original paintings, ceramics and underwater photographs to jams, Caymanite and handicrafts, there is something for everyone. Check out Camana Bay’s Farmers & Artisans Market (SEE PAGE 88) , the Cayman Islands National Gallery (SEE PAGE 82) , The Craft Market (GT) and the following stores: Cathy Church’s (SEE PAGE 105) , the CI National Museum (SEE PAGE 111) and Pure Art on South Church Street.

Land
Best
Best of
1 3 4 5 6 2 EXPLORE 2023 • Explore more with the free Explore Cayman iPhone and iPad app 30 Intro
Best of Water Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay West Bay
Eastern Districts Staying Longer Services/Index
George Town
Best of Land 1. Cayman Flag UPF50+ Sunshirt CI$65 Exclusively at Funky Monkey SEE PAGE 76 2. Instax Mini 11 US$105/ CI$86.10 Cathy Church’s Photo Centre SEE PAGE 105 3. Ray-Ban Wings in Green Classic USD$173 De Sunglass Man SEE PAGE 106 4. Stingray ‘Inlay Art’ Pendant US$95 (chain included) Kay’s Fine Jewelry SEE PAGE 7 5. 14k Yellow Gold Grand Cayman Necklace US$243/CI$199 Rocky’s Diamond Gallery SEE PAGE 108 6. 14k Gold 0.36ct Diamonds Stingray Pendant US$495 The Jewellery Palace SEE PAGE 109 7. Rolex Datejust 331 Oystersteel and White Gold Kirk Freeport SEE PAGE 107 8. 18K Rose Gold Flexible Bracelet with 11 multi coloured Sapphires US$5,200 Balaclava Jewellers SEE INSIDE BACK FLAP 9. Ancient Greek Silver Tetradrachm Minted during the Classical and Hellenistic Periods in Athens Attica 454413 BC. Artifacts SEE PAGE 104 10. Gorilla Blue Demon US$1,680 Jewels in Paradise SEE PAGE 75 11. Luminor Chrono Goldtech™ Blu Notte Kirk Freeport SEE PAGE 107 12. Stingray Necklace Larimar and Sand Kirk Freeport SEE PAGE 107 13. Doves 18k Amazonite and Diamond Sea Turtle Kirk Freeport SEE PAGE 107 14. 7 10 8 11 9 12 13 www.ExploreCayman.com 31 Intro Best of Water Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay West Bay George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer Services/Index

Fabulous Food and Tasty Must-dos!

From the top of West Bay to the far reaches of East End, Grand Cayman is rich with mouthwatering cuisine and tasty tipples heralding from every corner of the globe. Though our foodie scene is culturally diverse and ever-evolving, the Island continues to honour its foodie roots, celebrating local favourites with visitors and residents alike and sharing our famous Caymankind hospitality. Here, we’ve listed just some of Cayman’s culinary must-dos. For the best Island restaurant guide, pick up a copy of the Good Taste magazine. For reviews, full menus, exclusive promotions and online reservations, visit www.caymangoodtaste.com.

BRUNCH: A CAYMAN INSTITUTION

Though it is now a global favourite, brunch is a longstanding institution in the Cayman Islands. Waking up on a Sunday morning never felt so good knowing you’re heading into an afternoon of dim sum spreads, sumptuous cuts of meat, seafood staples, exotic vegetarian platters and of course, lashings of bubbles in-between.

Some of the hottest brunch spots include Anchor & Den at The Marriott (SEE PAGES 70-71) , where you can indulge in boulangerie favourites as well as sushi bites and divine desserts. Or there’s LUCA (SEE PAGE 78) which promises an incredible spread of gourmet food, first-rate service and an unbeatable view over Seven Mile Beach. For a more casual brunch vibe, head to Tukka East (SEE PAGE 127) or Tukka West where carving stations and unbeatable BBQs feature every weekend. Or Harbour Grille (SEE PAGE 112) , where you can feast on a roast dinner before munching on a slice of your favourite pizza. Endless bubbles are guaranteed!

WATERFRONT DINING

Being surrounded by waves of turquoise and beautiful canals woven through harbours, Cayman is certainly not short of waterfront dining options. No matter your budget, many of the Island’s restaurants deliver fantastic ocean views, cooling sea breezes and heavenly sunsets. Cracked Conch (SEE PAGE 60) offers fine-dining with a panoramic oceanfront backdrop in West Bay, and if you’re after casual Caribbean cuisine, sister restaurant Macabuca (SEE PAGE 60) is the place for you. Along Seven Mile Beach, it’s difficult to beat Tortuga Beach Grill & Bar (SEE PAGE 81) , where you can taste Caribbean delights and sip on cold beers and cocktails with an unbelievable sunset view. Out East, there’s a number of options including, Tukka East (SEE PAGE 127) , Upstairs at Kaibo and La Casita. For a peaceful and romantic evening away

Best of Land
Anchor & Den Cracked Conch
EXPLORE 2023 • Explore more with the free Explore Cayman iPhone and iPad app 32 Intro
West Indies Wine Company Best of Water Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay West Bay George Town Eastern Districts
Services/Index
Staying Longer

from the beach, you can eat on the harbour at one of the Island’s yacht clubs. At Bàcaro (SEE PAGE 77) , you can enjoy still waters, local ingredients and Venetian flavours. Agua and Morgan’s are also fantastic spots for harbourside dining.

and restaurants across the Island. The following dishes are just a snapshot of Caymanian culture and can be found at many eateries, including Heritage Kitchen in West Bay, Rankin’s Jerk in Bodden Town and Vivine’s Kitchen in East End.

Enjoying a cocktail by the Caribbean Sea, whether boozy or not, is a must whilst in Cayman. At the helm of most local bars and restaurants you will find a skilled mixologist, stirring up innovative drinks which lend to Cayman’s creative cocktail culture. The most notable cocktail bars are Next Door in Camana Bay, The Cocktail Bar at Harbour Grille (SEE PAGE 112) and Door No. 4 in The Grove. However, you’ll find other fantastic flavours at more casual bars like Macabuca (SEE PAGE 60) , My Bar at Sunset House (SEE PAGE 113) and Tortuga Beach Grill & Bar at The Westin (SEE PAGE 81) . The Island is also home to a number of wine bars, including West Indies Wine Company (SEE PAGE 95) , which is a tasting room and bottle shop.

CARIBBEAN SIPPING LOOK OUT FOR

Of course, having the title of Culinary Capital of the Caribbean, there are many more restaurants and bars to shout about. More notable restaurants include Abacus (SEE PAGE 93) , a Caribbean-inspired fish and steak restaurant. You’ll find them in Camana Bay. Also in Camana Bay is Union Grill & Bar (SEE PAGE 94) , a chic cocktail bar specialising in grilled meat, fresh seafood and artisan cocktails. And if you’re looking for a spot of light lunch, look no further than Scoops (SEE PAGE 80) , which sells sandwiches, Caribbean patties, delicious coffee and the softest Jamaican ice cream.

CLASSIC CAYMANIAN CUISINE

Proud of its foodie heritage, Cayman celebrates its delicious culinary beginnings throughout the bars

Rundown A slow-cooked stew made with fish, breadkind (starchy ground vegetables), dumplings, coconut milk, peppers and onions. All ingredients are slowly cooked until the flavours marry perfectly.

Conch Stew, Conch Fritters, Conch Everything! Conch appears in endless recipes, and on many menus, in Cayman. Whether fried as fritters, stewed in rundown or cured in ceviche, all are delicious and need to be tasted. Cracked Conch and Macabuca are both fine choices! (SEE PAGE 60)

Cassava or Heavy Cake This deeply indulgent dessert is a beautiful mix of coconut milk, vanilla, brown sugar, spices and grated cassava. Perfect for a sweet tooth!

Mudslide This boozy milkshake is an Island staple. Done slightly differently at every establishment, the Mudslide usually features vodka, coffee liqueur and Irish cream. Enjoy bar-hopping to find your favourite combo!

Top Tip: Grand Cayman is a trove of great eateries and bars. To help navigate your precious time on the Island, use the Cayman Good Taste app for everything from making reservations and browsing menus, to checking out the latest events and exclusive promotions.

Best of Land
www.ExploreCayman.com 33 Intro
Union Grill & Bar Best of Water Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay West Bay George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer
Services/Index

Best of Water

Best AFTER DARK

ACTIVITIES

• Art Classes Book in for an art class in canvas painting, ceramics or glazing at any of the multiple creative studios across the Island - they often involve a tipple or two as well! 3 Girls & a Kiln and Art Nest are two popular choices.

• Cooking Classes Bon Vivant (345) 623 2665 offers private cooking classes with several local chefs.

• Open Canvas Every Wednesday night artists are welcome to display and paint on canvas at KARoo, 7pm-9pm.

• Salsa Dancing On Tuesdays The Wharf offers a free Salsa lesson from 9.30pm-10pm. (345) 949 2231.

• Strike Zone Adrenaline pumping laser tag fun that is great for all ages! Open Thursday 5.30pm-8.30pm, Friday 3pm9pm and Saturday 11am-9pm. Call (345) 927 1338.

• Wine Tasting West Indies Wine Company regularly hosts wine tasting events led by a sommelier. (SEE PAGE 95)

ENTERTAINMENT

• After Dinner Wind down the evening with a drink at any of the following places: Bàcaro, Cracked Conch, Door No.4, LUCA, Next Door, Union Grill or West Indies Wine Co. Bars stay open late on Friday but they close at midnight on Saturday.

• Cinema The Camana Bay Cinema has seven screens showing the latest movies and three VIP theatres with leather recliners and a full menu of food and drink options. Call (345) 640 3456.

Events Calendar

For more after dark ideas, see the events calendar on the What’s On Cayman app.

• Cocktail Masterclass Book a cocktail masterclass at Union Grill, learn how to make the best tipples from their master mixologist and taste your creations! (SEE PAGE 94)

• Late Bars and Nightclubs Try The Bird (7 Mile Shops, SMB), Sandbar (George Town), All Stars (Queens Court Plaza, SMB) or The Lodge (The Strand) where you can party the night away.

• Full Moon Kaibo hosts ‘Luna del Mar’, every Friday nearest the full moon, on the beach with a 9-dish sharing feast, live DJ and fire pit.

• Tarpon Feeding Be enthralled by the lively splashes of tarpon as they lurk at the edge of George Town’s waterfront. Every evening at 7pm and 9pm there’s tarpon feeding at The Wharf restaurant.

TOURS

• Bioluminescence Tour See this phenomenon, which is present in only a handful of locations around the world. Contact Cayman Kayaks (SEE PAGE 126) or Crazy Crab (SEE PAGE 42) .

• Night Diving Experience the magical underwater world at night. Contact the dive operators listed on page 53.

• Night Fishing Go offshore fishing overnight with Get Bent Charters (SEE PAGE 45) , Reel-Fin-Addict (SEE PAGE 47) or Cayman Eco Adventures (SEE PAGE 40)

• Sunset Cruise Watch the sun go down with Cayman Luxury Charters (SEE PAGE 41) , Paradise Pontoons (SEE PAGE 46 ) or Five Star Charters (SEE PAGE 43)

• Sunset Helicopter Tour For a truly memorable experience take a sunset helicopter ride and land in style at The Ritz-Carlton or Camana Bay for a delicious dinner (SEE PAGE 110)

• Moonlight Ride Experience a tranquil trek on horseback guided by the light of the moon with Spirit of the West (SEE PAGE 62) . Be enchanted by a blanket of stars as you ride along the ocean’s edge.

34
EXPLORE 2023 • Explore more with the free Explore Cayman iPhone and iPad app
Intro
Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay West Bay George Town Eastern Districts
Staying Longer Services/Index Best of Land

Best Live Music

Whether you’re into oceanside house, acoustic sessions or Caribbean rock, Cayman is home to a dynamic music scene that celebrates home-grown artists as well as renowned visiting musicians. You can’t beat live music, and there’s nothing quite like live music by the Caribbean Sea. Due to Cayman’s laws, live music is not permitted on Sundays.

MONDAY

Wyndham Reef Resort has live music by Musical Crew from 6pm-9pm.

Tortuga (The Westin) hosts a live musician from 6pm-8pm. (SEE PAGE 81)

TUESDAY

The Bird hosts Jam Night evenings every week, with live music from local musicians. Coccoloba has chilled, acoustic music during their tacos and tequila night.

The Wharf runs free salsa lessons with great music every week from 9.30pm.

WEDNESDAY

Ms. Piper’s releases a set list at the start of each month to showcase their live music. Wednesday is usually a staple, but check their schedule to be sure. 6.30pm-9.30pm.

La Casita presents Mariachi y Margarita Miercoles in East End on the first Wednesday of each month from 7pm-8pm.

Pane & Pasta’s harpist extraordinaire serenades tables from 6.30pm-9.30pm.

Tortuga (The Westin) has a live musician from 6pm-8pm. (SEE PAGE 81)

THURSDAY

Next Door hosts their live jazz ensemble with speakeasy vibes from 8.30pm-11pm.

Tortuga (The Westin) has live music on the beachfront from 6pm-8pm. (SEE PAGE 81)

Union Grill & Bar holds their Dinner Jazz Night every Thursday, 7pm-9pm. (SEE PAGE 94)

Pane & Pasta’s harpist returns to serenade tables with live music from 6.30pm-9.30pm.

FRIDAY

Anchor & Den (Marriott Beach Resort) has a live DJ every Friday for their Rockin’ Ramen Night, 7pm-10pm. (SEE PAGES 70-71)

Bàcaro hosts a different live musician every Friday night, 7pm-10pm. (SEE PAGE 77)

Sandbar hosts Sunset Sessions on the waterfront 5pm-7.30pm and a DJ 9pm-close.

Silver Palm Lounge (The Ritz-Carlton) hosts a different artist each week from 7pm. Tortuga (The Westin) offers live acoustic sounds on the beachfront 6pm-9pm, and also indoors at the Catboat Bar, 7pm-10pm. (SEE PAGE 81) The Wharf thrills its guests on the last Friday of every month when they let loose on ‘Boogie Nights’, featuring 70s, 80s and 90s classics, 9.30pm-1.30am.

SATURDAY

Abacus hosts live contemporary Caribbean sounds on the Paseo in Camana Bay 7.30pm10.30pm. (SEE PAGE 93)

Kaibo hosts Saturday Sessions, when a live DJ and saxophonist perform on the beachfront from 1pm-3pm.

Ms. Piper’s hosts an acoustic artist most Saturday nights from 6.30pm-9.30pm. Check their schedule for the month’s set list.

Next Door hosts jazz performer and saxophonist Denys Carbó with the band Jazz-En-Trance, 8pm-11pm.

Sandbar hosts Live Saturdays, featuring your favourite local bands, 8pm-10pm.

Silver Palm Lounge (The Ritz-Carlton) on Seven Mile Beach has live music every week, from 7pm.

Tortuga (The Westin) has acoustic beach vibes outdoors 5pm-8pm, and then live lobby music in the Catboat Bar 7pm-10pm. (SEE PAGE 81)

Cracked Conch has live lounge music floating on the breeze every Saturday. (SEE PAGE 60)

Top Tip

For up-to-date information on more live music in Cayman, download the free ‘Explore Cayman’ app from the Apple app Store!

www.ExploreCayman.com 35
Intro Best of Water Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay West Bay George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer Services/Index Best of Land

Best of Water

Best of Boating

Spending time on Cayman’s beautiful waters is the high point of any visitor’s itinerary, and rightly so! The calm, crystal clear waters and the cooling breeze make for perfect boating conditions. The majority of boat trips tour the North Sound, a 35 square mile area of water protected by the reef, which guarantees calm waters and great snorkelling opportunities. It is also home to the world famous Stingray City and Sandbar.

BOAT TRIPS

When it comes to deciding what type of boat trip you’d like to go on, there are several factors to consider, such as whether to opt for a private or group tour, whether to spend a full or half day on the water and where to stop for lunch.

A private charter gives you flexibility to set your own itinerary: choose what time you set off, where you go, for how long and where to eat lunch. It’s completely up to you. You might even get access to boat toys such as tubes, water skis and wakeboards. Best of all, you get to enjoy the whole experience with just your friends and family.

A group tour will mean you have to follow a set itinerary; however, the cost will be much lower. Boats are well-equipped and comfortable and you might even make a few new friends on your trip!

Most charters, whether private or otherwise, will provide a free pick-up/drop-off service for the Seven Mile Beach area, snorkelling gear and complimentary water, ice and snacks.

POPULAR ITINERARIES

Starfish Point A beautiful calm beach where you will find plenty of starfish. The sea here is warm, shallow and perfect for kids. Make sure not to remove the starfish from the water – it will kill them. Snorkelling Stop A snorkelling stop along the reef to locations like Fisherman’s Reef or Coral Gardens, should not be missed. You‘ll find the visibility is incredible and you will see an abundance of tropical fish and healthy coral. You might even spot the resident moray eel.

Reef Fishing Experience the thrill of catching reef fish fairly easily. Most charters practise catch and release so the next excited fisherman can enjoy the fun too. See page 39 for more information on fishing charters.

Lunch! Enjoy a delicious beach picnic with Frank’s Water Sports (SEE PAGE 44) or Cayman Luxury Charters (SEE PAGE 41) . Alternatively, refuel at Kaibo, a laid back beach bar with exceptional food and drinks. You can also try waterfront restaurants Bàcaro (SEE PAGE 77) , Calypso Grill, Morgan’s or Tukka West for their seafood. For casual waterfront dining try George Town Yacht Club or have a relaxed lunch at Camana Bay – ample dock space and waterside seating make it the perfect stop. SEE PAGES 86-95

SEVEN MILE BEACH - Insider TipS

Book a private charter with Paradise Pontoons (SEE PAGE 46) and let their crew help you discover exciting snorkel spots like the USS Kittiwake and the coral reefs. They also offer a relaxing evening cruise along Seven Mile Beach, with complimentary bubbles served aboard.

For something a bit different, take a ride with Parasailing Professionals (SEE PAGE 85) along SMB. Ride 400ft up in the air and experience incredible views of Cayman.

Stingray City See the Stingray City section on the opposite page for more details on Cayman’s number one attraction!
EXPLORE 2023 • Explore more with the free Explore Cayman iPhone and iPad app 36
Best of Land
Intro
Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay West Bay
Services/Index
George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer

STINGRAY CITY

The world famous Stingray City is an absolute must-do for any visitor to Cayman and is often described as the experience of a lifetime. Stingray City is home to approximately 140 Southern Stingrays. These wild, gentle and graceful creatures roam free and even the most seasoned traveller will be enchanted by this incredible experience.

History

In the past, local fishermen would anchor their boats in the calm shallow water inside the reef while they gutted their catch and threw scraps overboard. Over time, Southern Stingrays came to realise there were free daily meals in certain spots of the North Sound and so they returned day after day. Today, dozens of rays continue to visit the two sites, although nowadays it is mostly divemasters and boat captains who feed them squid.

Stingray City & the Sandbar These are, in fact, two separate sites. Stingray City lies in 12ft of water and so it is ideal for snorkellers and divers. Indeed, it is often billed as the best 12ft dive in the world. Stingray City Sandbar is where the majority of visitors are taken to. Here, the water is just two to four feet deep, so even non-swimmers can safely stand in the shallow water surrounded by stingrays. The Sandbar is suitable for all ages and offers incredible photo opportunities.

ABOUT THE STINGRAYS

Southern Stingrays are large creatures. Their wingspan can reach two metres across, however, males are noticeably smaller than females. Their wings are soft and silky and feel like velvet as they brush past you. Stingrays are incredibly gentle animals, and their instinct is to flee from danger. The poisonous sting in their tail is only used for defensive purposes, mainly against sharks, which are their only predators in the open water outside the reef.

INTERACTING WITH STINGRAYS

When you reach Stingray City your crew will explain how to interact with the rays and put you at ease. You may touch the rays and you will even get a chance to feed them their favourite dish: squid. After the rays get a whiff of the squid and swim towards you it can feel intimidating, but as they vacuum it off your hand (remember to keep your thumbs tucked in) you’ll fall in love with these amazing animals and will not want to leave the water! You may even be tempted to give your favourite stingray a kiss – if you do, you will be rewarded with seven years of good luck!

Safety note: Please respect the animals and note that lifting the stingrays out of the water is seriously discouraged. Wearing fins is prohibited and when in the water you should practise the “Stingray Shuffle” to avoid stepping on any sleeping rays.

Insider Tip

Stingray City can get quite busy, especially when there are a lot of cruise ships in Grand Cayman. You will find it is quieter after 3pm and on the weekends.

Best
Please turn to page 39 for tour operators.
of Water
www.ExploreCayman.com 37 Intro
Best of Land
Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay West Bay George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer Services/Index

Best of Water

Fishing is a year round sport in the Cayman Islands with the choice of reef, deep sea and shore fishing. With a plentiful supply of fish, experienced fishers and novices alike will return to shore happy with their catch!

Reef Fishing

Grand Cayman is surrounded by a reef which is home to an abundance of tropical fish. Reef fishing is a great activity for the whole family as even the youngest fishers are almost guaranteed success. Expect to reel in yellowtail, snapper, blue runner, bar jack and barracuda. When in season, you can also fish for conch and lobster.

Deep Sea Fishing

The joy of deep sea fishing in Cayman is that the drop-off is only a quarter of a mile from shore where depths reach 800m. Not far after that, the Cayman Trench extends down to 20,000ft where the sea is teeming with gamefish. Expect to catch wahoo, tuna, mahi mahi, barracuda and blue marlin weighing over 20lbs. The heaviest fish ever caught in Cayman waters was a 250lb blue marlin! Wahoo season runs from NovemberMarch, and tuna from March-June. Marlin and mahi mahi are plentiful throughout the year. Fishing trips tend to leave around 7am and some tour operators will serve lunch on board.

Shore Fishing

Anyone is allowed to fish from the shore but the practice of catch and release is encouraged and mandated in some places, including South Sound.

Fishing Trips & Charters

Contact Frank’s Water Sports (SEE PAGE 44) for group fishing charters. Cayman Eco Adventures (SEE PAGE 40) , Cayman Luxury Charters (SEE PAGE 41) , Crazy Crab (SEE PAGE 42) , Get Bent Charters (SEE PAGE 45) , and Reel-Fin-Addict (SEE PAGE 47) all offer private reef fishing.

Cayman is lucky to be one of a handful of places worldwide where you can experience the bioluminescence phenomenon. Bioluminescence is the emission of light by living organisms that live in the water. There is such a high concentration of these organisms in the Bay that when the water is disturbed it glows brightly. Cayman Kayaks (SEE PAGE 126) and Crazy Crab (SEE PAGE 42) offer evening tours so you can witness this wonderful light show!

Most suncream contains oxybenzone, an ingredient that is proving toxic to coral reefs around the world. Recent studies have shown that the suncream we lather on – all 6,00014,000 tonnes of it – remains in the ocean long after we are gone. It is estimated that 25% of the suncream we apply is dispersed into the ocean in the first 20 minutes of us entering.

This is causing numerous problems to an already fragile ecosystem and it has recently been declared the third biggest threat to coral reefs worldwide. Oxybenzone has been found to be mutating the DNA of coral, having a similar effect on DNA as gasoline would. It harms the coral’s immune system and reproductivity often making it completely sterile. This infertility, paired with the fact that oxybenzone causes the outer skin of coral to turn to bone, has made scientists label heavily affected areas “zombie reefs”. These alarming new discoveries prompted researchers to try and ban oxybenzone suncream altogether, but until then there are more reef-friendly options: 1) look for suncream that contains nonnanonized titanium oxide or zinc oxide 2) avoid suncream with oxybenzone and 3) avoid spray suncream.

Also consider wearing a sun top/rash guard. They can be bought at Waterman (SEE PAGE 84) and Funky Monkey (SEE PAGE 76) . Reeffriendly suncream can be bought at Kirk Market (SEE PAGE 13) , Le Visage in Camana Bay (SEE PAGES 86-95) and Waterman (SEE PAGE 84)

FISHING BIOLUMINESCENCE
EXPLORE 2023 • Explore more with the free Explore Cayman iPhone and iPad app 38 Intro Best of Land Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay West Bay George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer Services/Index
protecting cayman’s coral
Water STINGRAY CITY SNORKEL TOURS FISHING TRIPS ONBOARD JET SKI SUNSET CRUISE REEF FISHING DEEP SEA FISHING PRIVATE GROUP GROUP/PRIVATE PRIVATE Cayman Eco Adventures p40 Cayman Luxury Charters p41 Crazy Crab p42 Five Star Charters p43 Frank’s Watersports p44 Get Bent Charters p45 Paradise Pontoons p46 Reel-Fin-Addict p47 Boat Tours Thrill Seekers! For a completely different perspective, take a tour with Cayman Islands Helicopters (SEE PAGE 110) and see the stingrays from above! You will also get to see the USS Kittiwake and Seven Mile Beach and, depending on your tour, the rest of the Island. Insider TipS Rent an Underwater Camera! Rent an underwater camera or GoPro from Cathy Church’s Photo Centre (SEE PAGE 105) and create a magical record of your swim with the stingrays and your snorkelling trip to the Coral Gardens. Each rental comes with a mini lesson. www.ExploreCayman.com 39
of
Best of
Intro Best
Land
Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay West Bay George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer Services/Index

Dock B, Cayman Islands Yacht Club, Yacht Drive

(345) 916 0503

caymanecoadventures@gmail.com www.caymanecoadventures.com

1

Cayman Eco Adventures has two beautiful boats to take you out for a day of fishing or exploring the North Sound with a visit to Stingray City, Coral Gardens or Starfish Point.

They have a 43’ Everglades centre console powerboat named Southern Cross, with a layout that is both functional and luxurious. It is rugged enough for the hard-core fisherman, comfortable enough for the part-time fisherman and spacious and stable enough for the family that just wants to get out to enjoy a day on the water. There is plenty of shade and an air-conditioned cabin for those who have had enough sun.

If fishing is not for you, that is no reason to stay on shore. Swimming with the stingrays is a must do activity while in Grand Cayman and their Catamaran, the Far-Tortuga is an excellent choice for accessing all the popular locations within the North Sound.

Make the best of your Stingray City experience by going with a company that ensures that all crew members know how to properly handle the stingrays in a safe and non-aggressive manner. This results in a better experience for both the guests and the stingrays.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Deep sea fishing charters

• Stingray City/Sandbar

• Starfish Point

• Coral Gardens snorkelling

• Food and drinks at a relaxing beachside bar/restaurant

• Evening cruises

• Licensed captains

• Customise charter to avoid the crowds

DETAILS

Southern Cross Fishing Charter: Full Day Fishing (8 hours) US$3,585 Half Day Fishing (4 hours) US$2,785

Southern Cross Stingray City & North Sound Adventures: (4 hours) US$2,185

Far Tortuga Sailing Catamaran Charters: Stingray City/Sandbar and The North Sound (4 hours) US$1,625

Operating Hours: Monday-Sunday 7.30am-7.30pm

Payment method: Cash, Visa, MC and PayPal (Additional time is available on all tours)

PROMOTIONS

Mention that you saw Cayman Eco Adventures in Explore Cayman at the time of booking and receive US$50 off the price of your charter.

SMB MAP page
64.......................................
Cayman Eco Adventures Fishing, Snorkelling and Stingray City Trips
EXPLORE 2023 • Explore more with the free Explore Cayman iPhone and iPad app 40
of
Intro Best
Land
Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay West Bay George Town Eastern Districts
Services/Index
Staying Longer
Best of Water

Cayman Luxury Charters Private Boat Charters

Boats leave from the Camana Bay Dock info@caymanluxurycharters.com caymanluxurycharters.com

Cayman Luxury Charters offers an unforgettable experience on the water aboard their stunning boats where you’ll enjoy a special day cruising the North Sound.

Boats & Watersports Cayman Luxury Charters operate three boats that provide great fun for the whole family. Two of the boats come with an onboard waverunner and all three offer access to a range of thrilling watersports at no extra cost. Activities include: snorkelling, reef fishing and jet skiing.

Itinerary With a private charter you have the luxury of setting your own itinerary. Options include Stingray City, Starfish Point, touring the mangroves and snorkelling along the reef. You can also stop at a waterfront bar for refreshments - or a beach picnic can be arranged. An evening cruise is particularly special as you relax with a drink in hand watching the sun set. Whatever itinerary you choose, the professional and friendly crew will ensure you have the best day possible.

Extras Snorkelling gear is provided plus complimentary water and soft drinks. You may bring your own drinks and snacks to enjoy onboard.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Luxury private boat charters

• Three glamorous boats

• Boats docked at Camana Bay

• Speed around Starfish Point using the onboard waverunner

• Visit Stingray City and the reef

• Activities include: snorkelling, reef fishing and jet skiing

• Set your own itinerary

• Complimentary waters and sodas

DETAILS

Operating hours: Morning, afternoon and evening trips available

La Vida 51’ Leopard Power Catamaran (15 passengers, CI$40pp surcharge over 15, max of 28) CI$476 per hour, min of 4 hours

Sea Star 40’ Sea Ray Sundancer (13 passengers) CI$300/hour, min 4 hours

Escape 36’ Aquila Sport Catamaran (12 passengers) CI$260/hour, min 4 hours

PROMOTIONS

Mention EXPLORE and receive: US$150 off La Vida charters

US$100 off Sea Star

US$75 off Escape charters

CB MAP page 86.......................................... 2 (345) 938 2525
www.ExploreCayman.com 41
Intro Best of Land
Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay Services/Index
West Bay George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer Best of Water

CB

Let Crazy Crab take you on a day of adventure on your own private boat with personal crew, experiencing the very best of the sparkling waters of Grand Cayman. Explore favourite sites such as Stingray City, Coral Gardens and Starfish Point. Snorkel vibrant coral reefs and swim among dazzling fish and magnificent rays.

Your captain... your guide

Experience the beauty and wonder of Cayman’s marine world on your very own boat with a local captain and guide. The Crazy Crab crew will ensure you have a fantastic, memorable day. This Caymanian family-owned and operated company is not the biggest, but is working hard to be the best.

Your boat... your freedom

Experience all the amazing sites, but come and go as you please and stay as long as you like. Your boat is perfect for exploring Cayman’s marine wonderland, nimble enough to avoid the crowds and place you in the very best spots.

Your schedule... your pace

Whether you want to fit in as many activities and sites as possible or set a relaxed pace, your charter will be tailored to you. Swim with the rays, bask in the sun, enjoy a sunset view or an evening visit to Bioluminescence Bay.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Personalised private daily boat charters for up to 12 guests from 3-8 hours

• Choose from 3 boats to match your vibe

• Experience Stingray City and snorkel the Coral Gardens and the Barrier Reef

• Visit Starfish Point and the mangrove forests around Booby Cay

• Discover Bioluminescence Bay at night

• Enjoy lunch or drinks at dockside restaurants

• Optional reef fishing, tubing and onboard photographer

DETAILS

Check availability and book online Prices: Charters from US$700

Payment Method: All major credit cards and cash

PROMOTIONS

Book direct with gift code ExploreCamera and receive a FREE underwater camera rental worth US$75.

MAP page 86......................................... 3 (345) 927 2722
Camana Bay Harbour fun@crazycrabcayman.com crazycrabcayman.com Crazy Crab Private Boat Charters
EXPLORE 2023 • Explore more with the free Explore Cayman iPhone and iPad app 42 Intro Best of Land
Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay West Bay
Services/Index
George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer
Best of Water

Cayman Islands Yacht Club & Camana Bay Harbour info@fivestarcharterscayman.com fivestarcharterscayman.com

Five Star Charters, a luxury private boat charter in Grand Cayman, provides a one of a kind experience. Their pristine 48ft Sea Ray Sundancer offers all the comforts of home, including an air-conditioned cabin. All you need is a bathing suit and they have the rest covered: beach towels, sunscreen, snorkelling gear, jet ski, gourmet hors d’oeuvres, cold drinks, homemade rum punch and a Welcome Aboard Five Star Charters signature cocktail.

Create Your Five Star Day Allow Five Star Charters to customise your cruise with the perfect blend of activities and relaxation. They offer three time-based luxury cruises (morning, half-day or full-day), each including delicious hors d’oeuvres and drinks. The half-day and full-day cruises also include all-day rum punch. Additional food and beverage options are available upon request.

Set Your Spirit Free Five Star Charters’ luxury private charter is ideal for couples, families and friends seeking a first-class experience on the water. From exciting activities like jet skiing and tubing to more relaxing options such as floating in the sea, Five Star Charters offers everything you could want in a luxury cruise.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Relax on a luxurious yacht with everything you need and more

• Enjoy delicious food and beverages included with every cruise

• Cut loose with a jet ski, subwing or on a tube

• Snorkel at some of the best reefs and wrecks Cayman has to offer

• Swim with the stingrays at Stingray City and Sandbar

• Experience live starfish at Starfish Point

DETAILS

Operating hours: Seven days a week, 8am-8pm

Awaken, Early Morning Cruise (4 hours) US$2,300

Chill, Half-Day Cruise (4 hours) US$2,300

Let Go, Full-Day Cruise (7 hours) US$3,400

Payment method: Cash, Debit and Credit Card

CB MAP page 86..........................................
4 (345) 525 STAR (7827)
Five Star Charters Private Boat Charters
www.ExploreCayman.com 43
Intro
Best
of
Land
Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay West Bay George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer Services/Index Best of Water

Frank’s Watersports Snorkelling and Fishing Tours

HIGHLIGHTS

• A fleet of four fully licensed, insured and well maintained boats

(345) 925 2783

Safehaven Marina, Turnberry Drive cptfrank@candw.ky frankswatersports.ky

SMB MAP page 64....................................... 10

Captain Frank has been catering to visitors of the Cayman Islands since 1969. In the days before cell phones and the internet, he would simply meet guests at their hotel and make an arrangement. A trip out on his small sail boat to the North Sound would include plenty of fun and lots of fishing. He would cook up a delicious lunch of freshly caught fish, lobster and conch before heading off to swim and snorkel with the stingrays and then returning at sunset. Today, Frank’s Watersports is a proud local operation with a crew of well-trained and knowledgeable staff. They pride themselves on going above and beyond for their customers.

Half-Day Private Boat Charter 9am-1pm or 1pm-5pm. Enjoy three snorkel stops, a visit to Stingray City, with the option of stopping at Kaibo Restaurant & Bar. US$800 for up to 12 people.

Full-Day Private Boat Charter with Lunch 9am3pm. Enjoy four great snorkel stops plus a visit to Stingray City. Lunch on the boat is included. US$1,000 for up to 10 people.

Tours above can be combined with reef fishing.

Reef Fishing Half day charter: 4 hours, US$600. Tours above operate Monday-Saturday.

• Small groups (no more than 30 passengers or less per boat)

• Snorkel gear, refreshments, bottled water and life jackets are provided on the boat

• Fishing equipment, tackle and ice-box provided on fishing charters

• Plus free transportation from Seven Mile Beach area

DETAILS

Tour 1: 2-Stops: Stingray City and Coral Gardens. Departs: 9.30am-12pm and 1.30pm-4pm. Adults: US$46, Kids: US$36

Tour 2: 3-Stops: Stingray City, Coral Gardens and Starfish Point. 9am-12pm and 12.30pm-3.30pm. Adults: US$56, Kids: US$46

Child prices apply to ages 4-11 years

Operating Hours: Monday-Saturday 7am-6pm

Payment method: Cash, Visa, MC and Discover

PROMOTIONS

Pay with cash and receive 10% off all tours.

EXPLORE 2023 • Explore more with the free Explore Cayman iPhone and iPad app 44 Intro Best of
Land Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay
Services/Index
West Bay George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer
Best of Water

Cayman Islands Yacht Club, behind Anchors Store by the fuel dock nick.panton@getbentcharters.com getbentcharters.com

Charters getbentcharters345 (Instagram)

HIGHLIGHTS

• Deep sea and reef fishing charters

• Combination trips

• Stingray City and snorkelling tours

• Lunch stop tours

• Overnight offshore trips

• Liveaboard and Inter-Island charters

• True Caymanian experience tours SMB

Get Bent Charters is a watersports and fishing charter company that offers a wide range of watersports activities. From deep sea and reef fishing, to snorkelling trips, swimming with the stingrays, visiting Starfish Point or just touring the Island by boat, with or without a lunch stop, they take small or large groups out on the water for a completely memorable day!

With three boats to choose from there is something for any size of group or activity. They have a 57’ Viking Sports Fishing boat called Reel Affair that can take up to 16 people and has 4 beds, 2 baths, a/c and wifi. They have a 55’ Super Sport Ocean Yacht called Gunner, which has a/c, wifi, 3 bedrooms, 2 baths and can take up to 10 people. Their third boat is a 32’ center console called Liquor Box that can take up to 8 people. Drinks and refreshments are provided, and catering services are available.

Get Bent Charters is a family-owned and operated company by Caymanians whose family history on the Islands dates back generations. All activities are private and customisable which allows for five star service and unmatched quality throughout the Cayman water sports industry. So you can be sure to have the trip of a lifetime and most importantly GET THOSE RODS BENT!

Operating hours: 7 days a week, 24 hours

Deep Sea Fishing Charters: Visit the 12-Mile Banks and fish for tuna, wahoo, mahi mahi (seasonal) Reef Fishing Charters: Fish for red snappers, grunts, grouper. They practice catch and release Stingray City Tours: Feed the stingrays and get to know them at the Sandbar Snorkelling Tours: Visit three snorkelling stops including the Coral Gardens Explore Lunch Stops: Add lunch at Cayman Kai to your day on the water

Overnight Offshore Fishing Trips: Visit the outer banks 60 or 80 miles away for the haul of a lifetime. November-March Other Details: Trips are from 2 to 8 hours, or overnight, for up to 16 people, and cost from US$600. Cash, debit and credit cards are accepted

DETAILS PROMOTIONS

Mention Explore at the time of booking and receive US$50 off your charter.

MAP page 64....................................... 3 (345) 925 6425
Private
Get Bent Charters
Boat
www.ExploreCayman.com 45
Intro Best of Land
Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay West Bay George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer
Services/Index Best of Water

Paradise Pontoons Private Boat Charters Along Seven Mile Beach

HIGHLIGHTS

• A one-stop shop for exploring the waters off Seven Mile Beach

(345) 321 0000

Seven Mile Beach info@paradisepontoonscayman.com paradisepontoonscayman.com

5

Paradise Pontoons offers unique private charters along Seven Mile Beach. Lounge on a private oasis away from the busy beaches and enjoy your own water park with the water slide, inflatables and a stereo system. The boat easily pulls onto the beach, offering guests the convenience of pick-up directly from many SMB condos or resorts. When you book with Paradise Pontoons, the boat and crew become your own, allowing for a fully customisable trip.

Snorkelling Guests can choose from activities like guided snorkel trips to areas such as the USS Kittiwake or coral reefs. Snorkel equipment and floats are included, so if you love exploring the underwater world, let the experienced crew guide you and enjoy the opportunity to discover the warm crystal clear waters of Grand Cayman.

Sunset Cruise Enjoy a magical sunset cruise along SMB. Sip complimentary bubbles as you watch the sun drop below the horizon. A great activity for friends and families to enjoy.

Paradise Pontoons’ Boat, Toon’d Out, a 25ft custom funship is a great boat for all ages. It’s fully equipped with a fresh water shower, sun deck, a water slide, plenty of shade, comfortable seating, sound system, a cooler full of ice and complimentary onboard WiFi.

• Guided snorkelling tours and snorkel equipment included

• Private boat for your friends and family

• Water slide

• Set your own itinerary

• Cruise along Seven Mile Beach at sunset

• Beach pick-up/drop-off at most Seven Mile Beach locations

• Water and towels provided

• Onboard WiFi

DETAILS

Operating hours: Seven days a week, 8am-sunset

Cost: 3 hours CI$400, 4 hours CI$480, Sunset Cruise CI$320

Boat capacity: Maximum of 8 passengers if all are adults, or up to 10 passengers if including children

Payment method: All major credit cards plus US or CI cash

PROMOTIONS

Mention EXPLORE at the time of booking and receive a 10% discount on any tour.

SMB MAP page
64......................................
EXPLORE 2023 • Explore more with the free Explore Cayman iPhone and iPad app 46 Intro Best of
Land
Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay West Bay George Town Eastern Districts
Services/Index
Staying Longer Best of Water

HIGHLIGHTS

Cayman Islands Yacht Club reelfinaddictcayman@gmail.com reelfinaddictcayman.com

(345) 929 2396

2

Reel-Fin-Addict is a family-operated private charter company specialising in deep sea fishing, reef fishing and Stingray City trips. With over 25 years of experience they are the experts in providing unforgettable trips with good old fashioned Cayman hospitality.

Deep Sea Fishing Whether you’re a beginner or an avid fisher, Reel-Fin-Addict’s experienced captain and well-equipped boat will ensure you don’t return empty handed! Expect to catch wahoo, yellow-fin tuna, mahi mahi or marlin. Deep drop fishing can also be included.

Reef Fishing Enjoy some relaxed reef fishing on the North Sound, a protected lagoon that’s home to plenty of fish, where you can expect to catch snapper, grouper or barracuda. This is a great family activity as even the youngest of fishers are almost guaranteed success.

Stingray City & Starfish Point Meet Cayman’s wonderful stingrays in their natural habitat and safely feed them squid under the close guidance of your experienced captain. The trip includes snorkelling the clear waters around the Coral Gardens where you will see shoals of tropical fish, before heading off to Starfish Point to spot starfish resting in the shallow waters.

• Family owned and operated with over 25 years of experience in private charters

• Well-equipped 38ft Intrepid powerboat with plenty of shade and a cabin with a sofa, kitchenette and shower

• Deep sea and reef fishing

• Choose from half, 3/4 and full day charters

• Full customisable trips - set your own itinerary

• Gift cards available to purchase

DETAILS

Operating hours: Seven days a week, 7am-5pm

Deep Sea Fishing: Starting at US$1,100. 1/2 day, 3/4 day and full day charters available

Reef Fishing: Starting at US$925. 1/2 day, 3/4 day and full day charters available

Stingray City Charter: 3 hours: US$875

Stingray City & Starfish Point Charter: 4 hours: US$925

Payment method: Debit and Credit Card

PROMOTIONS

To receive a 5% discount on tours, book via their website and enter EXPLORE23 at checkout by selecting the Promo Code option.

SMB MAP page 64......................................
Reel-Fin-Addict Private Fishing Charters
www.ExploreCayman.com 47
Intro
Best of Land Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay West Bay
Services/Index
George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer Best of Water

Best of WATERSPORTS

• Bioluminescence The phenomenon of bioluminescence appears in only a handful of places around the world throughout the year. At certain times of the moon cycle, you can witness billions of light-emitting organisms that ‘flash’ when they are disturbed. Call Cayman Kayaks (SEE PAGE 126) and Crazy Crab (SEE PAGE 42)

• Diving Cayman is internationally recognised as one of the best diving destinations in the world. For more on Diving see page 53.

• Fishing Take a private charter or join a group for bottom fishing, bone fishing or deep sea fishing outside the reef or at 12Mile Banks. Yellow and blackfin tuna, mahi mahi (from April to June), wahoo (from November to July) and marlin between 2560lbs are regularly caught. See the Fishing section on page 38.

• Mangrove & Bio Bay Tours Exploring the mangroves by kayak or boat is a wonderful experience. You can even hop into the water and snorkel the mangroves! Learn about the plants that grow there and the animals that use the mangroves as their breeding ground. Look out for birds, fish, anemones, iguanas, jellyfish and even the elusive seahorse. Call Cayman Kayaks (SEE PAGE 126)

• Jet Skiing Rent a jet ski from the resorts along Seven Mile Beach and enjoy an exhilarating ride! Alternatively, both

Cayman Luxury Charters (SEE PAGE 41) and Five Star Charters’ boats (SEE PAGE 43) come with an onboard jet ski allowing you to combine a relaxing private charter with some adrenaline!

• Kitesurfing Learn to kitesurf and experience the feeling of flying! Experienced instructors at Kitesurf Cayman (SEE PAGE 84) will show you the ropes in waist-deep, calm waters and in no time you will be gliding across the water. Equipment rental is available for experienced kiters.

• Paddleboarding A great way to explore Cayman’s calm waters. Rent a board from Kitesurf Cayman (SEE PAGE 84) who deliver for free from West Bay to George Town. Take your snorkelling gear and stop to see lots of tropical sea life as you explore the coastline.

• Parasailing Up to three people are attached to a large canopy from the back of a boat and hoisted over 400ft into the air. Enjoy spectacular views of Seven Mile Beach. Call

Travel Tip

Travelling between Camana Bay, Kaibo Yacht Club and Rum Point has never been easier! Enjoy a round trip Wednesday through Sunday with Cayman Ferries. CI$25 for a return journey. Visit www.caymanferries.com for the schedule and information on how to buy tickets.

EXPLORE 2023 • Explore more with the free Explore Cayman iPhone and iPad app 48 Intro Best of Land Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay West Bay George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer Services/Index Best of Water
Photo by Deep Blue Images

Parasailing Professionals SEE PAGE 85

• Sailing For something a bit different, try a Hobie Cat sail which is ideal for beginners. The resorts along Seven Mile Beach offer rentals and lessons.

• Snorkelling Tours Many private boat operators combine a snorkelling trip to Coral Gardens in the North Sound with a visit to Stingray City Sandbar. Alternatively, explore interesting snorkelling sites in the Eastern Districts with Ocean Frontiers (345) 947 0000. You could even pack your snorkelling gear and find magical sites which are easily accessed without a guide. Eden Rock in George Town offers tunnels and overhangs to explore or snorkel under the Morritt’s dock in East End which is teaming with sea life. See the Best Snorkelling section on page 52 for locations.

• Surfing While not renowned as a surf destination, the waters off the Caribbean Club (SEE PAGE 74) on Seven Mile Beach are great for beginners. South Sound is better for advanced surfers, especially during the winter months if a nor’wester passes through. To rent a surfboard, call Waterman

SEE PAGE 84

• Swim with the Stingrays See page 37 for more details.

• Yacht & Motor Boat Charters You can enjoy Cayman’s waters on a luxury boat, either with just a skipper or as a full-service experience including dinner. See the Boating section on pages 40-47 for more information.

• Underwater Sightseeing Non-certified divers can get underwater with a trip aboard Nautilus’ semi-submarine. (345) 926 3662.

• Waterparks Starfish Cay at The Ritz-Carlton (345) 943 9000 and SPLASH at the Kimpton Seafire (345) 746 0000 are the perfect spots for children to cool off. Kids will love the shallow splash pools, gentle waterslides and fountains. Call to purchase a day pass.

• Windsurfing Step outside of your comfort zone and learn how to windsurf with Kitesurf Cayman (SEE PAGE 84) In just two hours you’ll be cruising up and down the beach!

TOP Tips For Sun Safety 5

1. Seek shade during the hottest part of the day: 11am-3pm.

2. Please use an oxybenzone-free waterproof sun cream with a SPF of 30 or higher and reapply every one to two hours. Kirk Market (SEE PAGE 13) sells a wide range of sun cream.

3. For maximum protection, ensure you and the kids wear a UV sun top. These protect the skin all day and provide protection even when wet. Little Angels and Sand Angels have a wide selection for kids and adults. (SEE PAGE 86-95)

4. Wear a hat and sunglasses to protect your head and eyes.

5. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially when playing outside or exerting yourself.

Photo by Rebecca Davidson Photo by Deep Blue Images
www.ExploreCayman.com 49
Photo by Deep Blue Images
Intro
Best of Land
Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay Services/Index
West Bay George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer Best of Water

Seven Mile Beach

West Bay Public Beach A nice beach with changing room facilities, close to Alfresco restaurant and the West Bay dock.

Cemetery Beach (SMB) A great beach for snorkelling, offering plenty of shade plus parking facilities. Located at the north end of Seven Mile Beach, in front of the cemetery. The reef is a seven minute swim from the shore and there is lots to see.

Public Beach (SMB) A popular and wide beach. It has parking, a Mobi-mat for wheelchair access, a children’s play area, cabanas, volleyball courts, walking paths, a calisthenics park, restrooms and showers.

Governor’s Beach (SMB) A popular sandy beach in front of the Governor’s house with some picnic tables, shade and parking.

Smith Barcadere A small but picturesque pocket of sand in the mainly ironshore coastline. Easy snorkelling, lots of trees, picnic tables, restroom facilities and a fresh water shower. Parking area across the road.

Top Tip All beaches in Cayman are public up to the high water mark, including the stretches of beach directly in front of resorts. Look out for ‘Beach Access’ signs along coastal roads, park your car and follow the footpaths to find some hidden gems.

Spotts Public Beach A small, often deserted south-facing beach with cliffs at either end and a dock in the middle. A great place to see turtles. There are no facilities. Beware of strong currents.

Coe Wood Beach A sandy beach in Bodden Town with cabanas, a children’s play area and restroom facilities. There is a fish fry available at the Grape Tree Café. Walk west for good beachcombing. Be cautious after sunset.

D

North Sound George Town

North Sound

North Sound

C George Town Savannah North Sound Seven Mil e B e a c h West Bay South Sound North Sound George Town Savannah North Sound Seven Mil e B e a c h West Bay South Sound North Sound EXPLORE 2023 • Explore more with the free Explore Cayman iPhone and iPad app 50 Intro Best of Land

A F G B C D E A 2 b 3 A C b D 4 5 6 7 8 9 F 1 E
Seven Mil e B e a c h
George Town Savannah North Sound
Savannah
West Bay South Sound Seven Mil e B e a c h
West Bay South Sound
Best Beaches
Camana
West Bay George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer Services/Index Best of Water
Cayman boasts some of our blue planet’s best beaches. Miles of white powdery sand, crystal clear warm water, palm trees and a lovely tropical breeze come as standard. Seven Mile Beach is Cayman’s most famous beach but there are plenty of other picturesque beaches to discover. Whether you want to lounge on the beach, snorkel, swim or relax with a drink in hand, these are our top picks:
Bay

Eastern Districts Various deserted long sandy beaches can be found in the eastern districts. One favourite spot is Barefoot Beach (the Wyndham Reef Resort is about 2.3 miles away). Expect these beaches to be strewn with washedup seagrass and quite a bit of flotsam. They aren’t the tidiest of beaches but they are great for snorkelling. There is a lovely sandy beach at the Morritt’s Tortuga resort with a bar in the middle of the dock and a virtual aquarium of unafraid fish below. Colliers Public Beach has a dock, restroom facilities and cabanas for shade.

Cayman Kai Public Beach On the right before you get to the Rum Point

Club, this north facing public beach has a small car park, simple restroom facilities, a cabana and a rustic white sandy beach that is interspersed with rocky areas. The snorkelling here is highly rated.

Rum Point This is a lovely shaded area with calm waters that are perfect for swimming and snorkelling and ideal for young children. It is hoped that in early 2023 the Rum Point Club will reopen offering delicious food and water sports for visitors.

Starfish Point Just beyond Kaibo at the very tip of Cayman Kai is Starfish Point. Facing into the North Sound, the sea here is calm and shallow. There is also some shade and fun spots for kids. As you would expect, you will find lots of starfish! Restroom and showers can be found here.

K H I K J 13 J G 12 H H H 11 10 I Savannah
Town
Bodden
North Side
Bodden Town
East End
North Side East End
A K 1 13 A D KEY Savannah Bodden Town North Side East End Savannah Bodden Town North Side East End www.ExploreCayman.com 51 Intro
Best of Land
Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay West Bay George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer
Services/Index
Best of Water

Best SNORKELLiNG

Stingray City & Sandbar

See the Stingray City section on page 37 for more information.

Turtle Reef (West Bay)

Primarily a shore dive with a mini wall; snorkellers can follow the edge of the wall, admiring the bright reef fish and soft corals. Access to the water is easy from Macabuca (SEE PAGE 60) . Look out for the sea turtles.

Lighthouse Point (West Bay)

Just a short swim from shore, snorkellers can enjoy the mini wall and Lighthouse Point’s thriving reef. You’ll also see the Guardian of the Reef statue.

SMB Snorkelling Sites

Cemetery Beach Swim out to sea for 5-10 minutes to find the most vibrant part of the reef. A top snorkelling spot on SMB.

Governor’s Beach A white buoy marks a coral reef where you’ll find lots of friendly fish and maybe even some rays.

Marriott Check out the 300 artificial reef balls installed in the water in front of the hotel which are now home to stunning marine life.

Kittiwake This interesting wreck is not accessible from the shore.

Cheeseburger Reef (George Town)

In front of Burger King swim straight out to sea for 150 yards to find an abundance of reef fish and impressive coral formations.

Wreck of the Cali (George Town) Less than 50 yards from shore, the wreck of a 220ft schooner lies in 20-30ft of water. To snorkel or dive the Cali you now need permission from the CI Port Security.

Eden Rock and Devil’s Grotto (GT)

From Eden Rock or Don Foster’s, swim out to the mooring balls to explore tunnels and overhangs, where large tarpon and grouper hang out. In the early summer

months the caves fill up with millions of tiny silversides.

Smith Barcadere (South Sound)

Swim straight out from the beach and meander through lots of coral heads scattered all over a shallow sandy sea bottom. Then, explore the shoreline where the ironshore creates interesting rock formations with lots of little gullies and inlets.

Spotts Beach (Prospect)

A great site to spot turtles as they feed on the sea grass. Beware of strong currents.

Eastern Districts

Ocean Frontiers (345) 947 0000 offer a number of snorkel tours around various sites in the Eastern Districts. Their crew will take you to the best spots.

Morritt’s Dock (East End)

Underneath the Morritt’s dock a plethora of curious fish congregate. They seem unafraid and quite happy for you to swim with them. Do not swim out to the reef at this spot though, as the currents are very strong and there is a lot of boat traffic.

Cayman Kai Public Beach (NS)

A good drift snorkel, the east to west current will push you along towards Rum Point. Expect depths of 3-10ft and lots of fish and soft corals. Not suitable for children.

Rum Point, Cayman Kai (NS)

The calm and shallow waters make this an ideal spot for beginners. There is a little reef to the right of the dock and many fish congregate under the dock.

TOP TIP See pages 50-51 for the snorkelling map.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 13 12
11 10
EXPLORE 2023 • Explore more with the free Explore Cayman iPhone and iPad app 52 Intro Best of Land Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay West Bay George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer Services/Index Best of Water

Best DIVING

A TOP DIVE DESTINATION

If you are dive-curious, then Cayman is one of the best places to get certified. You’ll find 365 different dive sites to explore, including easily accessible wrecks, caves and shallow reefs plus more challenging deep walls. Cayman’s warm, clear waters also provide outstanding visibility and a vast array of marine life. Once you are certified you will be free to join boat dives or navigate your own shore dives. Two tank boat dives are a great way to get out on the water and explore new dive sites. A dive instructor will lead both dives, they’ll know where they’re going and be able to show you the best that a dive site has to offer. They will also set up your dive gear and provide water.

GETTING

UNDERWATER

There are several ways to get your first taste of scuba diving:

• Discover Scuba Diving Course (DSD)/ Resort Course In shallow water you will learn how to use the equipment before diving in about 30 feet of water. If you catch the dive bug then this course can be used towards your full certification.

• Open Water Certification With an organisation such as PADI you can complete the certification in two stages. First you must pass the e-learning which can be done at home. You’ll then take to the water to learn how to use the equipment in shallow water. Once you have passed a series of underwater skill tests you will undertake four open water dives before obtaining your certification. The whole process takes four days.

• Children’s Dive Courses Children aged 10 and up can become Junior Open Water divers. For those under 10 there

are plenty of fun water-based scuba/ snorkel activities to participate in.

Shore Diving Options

Shore Diving

There are a number of great dive sites accessible from the shore and a short swim can take you to wrecks, caves, reefs and wall drop-offs. See map on pages 50-51.

A b C

Turtle Reef Located at the Cracked Conch restaurant in West Bay. A short swim will take you to the mini wall and a tarpon cave. Expect to see beautiful coral and lots of fish. SEE PAGE 60

Lighthouse Point See the 13ft statue of the mythological creature ‘Guardian of the Reef’ which sits 65ft under water.

Eden Rock Discover caves and tunnels. In the summer months you’ll witness millions of silversides which fill the tunnels. South of George Town.

Sunset House A shallow dive where you’ll see ‘Amphitrite’, a 9ft, 600lb mermaid statue who stands in 55ft of water. SEE PAGE 113

Dive Operators

Cayman has plenty of highly qualified and experienced dive instructors who are keen to teach you about their passion.

Sunset Divers SEE PAGE 113

Located in South Sound. (345) 946 6789.

Sun Divers SEE PAGE 60

Located at Macabuca in West Bay. (345) 949 6606.

WHERE To GET your GEAR:

Your dive operator can provide you with rental gear for boat dives. For shore dives, equipment can be rented, along with tanks from Divers Supply (345) 949 7621 or Divers World (345) 949 8128.

C D
www.ExploreCayman.com 53
Intro Best of Land Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay West Bay George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer Services/Index Best of Water
CAMANA BA Y WB Key p58 p61 p60 p84 p62 Cayman Turtle Centre Coral Stone Stables Cracked Conch Kitesurf Cayman Spirit of the West 2 3 1 5 4 © Acorn Media 2023 Sea Pond VulgunnersPond CREEKSALT gninneH L n FINCH D R I V E SNIAWSTAOB AB Y R D T O W N LLAH DR NOR T H W E S T P O I N T R O A D EH L L R D RETAW CO U ESR DAOR NIATNUOF DR TSEW HCRUHC S T REVEREND B LACKMAN DR EILLIW NOTGNIRRAF RD ABATAB N O ROAD WESTBAYROAD ESTERLEY T I B B E T T S H I G H WAY TM DRTNASAELP PAC T NIGER A L D P A SNOSR RD TS A MUID RD HCRIB EERT H LLI R D OC N C H P O I N T RD evirDatsiV Br oAraunah Ln T o p a z L a n e suciFC esol nrohklEC tnecser LasBrisasDrive Ctnecser C l eso BonsalCrescent VulgunnersDrive GorseLane tniopweiV enaL S ho r e v ie w Pt Ironshore Drive Shorewinds Trail Glidden Ln nLnotgnirraF E lizabet h S t Boggy Sand Road B i l ly Manderso n Road Curry s Road Cap t Ekeru a D r P o i n c i a n a L n Bonav e n ture Rd nalliH d a l e olC s e ratsdniW D r K n o lls C r e ecs n t J o s e p h s D r Banson D r F ero tsam lC o es DuxiesLane gniK dR eltsihT nL Bbmar l e C l Topsail St Adnneser dR A u r o r a Dr B o r e a l S t M lra C r e ts dR B a n k e ’r s dR Jade Dr Pa r k Vie w C r es nLnaebbiraC hsinapS nL -temeCe dRyret Bay s ho r e D r hS o r e scape Ln Shore l ine Dr hS o r e w i sdn Tra i l Powery Rd Yhca t evirD dihcrO rD C a p ts eoJ dna O s b e r t R d Chevy St M e a d wo A ev Bro hakc lC Up The H i l l R d G l a d e D r BonnevilleDr hS o r e l n k T e r R a dientLn elcnU B o b dR sinodA rD LynetteCres sdniwerohS liarT P o yrew dR Simon Cres Scholars Dr ttesoR esolC Vibe Ln redniC nL ssiM ysiaD nL htruoF A v e SkyWay BoltinsAve Cap t Allies RdUncleJimmysLane Je f fersonLn Ebank s Rd Malwinas Way C la a melDr DunlopDr veiveneG e neddoB D r illihP p C l rDllewhtoB Hillard Dr upS r geon Cres Marsh Rd Sticky ToffeeLn G a rstonSmithDr V e l m a Bkna s D r Inv atci rD atcivnI rD Barnett C l Rain b o w L n noeL a Rd llewoP htimS dR Garvin Rd C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C H C C C C H West Bay 1 C Boggy Sands C CI Yacht Club Marina C 61 West Barkers Beach Resort Sea Dreams Dolphin Point Club Salt Air Townhomes Calypso Gardens ‘The Meadows’ at Batabano Blue Palms C 19 North Cayman Motor Museum Jacksons Pond 1 2 3 4 54 Intro Best of Land Best of Water Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer Services/Index West Bay 5

WEST

The charming district of West Bay is a mostly residential area with winding roads, quaint Caribbean-style houses and is home to Cayman’s most popular attraction: the Cayman Turtle Centre. It also offers exciting watersports options and some great restaurants.

For more information please read on, visit explorecayman.com or download the Explore Cayman app.

www.ExploreCayman.com 55
Photo By Tracey Rose

9

Top Things to do in West

Encounter Wildlife and Nature at the Cayman Turtle Centre. Here you can swim with turtles and other colourful marine life, take a ride on the Turtle Twister waterslide, walk down a historic Cayman Street and visit exotic birds in the Caribbean Aviary. There is also a nature trail, two lagoons, waterfalls and a Predator Reef tank where sharks and other marine predators live! Plus, you can meet the turtles, which range from tiny hatchlings to adults weighing over 500 pounds. Don’t miss the chance to pick one up out of the touch tank or participate in a turtle feeding! There is a courtesy shuttle bus from SMB to the Cayman Turtle Centre. SEE PAGES 58-59

Explore Barkers National Park and get away from it all on a deserted beach, located at the north-eastern end of West Bay. There are no facilities and the entire area closes at dusk.

Dive Underwater to explore some great shore dives and snorkel spots. Divetech (345) 946 5658 offers shore diving, boat diving and snorkelling. You can get your beginners or advanced divers certification and even learn how to cull lionfish. Don’t miss the 13ft statue of the mythological creature ‘Guardian of the Reef’ which makes for a great underwater photo. Turtle Reef is just off the Cracked Conch restaurant –(SEE PAGE 60) it’s an easy shore dive and has a mini wall with lots of fish, vibrant coral, and a cave where huge tarpon love to hang out.

Go Off-Roading with ATV Cayman. Hop on one of their vehicles and enjoy an

BAy

exhilarating tour of Barkers Beach with an experienced guide. (345) 922 0366.

Learn to Kitesurf on Barkers Beach with Kitesurf Cayman. Suitable for ages 10-70, this is a phenomenal experience that gets the adrenalin pumping. Rent equipment and hit the water or book a lesson and learn how to kitesurf in waist-deep calm waters.

SEE PAGE 84

Saddle Up and Go Horseback Riding along Barkers Beach with Coral Stone Stables (SEE PAGE 61) or Spirit of the West (SEE PAGE 62) . Choose from morning, afternoon, sunset or moonlight rides on their gorgeous, welltrained horses. You can even swim with the horses in the sea for a truly unique Caribbean experience.

Snorkel the thriving reef at Divetech’s Lighthouse Point, see the mini wall and the ‘Guardian of the Reef’ statue. The waters off Cemetery Beach also offer spectacular snorkelling

Take a Trip to Hell and take the opportunity to send your friends a ‘postcard from HELL’! Hell is a unique geological wonder of rugged blackened limestone, estimated to be 10-15 million years old. A flock of white migratory birds can be seen nesting in the rocks during late December/early January.

Try Windsurfing along Barkers Beach with Kitesurf Cayman (SEE PAGE 84) . They offer lessons, and before long, you will be exploring the coast line.

         EXPLORE 2023 • Explore more with the free Explore Cayman iPhone and iPad app 56 Intro Best of Land Best of Water Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer Services/Index West Bay
Photo by Monika Wojtkiewicz

Shopping

Find Foster’s grocery store, Jacques Scott liquor store (SEE PAGE 12) and Body Barn Hair & Beauty salon right at the start of West Bay, plus a bank, pharmacy and Subway at the four–way stop. Gift shops can be found at the Cayman Turtle Centre (SEE PAGES 58-59) and Hell. You can also find locals selling beautifully varnished conch shells along the side of the road.

insider Tip

Be sure to go to the Turtle Centre!

West Bay DININg

CASUAL DINING

Alfresco A relaxed seafood restaurant with amazing views over the sea. (345) 947 2525.

Bayside A trendy and popular restaurant offering mix of culinary styles ranging from Thai and Vietnamese to English and Italian. (345) 949 6663.

Heritage Kitchen An authentic Caymanian restaurant serving reasonably priced food. They offer a Sunday BBQ. (345) 939 3474.

Macabuca Oceanside Bar & Grill Offers fabulous views of the sea, a relaxed atmosphere and a great happy hour every night of the week. Located below the Cracked Conch. SEE PAGE 60

VIVO Café & Restaurant Offers delicious plant-based food, gluten-free options and some seafood. Located at Lighthouse Point with great views over the water. (345) 749 8486.

ELEGANT DINING

Calypso Grill Located on the water at Morgan’s Harbour, you can watch boats entering the dock, while enjoying a great atmosphere and superb seafood. You must make a reservation, even for lunch. Open Tuesday-Sunday. (345) 949 3948.

Cracked Conch Across the road from the Cayman Turtle Centre, Cracked Conch boasts breathtaking views of the water. You can have a casual lunch or elegant dinner outside on the terrace or in air-conditioned comfort. Their Caribbean-fusion food is always innovative and delicious. SEE PAGE 60

Ristorante Pappagallo This destination restaurant is famous for its tall thatched roof, beautiful location on an inland lake and its great Italian food. (345) 949 1119.

Tukka West Enjoy a taste of Australia with a Caribbean twist! The expansive sea views are breathtaking and the hand-crafted cocktails are delicious. They offer a very popular Sunday brunch plus live music on the dock every Saturday evening. (345) 949 4321.

Heritage Kitchen
www.ExploreCayman.com 57
Photo by Eric Laudonien Intro Best of Land Best of Water Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer Services/Index West Bay

Cayman Turtle Centre: Island Wildlife Encounter Turtle Conservation and Education Centre

HIGHLIGHTS

• Cayman’s largest land-based attraction, focusing on sea turtle conservation and education

• Free-flight aviary, butterfly garden and nature trail

• Snorkel with turtles and reef fish in the Saltwater Lagoon

• Participate in a sea turtle release

• Ride the Turtle Twister waterslide into Cayman’s largest freshwater pool

• Free shuttle to and from SMB hotels

DETAILS

Operating hours: Monday-Sunday 8am-5pm. Last admission at 4.30pm. Please check the website for special events, holiday hours and shuttle service timetable

Feeding Times:

Bird Feeding: 10am-3pm

Shark Talk: 10.30am, Monday-Friday

Shark Feeding: 11am, Monday-Friday

Turtle Feeding: 11.30am and 3.30pm

Crocodile Feeding: Seasonal

Admission: (Resident specials available)

Full Access Adults: US$45

Full Access Kids: US$25

Enjoy full access to the entire park, including snorkelling with turtles, the lagoons and water slide

Turtle Safari Adults: US$29

Turtle Safari Kids: US$20 This land-based tour gives access to view the turtles and more

(345) 949 3894

786 Northwest Point Road, West Bay info@turtle.ky turtle.ky

WB MAP page 54......................................... 2

Island Wildlife Encounters

Green’s Breeding Bay: Meet some of the most majestic and ancient animals in the world. Here you will find a few turtles weighing more than 500 pounds that are more than sixty years old. Despite their huge size, they are as gentle as they are graceful, and you are allowed to feed them too!

Turtle Lagoon: You can do more than just watch the turtles! Jump in and swim with yearling green sea turtles and other colourful marine life. Snorkelling gear is supplied, and swimwear and goggles are available for purchase at the Splash Gift Shop.

Education Centre & Hatchery: Offers an interesting glimpse into the lifecycle of a sea turtle with a chance to view baby turtles hatching out of their eggs during the breeding season (May-Sept). The transparent window helps you see what is happening deep in the sand – replicating a natural turtle nest on the beach.

Caribbean Free-Flight Aviary: See and handfeed the beautiful, colourful birds of Cayman and the Caribbean. You can also see peafowl (peacocks and peahens) on one of the two islands in the middle of the saltwater Turtle Lagoon.

EXPLORE 2023 • Explore more with the free Explore Cayman iPhone and iPad app 58 Intro Best of Land
of
Best
Water
Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay
Staying
Services/Index
George Town Eastern Districts
Longer
West Bay

Smiley’s Croc Cove: The 11ft hybrid saltwater crocodile is one of the remaining few of this species, of which the Cayman Islands are named after. You can watch Smiley being fed during the scheduled feeding times.

Breakers Lagoon & The Turtle Twister Water Slide: Cool off and relax at Breaker’s Lagoon. It boasts two exciting and fun waterfalls plus its own underwater viewing panel for an opportunity to look into the fascinating Predator Reef! Or why not make a great big splash with the twisting, turning, 40ft Turtle Twister waterslide!

Predator Reef: Clear viewing panels allow you to come nose-to-nose with nurse sharks, tarpon, and barracuda! Don’t miss the captivating Shark Talk to learn amazing facts about the predators that live on the reef and in the surrounding waters.

Blue Hole Nature Trail: Reconnect with nature as you walk the winding path through a canopy of indigenous trees and plants, including Cayman’s national flower, the Wild Banana Orchid, as well as the elusive Ghost Orchid, and the Silver Thatch Palm which is Cayman’s national tree.

Shopping: Beautiful handcrafted local treasures and turtle-themed souvenirs, resort wear, books, and gifts in one of Cayman’s most unique shopping destinations.

Eating: Relax on the patio at Goldfield Galley overlooking the sparkling water of the Turtle Lagoon. The chefs prepare a variety of delicious treats, which you can enjoy with tropical fruit drinks and smoothies or Cayman’s own local beer – Caybrew.

Conservation Experiences

Participate in a Turtle Release:

Enjoy a unique experience at one of their private or group sea turtle releases. Their juvenile green sea turtles have been raised at their centre for the first year or two of their life and they are big and strong now. They are ready for release into the wild and independent research and studies prove that they have a great chance of survival. Book an intimate private release experience for your group or attend one of their special events.

Sponsor a Sea Turtle:

The Cayman Turtle Centre invites you to sponsor your very own green sea turtle! Your sponsorship support will help the organisation release the turtles into their new life in the wild and you could be a part of that at one of their upcoming release events.

Become a Keeper for a Day:

If you are looking for once in a lifetime handson experience while supporting conservation initiatives at the same time, look no further than the centre’s “Keeper for a Day” experience. This is an exclusive opportunity in Cayman where you will feed, interact with, and learn more about all of the animals at Cayman Turtle Centre. They can’t wait for you to join their team!

PROMOTIONS

Mention EXPLORE for 10% off full access park admission and 10% off at the Splash Gift Shop. Please note that this discount cannot be combined with any other offers and does not apply to resident rates.

www.ExploreCayman.com 59
Intro
Best of Land Best of Water
Services/Index
Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer West Bay

HIGHLIGHTS

• Great oceanfront attraction

(345) 945 5217

North West Point Road, West Bay conchrest@gmail.com crackedconch.com.ky

Fine dining, casual tiki bar, snorkelling, diving, live music and dancing under the stars… Cracked Conch & Macabuca offer all this and more in one ideal location. Take advantage of the combined services of the restaurant, bar and dive shop – you may well end up staying all day (and night)!

Enjoy dinner at the Cracked Conch, where you can dine on one of the multi-level terraces or in the air-conditioned dining room. Cracked Conch offers fine-dining and Caribbean fusion. As the name suggests, this includes a variety of signature conch appetisers, along with other mouthwatering seafood and meat dishes.

The name, which translates as “What does it matter?”, sums it up! Macabuca Oceanside Tiki Bar & Grill is a great place to simply while away a few hours, with plenty of seating and direct access to the sea. Cold drinks and a Caribbeanstyle menu are served all day. Relax on the spacious deck, soak up the sun and enjoy the ocean views.

Sun Divers, located on the Cracked Conch premises, will rent you dive gear to explore Turtle Reef at your own leisure. If you prefer, take a dive guide with you or for non–divers, rent snorkel gear and explore the top of the wall.

• Stunning sea views

• Fun outdoor tiki bar with all-day bar food

• Fine dining menu at Cracked Conch

• One of Cayman’s best shore dives

• Easy and safe snorkelling

• Happy hour Monday 5pm-10pm and Tuesday-Sunday 5pm-7pm

DETAILS

Opening hours:

Cracked Conch: Tuesday-Sunday 5.30pm-10pm

Macabuca: Monday-Friday 11am-1am Saturday and Sunday 11am-12am

Sun Divers: Monday-Friday 7.30am-4pm Saturday and Sunday 7.30am-5.30pm

Payment method: Cash, Visa, MC, AMEX and Discover

PROMOTIONS

Macabuca

All-You-Can-Eat BBQ Monday 5.30pm9pm, CI$22

Cracked Conch Saturday Live lounge music from 6.30pm

WB MAP page 54......................................... 1
EXPLORE 2023 • Explore more with the free Explore Cayman iPhone and iPad app 60
of
Cracked Conch & Macabuca Restaurant and Oceanfront Bar
Intro Best
Land Best of Water
Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer Services/Index West Bay

Capt. Reginald Parsons Drive, Mount Pleasant, West Bay

(345) 916 4799

coralstonestables@gmail.com coralstonestables.ky

3

Whether you are a first time visitor or a resident of the Cayman Islands, Coral Stone Stables invites you to enjoy the unforgettable experience of horseback riding along the quiet shores of Barkers National Park, West Bay. They also offer water rides through the warm, crystal clear ocean waters –guaranteed to be an experience of a lifetime.

Coral Stone Stables offers beach rides for the novice to the experienced rider, with the choice of walking along the shoreline or a daring adventurous ride bareback through the beautiful, warm waters of the Caribbean Sea – a huge favourite! Their gentle, well trained horses and friendly tour guides will ensure that you enjoy every moment of your amazing ride. Contact them and you can be sure that they will make your horseback riding experience a memorable one.

Group Shore Ride (1 hour 15 mins)

US$100 cash. 4% surcharge for credit card payments. A scenic trek along the shoreline of a quiet beach.

Group Shore & Water Ride Combo (2 hours) US$150 cash. 4% surcharge for credit card payments. An amazing combination of the Shore Ride and swimming in the warm, crystal sea.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Shore rides, water rides and private rides all along the quiet shores of Barkers National Park

• Friendly, well-trained horses

• Courtesy shuttle available from your hotel or rental location

• All levels welcome, no riding experience necessary

DETAILS

Hours of operation: Monday to Saturday

Tour times: 9am and 3pm Payment method: Visa, MC and cash payments by arrangement. There is a 4% surcharge for credit card payments

PROMOTIONS

Groups of 6 or more riders will receive a 15% discount.

Private Rides

Shore Ride (2 hours) US$200 cash. Shore & Water Ride Combo (1 hour 15 mins) US$150 cash.

54...........................................
WB MAP page
Coral Stone Stables Caribbean Horseback Rides and Swim
www.ExploreCayman.com 61
Intro Best of Land Best of Water Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer Services/Index West Bay

Spirit of the West Horseback Rides and Swim

HIGHLIGHTS

Barkers Beach, West Bay info@seahorses.ky caymanbeachrides.com

(345) 814 0193

For a truly unique experience, look no further than Spirit of the West (SOTW) which offers horseback rides along the remote Barkers Beach. Take in the stunning views of the white sandy beach and turquoise waters as you trek along the edge of the Caribbean Sea. All the horses at SOTW are magnificent, gentle creatures that are well looked after and well trained, meaning that even novice riders will feel at ease. Each ride is led by an experienced guide and tours are designed to cater for riders of all levels. During private tours, experienced riders will be given the opportunity to canter along the beach.

The Beach Ride US$75/US$90 Ride along the beach and lose yourself amongst the magical sea, sand, flora and fauna. Group or private tour. Approx. 1 hour 15 mins.

The Caribbean Swim Ride US$125/US$150 Revel in the magic of this exhilarating ride. You’ll enjoy a bareback ride into the refreshing Caribbean Sea. As the water deepens, your horse will swim through the cool waters with you on its back. Group or private tour. Approx. 1 hour 45 mins.

The Moonlight Ride US$125/US$150 Experience the serenity of a horse ride guided by the moonlight. Trek along the beach and be mesmerised by the reflections in the water, the bright moon and a canopy of stars. Group or private tour. Approx. 1 hour 15 mins.

• Beautiful beach rides, private rides, plus exhilarating ride and swim options

• Unique Moonlight Tours where you can ride under the full moon and stars

• Gentle, well-trained horses

• No experience necessary

• Experienced trail guides

DETAILS

Hours of operation: Monday–Friday, closed weekends and public holidays

Tour times: 10am, 2pm and 4pm Moonlight Ride is dependent on full moon schedule

Payment method: Visa, MC, AMEX and Discover

PROMOTIONS

Mention EXPLORE and groups of five or more will receive a 5% discount.

WB MAP page 54......................................... 4
EXPLORE 2023 • Explore more with the free Explore Cayman iPhone and iPad app 62 Intro Best of Land Best of Water Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer Services/Index West Bay
Get the most out of Cayman. Visit the website or download the FREE app today! WHY SCRATCH THE SURFACE WHEN YOU CAN DIVE RIGHT IN? 100s OF THINGS TO DO RESTAURANTS DAILY EVENTS CALENDAR EXCLUSIVE PROMOTIONS INTERACTIVE MAPS BOOK A TOUR ALSO INCLUDES 50+ promotions, real-time weather and flight arrival information, currency converter and ‘Near me’ function. www.ExploreCayman.com
Seven Mile Beach Watlers Dr WE S T B A Y R O A D ESTERLEY TIBBETTS H I G H WAY TSEW B A Y R O A D LAWRENCE B L V D EAST E S T E R L E Y T I B B E T T S HIGHWAY OAD WAY N O Peni nsul a Ave Hoya Quay PeninsulaQua VistaD Stewart Lane V i c t o r i a L a n e Emerald Lane Britannia Drive Jennifer Dr Lizard Run Dr. Palm Heights Drive B a n a n a Q u a y N e w h a v e n Q u a y D a k o t a Q u a y Calico Quay A c c e n t Q u a y Parkland Close Las BrisasDrive Galway Quay Waterford Quay Mimosa Quay Baccarat Quay Earth Cl Lime Tree BayAve Daum Quay Slate Dr DIronshore rive Britannia Drive Parkway Dr Park Ln Turnberry Drive Andrew Dr Yacht Driv e YachtD r i v e Stone Isla n d Orchid PeninsulaAve Crighton Dr Pinehurst Rd Sardina Cl CrystalDr Canal Point Dr Raleigh Quay Prince Charles Quay Magellan Quay Magellan Drive Magellan Quay Jellicoe Quay Nelson Quay DrakeQuay Cook Quay Kintyre D r Helen Drive Marbel Dr S n o oz e L n CourtsRoad Spruce Ln Forum Ln NexusWay Market St Emeritus Dr Lincoln Dr Sleepy Hollow Dr s ter Cres Safehaven Dr Safeh a v e n Dr Ritz Carlton Dr Harquai l D r Shadow nL Solaris Ave Breakwater Ave Blue Lagoon Dr C C C C C C C C H H H H H H H H H H H C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C H C C C C C H C C Coral Beach WaterMark Hampton by Hilton Nautica Marina Residences Diamond’s Edge Poinsettia Bay Town Plaza Solara Seascape Villa C The Sovereign Beach Deck CI Yacht Club Marina Coral Sands Kailani – Curio Collection by Hilton C Eleven Parc Locale Grand Hyatt Residences One Canal Point Lotus at Canal Point Royal Palms Island Pine Villas Seacrest OLEA CI Yacht Club Dock The Grove Lakeside Minerva Dr C C ©Acorn Media 2023 SMB Key p70 p77 p40 p74 p72 p44 p76 p45 p75 p107 p107 p84 p78 p82 p46 p85 p79 p47 p80 p81 Anchor & Den Bàcaro Cayman Eco Adventures Caribbean Club Falls Steakhouse (The) Frank’s Watersports Funky Monkey Get Bent Charters Jewels in Paradise Kirk Freeport - Westin Kirk Freeport - Strand Kitesurf Cayman LUCA National Gallery of the Cayman Islands Paradise Pontoons Parasailing Professionals Ragazzi Reel-Fin-Addict Scoops Tortuga Beach Grill & Bar 18 4 1 13 11 10 6 3 8 7 12 16 14 20 5 9 15 2 17 19 13 15 16 20 9 11 8 14 4 18 17 19 6 2 1 3 5 7 10 10 12 Intro Best of Land Best of Water Camana Bay West Bay George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer Services/Index

SEVEN MILE BEACH

Seven Mile Beach is the crown jewel of the Cayman Islands. Often voted ‘The Caribbean’s Best Beach’, the white powdery sand and the sparkling turquoise water merge together to provide a breathtaking setting.

Be sure to mention EXPLORE when you are booking an activity or making a restaurant reservation - you may get a better rate!

www.ExploreCayman.com 65
Photo By Jonathan Sparrow

Water Based Fun IDEAS 10

 Go Snorkelling at Cemetery Beach at the north end of SMB, Governor’s Beach or the small artificial reef just off the Marriott Hotel. Book a snorkelling trip with Paradise Pontoons (SEE PAGE 46) and explore the USS Kittiwake and coral reefs. See the Snorkelling section on page 52 for information on more great spots.

 Try Sailing along Seven Mile Beach on a Hobie Cat, which can be hired from one of the big hotels. Also see the Boating section on pages 36-47 for more information on boat trips.

 Paddleboard in the calm waters off Seven Mile Beach. Rent boards from Kitesurf Cayman or Waterman, with free delivery to Seven Mile Beach. (SEE PAGE 84)

 Go Fishing for wahoo, marlin, tuna and mahi mahi, then have your catch prepared onboard. See the Fishing section on page 38 for details.

 Take a Sunset Cruise along Seven Mile Beach with Paradise Pontoons (SEE PAGE 46) . With a boat slide and complimentary bubbles served aboard, this is the perfect

way for the whole family to end the day.

 Dive the West Side and discover the spectacular wall, the reef and the Kittiwake wreck. To find out more about diving in Cayman, see page 53.

 Go Parasailing with Parasailing Professionals (SEE PAGE 85) for an exhilarating ride and great view of the Island.

 Try Kitesurfing with Kitesurf Cayman (SEE PAGE 84) for an adrenaline-filled experience. Free pickups available along Seven Mile Beach.

 Hop on a Stingray City Boat Tour to the Sandbar where you can frolic with the rays. See the Stingray City section on page 37.

 Banana Boat Rides can be arranged at most hotels or call Red Sail Sports. (345) 623 5965.

 Cool Down at a waterpark. Call Starfish Cay at The Ritz-Carlton (345) 943 9000 or SPLASH at the Kimpton Seafire (345) 746 0000 to buy a day pass.

Seven Mile Beach
EXPLORE 2023 • Explore more with the free Explore Cayman iPhone and iPad app 66
Best of
Photo by Julie Corestti
Intro
Land Best of Water
Camana Bay West Bay George Town Eastern Districts
Services/Index
Staying Longer

9 Land Based Activities

• Take an Island Tour with Cayman Safari Adventures (SEE PAGE 83) aboard their open air vehicle and see some of the most beautiful and unique places in Cayman.

• Go Golfing at the North Sound Golf Club (345) 947 4653 which offers 18 holes of play. You can take advantage of their full service practice facility or even take a lesson from a PGA professional. Then relax and enjoy the vistas with a cool beverage at the open air bar. Twilight rates are available.

• Indulge in a Spa Treatment at the spas at The Westin (345) 945 3800, The Ritz-Carlton (345) 943 9000 or the Kimpton Seafire (345) 746 0000. They all offer jacuzzi and steam rooms and a relaxation room to enjoy after your treatment.

• Take a Helicopter Ride with Cayman Islands Helicopters (SEE PAGE 110) and take in an amazing view of Seven Mile Beach and beyond.

• Keep Fit by walking along the shoreline, visiting the hotel gym or trying one of the gyms on Seven Mile Beach: Anytime Fitness, Crossfit or Ryde in Camana Bay, or World Gym behind Queens Court Plaza.

• Play Tennis or Pickleball at The Ritz-Carlton (345) 943 9000 or at the courts in Camana Bay (345) 640 2878.

• Practise Yoga at One Heart Yoga in 7 Mile Shops (345) 938 9642 or give paddleboard yoga a go with Vitamin Sea (345) 925 0450.

• Wander Around the National Gallery taking in the incredible national art collection. They host up to eight exhibitions annually. There is a gift shop and cafe to enjoy when you have finished perusing the art. SEE PAGE 82

• Catch a Movie at the six-screen multiplex in Camana Bay or on The Crescent during the summer months and special holidays (SEE PAGES 86-95) The Ritz-Carlton (345) 943 9000 also shows a family-friendly movie under the stars every evening at Andiamo.

Shopping

You’ll find great shopping in the Seven Mile Beach area, from clothing and jewellery to locally produced goods such as soaps, Cayman Sea Salt, rum cakes, jams, hot sauces, sculptures and more.

JEWELLERY & WATCHES

Cayman is a great place to invest in certain luxury items since watches, gems and precious metals have no sales tax. Jewellery stores on Seven Mile Beach include Kirk Freeport (SEE PAGE 107) which has stores located in The Strand, the Kimpton Seafire and The Westin. They stock jewellery and watches from world-class brands and top designers. Jewels in Paradise (SEE PAGE 75) in the Falls Plaza offers luxury jewels, watches and sunglasses, with items to suit all budgets. Balaclava Jewellers, (SEE INSIDE BACK COVER) located in Governors Square, offers stunning and unique jewellery pieces that are rarely found elsewhere. You can even work with Balaclava to design a piece unique to you.

art galleries, MARKETS & locally made collectables

Art galleries and markets carry a great selection of work by local artists and craftsmen, from original paintings to Caymanite jewellery and hand-woven thatch products.

Camana Bay Locally made items including art, jewellery, candles and other gifts can be found at the Farmers & Artisans Market held every Wednesday from 10am to 5pm on the Paseo. (SEE PAGES 86-95) National Gallery Their gift shop is a great spot to pick up a Cayman produced memento. (SEE PAGE 82) Kennedy Gallery Sells paintings and prints by local artists. Located in the West Shore Centre. (345) 949 8077. The Ritz-Carlton Gallery Located along the walkway the gallery displays local artists’ work for sale. (345) 943 9000.

Seven Mile Beach
www.ExploreCayman.com 67
Intro Best of Land Best of Water Camana Bay West Bay George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer Services/Index

Stock up on food and other supplies at Foster’s in Camana Bay. You’ll find everything you’d expect to find in an American or British supermarket.

There are liquor stores in most shopping plazas along Seven Mile Beach. Blackbeard’s (SEE PAGE 11) , Jacques Scott (SEE PAGE 13) and Tortuga Fine Wine & Spirits (SEE PAGE 22) are all open until 10pm Monday-Saturday. All are closed on Sundays except for West Indies Wine Company (SEE PAGE 95) in Camana Bay. Vino Veritas (345) 526 8466 is a boutique wine specialist, who will deliver alcohol to your home or condo.

Food & DRink

Anchor & Den Stylish bar and restaurant at the Marriott Beach Resort. Their Sunday brunch and themed nights are very popular. SEE PAGES 70-71

Ave Located at the Kimpton Seafire, they serve Mediterranean cuisine. (345) 746 4111.

Bàcaro Located in the Cayman Islands Yacht Club, this is an authentic Italian tapas restaurant with lots of style. SEE PAGE 77

Beach House an upscale yet casual restaurant offering views of Seven Mile Beach. Located at The Westin. (345) 945 3800.

Blue Cilantro Sophisticated Mediterranean food with an Indian twist. Located in the Fidelity Centre. (345) 945 4372.

Blue by Eric Ripert An AAA Five Diamond restaurant at The Ritz–Carlton. (345) 943 9000.

Bonfire Urban Italian Kitchen Offers an array of Italian options. (345) 233 3473.

Casa 43 Mexican Kitchen A Mexican restaurant located opposite The Strand. (345) 949 4343.

Coccoloba Mexican restaurant located right on the beach at the Kimpton Seafire. (345) 746 0000.

Craft A gastro pub with a selection of craft beers. West Bay Road. (345) 640 0004.

Driftwood Bar & Grill A Caribbean and American restaurant on the North South. (345) 949 3100.

Legendz Classic Bar & Grille New York style bar. Falls Plaza. (345) 943 3287.

CLOTHING & FASHION

Beach & Resort Wear Great options can be found at Funky Monkey (SEE PAGE 76) , Sand Angels, NKY and Waterman (SEE PAGE 84) Little Angels in Camana Bay sells great kids wear. The boutiques at the Kimpton Seafire, the Marriott, The Westin and The Ritz-Carlton also have a nice selection of casual resort wear for adults and children.

Elegant Evening or Day Wear Try Funky Monkey (SEE PAGE 76) or head to Camana Bay. (SEE PAGES 86-95) Sportswear Visit Amé or Sportista in Camana Bay (SEE PAGES 86-95) , Waterman (SEE PAGE 84) or Bliss Yoga in Marquee Plaza.

For a comprehensive list, grab a copy of the Good Taste restaurant guide or visit www.caymangoodtaste.com.

Lone Star Texas BBQ style sports bar on West Bay Road. (345) 945 5175.

LUCA Beach front seafood restaurant serving superb innovative food. Their Sunday brunch is extremely popular (SEE PAGE 78) Located in the beautiful Caribbean Club (SEE PAGE 74) , a boutique hotel overlooking Seven Mile Beach.

Morgan’s A waterfront restaurant serving fresh seafood. CI Yacht Club. (345) 946 7049.

Ms. Piper’s Very stylish but relaxed restaurant with lots of charm, great food and a swimming pool. (345) 526 1623.

Ragazzi Popular seafood and Italian restaurant with an award-winning wine list, reasonable prices and fun atmosphere. SEE PAGE 79

Saltwater Grill Seafood restaurant with a large patio. Galleria Plaza. (345) 640 0010.

Southern Spice Popular Indian restaurant serving fresh and tasty dishes. Located in Baytown Plaza. (345) 949 5550.

Spanglish Traveler’s Cuisine & Bar Spanish inspired cuisine made with fresh local ingredients. (345) 949 1507.

Steak Social is a modern take on the classical steakhouse with a diverse menu created using only the finest cuts of beef. (345) 333 2333.

Thai Orchid A local gem serving authentic Thai food. Queens Court Plaza. (345) 949 7955.

Seven Mile Beach
GROCERY & LIQUOR STORES EXPLORE 2023 • Explore more with the free Explore Cayman iPhone and iPad app 68 Intro Best of Land Best of Water
Eastern Districts Staying Longer Services/Index
Camana Bay West Bay George Town

QUICK & EASY DINING

Al La Kebab Good value Mediterranean kebabs. Marquee Plaza. (345) 943 4343.

Burger Shack A wide variety of great burgers and sides. Marquee Plaza. (345) 949 2867.

Cimboco Relaxed, good value for money restaurant in Marquee Plaza. (345) 947 2782.

Chicken! Chicken! Chicken cooked in a woodfired oven. West Shore Centre. (345) 945 2290.

Fresh Kitchen & Coffee Breakfasts, lunches and coffee. Galleria Plaza. (345) 640 0008.

Island Naturals Café Vegetarian café serving healthy homemade food. (345) 917 0782.

Fidel Murphy’s Irish pub serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Queens Court Plaza. (345) 949 5189.

Gino’s Pizzeria New York style pizzeria, also serving salads and subs. Call for delivery or takeaway. Caribbean Plaza. (345) 623 7777.

Peppers Bar & Grill Casual restaurant serving authentic Jamaican Jerk and smoked BBQ. West Bay Road. (345) 943 3000.

Seven Mile Burger Offers a vast choice of delicious burgers. Governors Square. (345) 525 6453.

Seven Mile Greens Sister restaurant to Seven Mile Burger. Offers a wide range of freshly made salads. Governors Square. (345) 325 3430.

Wok-n-Roll Chinese, Thai and Vietnamese cuisine. Regency Plaza. (345) 949 0168.

BARS & PUBS

All Stars Sports Bar & Grill Large sports bar offering great all-American food. (345) 746 8989.

Coconut Joe’s Casual outdoor place with reasonably priced food. Opposite Comfort Suites. (345) 943 5637.

Door No. 4 Fresh, fun artisan cocktails with a great soundtrack. The Grove. (345) 746 3619.

Fidel Murphy’s Irish bar with a ‘pub grub’ menu. Great place to catch the game. Queens Court Plaza. (345) 949 5189.

Lone Star Texan style joint with an outdoor bar and TV screens. West Bay Road. (345) 945 5175.

Ports of Call at The Wharf Waterfront bar with great cocktails. (345) 949 2231.

Saint June Beach bar at The Ritz-Carlton serving cocktails and light fare. (345) 943 9000.

The Bird An extremely popular bar serving great drinks and creative comfort food. 7 Mile Shops. (345) 746 2473.

The Lodge Friendly pub with live music and dancing. The Strand. (345) 323 1669.

Tortuga Beach Grill & Bar Casual beach bar serving food at The Westin. Live music every Friday and Saturday at sunset. SEE PAGE 81

Seven Mile Beach Island Naturals Café
www.ExploreCayman.com 69
Intro Best of Land Best of Water Camana Bay West Bay
Services/Index
George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer

HIGHLIGHTS

• Globally inspired, locally sourced

• Memorable experiences and live entertainment

• Hand-crafted cocktails

• Lounge music and inviting atmosphere

• Vegetarian and vegan options

• Themed nights throughout the week

• Brunch every Sunday

• Happy Hour daily from 5pm-7pm

• In-house DJ every Friday night

DETAILS

Operating hours:

Breakfast: 7am-11am (Sundays until 10.30am)

Lunch: 11.30am-5pm

Dinner: 5pm-11pm

Reservations strongly recommended for dinner, brunch and theme nights.

Payment method: Visa, MC, Discover and cash

PROMOTIONS

Daily Sushi Bar: 5pm-10pm

Rockin’ Ramen Night: Friday 5pm-10pm

Mad Tea Party: Saturday 1.30pm-4.30pm

Wanderlust Brunch: Sunday 12pm-3pm

(345) 949 0088

389 West Bay Road, Grand Cayman Marriott Beach Resort hello@anchorandden.com anchorandden.com

SMB MAP page 64....................................... 18

At the Grand Cayman Marriott, Anchor & Den takes its diners on a delicious journey of culinary excellence. Using global flavours, Executive Chef Romeo Penacino and his wonderful team have crafted signature dishes that have become foodie favourites for locals, such as Shrimp Popcorn Sushi Roll, Seafood Black Rice Paella and the tempting Halloumi Cheese Flambé. Indoors, you’re welcomed by a cool, airy and light-filled lounge with a casual beach house vibe, perfect for relaxed drinks during happy hour.

Anchor & Den has become the destination for a whole host of events. On Friday nights, they host their Rockin’ Ramen party, featuring their in-house DJ and tasty traditional ramen to match. Peppered throughout the year are their speciality nights, one of which is their Zarautz-inspired evening. Be transported to the mountainous Basque region of Spain and dine on iconic Pintxo (Basque-style tapas). Some of the delicious dishes include Patata Tortilla, Octopus Murcia and Pollo Piperade.

Lovers of all things literary will appreciate their Mad Tea Party, inspired by the classic Alice in Wonderland. Offered by reservation only, this unique tea party celebrates locally-

Anchor & Den Global Cuisine and Handcrafted Cocktails
EXPLORE 2023 • Explore more with the free Explore Cayman iPhone and iPad app 70 Intro Best of Land Best of
Water
Camana Bay West Bay
Services/Index
George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer Seven Mile Beach

produced teas, decadent homemade treats, champagne and a variety of other classic high tea favourites.

Their Wanderlust Brunch is a treasure among locals and visitors alike every Sunday. Diners are greeted by an impressive spread of charcuterie meats imported from Spain, regional cheeses, homemade breads and so much more, with bottomless glasses of De Chanceny Crémant de Loire bubbles to wash it all down. With dishes inspired by global cuisine, visiting Anchor & Den is like taking your taste buds on an adventure around the world.

Veranda Nestled on the edge of Seven Mile Beach, Veranda is The Marriott’s oceanfront restaurant. With succulent seafood dishes, you can tuck into some of the best seafood while taking in a breathtaking view. Enjoy the bohemian-chic décor whilst dining by the sunset. Veranda’s delicious events are sure to get your taste buds buzzing. Sit with family and friends and dine on fresh fish with a sea view every Sunday at their Simply Fish Nights. Chefs prepare a mouthwatering four-course set menu of a variety of seafood dishes. Every Friday, join Veranda for their unique Asado Nights as they awaken the Argentinian tradition of cooking on fire, and on Wednesdays, tuck into Lobster Night! For reservations at any of Veranda’s foodie nights, email:dining@thebeachhouseexperience.com.

Vista Bar

Fancy something local, playful and refreshing? Vista bar is the ultimate beach hangout. Enjoy

a menu of ice-cold beers, innovative cocktails and light bar snacks, including their signature Lobster Bites. It’s a great spot to chill out after a hot day on the beach or to enjoy a light lunch in the shade. Plus, you simply cannot beat that view!

Sample Shareables: Charcuterie Board CI$20

Chef’s selection: 3 meats, 3 cheeses, marinated olives, quince paste, grilled sourdough

Crab Potato Causa CI$17 Peruvian potato, aji amarillo, salsa golf, olive mayonnaise, fried quinoa, cilantro

Sample Mains: Vegetarian Pad Thai CI$17 Rice noodles, scallions, tamarind, cabbage, carrots, lime, peanuts, egg, chili flakes Seafood Black Rice Paella CI$32 Tiger shrimp, calamari, scallops, aioli

Sample Classics: Halloumi Cheese Flambé CI$12

Vodka, pepper jelly, grilled sourdough Ají Chicken Empanadas CI$10 Ají amarillo, ají panka, chermoula, asado sauce

Sample Pizzas: Funghi

CI$16

Arugula, parmesan, boursin cheese, truffle oil, green olives

Iberico Ham CI$16 Marinara, mozzarella, arugula, manchego, caramelised onions, green olives

MENU HIGHLIGHTS
www.ExploreCayman.com 71
Intro Best of Land Best of Water Camana Bay West Bay George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer
Services/Index
Seven Mile Beach

• Premium steaks

• Full service bar

• Extensive wine list with bottles from around the world

• Entrées come with a choice of two sides, steak sauce and a complimentary drink

• Weekly specials

• Pescatarian and vegetarian options available

43 Canal Point Road, off West Bay Road info@thefallssteakhouse.com thefallssteakhouse.com

(345) 945 4755

SMB MAP page 64....................................... 11

Visit The Falls Steakhouse, “Where Everyone Goes to Meat”, and feast on the finest cuts of beef as you sit back, relax and experience this exceptional dining experience. Initially established in 2005 as Copper Falls Steakhouse, they re-branded themselves in 2020 as The Falls Steakhouse with a whole new look but the same high-quality food and fantastic service that guests know and love.

Walking into The Falls Steakhouse, you’re met with an indulgent interior that gives an instant sense of a traditional steakhouse. Sitting at your table, you can peruse the extensive and detailed wine list and satisfy your palette with bottles from Argentina to South Australia. If cocktails are more to your taste, sip on a classic Aperol Spritz or embrace your Caribbean surroundings with a Dark ‘n’ Stormy.

When it comes to dinner, be adventurous with Escargot or spoil yourself with Scallops and Bacon. Reaching the main event, The Falls Steakhouse provides various cuts of meat to suit all tastes. From Steak Dianne and Filet Mignon to Pork Baby Back BBQ Ribs and Lamb, carnivorous guests will be more than satisfied. And for those who prefer chicken, seafood and even vegetarian dishes, the menu boasts many options, including

The Falls Steakhouse Steakhouse
DETAILS Operating hours: Tuesday-Sunday 5.30pm-10pm. Closed Mondays Payment method: Visa, MC, AMEX, Discover and cash Reservations recommended PROMOTIONS
Rib Sundays: 5.30pm-10.30pm BBQ Rib Nights: Friday and Saturday 5.30pm-10.30pm EXPLORE 2023 • Explore more with the free Explore Cayman iPhone and iPad app 72 Intro Best of Land Best of Water Camana Bay West Bay George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer Services/Index Seven Mile Beach
HIGHLIGHTS
Prime

Champagne Shrimp, Crispy Penne Pasta and Herb Roasted Chicken. With most meat and seafood entrées you can choose from five starch sides, three veggie sides and six steak sauces. Your first drink is even included in the price and you can choose from a delicious beer, classic martini or refreshing highball.

Whether celebrating a special occasion, getting together with friends and family, having a

romantic dinner or just because, The Falls Steakhouse is where you can go for that magical experience. It comes with the perfect combination of exceptional food, friendly service, welcoming ambiance and outstanding value. It doesn’t matter whether you’re exploring Grand Cayman for the first time or the fiftieth, an evening at The Falls Steakhouse is not to be missed.

Sample Appetizers

Baked Brie CI$12.95

Wrapped in phyllo pastry, served with roasted garlic, roasted almonds and cranberry coulis Scallops & Bacon CI$15.95 Baked with béarnaise sauce and breadcrumbs

Sample Soups & Salads

Mozzarella, Basil, Tomato CI$10.95 Drizzled with olive oil and balsamic vinegar

Falls Garden Salad CI$9.95

Topped with apples and sunflower seeds

Sample Vegetarian

Crispy Penne Pasta

CI$22.95

Topped with olives, tomatoes, feta cheese and cashew nuts Broccoli Tofu Stir-fry CI$24.95 Served with rice pilaf

Sample Meat

New York Strip 14oz CI$43.95

Rib Eye 12oz/ 18oz CI$47.95/ 75.95

Filet Mignon 8oz/ 12oz CI$45.95/ 58.95

Surf & Turf 12oz MP

Sample Seafood Lobster Dinner MP Served with drawn butter

Seafood Pasta

CI$29.95 Shrimp, lobster, scallops and calamari with a choice of marinara, tomato cream or alfredo sauce

Champagne Shrimp

CI$38.95

Six jumbo shrimp, sautéed and topped with champagne cream sauce

Sample Sides

Sweet Potato Fries

CI$6.95

Baked Mac n’ Cheese CI$7.95

Creamed Spinach CI$7.95

Chipotle Cream Corn CI$7.95

Asparagus/Hollandaise Sauce CI$9.95

MENU HIGHLIGHTS
www.ExploreCayman.com 73
Intro Best of Land Best of Water Camana Bay West Bay George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer Services/Index Seven Mile Beach

Caribbean Club Luxury Boutique Hotel

HIGHLIGHTS

(345) 623 4500

871 West Bay Road, Seven Mile Beach reservations@caribclub.com caribclub.com

SMB MAP page 64....................................... 13

Caribbean Club is a luxury boutique hotel located in the heart of Seven Mile Beach. Each home-like suite or villa offers 2,700sq feet of living space with full gourmet kitchens, large living rooms, one to three bedroom options, all with bathrooms and large fully furnished balconies overlooking Seven Mile Beach. Guests enjoy impeccable service and warm Caribbean hospitality while having access to world-class amenities.

Award Winning Boutique Hotel Year after year the Caribbean Club has won prestigious awards including: Top 25 Luxury Hotel in the Caribbean and Top Small Hotel in the Caribbean. When you visit you will see why!

Weddings Caribbean Club can host your small private barefoot ceremony to a large elegant beach wedding celebration for up to 150 guests. Each Caribbean Club wedding is carefully planned and customised to the desires of the bride and groom for a dream wedding experience.

LUCA Caribbean Club is also home to one of Cayman’s best restaurants: LUCA. LUCA’s contemporary menu is described as Italian-based with international flavours. Every Sunday they host a magnificent brunch with delicious fresh seafood, breakfast favourites, salads, a pasta station, meats, cheeses, mouth-watering desserts and free flowing Prosecco. See page 78.

• Cayman’s most luxurious and exclusive boutique hotel on Seven Mile Beach, Grand Cayman

• Three different types of villa: Tower Oceanfront, Beach Front and Pool View

• Beautiful kitchens, top of the line bathrooms — the essence of luxury

• All rooms have ocean views

• On-site gourmet Italian seafood restaurant

• Private and beautiful stretch of beach with free cabanas and lounge chairs. Walking distance to all of SMB amenities

• Stunning infinity pool with waterfall

• Fitness centre

• Personalised guest services

DETAILS

Guest Services & Amenities: Concierge and laundry service Nightly turndown Grocery shopping Free parking Meeting/boardroom facilities

Payment method: VISA, MC, Discover and cash

EXPLORE 2023 • Explore more with the free Explore Cayman iPhone and iPad app 74 Intro Best of Land Best of Water Camana Bay West Bay George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer Services/Index Seven Mile Beach

Jewels in Paradise, Cayman Fine Jewellery, Diamonds, Watches and Sunglasses

Cayman Falls Shopping Centre, West Bay Road (opposite The Westin), Seven Mile Beach

(345) 323 9900 / (345) 326 7706

sales@jewels.ky jewels.ky

SMB MAP page 64........................................ 8

Jewels in Paradise, Cayman is a family-owned, high-end jewellery store. Conveniently located on Seven Mile Beach, they offer luxurious and unique items. Shop for luxury jewels, watches and sunglasses all at duty free prices. Their knowledgeable staff offer years of experience, ensuring you pick the perfect pieces for you and your loved ones.

Jewellery

Choose from a wide selection of fine jewellery including pieces by Morris and David, Steven Royce Designs, Bali silver and gold jewellery, their own diamond and coloured gemstone collection as well as a great selection of men’s jewellery.

Sunglasses

Jewels in Paradise, Cayman sells a wide variety of stylish luxury sunglasses by Gucci, Dita, Montblanc, Aspinal of London, Range Rover, Land Rover and Cocoa Mint.

Watches

With brands such as Gorilla and Wenger you will be spoilt for choice when selecting the perfect watch for your taste and budget.

Customer Service

A happy customer is their number one priority and

HIGHLIGHTS

• Family-owned jewellery store

• Duty free and tax free prices for all budgets

• GIA certified diamonds and lifetime upgrade policy

• World-class brands and one-of-a-kind custom designs

• Experienced and knowledgeable staff, with exceptional attention to detail and first class customer service

• Walking distance from all major hotels on Seven Mile Beach

• Plenty of parking space outside the store

DETAILS

Opening hours: Monday-Saturday 9.30am-6.30pm

Payment method: Cash, Visa, MC and AMEX

PROMOTIONS

Visit the store, mention EXPLORE CAYMAN and receive a Caribbean style necklace as a gift, plus 5% off selected pieces.

Jewels in Paradise, Cayman has something for everyone, any taste and budget.

www.ExploreCayman.com 75
Intro
Best of Land Best of Water
Camana Bay Services/Index
West Bay George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer Seven Mile Beach

Funky Monkey Clothing

Funky Monkey is a trendy lifestyle wear boutique that sells fashionable clothing and accessories for men, women and children, for a range of budgets. They stock brands such as Elan, Banana Moon, Johnnie O, Holiday, Skemo and Bermies, to name just a few, which are imported from Australia, France, Bali and the USA. Funky Monkey imports a limited number of each item, so you can rest assured that all your friends won’t be wearing the same pieces!

Drop by the store and you’ll be able to choose from a selection of party dresses and everyday clothing such as shorts, tank tops and beach wear, including sundresses, bikinis, sandals, kaftans and more. You’ll also find sportswear, yoga gear and a variety of accessories including hats, bags and costume jewellery. Men can browse a selection of linen shirts, shorts and pants, plus dress shirts, swimwear and everyday wear.

Funky Monkey is also a great place to find unique gifts for the kids, house-sitter and friends back home. They have some of the most helpful and friendly staff around who will happily assist, whether you’re looking for something special or simply indulging in retail therapy. From the beach to the street, Funky Monkey has the entire family covered from head to toe!

HIGHLIGHTS

• Cayman’s hippest fun wear boutique

• Best selection of Elan, Reset, LulaSoul, River & Sky and Johnnie O

• Party and everyday wear

• Sports and yoga clothing

• Swim and beachwear

• Flip flops, bags and hats

• Branded sunglasses including SMITH

• Helpful and friendly staff

• Great gift selection for every occasion

• Corkcicle® products available, perfect for your coffee or wine

DETAILS

Opening hours: Monday-Friday 10am-6pm Saturday 10am-5.30pm

Payment method: Cash, Visa, MC, AMEX and Discover

Plenty of parking directly in front of the store

PROMOTIONS

Mention EXPLORE and receive 10% off any regularly priced item.

MAP page 64.......................................
SMB
6 (345) 943 8659 Governors Square, West Bay Road, across from The Westin Hotel jodi@funkymonkeycayman.com funkymonkeycayman.com
Boutique
EXPLORE 2023 • Explore more with the free Explore Cayman iPhone and iPad app 76 Intro Best of Land Best
of Water
Camana Bay West Bay
Services/Index
George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer Seven Mile Beach

HIGHLIGHTS

Governors Creek, Cayman Islands Yacht Club

(345) 749 4800

enquiries@bacaro.ky bacaro.ky

Bàcaro is Cayman’s only authentic Italian tapas restaurant and wine bar, inspired by the traditional “Bacari” of Venice. Their extensive menu, prepared by their Venetian Chef/Owner Federico Destro, features a selection of cichetti (nibbles), piccoli piatti (small plates) and grandi (large plates) that are perfect for sharing.

Enjoy wines by the glass or opt for a handcrafted cocktail inside their bright and airy dining room, or out on the terrace, overlooking the water of the Cayman Islands Yacht Club. Take advantage of the Tuesday-Friday CI$29 Express Lunch from 11.30am to 3pm, and from 5pm to 7pm Tuesday-Friday, join them for happy hour!

• Authentic Italian tapas

• Seasonal menu

• Stylish restaurant with a beautiful terrace overlooking the Yacht Club

• Full service bar

• Extensive selection of wine by the glass

• Handcrafted cocktails

• Happy hour specials: Tuesday-Friday 5pm-7pm

• CI$29 Express Lunch Special: TuesdayFriday 11.30am-3pm

• Arrive by car or boat

• Takeaway available or delivery by Bento

DETAILS

Opening hours: Tuesday-Friday 11.30am-10.30pm Saturday-Sunday 12pm-10.30pm

Capers, soy-infused veal jus Tuna Tartare

Avocado purée, mango salsa Pesce Crudo al Sale

Daily caught raw fish on the salt block Ceviche of the Day

Green peas, braised leek, pecorino Sautéed Brussels Sprouts

Bàcaro Italian Restaurant and Wine Bar SMB MAP page 64.......................................
4
Payment method: Cash, Visa, MC and AMEX. Reservations recommended
CI$15
Fresh Oyster MP Seared Herb Wahoo
CI$19
CI$10
CI$12
CI$10
items
price changes
HIGHLIGHTS www.ExploreCayman.com 77
CI$14
CI$16 Grilled Asparagus
Parmesan foam, truffle oil, crispy egg yolk, polenta chip Beetroot Potato Gnocchi
Turmeric, raisins, pine nuts, Parmigiano Reggiano *All menu
are subject to
MENU
Intro Best of Land Best of Water Camana Bay West Bay
Services/Index
George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer Seven Mile Beach

HIGHLIGHTS

• Contemporary Italian and seafood cuisine

(345) 623 4550

Caribbean Club, 871 West Bay Road reservations@luca.ky luca.ky

SMB MAP page 64....................................... 14

Brought to you by the same dynamic team that created Ragazzi, LUCA is a contemporary Italian and seafood restaurant located on Seven Mile Beach. Committed to using only the freshest and best quality produce, Chef Luca aims to keep the preparation simple, fusing international flavours with traditional Italian dishes.

LUCA has one of the best wine cellars on the Island with more than 1,100 wines from around the world and a full-time sommelier on staff. A sophisticated interior featuring marble floors, wood panelling and leather banquettes opens out on to a sunny terrace, with an infinity pool overlooking the white sands and turquoise waters of Seven Mile Beach.

• Wine Spectator ‘Best of Award of Excellence’

• Beach front location

• Bottomless Prosecco Sunday brunch

• Reservations essential

• Weddings and private parties

• Over 1,100 wines from France, Italy, Austria, USA and South America

DETAILS

Opening hours: Lunch: Monday-Saturday 11.30am-2.30pm

Dinner: Nightly 5.30pm-10.30pm Sunday Brunch: 11.30am-2.30pm

Payment method: Cash, Visa, MC and AMEX. Reservations recommended

PROMOTIONS

Fixed price lunch: three courses and a glass of wine for CI$28.

MENU HIGHLIGHTS

Sample Appetizers

Beef Carpaccio

CI$16

Arugula, truffle espuma, shaved parmesan, roasted artichokes Scallops

CI$19

Sample Entrées

Pumpkin Ravioli

CI$23

Drawn thyme butter, sun-dried tomatoes and shaved Parmigiano Reggiano Branzino al Sale CI$45

CI$18

Freshly baked jumbo scallops, sautéed spinach, white wine sauce, parmesan Mussels

PEI mussels, fresh tomato, parsley, white wine garlic broth, grilled crostini

Whole Mediterranean striped bass with salt crust, vegetables, chardonnay caper sauce Filet Mignon CI$49 8oz beef, green peppercorn demi glace, scalloped potatoes, sautéed bacon, green beans

and Seafood Restaurant
LUCA Italian
EXPLORE 2023 • Explore more with the free Explore Cayman iPhone and iPad app 78
Best of Land Best of
Intro
Water
Staying Longer Services/Index Seven
Camana
Bay West Bay George Town Eastern Districts
Mile Beach

Buckingham Square, West Bay Road

(345) 945 3484

ragazzi.ky

SMB MAP page 64....................................... 15

Ragazzi is brought to you by the same dynamic team that created LUCA. A long-term favourite among residents, Ragazzi is always buzzing and has a great atmosphere.

The menu includes excellent pizzas cooked in an authentic Italian wood-burning oven, great pastas, seafood, meat, vegetarian and daily specials, all at reasonable prices. Gluten free or whole wheat breads, pizza crusts and pastas are also available.

The service is warm and efficient and because of their convenient opening hours – 11.30am to 11pm, seven days a week, including Sunday lunch – you can drop in and eat no matter what time you are hungry. Alternatively, various banquet menus are available for private parties and events.

Sample Dishes

Antipasto Misto

CI$16.95

Prosciutto, bresaola, salami, Austrian speck, mortadella with pistachio, roasted red peppers and parmesan

Local Red Snapper

CI$28.95

Pan fried local red snapper, garlic roasted fingerling potato, local bok choy, white wine butter and shrimp sauce

Shellfish Linguine

CI$27.95

Lobster, shrimp, scallops, mussels, olive oil, diced tomato, garlic and basil

• Italian and seafood cuisine

• Award winning wine list

• Wood-burning pizza oven

• Central location with ample parking

• Daily specials

• Warm, friendly atmosphere

• Children’s portions

• Great family restaurant

• Homemade gluten-free pasta available as well as gluten-free or whole wheat pizza crusts

• Vegetarian and vegan friendly

DETAILS

Opening hours: Daily 11.30am-11pm Payment method: Cash, Visa, MC and AMEX

Reservations recommended Takeaway, delivery, private chef and catering service available

Lobster & Shrimp Ravioli

CI$27.95

Homemade ravioli with shallots and creamy lobster sauce

Zuppa di Pesce

CI$48.95

Lobster tail, snapper, jumbo shrimps and jumbo scallops in garlic basil tomato broth

Sample Authentic Wood Oven Pizzas:

Vegetarian

CI$16.45

4 Season CI$16.45

Calzone CI$16.45

Prosciutto di Parma CI$17.45

ragazzi@ragazzi.ky
Ragazzi Italian and Seafood Cuisine
HIGHLIGHTS
www.ExploreCayman.com 79
MENU HIGHLIGHTS Intro Best of Land Best of Water Camana Bay West Bay George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer Services/Index Seven Mile Beach

• ‘Tori Pops’ 100% organic

• Free WiFi

• Patio dining

Scoops Cayman is the exclusive retailer of Devon House I Scream in the Cayman Islands. Originating in Jamaica, the brand is ranked among the best ice creams in the world. As a nod to Jamaica’s heritage, Devon House is a beautiful mansion in the country’s capital, Kingston.

The Devon House I Scream is designed for the tropics, with slow melting ingredients along with the fruits and vegetables grown in Jamaica, to provide a lasting and pleasurable indulgence. There are many flavours to choose from including some seasonal options.

Scoops Cayman also offers pastries from the Devon House Bakery as well as signature puddings, premium patties, such as curry goat, shrimp, lobster, chicken and a variety of pastries made locally in the Cayman Islands. They have a selection of cold pressed juices and smoothies made from natural fruits and vegetables grown in the Cayman Islands. Sandwiches and wraps are all designed by their wonderful Head Chef, Olando Bolton.

Their central location on Seven Mile Beach, on the ground floor of the Locale Hotel, provides a wonderful dining experience indoors and a large garden patio to share memorable moments with family and friends.

• JABLUM coffee

8.30am-10pm

popsicles
Special events packages
Breakfast, lunch and dessert
SMB MAP page 64....................................... 17 (345) 946 1434 455 West Bay Road i.scream@scoopscayman.com scoopscayman.com
HIGHLIGHTS Scoops Cayman Ice Cream Shop, Breakfast, Lunch and Dessert
DETAILS
Saturday-Sunday
Payment method: Cash, Visa, MC, Discover and Diners Club International Single Yaad Cone CI$5 Single Waffle Cone CI$7 4oz Tub CI$6.50 2 Scoops Sundae CI$9 Sweet Potato Pudding Slice CI$6 Rum Cake Slice CI$8 Bread Pudding Slice CI$6 Curry Goat Patty CI$10 Chicken Patty CI$7 Scoops Club Sandwich CI$6.50 Ackee/Saltfish Wrap CI$8.50 MENU HIGHLIGHTS EXPLORE 2023 • Explore more with the free Explore Cayman iPhone and iPad app 80 Intro Best of Land Best of Water
Opening hours: Monday-Friday 6.30am-10pm
Staying Longer Services/Index
Camana Bay West Bay George Town Eastern Districts
Seven Mile Beach

Tortuga Beach Grill & Bar Beach Bar

HIGHLIGHTS

• Seven Mile Beach oceanside dining

• Happy hour 5pm-7pm every night

(345) 945 3800

The Westin Grand Cayman, Seven Mile Beach Resort wstgcfood-beverage@pyramidglobal.com westingrandcayman.com

19

Situated on the most expansive stretch of the famed Seven Mile Beach, Tortuga Beach Grill & Bar offers an unparalleled alfresco dining experience in a casual setting. Their all-day dining menu is bursting with diversity and flavour, featuring foodie favourites such as conch fritters, fish tacos, pizzas and more. Evenings at Tortuga offer an unforgettable atmosphere with live music, happy hour and the sunset as your backdrop.

MENU HIGHLIGHTS

Tuna Poke Bowl CI$22

Onion, scallion, avocado, edamame, seaweed salad, sushi rice

Caribbean Grouper Sandwich CI$18

Grilled or blackened, lettuce, tomato, pickle, chips, coleslaw, herb tartar sauce, lime, brioche bun

Thin Crust Pizzas

From CI$16

A selection of pizzas including: margherita, jerk chicken, alfredo, truffle and cheese

Tortuga Seafood Grill Platter CI$56

Caribbean lobster tail, mahi mahi, conch fritters, grilled shrimp coconut rice and beans, grilled corn, scotch bonnet mayo, lemon butter

Angus Beef Burger CI$20

Regular or jerk spiced, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickle, Tortuga secret sauce, brioche bun

• Live music 6pm-8pm every night except Tuesday and Sunday

• Selection of local and international beers

• Expansive cocktail menu

• Taco Tuesday special

• Paella Monday special

DETAILS

Operating hours: Monday-Sunday 10am-9pm Happy Hour daily 5pm-7pm Live music 6pm-8pm every night except Tuesday and Sunday

Payment method: Cash, Visa, MC, Discover and Diners Club International

No reservations necessary

PROMOTIONS

Happy hour is 2 for 1 on selected beers and discounts on selected cocktails.

MAP page 64............................................
SMB
www.ExploreCayman.com 81 Intro Best
of Land Best of Water
Camana Bay West Bay George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer Services/Index Seven Mile Beach

National Gallery of the Cayman Islands Art Gallery, Shop and Café

HIGHLIGHTS

Esterley Tibbetts Highway info@nationalgallery.org.ky nationalgallery.org.ky

(345) 945 8111

SMB MAP page 64....................................... 20

Established in 1996, the National Gallery of the Cayman Islands (NGCI) is a vibrant arts organisation. The 9,000sq ft gallery is home to a growing permanent collection of significant Caymanian works of art and hosts eight major exhibitions annually.

The NGCI Permanent Collection Loosely assembled by decade, the collection traces a historical and stylistic journey. Starting with the visionary markings of Miss Lassie, to the early work of realist painters who sought to capture “the islands time forgot”, on to the early 1990s when local art was influenced by the changing realities of the time and through to the multidisiplinary contemporary art currently being created. These works tell the story of Caymanian art and provide the visual record of a growing country.

Temporary Exhibitions NGCI hosts up to eight temporary exhibitions a year, including group shows, international exhibitions and works by established artists.

Events Ongoing events include a wide variety of workshops, screenings and lectures for all ages. Café, Shop & Gardens Take a wander around the sculpture garden and enjoy a coffee break before purchasing a Cayman-produced memento from the Gallery Shop.

• Modern purpose-built facility with world class exhibitions

• Stunning sculpture gardens and walkable labyrinth

• Home of the National Art Collection

• Unique gifts and souvenirs including fine art prints from the National Collection

• Art Café overlooking the sculpture gardens

• Special events and art workshops

DETAILS

Opening hours: Monday-Saturday 10am-5pm Prices: Free entry and parking. Donations welcome Additional information: Guided tours are available by appointment
are available for rental
EXPLORE and receive a free tea or coffee. PROMOTIONS EXPLORE 2023 • Explore more with the free Explore Cayman iPhone and iPad app 82 Intro Best of Land Best of Water
Facilities
Mention
Eastern Districts Staying Longer Services/Index Seven Mile Beach
Camana
Bay West Bay George Town

Cayman Safari Small Group Tours

(345) 925 3002

info@caymansafari.com caymansafari.com

Hop into one of Cayman Safari’s customised open air vehicles for a unique and exciting adventure around Cayman! More than a sightseeing tour, it’s an interactive journey of discovery. Tours are led by superb local guides who have a deep love for and strong historical ties to the Island. You will enjoy genuine Caymanian hospitality, learn about the Island’s past and experience a different way of life as you venture into the cultural heart of Cayman. You will see some of the most beautiful places on the Island and encounter some unique photo opportunities!

1/2 East Safari (3.5 hours) Explore the eastern side where stops may include Pedro Castle, the Botanic Park and the craft market. The full East Tour, which includes a local lunch, is available on Fridays. Phone for availability.

West Safari (3.5 hours) Explore the western side where stops may include the unique and quiet Barkers National Park, Hell, the Tortuga Rum Cake Store and the Cayman Turtle Centre.

Crystal Caves Safari (3.5 hours) Explore the caves where you’ll see stalactite and stalagmite crystal structures and other worldly formations. As you travel along the outer districts there will be a few photo op stops along the way. Guests must be able to walk up stairs unaided. Activity level is moderate.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Knowledgeable, informative guides

• Experience Cayman culture beyond the tourist spots

• Meet interesting local people

• Sample real Caymanian food

• Visit remote areas of the Island

• Highly rated on TripAdvisor

• Small group size

DETAILS

Hours of operation: Tours run daily

Tour Prices – includes entrance fees:

1/2 East: Adults US$99, kids US$89

West Safari: Adults US$89, kids US$79

Crystal Caves: Adults US$99, kids US$89

Call or visit the website for more tour options as well as private and customised tours

Location: Pick up and drop off from most major hotels, condos and the cruise ship terminal

Payment method: Cash, Visa, MC and Discover Mention EXPLORE and receive 5% discount per person on the West Safari.

PROMOTIONS

www.ExploreCayman.com 83 Intro
Best
of Land Best of Water Camana Bay West Bay George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer
Services/Index
Seven Mile Beach

Kitesurf Cayman Kitesurfing Lessons & Rentals

Barkers National Park, West Bay (345) 916 5483

info@kitesurfcayman.com kitesurfcayman.com

16

HIGHLIGHTS

• Fun activity for ages 8-70

• No experience needed. If you can swim, you can kitesurf and windsurf!

• Courtesy shuttle available along Seven Mile Beach and George Town area

Kitesurf Cayman offers you a unique opportunity to try something exciting this vacation! Located on sun-drenched Barkers Beach, they offer worldclass conditions for beginners to master this sport with confidence. Warm flat waters, expansive open space, and a waist deep teaching area offers first-timers the perfect learning environment. Experienced IKO instructors will help guide you in a fun and easy way. Kitesurf Cayman’s introductory lesson will help you decide if kitesurfing is the sport for you! Feel the rush of adrenaline and experience what makes kiting so addictive for those who try it.

Individual Two Hour Private Lesson: US$340

Semi-Private Two Hour Lesson: Two students, one instructor, one kite to share US$200 p.p Six hour package: US$990 Windsurf Lessons Two Hours: US$250

Waterman: Galleria Plaza, West Bay Road Blue Wave Surf Co: West Shore Centre, West Bay Road (345) 769 7873

info@watermancayman.ky watermancayman.ky

WB MAP page 54............................................ X

SMB MAP page 64...........................................

Waterman - Blue Wave Surf Co. offers the finest in surf apparel from brands such as RVCA, Quiksilver, Roxy, Billabong, Vissla, Amuse Society, Reef, Olukai, Freewaters, and Kaenon. They also stock surf, SUP and kitesurfing equipment from Firewire, Al Merrick, Slingshot, Fanatic, Coreban, Bote, Creative Army, Tom Carrol, Yeti, Dakine, 7s and more.

more with

• Two hour private and semi-private lessons plus packages available

• Two way radio helmet coaching

• Kitesurf and windsurf equipment rental

• Paddle Board Rentals available (SUP)

• Waterman Surf Shop offers a great selection of equipment/surf clothing

• Now offering windsurfing lessons

• The longest running kitesurfing company on the Island (14 years)

• Waterman Surf shop and Blue Wave located on West Bay Road (SMB)

DETAILS

Operating hours:

PROMOTIONS Intro Best of Land Best of

Kite School: Seven days a week 8am-6pm Waterman: Monday-Saturday 10am-5pm Payment method: Cash, Visa, MC, Discover, Diners Club and AMEX

free

EXPLORE 2023 • Explore
the
Explore
iPhone
Kitesurf Cayman: Mention EXPLORE and receive 10% off rentals services. Waterman: Mention EXPLORE and receive 5% off purchases. 84
Cayman
and iPad app
Water
Staying Longer Services/Index
Camana Bay West Bay George Town Eastern Districts
Seven Mile Beach

parasailingprofessionals@gmail.com parasailinggrandcayman.com

For a breathtaking bird’s-eye view of Grand Cayman and the crystal clear waters of Seven Mile Beach, take a ride with Parasailing Professionals. A safe but exhilarating ride suitable for the whole family, you will “fly” hundreds of feet in the air above the sea. They offer single, double and triple rides which take off and land on the boat – it’s a smooth ride and no skill or experience is required.

Additional Information

The Parasailing Professionals crew will pick you up and drop you off by boat at most locations along Seven Mile Beach.

Trips last 30-60 minutes, with approximately 10 minutes ‘flying time’. A 1,000ft line will winch you to heights of up to 400ft.

Don’t forget to take a camera (waterproof cameras recommended!) for great aerial shots, or leave it with one of the crew to take photos of you from down below.

The highly experienced staff will make your trip hassle-free and exciting.

Parasail rides are subject to maximum combined weight of 400lbs and a minimum weight of approximately 160lbs to 200lbs depending on weather conditions.

• Single, double or triple parasailing rides

• A safe but exhilarating ride

• Breathtaking views

• Suitable for all ages

• No experience necessary

• Fly up to 400 feet up in the air

• Crew has over 30 years of experience

• Pick ups available along Seven Mile Beach

• Comprehensively insured

Hours of operation: 9am–5pm

Prices: Single US$105, Double US$195, Triple US$240

Trips last 30-60 minutes, with 10 minutes flying time

Convenient shuttle boat pick-up and drop-off along SMB

Payment method: Cash, Visa, MC, AMEX and Discover

Book direct and receive US$10 off per person when you mention EXPLORE.

SMB MAP page 64........................................ 9 (345) 916 2953 Seven
Mile Beach
Parasailing Professionals Parasailing
DETAILS PROMOTIONS HIGHLIGHTS
www.ExploreCayman.com 85 Intro Best of Land
Best of Water
Camana Bay West Bay
Services/Index
George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer Seven Mile Beach
THE RISE West Shore Centre Canella Court Cassia Court Jasmine Court Gardenia Court MARRIOTT BEACH RESORT, GEORGE TOWN THE RITZ-CARLTON THE WESTIN KIMPTON SEAFIRE FORUM LANE THE PASEO THE PASEO NEXUSWAY SOLARIS AVE SOLARIS AVE Solaris Parking Garage Forum Parking Garage MARKET STREET MARKET STREET TO FESTIVAL GREEN TO CAYMAN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL & SPORTS FACILITIES TO OLEA CAMANA BAY MINERVADRIVE WEST BAY ROAD WEST BAY ROAD Heliconia Court Galleria Plaza Foster’s Camana Bay Marquee Plaza 60 Nexus Way LAWRENCE BOULEVARD ESTERLEYTIBBETTS HIGHWAY E S T E R L E Y T I B B E T T S H I G H W A Y F.J. Harquail Cultural Centre Kapok STEVE FOSTER WAY BISMARCKIAWAY EMERITUS DRIVE E M E R I T US DR IVE CAMANA BAY Abacus p93 Cayman Luxury Charters p41 Crazy Crab p42 Five Star Charters p43 Silhouette p92 Union p94 West Indies Wine Co. p95 Camana Bay Key 1 2 6 3 1 7 5 Camana Bay Visitor Centre The Observation Tower Poof the Blue Dragon Drinking Fountain Interactive Fountains ATM Dining Farmers & Artisans Market Cinema Parking Electric Station Post Office Restrooms MAP IS NOT TO SCALE 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 4 Camana Bay EXPLORE 2023 • Explore more with the free Explore Cayman iPhone and iPad app 86 Intro Best of Land Best of Water Seven Mile Beach West Bay George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer Services/Index

CAMANA BAY

CAM BAY

Located just steps from Grand Cayman’s world-famous Seven Mile Beach, the lively waterfront town of Camana Bay is a must-see destination for visitors and is the address that many residents call work or home.

As the first New Urbanist community in the region built with connectivity and accessibility in mind, Camana Bay offers word-class offices, stunning residences, shopping, dining, family-friendly entertainment, a packed events calendar and lush outdoor spaces with unique attractions in one location.

www.ExploreCayman.com 87
Photo by Camana Bay

All About Local

Visitors can get a glimpse of local life every Wednesday with the seasonal Farmers & Artisans Market. Can’t make it on Wednesday? Come another day and you’re likely to find performances by local talent and you can browse the shops of Camana Bay. Enjoy shopping for a selection of products made in Cayman or inspired by its natural beauty and storied history. Sit down for a meal or beverage at one of the restaurants and it’s bound to have a local ingredient or two!

Farmers & Artisans Market The Market is held every Wednesday from 10am to 5pm on the Paseo. Discover an array of local purveyors offering products and experiences found only in Cayman. Come early for the widest selection of fresh produce and local specialities, then browse an eclectic selection of artisanal products and handicrafts. The market schedule is subject to change so be sure to follow Camana Bay on Facebook and Instagram for updates.

Local Tunes by Local Talent The restaurants and bars at Camana Bay love hosting live music performances. Almost every day of the week you’ll find local musicians from across the Island grace the Town Centre with sweet tunes of all genres. With saxophonists, guitarists, jazz singers and more, there are sounds for all to enjoy.

The Perfect Souvenir Many of the shops at Camana Bay are proud to carry local products, ensuring visitors can always find an authentic piece of Cayman to take home. From thoughtful mementos that are uniquely Caymanian to hot sauces that spice up your life, shops and restaurants like Next Chapter, Foster’s supermarket, Bedside Manor and Tomfoodery all offer authentic pieces that visitors and locals alike can enjoy.

Tomfoodery Farmers & Artisans Market Dine at Camana Bay
EXPLORE 2023 • Explore more with the free Explore Cayman iPhone and iPad app 88
Camana Bay
Intro Best of Land Best of Water
Seven Mile Beach West Bay George Town Eastern Districts
Services/Index
Staying Longer

Play at Camana Bay

Events From family-friendly activities such as community art events, live story readings and free outdoor movies to the beloved annual lighting of the Camana Bay Christmas tree, the Town Centre hosts hundreds of signature events throughout the year. For a complete calendar of events visit www.camanabay. com/things-to-do-grand-cayman/events/.

The Observation Tower Walk up the majestic 75-ft Observation Tower for a 360-degree view of Grand Cayman and be mesmerised by the floor-to-ceiling marine mosaic mural on the way up. Made up of over three million Venetian tiles, the stunning display illustrates an underwater scene familiar to divers who have experienced the renowned dive sites for which Cayman is known. The tower is equipped with elevator access. Stop by the Camana Bay Visitor Centre before you make the climb for a free Observation Tower informational and activity pack – great for adults and kids alike.

Interactive Fountains Let the kids loose in the interactive fountains. In Jasmine Court, water spurts mingle with colour, delighting tots and toddlers. On the Crescent, dancing waters with skyward bursts reaching 30 feet thrill brave youngsters.

The Courtyards Choose a book from Next Chapter and relax in one of the five courtyards: Jasmine, Cassia, Gardenia, Canella and Heliconia. Named after the prominent flowers found in their garden, each courtyard has a distinct character and offers cool breezes and welcoming seating.

The Island On a palm tree-lined beach, the Island provides a peaceful place to relax in a hammock and watch boats sail through the harbour, including Cayman Ferries, which keeps a regular schedule of roundtrips to Kaibo in North Side.

Passport to Camana Bay Visit the Camana Bay Visitor Centre to pick up a free copy of your Passport to Camana Bay, a familyfriendly activity guide suitable for all ages and for residents and visitors alike. This guide is sure to keep the whole family entertained with colouring pages and trivia questions while also learning cool facts about Camana Bay. At the end of your adventure, present the completed booklet to the Visitor Centre in exchange for a voucher for a free kid’s gelato from Gelato & Co.

The Rise A pedestrianised walking path offering visitors and residents the opportunity to stroll from the Crescent of Camana Bay to West Bay Road in under 10 minutes.

Live. Work. Love the harbour views, cool breezes and more than 60 shops, restaurants and amenities that are at your fingertips in Camana Bay? Now, you can move between your home and office and never have to leave! Whether you’re looking to own a home in OLEA, Camana Bay’s first residential for-sale neighbourhood featuring Grand Cayman’s only lazy river, rent one of the luxurious Terraces or Kapok apartments in the heart of the Town Centre, or lease premier office space, Camana Bay is the destination for global business and Caribbean community. For more information on residential options ranging from studios to four-bedroom townhouses, email olea@camanabay.com or to enquire about turnkey solutions for office space, email leasing@dart.ky.

Interactive Fountains
www.ExploreCayman.com 89
Camana Bay
Intro Best
of Land Best of Water Seven Mile Beach West Bay
Services/Index
George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer

Dine at Camana

Bay

Explore some of Grand Cayman’s top restaurants and discover a tempting mix of cafés, markets and signature restaurants with dining options for every craving.

Cafés & Sweet Treats

The Edgy Vedge Vegan comfort foods, fresh juices, smoothies, teas and coffees. (345) 324 4359

Gelato & Co. Authentic Italian ice creams, pastries and cakes. (345) 324 4359

Häagen-Dazs Fine ice creams, sorbets and smoothies. (345) 946 8061

Jessie’s Juice Bar Fresh juices, smoothies, teas, coffees and health foods. (345) 949 2012

Petit Paris French bakery with sweet treats and European classics. (345) 328 4000

Starbucks High-quality coffee and wide selection of teas, pastries and hot and savoury foods. (345) 233 7827

Starbucks

SIGNATURE RESTAURANTS & BARS

Abacus Sustainable farm-to-table and ocean-to-plate cuisine with alfresco dining. (345) 623 8282 SEE PAGE 93

Agua Italian cuisine with a Peruvian twist. Indoor and outdoor patio seating by the water. (345) 949 2482

The Brooklyn Pizza + Pasta ItalianAmerican cuisine with international flair and waterfront views. (345) 640 0005

The Edgy Vedge “Veganised” comfort food in a trendy atmosphere. (345) 746 3349

KARoo Crisp designer cocktails and small plates. (345) 946 6633

Mizu Asian Bistro + Bar Southeast Asianinspired fare with a waterfront Teppanyaki table. (345) 640 0001

Next Door Caymanian-inspired cocktails and elegant bar bites. (345) 746 2484

Pane & Pasta A wide choice of freshly made pasta and bakery products for dinein or take away bringing home a taste of

Italy. (345) 547 9208

Pani Indian Kitchen Authentic Indian restaurant with flavour profiles from various regions of India. (345) 640 0007

Tomfoodery Fast-casual Caribbeaninspired meals. (345) 326 1601

Union Grill & Bar Grilled meats, fresh seafood, artisan cocktails plus tapas-style bar snacks. (345) 640 5660 SEE PAGE 94

The Waterfront Urban Diner Freshly made American classics and gastro-pub fare. (345) 640 0002

West Indies Wine Company Unique wine tasting room and inspired shop. (345) 6409492 SEE PAGE 95

TOP TIP For more information on Town Centre happenings, please visit camanabay.com or call the Visitor Centre at (345) 640 4000

EXPLORE 2023 • Explore more with the free Explore Cayman iPhone and iPad app 90 Intro Best of Land Best of
George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer Services/Index
Camana Bay
Water Seven Mile Beach West Bay

Shop at Camana Bay

As Grand Cayman’s premier shopping destination, Camana Bay’s Town Centre is the perfect place to enjoy some retail therapy. Browse the shops and discover an eclectic mix of local treasures and top international brands, including POLO Ralph Lauren, Prada, Gucci, Michael Kors, Lacoste and more. Find everything from duty-free jewellery, designer fashion and resort wear, luxurious skincare and cosmetics, to locally made treasures, bestselling books and high-tech gadgets, all in one convenient location.

FASHION & BEAUTY

Align

Aon

ESSENTIAL SERVICES

Digicel

Fluff ‘n’ Fold

Anytime Fitness Butterfield

Camana Bay Visitor Centre

Cayman Dental & Cayman Orthodontics

Cayman Music School & The Music Box

Foster’s Camana Bay Health City Camana Bay

Mail Boxes Etc. Must Love Dogs

Red Sail Sports Ryde Scotiabank

Amé

De Sunglass Man

Eclipze Hair Design & Day Spa

Flagship by Vertu

Forever Summer Island Jewellers

Le Visage

Little Angels NKY NKY Collections

Pandora

POLO by NKY Red’s Emporium Sand Angels

Silhouette SEE PAGE 92

SOLES Shoe Salon Sportista

BOOKS & TECHNOLOGY

Audi Cayman Islands

Bang & Olufsen by Audiophile

Next Chapter

Cayman MAC Store

FOOD, WINE & HOME

Bedside Manor

Blackbeard’s

Bon Vivant Kitchen Studio

Carnivore

Design Studio

GREAT ROOM by NKY

OLEA Sales & Presentation Centre

West Indies Wine Company SEE PAGE 95

Cayman National Bank CrossFit Cayman

Starfish Village & Village Montessori VisionWear Cayman ZÜN

ENTERTAINMENT

Camana Bay Cinema

If you need a break from the sunny skies and sandy beaches, Camana Bay Cinema is the Island’s only seven-screen complex showing the latest movies including three VIP theatres with leather recliners and a dedicated concession area and bar, serving a full menu of food and drink options. Call (345) 640 3456.

Camana Bay Sports Complex Visitors wanting to stay fit while on vacation can book the tennis, pickleball and basketball courts, a 25-metre swimming pool and the FIFA-rated sports field. To make a booking request or enquiry, call (345) 640 2878 or email: cbsc@camanabay.com.

Camana Bay Harbour

A number of watersports companies operate out of Camana Bay’s harbour, offering many ways to explore and enjoy the ocean. For more information call (345) 640 4000 or email: harbour@camanabay.com.

OLEA-Lazy River
www.ExploreCayman.com 91
Camana Bay Intro Best of Land Best of Water Seven Mile Beach West Bay George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer
Services/Index

The Paseo, Camana Bay info@silhouette.ky silhouette.ky

Silhouette is Cayman’s premier retailer specialising exclusively in the finest selection of lingerie and underwear. Head to Camana Bay to browse a variety of brands and sizes to suit your intimate needs. Whether you’re looking for lace and rhinestones for a special occasion, the perfect birthday gift for that unique someone, or simply want to treat yourself to something beautiful, Silhouette has something for you.

With new arrivals scheduled often, they stock a range of brands including UGG, Cosabella, Hanky Panky, local designer Ted Green and more. Every person is different, especially when it comes to intimate wear. With their wide range of designs and styles, you’ll have plenty of choice to suit your personal preferences. Taking pride in their professionalism, Silhouette’s staff have a talent for picking out the perfect lingerie to suit your needs.

The store also has professionally-trained bra fitters who are sure to find the perfect fitting undergarments, whether it’s your first bra or your fiftieth, to boost your self-esteem and enhance your Silhouette!

HIGHLIGHTS

• Premier retailer for lingerie and underwear

• Stocks a variety of brands including UGG, Cosabella, Barefoot Dreams, Hanky Panky, Eberjay, Bedhead Pajamas, Bluebella and Saxx

• Bra fitting service available by professionally-trained staff

• Caters to both men and women

• Professional and discreet staff

• Also stocks a variety of homeware and gifts

• Large selection of lingerie styles to suit various body shapes

DETAILS

Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 10am-7pm

Payment method: Cash, MC, Visa, Discover and the Camana Bay Gift Card

CB MAP page 86..........................................
5 (345) 943 5223
Lingerie and Underwear
Silhouette
EXPLORE 2023 • Explore more with the free Explore Cayman iPhone and iPad app 92
Best of Land Best of
Intro
Water
Seven Mile Beach West Bay
Services/Index
George Town Eastern Districts
Staying Longer
Camana Bay

HIGHLIGHTS

• Bar and lounge culture with carefully curated wine list

(345) 623 8282

The Paseo, Camana Bay manager@abacus.ky abacus.ky

CB MAP page 86............................................ 1

Neil Bryington and Markus Mueri opened the doors to Abacus at Camana Bay in 2007. They offer a refined, modern Caribbean indoor and outdoor setting accompanied by a sophisticated menu. Their selection of seafood, harvest vegetables and spices are sourced both organically and regionally. Enjoy an eclectic and seasonal menu paired with a carefully curated wine list, a collection of craft beers or a handcrafted signature cocktail.

PROMOTIONS

• 15 hand selected wines by the glass

• Cocktails made with local fruits

• Indoor and outdoor dining

• Open kitchen concept

• Saturday night live music by Hi-Tide

• Caribbean Lobster Night CI$59.50

DETAILS

Opening hours: Lunch 11am-3pm Dinner 5.30pm-10.30pm Bar and Lounge from 11am Closed on Sunday

Payment method: Cash, MC, Visa, Discover, AMEX and the Camana Bay Gift Card “All You Can Eat” Caribbean Lobster night Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday night for CI$59.50

Octopus CI$14.95 Tomato, basil, garlic, olives and white wine

Ceviche CI$14.95 Chayote, scotch bonnet, orange, key lime and pomegranate

Oxtail Spring Roll CI$12.95 Thai pickle slaw, tamarind aioli

*All menu items are subject to price changes

Mixed Grille

CI$36.95 Grilled local fish, lobster tail and scallop with shrimp and grilled watermelon

Seafood Risotto

CI$34.95 Caribbean lobster, shrimp, octopus, green peas and Italian parmesan

Surf & Turf

CI$48.95 5oz Caribbean lobster tail and 5oz filet of beef tenderloin, asparagus, broccolini and a peppercorn sauce

Inspired
Abacus Caribbean
Fish and Steakhouse
www.ExploreCayman.com 93
MENU HIGHLIGHTS Intro Best of Land Best of Water Seven Mile Beach West Bay George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer Services/Index Camana Bay

The Crescent, Camana Bay

(345) 640 5660

uniongrillcayman@outlook.com unioncayman.com

CB MAP page 86.......................................... 6

Union Grill is one of Cayman’s chicest restaurants. Located in bustling Camana Bay, the sophisticated interior is matched by the incredible range of casual fine-dining options such as chargrilled CAB steaks, fresh catch of the day, lobster, homemade pasta and plant-based options. Sip on a cocktail prepared by their master mixologists as you feel the breeze blowing off the canal front.

PROMOTIONS

Steak Night every Tuesday – receive 20% off all premium steaks. Happy Hour every Friday – great deals on cocktails, wine and bubbles.

• Happy Hour Friday 5pm-7pm

• Live Jazz Thursday 7pm-9pm

• Artisan cocktails

• Stunning interior

• Cocktail Masterclasses

• Incredible steaks and bistro cuisine

• Kids menu available

• Outside dining available

DETAILS

Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 11.30am-9.30pm Thursday-Saturday - Cocktail Masterclasses

Payment method: Cash, MC, Visa, Discover, AMEX and Camana Bay Gift Card

Truffle Mushroom Pâté

CI$15 Porcini and oyster mushrooms, truffle, cornichons, grilled sourdough

Ceviche ‘Aguachile’ CI$20 Local wahoo, passionfruit, lime, cucumber, plantain chips

Ranch & Reef CI$55

Angus ‘bistro’ tenderloin, lobster tail, Old Bay fries, choice of sauce

Lamb Shank CI$36 Guinness-braised lamb, orange and raisin sauce, mustard mash

CI$16 Confit duck breast, braised red cabbage, sour cherries, tamarind sauce

Duck Tacos

*All menu items are subject to price changes

Lobster Spaghetti CI$35 Poached lobster, brandy cream bisque, fresh egg spaghetti

Grill & Bar Upscale
Bar
Union
Grill and Cocktail
HIGHLIGHTS
MENU HIGHLIGHTS EXPLORE 2023 • Explore more with the free Explore Cayman iPhone and iPad app 94 Intro Best of Land Best of Water
Mile Beach West Bay George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer Services/Index Camana Bay
Seven

West Indies Wine Company Wine Bar and Bottle Shop

HIGHLIGHTS

• Largest selection of wines by the glass in the Caribbean

(345) 640 9492

Corner of the Paseo and Market Street, Camana Bay info@wiwc.ky wiwc.ky

West Indies Wine Company is a full-service wine bar and bottle shop with over 80 different eclectic and exclusive wines by the glass. Their in-house experts can assist you in finding the perfect oneounce taste, three-ounce half glass or five-ounce full glass.

Inside there is room to stand and socialise or sit, sip and watch the world go by outside in the breeze of Camana Bay’s Paseo.

West Indies Wine Company also offers a full menu of artisan meats and cheeses, freshly made pizzas and perfectly paired small bites. They have a full bar serving beer, cocktails and luxurious sipping spirits.

This is the only location on the Island where customers can purchase wine, Champagne and spirits by the bottle at regular retail prices, seven days a week with extended late night hours. West Indies Wine Company is also available for group and corporate functions.

Join them every Thursday and Friday evening to listen to the music of local artists as you sip on a delicious glass of wine.

• Weekly events, tastings and themed nights

• Live music every Thursday and Friday night

• Full menu of artisan meats and cheeses, freshly made pizzas, and small bites

• Full bar serving beer, cocktails and luxurious sipping spirits

• Purchase wine, Champagne and spirits by the bottle at retail prices, seven days a week

DETAILS

Opening hours: Monday-Thursday 12pm-11pm Friday 12pm-12am Saturday 3pm-10pm Sunday 3pm-10pm

Payment method: Cash, MC, Visa, Discover, AMEX and Camana Bay Gift Card

CB MAP page 86..........................................
7
www.ExploreCayman.com 95
Intro Best of Land Best of Water Seven Mile Beach West Bay
Services/Index
George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer Camana Bay
rDsreltaW BernardDr KingbirdDr Belmont Cl C A R D I N A L L RDHOSPITAL EASTERNAVENUE E L G I N AVENUE SAMOHTREVALLESSU HULDAH AVE S MITH ROAD ON R T H S O NU D DAOR DROFNIL IP E R S O N H I G H W A Y TARIPSA I O N D R NABRIAF K S RD IGHWAY YCROD D R I EV O W E N R EBO STR EVIRD RED GATE R D C RE WE R O A D SKNABRIAF DR YBBOB NOSPMOHT YAW HTUOS DNUOS DAOR S H A M R O C K ROAD MARY ST UOS HT HCRUHC TEERTS W A L K E R S DAOR A C A D E M YWAY N O R TH CHUR CH ST G . N I XON SRERAFAES YAW F O R T TS D R R O Y S DR HS E D D E N ROAD MAIN ST ATM E A S ON R T H S O U DN DR AGNESWAY Adacov o Lena tnewG Way CaptainsCourt PassageLn Grackle Rd W e s t w o o d D r Hickory Dr retnirP yaW Morningside Dr Domino Mahoe St Satinwood St B o n n e View Ave Poinsettia Ln Croton Ln Hibiscus Ln Duke Way Carnation Ln PebblesWay MemorialAve Holly Drive BarnesDrive R o MelmacAveElleryMerren Dr AvedoownottuBAlmondAve Newport St yaB dnalsI Ave Moxam Rd timmuS Cres riAleB Dr Fairview Rd F e r n C r c l e yebbA yaW kcotsdooW daoR yrotciV Ave Prospect Dr Marina Dr Selkirk Drive aniraM rD C o u str daoR SpruceLn Bdo den R d Schoo l R d WdnuoS a y tocsserG nL dleiFcM A n n e x nL Diaz Ln Wa s h i n g t o n R d G r e e n w o o d D r Elc ipse Dr W o o d p e kc re lC Kennedy Dr Wdoo lake Dr oghsA S t -gniddaP not nL pmoC a s s rD P o r t l a n d R d I n d u s t r ia l Way DnodnelcaM r Tortug a Way ruomyeS dR icremmoC a l evA Sher doow Dr s’ykrapS rD Wren Ln evAgniroG Boilers Rd WarwickDr Parson ’s Circle Maple Rd rDynohtnA C eo em r D r Hawkins Dr Williams Dr Theresa Dr Templewood St OlympicW a y L e g iu n ae elcriC L a n t a n a Way WaysdniH BebeeClose M luberry Dr Stonewall Dr s'retsbeW Dr A n t o inette Ave eunevAehT iVne naCircle yraM Rdae C r es ennA CynnoBser Grace S t tStsoptuO Silver PalmsCres dlO ewerC dR laciporT draG sne dR hP elan Cl GlenEden Rd Clay to n Keturah St Templeton St Denham Thompson Way FourPoin t EchoSt St Z e e d a h serC Ju ly tS FairfaxWay Odnalka S t epoH rD Crusader Way Glen lCtnom DrRankin RandykeWayConcord Ave laH i f a x R dao Misu c C l ydoleM nL Ella Mae Gardens rDkoorbnarC Birch Wood Rd Alamo Dr Bowie Cl Crocket Ln Windfern Cl Canal Ln Mistrel Cl nayR dR otlA yaW mlaP laD e A ev Succes Cir TranquilWay T r o ipanac Cser lerroS D r inimiB rD L o r d s yaW I lsdna D r edisekaL rD s’larimdA evA Anchorage Ave evorgnaM A ynagohaM yaW evAhcriB yaWdoowgoL GrapeAve ytraP nL Orange Dr D Ithmar Cir FairlawnRd awanuR y C l ProspectPoi n t R dao Lincoln Dr L a n c a s t e r serC Tempes t Way Oak Mill St Sanda lwood Cre s hcnoC rD egdE retaW yaW Spinnaker Rd eznorB dR ScottsLanding yzeerB Grand Is l e yaW hguorobxoR tS lClufecaeP loHkcoR e dR Pa r r o t Ave tcepsorP rD MiddleRd PinesDr T h o m p s on Dr tnorfekaL rD E dgemereCir Sting r a y D r East Blvd Win dsor Park Rd dnoP dR L hdny tsru Palm Dale Ave rDycageL divaD retsoF rD adow Ln S t a d i u m esorleM nL yaW evA The Mantras H C H C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C Grand Old House Bay Town Plaza Hilton Estates TheVenetia Harbour Walk Periwinkle FIN Coral Sands Kailani –Curio Collection by Hilton The Residences Oceana Seaview Kisha Casa Luna Church of God Chapel Caribbean Courts Cayman Coves Palm Springs Midtown Plaza The Retreats Ocean Crest Tides By The Sea Windsor Village Coccoloba Condos South Bend Villas Emerald Beach Club Caribbean Paradise Winter Haven Pirates Lair South Sound United Church Grand Hyatt Residences San Sebastian Bahia Privé South Bay Residence Shore Club Cayman Crossing Sunrise Grand Palmyra Royal Pines Silver Oaks Police Detention Centre Downtown Reach Vela The Bentley Vista Caribe Aura Indigo Bay Paraíso Residences Port Authority Car Rentals Private Aircraft Terminal Agape Arvia First BaptistChurch © Acorn Media 2023 CAMANA BA Y GT Key 8 4 2 10 7 Kirk FreeportBayshore Kirk FreeportCardinall Rocky’s Diamond Gallery Sunset House The Jewellery Palace p107 p107 p108 p113 p109 Artifacts Cathy Church’s CI Helicopters CI National Museum Harbour Grille Island Plaza 6 9 1 5 11 3 p104 p105 p110 p111 p112 p106 1 11 2 4 3 8 9 10 6 5 7 George Town Intro Best of Land Best of Water Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay West Bay Eastern Districts Staying Longer Services/Index 96

It is well worth a trip to George Town, the capital and financial hub of the Cayman Islands. George Town is where the Government conducts its business. It is also home to many high-end jewellery and beauty stores. There is lots to do here and, unlike most capital cities, it is surrounded by crystal clear waters and stunning sunset views.

www.ExploreCayman.com 97
Photo By Julie Corsetti

Things to do DOWNTOWN 10

 Learn All About Cayman at the National Museum. It was built in the 1830s and is a remarkably sophisticated museum with interactive displays that provide a great introduction to Cayman's heritage. Great for both adults and children. (SEE PAGE 111)

 Shop and make the most of duty free and tax free prices. In George Town you will find stores carrying top of the line jewellery, cameras, artwork, souvenirs, gifts, clothes and collectables. See later in this section for more information and suggestions.

 Take a Walking Tour and learn about some of Cayman’s history and culture. See page 102 for recommended family and guided walking tours.

 Dive the clear blue waters around George Town. Don Foster's (345) 938 4000 and Wall to Wall Diving (345) 916 6408 can take you on boat dives to the Kittiwake and Stingray City. At Eden Rock, explore the caves and the Wreck of the Cali, a 220ft schooner.

 An Underwater Tour with Nautilus (345) 945 1355 is a unique way to view the underwater world! The Nautilus is a semisubmarine, so it never fully submerges.

 Snorkel the calm waters around Eden Rock and you'll come across two reefs: Eden Rock and Devil’s Grotto. Another great spot is Cheeseburger Reef, located about 100200 yards off of the waterfront Burger King. If you don't have gear of your own, you can rent it from places like Divers Supply. Their

daily rate is CI$5 for a mask and snorkel, plus an additional CI$5 if you'd like fins.

 Feed the Tarpon every night at Casanova Ristorante at 7pm or at The Wharf at 7pm and 9pm. It’s also worth stopping by the Fish Market on North Church Street, next to Cayman Cabana, to watch the fishermen cleaning their daily catch.

 Practise Your Golf Swing at Cayman Golf Lab, an indoor golf facility. They offer two HD golf simulators and 400sq ft of putting green, as well as golf lessons. Call (345) 546 6786.

 Get Creative at 3 Girls & a Kiln (345) 640 9990 or Art Nest (345) 927 2258 and try pottery, painting, cupcake decorating and a range of other fun, artsy classes for both kids and adults.

 Enjoy a Sunset at one of the many bars lining the George Town harbour. The area's westerly orientation means you'll be treated to fantastic views of the colourful sky.

PIRATES Fest

In the latter half of the year, Cayman comes alive for Pirates Week, the country’s largest celebration. The best of the festivities take place in George Town, with street dances, a float parade, fireworks and more!

Photo by Gary White George Town Intro Best of Land Best of Water
Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay Staying Longer Services/Index EXPLORE 2023 • Explore more with the free Explore Cayman iPhone and iPad app 98
West Bay Eastern Districts

Things to do in the GT Outskirts 6 Shopping

 Take a Helicopter Tour with Cayman Islands Helicopters (SEE PAGE 110) and view this beautiful Island from the air. Choose from an Island or Stingray City tour or, for a truly memorable evening, go on a sunset flight followed by a romantic meal. You can even fly to Little Cayman and Cayman Brac in one day!

 Go Diving and Snorkelling at Sunset House (SEE PAGE 113) A dive resort, bar and restaurant with great snorkelling and shore diving just outside George Town. See the famous 9ft mermaid, Amphitrite and the wreck of WWII landing craft, The Nicholson.

 Brewery & Distillery Tours Learn about the brewing process during a tour of the Cayman Islands Brewery (345) 947 6699, where you’ll meet the experts and sample each of the beers. Spirit lovers will enjoy a behind the scenes tour of the 5,000sq ft Cayman Spirits Company Distillery. Learn how they produce their handcrafted spirits and then sample fresh batches of their two rums and locally-made vodka. (345) 943 4786.

 Relax at the Dart Family Park just a short five minute drive south of George Town. This shady park features lush landscaping, family playground facilities, a small amphitheatre, gazebos, restrooms and picnic tables. The National Trust's Visitor Centre and shop is located right inside the Park.

 Walk a Dog From the Humane Society The dogs at the shelter would love you to take them for a walk to stretch their legs! The cats would love some cuddles and play time too! Located on North Sound Road. (345) 949 1461.

 Swim and Snorkel at Smith's Barcadere Just a few minutes from George Town, this secluded beach is a local favourite and offers great snorkelling just off-shore.

Downtown George Town is where you will find many high-end jewellery shops as well as a few interesting and unique stores selling great gifts which you can take home with you. You can pick up all the groceries you'll need at Kirk Market (SEE PAGE 13) . As a reminder, George Town is quietest on non-cruise ship days. All downtown shops are closed on Sundays.

LOCAL ART & COLLECTABLES

 Artifacts Ltd. is a treasure trove of antique jewellery, maps, prints, china, shipwreck treasures and more. It's the perfect place to pick up a unique gift. (SEE PAGE 104)

 Cathy Church's Photo Centre is home to Cathy's famous collection of underwater photography. Photographs are available to purchase in a variety of sizes, with custom framing available. (SEE PAGE 105)

 Cayman Islands National Museum Shop offers a wide selection of locally-made products and souvenirs. They are the official distributor for Cayman flags and Coat of Arms plaques (SEE PAGE 111)

 Pure Art is located one mile south of George Town in an old Caymanian cottage. It is a treasure trove full of original paintings and prints by local artists, plus handmade jewellery, bags, ceramics, cushions and more.

The Craft Market, located just past the Fort George Ruins and opposite the waterfront, is a great place to watch local artisans at work and to pick up a unique gift or collector’s item. Browse handmade products like conch, Caymanite and Silver Thatch hats and bags. Also find delicious local jellies, pickles and snacks. Open on days when cruise ships are in port.

 3 Girls & a Kiln are located on the waterfront and offer a wide range of island-chic ceramic, handmade and upcycled goods. You can also join one of their many art classes!

Guy Harvey Gallery & Shoppe Marine themed original works of art, prints, clothing and gifts. You may even run into Guy Harvey himself! Located on South Church Street.

George Town Intro Best of Land Best of Water
Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay www.ExploreCayman.com 99
West Bay Eastern Districts Staying Longer Services/Index

Other great things to buy are watches, gems and precious metals as they are duty free and exempt from sales tax. Head downtown and wander around Island Plaza (SEE PAGE 106) on Harbour Drive, The Jewellery Palace (SEE PAGES 5 & 109) on South Church Street, Kay's Fine Jewelry

(SEE PAGE 7) on Fort Street or one of the many Kirk Freeport (SEE PAGE 107) stores located on Cardinall Avenue or in Bayshore Mall. Each of these companies offers a wide range of diamonds and other gemstones, as well as top-of-the-line jewellery. With duty free and tax free prices, buying jewellery and watches in Cayman is a smart move. You can also check out the boutique, familyowned jewellery store, Rocky's Diamond Gallery (SEE PAGE 108) , which specialises in high-end jewellery. They offer an extensive collection of gemstones that are perfect for life's big events. You can even have a piece of jewellery custom designed and made by their in-house jewellery designers. If you're on the hunt for something with a little more history, head to Artifacts (SEE PAGE 104) on Harbour Drive and view their extensive collection of beautiful antique items.

Cameras are duty free in Cayman and can often be less expensive than in the US or Europe. Cathy Church’s Photo Centre (SEE PAGE 105) at Sunset House Hotel, located on South Church Street, sells a wide range of digital cameras and accessories including GoPro, Nikon, Olympus, Fujifilm and Instax instant cameras along with multiple brands of underwater cameras.

BEAUTY PRODUCTS

Cardinall Avenue has many beauty stores, including Kirk Freeport’s La Parfumerie (SEE PAGE 107) which sells brands like Chanel, Clarins, Dior, Guerlain, Lancôme, L'Oréal and Sisley. You will also find a MAC makeup store and a Victoria's Secret.

CLOTHING

Blue Wave Lifestyle Wear & Surf Shop (345) 949 8166 specialises in beach clothing, swimwear, surf wear and accessories. Guy Harvey Gallery & Shoppe sells marine themed clothing. Find both upscale and affordable options at Vertu on Cardinall Avenue or treat yourself with a trip to LXL in Monaco Towers for a bit of luxury shopping.

& DRink

Bluestone Lane Café

Scan for restaurants, menus, promotions and more in the George Town area.

QUICK & EASY DINING

Aussie-inspired café serving breakfast and lunch. (345) 746 2555.

Bread & Chocolate

Healthy vegan all-day breakfast and lunch options, plus sweet treats. (345) 946 6239.

Gelato & Co

Authentic and delicious Italian gelato freshly made every day. Great coffees too. Cardinall Ave. (345) 743 9999.

Jack Sparrow Fish and Chips

A sustainable fish and chip shop with New Zealand/Aussie roots. Harbour Place. (345) 746 3474.

Kirk Market

Full-service supermarket with a great deli and salad bar for a healthy, delicious and reasonably priced lunch. SEE PAGE 13 South West Collective

Wholesome food for breakfast and lunch. Harbour Place. (345) 946 3004.

Singh’s Roti Shop

Family-run roti and local Caribbean restaurant. Great value for money. (345) 946 7684.

The Caribbean Kitchen

A range of traditional dishes with daily specials depending on which fresh local produce is available. Located in the Museum.

Food
JEWELLERY & DIAMONDS CAMERAS
SEE PAGE 111
George Town Intro Best of Land Best of Water Seven Mile Beach
Camana Bay Services/Index EXPLORE 2023 • Explore more with the free Explore Cayman iPhone and iPad app 100
West Bay Eastern Districts Staying Longer

RESTAURANTS

Casanova Ristorante

Much loved Italian restaurant with great food and friendly staff. Located on North Church Street. (345) 949 7633.

Guy Harvey's Boathouse Grill

Offers a mix of Caribbean and International cuisine with views over the harbour and a warm atmosphere. (345) 640 0020.

Le Vele Restaurant

A relaxed but upscale Italian restaurant on the waterfront offering seafood, pizza and pastas. North Church St. (345) 745 8353.

Lobster Pot

A seafood and steak restaurant. Enjoy your meal on their deck to enjoy sea views. (345) 949 2736.

Thai House Restaurant

Traditional Thai curries, seafood specials, noodles, salads and more. (345) 949 6141.

BARS

Cayman Cabana A waterfront bar that serves authentic Caymanian fare and incredible sunset views.

Rackam’s Waterfront Bar and Grill A waterfront bar with a wide selection of drinks and bar food. (345) 945 3860.

Sandbar Daiquiri Bar and Grill Popular bar overlooking the sea that often has live music. (345) 917 9779.

Silverside Rum Gallery & Grill A bar with great views and a large selection of rums. Serves Caribbean tapas food. Located above Eden Rock. (345) 749 3434.

The Wicket Located in Cricket Square next to The Brasserie. Open every Friday, 5pm-7pm, for Happy Hour. (345) 945 1815.

White Whale Pub & Ale Popular bar on the waterfront with a great value happy hour. (345) 640 0020.

FOOD & DRINK OUTSKIRTS

Agave

Serving fresh, authentic Mexican cuisine and delicious tequila and mezcal cocktails. (345) 947 5555.

The Brasserie

Offering gourmet fusion food served in a stylish setting. (345) 945 1815.

China Village

Enjoy Cantonese and Szechuan Chinese cuisine, along with great dim sum on Sundays. Plaza Venezia. (345) 945 3490.

George Town Yacht Club (GTYC)

Offers fresh, local seafood with a lovely pool area for kids to splash around in. Arrive by boat or car. (345) 947 4892.

Grand Old House (GOH)

Located on the water, GOH has old world charm, great food and beautiful sunset views. South Church Street. (345) 949 9333.

Harbour Grille

Comfort food favourites as well as homecooked dishes and Caribbean classics. (345) 945 5200. SEE PAGE 112

Kazoku Japanese Bistro

Authentic sushi bar and teppanyaki grill with great weekly promotions. (345) 943 8744.

Seaharvest Restaurant & My Bar

Laid back waterfront tiki bar and restaurant located at Sunset House. A wide menu of great food, including delicious curries. SEE PAGE 113

Lobster Pot George Town
Intro
Best of Land Best of Water
Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay www.ExploreCayman.com 101
West Bay Eastern Districts Staying Longer Services/Index

Start at the National Museum A great introduction to Cayman’s natural history and heritage. There are interactive displays, a movie theatre, a children’s gallery and gift shop. (Allow 40–60 mins)

Step Well Keeping the waterfront on your right, walk to the stingray fountain outside Bayshore Mall. Walk into the mall and at the end of the building, on the left hand side you will see a small door leading to the oldest structure in the Cayman Islands, which dates back to the 1700s. Entry is free. (5–10 mins)

Heroes Square Walk past the Museum, turn right into Cardinall Avenue, which has been newly pedestrianised, then left into Albert Panton Street. 100 yards on the right you will see a long colourful mural depicting Cayman’s history. Continue another 50 yards past the law courts and you can explore Heroes Square and the Wall of Honour, which lists the names of 500 Caymanians who have contributed to the development of the Cayman Islands. You'll also see the clock tower which was built in 1937 in memory of King George V. (15–20 mins) Fort George Now turn left into Fort Street and walk towards the waterfront. At the end you will find the 18th century fort that once stood overlooking the harbour. It's believed to date back to around 1790. You'll see a replica of a cannon that was used to defend Grand Cayman from attacks by Spanish marauders and pirates. (10–15 mins)

Craft Market Continue walking with the waterfront to your left and you'll spot the Craft Market on the right-hand side of the road. Here you'll find locallyproduced goods, crafts and collector's items. Stalls are open on days when cruise ships are in port. (15–30 mins) Fish Market Continue walking in the same direction for 5 mins to where the fishermen sell their daily catch. (10 mins)

Elmslie Church Named after Rev. James Elmslie, this church was built in the 1920s by naval architect Capt. Rayal Bodden. The roof is designed like a ship's hull turned upside down. Open to visitors Monday-Thursday 9am-3pm and Friday 9am-12pm. Legislative Assembly Where the Government meets. When Parliament is in session, members of the public can watch from the gallery on the 2nd floor. Seamen’s Memorial The statue represents a father and son on a ship’s deck and features the names of 450 brave and heroic Caymanian seafarers who lost their lives at sea. Located in Heroes Square. WWII US Navy Base Code named 'Baldpate', this secret base of 4060 men helped monitor submarine activity in the area. The base consisted of a radio shack, supply office, barracks/tents and an officers' club.

MARITIME HERITAGE TRAILS

This 20 stop tour celebrates Cayman’s rich maritime heritage. It's usually a driving tour, with stops marked by roadside signs, but you can walk to two of the sites in George Town. For more information on the tour, pick up a booklet from the National Museum SEE PAGE 111 A busy port with anchorage for local vessels, visiting merchant navy and cruise ships. Archaeological finds suggest that the shoreline dates back to the mid-1700s. In 1773 British Navy Surveyor, George Gauld, wrote "This, in good weather is a very convenient place for wooding and watering and getting stock and other refreshment". Look very carefully for a slipway carved into the ironshore where the Arch family’s shipyard launched their vessels. Local wood was used in construction, including mahogany, cedar and pop nut. You will find a number of other slipways if you follow the iron shore south towards Dart Park.

Family Walking TOUR 4 3 2 1 5 6 7 8 9
10 (2.5 hours) 11
12 OTHER POINTS OF INTEREST
Intro Best of Land Best of Water
Camana Bay West Bay Eastern Districts Staying Longer Services/Index EXPLORE 2023 • Explore more with the free Explore Cayman iPhone and iPad app 102
George Town
Seven Mile Beach
HARBOUR DR. EDWARD ST. CARDINALL AVE FORT ST MARY ST MARY ST SHEDDEN RD MAIN ST SCHOOL RD NIGLE VA E T HTUOS HCRUHC TS 2 1 4 5 6 ELMSLIE MEMORIAL CHURCH Harbour Place FISH MARKET TOWN CLOCK Kirk Freeport Royal Watler Cruise Ship Terminal Bayshore Mall North Cruise Ship Terminal South Cruise Ship Terminal FORT GEORGE LIBRARY LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY TOWN HALL POST OFFICE NATIONAL MUSEUM HOG STY BAY GEORGE TOWN PORT OROYALBANK FCANADA BUTTERFIELDBANK FIRST CARIBBEAN BANK SCOTIA BANK HEROES SQUARE STEP WELL CRAFT MARKET The Jewellery Palace Anderson Square a f e Court House W A R W I C K D R M E R R E N DALE D R B O I L E R S R D GORING AVE DR ROY’S DR Harbour Centre 7 8 Public Telephone Parking Bus Depot Public Restrooms ATM Shops Banks Family Walking Tour Rocky’s Diamond Gallery Kay's Fine Jewelry Island Plaza Kirk FreeportCardinall Cartier Artifacts The Jewellery Palace Kirk FreeportBayshore a b c d e f Designed by Acorn MediaCopyright 2023 Guide Map Key g h Downtown George Town 0 0 100 Metres Very Approximate Scale 100 Yards d Guy Harvey Gallery Guy Harvey’s Restaurant P P c b d h d d 10 9 11 12 g George Town Intro Best of Land Best of Water Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay West Bay Eastern Districts Staying Longer Services/Index www.ExploreCayman.com 103

Cayside Galleries, Seafarers Way (formerly Harbour Drive)

(345) 949 2442

artifax@candw.ky

@artifactsltd.coins.cayman @artifactsltd.cayman artifacts.com.ky

Artifacts is an antique store founded in 1971 and is a treasure trove of antique jewellery, maps, prints, china, shipwreck treasures and more. It’s a great spot to pick up a unique gift with a fascinating story. Artifacts is always adding to its collection so there is always something new to interest customers and collectors. Artifacts has a great reputation for selling quality goods from trusted sources. The staff are knowledgeable about antiques and are happy to explain the history of any item for sale.

Antiques

Artifacts’ antiques are generally 100 years old or older. The collection includes prints, maps, paintings, estate jewellery, porcelain, china, silver, telescopes, opera glasses, compasses, scientific instruments and much more.

Shipwreck Treasure

An extraordinary selection of ancient and shipwrecked coins sold both as collectibles and set as jewellery. All coins are sourced either directly from the salvors of the shipwrecks or international coin shows and auctions and come with a certificate of authenticity.

Handmade Crafts

Artifacts also stocks handmade modern crafts such as ceramics, glassware and enamels which will likely be valuable antiques in the future.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Ancient Greek and Roman coins

• Shipwrecked Spanish and Dutch coins

• Antique estate jewellery

• Antique prints and maps

• Antique silver

• Handmade glass, ceramics and enamels

• Shipwrecked china

• Peter Baumgarten jewellery

• Local artwork

• Local Caymanite jewellery

DETAILS

Opening

PROMOTIONS

Mention

GT MAP page 96..........................................
6
Shop
Artifacts Antiques
hours: Monday-Saturday 10am-2pm Closed Sundays and Public Holidays Payment method: Cash, all major credit cards and local cheques
EXPLORE and receive a 5% discount on cash purchases. (Not available on consignment stock)
Intro Best of Land Best of
Water
Seven Mile Beach
Eastern Districts Staying Longer Services/Index EXPLORE 2023 • Explore more with the free Explore Cayman iPhone and iPad app 104
Town
Camana Bay West Bay
George

At Sunset House Hotel, 390 South Church Street, South Sound cathy@cathychurch.com cathychurch.com

Cathy Church’s has a worldwide reputation for superb and friendly service, low prices and a huge inventory. Cathy is one of the world’s leading underwater photography instructors and her gallery of underwater photos is worth the trip alone. Her professional staff offer wedding and all types of event photography. They teach every aspect of photography above and underwater.

For Sale Tax and duty free cameras - all Nikon and Olympus models, Fujifilm, Instax instant cameras, GoPro and more. Complete underwater camera systems for sale including Olympus, Nikon, SeaLife, GoPro, Sea&Sea, Ultralight, Nauticam, dive and video lights and more. Free set up class with every camera package purchase. Large selection of accessories, gifts, souvenirs and snacks.

For Rent Complete underwater camera and GoPro systems for rent. Free mini lesson with every rental. Gallery Cathy’s breathtaking underwater photos are available at affordable prices in all sizes from postcard to huge formats, on fine-art papers and canvas, available ready to hang or rolled for travel. Printing & Framing Custom photo and artwork giclée printing of any size. Professional framing for galleries and homes on fine-art paper or canvas.

Private Instruction Enjoy a private course with Cathy and her team of professional photo instructors who can help you with all types of cameras, both above the waves and underwater.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Great deals on cameras

• Beautiful underwater photos

• Wedding and event photography

• Under and above water photo classes

• Best custom photo printing on canvas and fine art papers

• Four high-speed photo printing kiosks

• Kiosk instant photo prints from 63¢

• Beautiful custom framing

• Resort gift shop

• Passport photos available

Operating hours: Monday-Friday 9am-6pm Saturday 9am-5pm Closed Sundays and some Public Holidays

GT MAP page 96...........................................
9 (345) 949 7415
Cathy Church’s Cameras, Event Photography and Gallery
PROMOTIONS
Payment method: Cash, Visa, MC and Discover Layaway available DETAILS Mention EXPLORE and receive 10% off gallery images.
Intro Best of Land Best of Water
Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay Services/Index www.ExploreCayman.com 105
West Bay Eastern Districts Staying Longer George Town

The Island Plaza Shopping Mall, located on the Waterfront, George Town

GT MAP page 96........................................... 3

Island Jewellers, (345) 949 7098. Home to a stunning collection of fine jewellery, diamonds, tanzanite and other coloured gemstones. Famous jewellery brands include Hearts on Fire, FOPE, John Hardy, Marahlago and the Cayman Memories Collection. Watch brands include Hublot, Ulysse Nardin, Oris, Tissot, Movado, Hamilton and others. You will also find shipwreck coins, pearls and gold.

De Sunglass Man, (345) 946 2507. Famous brands like Ray Ban, Oakley, Maui Jim, Prada, Tiffany, Tom Ford, Michael Kors, Gucci, Burberry, Coach, Bulgari and Dolce & Gabbana. Watches and jewellery from G-Shock, Baby-G, Guess, Michael Kors and Anne Klein.

The Swarovski Boutique, (345) 946 0859. Cayman’s only Swarovski boutique featuring crystal jewellery, watches, figurines, gifts and accessories.

The Pandora Store, (345) 946 9964. Cayman’s only Pandora store featuring the full range of jewellery and the collectible “Cayman Islands” charms.

Churchill’s Cigar, (345) 945 6141. The Island’s longest established cigar retailer. Here you will find a wide selection of Cuban and non-Cuban cigars and accessories.

Island Plaza Souvenirs, (345) 946 2333. A gift shop with high-quality souvenirs and Cayman memorabilia.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Over 50 famous brands under one roof

• Extensive collection of the world’s top brands in jewellery, watches, sunglasses and cigars

• Duty and tax free prices

• Largest selection of loose diamonds in Grand Cayman

• Cayman’s retailer of choice since 1978

• Cayman’s only Pandora Store

• Hublot boutique

• Churchill’s Cigars

• Souvenirs store

• World famous jewellery and watch brands such as John Hardy, Hearts On Fire, Ulysse Nardin, Tissot and Movado

• Exclusive Cayman Collection jewellery

DETAILS

Operating hours: Monday-Saturday 9am-5pm

Location: Situated on the Waterfront at the corner of Seafarers Way and Cardinall Avenue

Payment method: Cash and credit cards

Island Plaza Shopping Mall
Intro Best of Land Best of Water Seven Mile Beach
Camana Bay Staying Longer Services/Index EXPLORE 2023 • Explore more with the free Explore Cayman iPhone and iPad app 106
West Bay Eastern Districts
George Town

Bayshore Mall, Cardinall Avenue, The Strand, West Bay Road, The Westin and Owen Roberts International Airport

949 7477

kirkfreeport.com

GT

4 7

SMB MAP page 64................................. & 12

Kirk Freeport has been a premier retailer of duty free jewellery, watches, fragrances, leather, crystal, china, and accessories in the Cayman Islands since 1972. If you’re looking to take advantage of the duty free and tax free prices, their stores are the perfect place to treat a loved one or yourself to something special.

Designer Jewellery Kirk Freeport offers a large selection of the latest designer collections and must-have styles from brands such as David Yurman, Bulgari, Roberto Coin, Mikimoto, Hearts On Fire and Marco Bicego and many more. They also stock a large collection of diamonds, sapphires, emeralds and other gemstones.

Watches As the Official Rolex Retailer of the Cayman Islands, their unrivalled collection showcases breathtaking horological works of art. The collection includes over 40 of the world’s top brands including Cartier, Omega, TAG Heuer, Breitling, Patek Philippe, Panerai, Vacheron Constantin and many more.

Fragrances & Beauty Products With three dedicated boutiques stocked with the hottest new products in makeup, skincare and fragrances, you’re certain to find what you are looking for. Top

HIGHLIGHTS

• Duty free and tax free prices

• Dedicated boutiques from Cartier, TAG Heuer and Breitling

• World-class brands and top designers

• Jewellery, watches, fragrances, leather, crystal, china and accessories

• Professional jewellers in-store

• One of the largest collections of Rolex watches in the world

DETAILS

Locations and opening hours: Bayshore Mall and Cardinall Avenue, George Town

Monday-Saturday 9am-5pm

The Strand, Seven Mile Beach Monday-Saturday 10am-7pm

The Westin Grand Cayman Tuesday-Saturday 11am-6pm

Visit website for locations. Free parking at Bayshore Mall for customers

Payment method: Cash, Visa, MC, AMEX and Discover

brands include Chanel, Clarins, Dior, Creed, Guerlain, black|Up, L'Occitane, Benefit, Sisley, Shiseido and many more.

Kirk Freeport Duty Free Shopping
MAP page 96.................................... & 8 (345)
Intro Best of Land Best of Water
Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay Services/Index www.ExploreCayman.com 107
West Bay Eastern Districts Staying Longer George Town

Rocky’s

HIGHLIGHTS

• Duty free and tax free prices

• Excellent customer service

(345) 946 7851 or US: 1 (860) 400 0018

28 North Church Street, George Town sales@rockysdiamonds.com rockysdiamonds.com

Rocky’s Diamond Gallery is a family-owned company with extensive experience in the jewellery business. They specialise in high quality jewellery and unforgettable customer service, while offering duty free and tax free prices. At Rocky’s they don’t just sell jewellery, they aim to create memories. Honesty and customer service has made Rocky’s a must-visit store in Cayman.

High Quality Jewels

Browse their extensive selection of quality jewels, from GIA Certified classical diamonds and radiant rubies, to magical emeralds and mystical tanzanite.

Perfect Present

Their wide selection of jewellery is perfect for every occasion, including engagements, birthdays, Christmas, anniversaries or just because!

- Engagement rings and wedding bands

- Eternity rings

- Bracelets and pendants

Custom Designed Jewellery

Those looking for a one-of-a-kind piece should take advantage of Rocky’s custom design service. Their talented and knowledgeable designers

• GIA Certified Diamonds

• High-quality rubies, emeralds, sapphires and tanzanite

• Custom designed jewellery

• US based service centres

• Lifetime upgrade policy

• Ranked the #1 jewellery store in the Cayman Islands on TripAdvisor

DETAILS

Operating hours: Monday-Friday 8am-5pm and Saturday 9.30am-5pm

For after hours or a special viewing, call (345) 546 6250

Payment method: Cash and all major credit cards

PROMOTIONS

Visit the store, take a picture of this ad or mention EXPLORE and receive a FREE Starfish Pendant.

will work with you to create the perfect piece of jewellery. They also offer an out of hours service.

GT MAP page 96.......................................... 2
Diamond Gallery Jewellery Store
Intro Best of Land Best of Water
Mile Beach Camana Bay West Bay Eastern Districts Staying Longer Services/Index EXPLORE 2023 • Explore more with the free Explore Cayman iPhone and iPad app 108 George Town
Seven

Intro

HIGHLIGHTS

• Duty free and tax free prices

• Jewellery manufacturer

(345) 749 8804

Unit B2, Cayside Galleries, George Town Waterfront sales@thejewellerypalace.com www.thejewellerypalace.com

GT MAP page 96.......................................... 7

At the Jewellery Palace they are dedicated to providing the finest quality jewellery at a great price and they provide the best customer service with a 100% guarantee of satisfaction to make your visit a memorable shopping experience.

In-house Manufacturing: Their vision is to provide uniquely designed luxury jewellery at an affordable price. They manufacture jewellery in all types of precious metals — 10k, 14k, 18k and sterling silver with precious and semi-precious stones. They are committed to ensuring all their jewellery is legitimate and conflict-free.

Custom Designed Jewellery: You can turn your inspiration into a one-of-akind piece of custom jewellery. They design and craft premium quality jewellery, to the customer’s specification. The jewellery can then be shipped worldwide at duty free prices.

The Jewellery Palace truly care and are known for their service, uniqueness, exotic jewellery collection and worldwide guarantee on their prices. Their mission to provide a customercentred experience is clear, with a superior level of choice, alongside the expertise of professional craftspeople and excellent aftercare services.

• Custom designed jewellery

• Certified Loose Diamonds & Gemstones (GIA & EGL)

• Conflict-free diamonds and jewellery

• Exotic bridal jewellery collection (InHouse Tiara Brand)

• High-quality 10k, 14k and 18k jewellery

• Authentic rubies, emeralds, tanzanites, sapphires and gemstones

• Cayman Treasures jewellery collection

• Highly recommended jewellery store on TripAdvisor

Operating hours: Monday-Friday 8am-5pm Saturday 9am-5pm Closed on Sundays

DETAILS

PROMOTIONS

Payment method: Cash, all major credit/debit cards and a layaway service is available Mention “EXPLORE” and receive a free gift with any purchase.

The Jewellery Palace Jewellery Sales, Design and Manufacture Services/Index www.ExploreCayman.com 109
Best of Land Best of Water Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay
West Bay Eastern Districts Staying Longer George Town

Cayman Islands Helicopters Helicopter Tours

(345) 943 4354

(345) 926 6967

cihelicopters@yahoo.com caymanislandshelicopters.com

A sightseeing ride from Cayman Islands Helicopters is the most exciting way to see the Islands from a unique perspective. From the air you will truly appreciate the magnificent colours and clarity of the Caribbean Sea. See the famous stingrays, spot fishing boats, pass by lavish mansions hidden from view and take unforgettable photos from the helicopter.

Stingray City Tour (approx. 15 mins) Fly across the North Sound to Stingray City Sandbar and view the stingrays from above. Continue over the reef to the Kittiwake, Seven Mile Beach, before returning to George Town. US$175 per person

Island Tour (approx. 40 mins) Follow the coast around Grand Cayman, taking in the azure waters and views of the whole Island. US$390 per person

Sunset Flight & Dinner

For a truly memorable evening, take a sunset helicopter ride and land in style at either The RitzCarlton or Camana Bay for dinner. After dinner, a limousine will whisk you back to your hotel. US$1,100 for up to six people

Fly/Dive/Dine

HIGHLIGHTS

• Exhilarating helicopter rides

• A unique view of the Island and surrounding waters

• Exceptional customer service

• Great photo opportunity

• Sunset flight and dinner package

• Try the Fly, Dive and Dine tour encompassing all three Islands

DETAILS

Operating hours: Monday–Saturday 8am–sunset (Closed Sundays, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day)

Maximum six passengers per trip

All tours depart from the George Town Helipad (between Lobster Pot and Burger King)

Payment method: Cash, Visa, MC and Discover

PROMOTIONS

Mention EXPLORE and receive US$10 discount per person on the Stingray City and Island Tours.

POA

Fly to Cayman Brac to dive the USS Keith Tibbetts, then on to Little Cayman and dive Bloody Bay Wall. Have lunch at Southern Cross. Fly back to Grand Cayman to dive the USS Kittiwake. Finish the day with cheese and wine watching the sun go down on the Lobster Pot deck.

GT MAP page 96..........................................
1
Intro Best of Land Best of Water
Seven Mile Beach
West Bay Eastern Districts Staying Longer Services/Index EXPLORE 2023 • Explore more with the free Explore Cayman iPhone and iPad app 110
Camana Bay
George Town

Cayman Islands National

National Museum

Museum

64 Seafarers Way, George Town info@museum.ky museum.ky

GT

The Cayman Islands National Museum celebrated its 32nd anniversary in November 2022. The museum is housed in the oldest surviving public building of the Cayman Islands, built in the 1830s. The museum holds two permanent exhibition galleries, three changing galleries and an audiovisual theatre. With a mission to celebrate the unique natural and cultural history of the Islands, the Museum provides creative and educational exhibits and fun programming.

Natural History Gallery Explore Cayman’s unique habitats, take a virtual submarine dive down to Cayman’s famous wall, view a turtle nesting site, see the wetlands and learn about Cayman’s varied animal life.

Cultural History Gallery Themed displays featuring a storytelling seaman, video re-enactments of court trials, information on Caymanian industries and the pioneers who shaped Cayman’s development, plus a state-of-the-art animatronic featuring Miss Annie Huldah Bodden, Cayman parliamentarian and lawyer.

Special Events & Programmes ‘Looky Ya!’ heritage celebrations, International Museum Day, Speaker Series lectures, Museum Anniversary Celebrations and Heritage/Cultural Demonstrations.

Gift Shop Browse a range of unique Caymanian gift items including Caymanite jewellery, flags, prints, silk ties, jellies, thatch baskets, craftwork and books. The Caribbean Kitchen Sample a wide range of local food including fish tacos, conch ceviche, jerk chicken, curried goat and even some festive drinks.

• Intro to Cayman’s history and heritage

• New exhibitions for 2022/2023: Miss Annie Huldah Bodden animatronic, Mrs Leila Ross-Shier, From the Collection and other changing exhibitions

• A Special Tribute Gallery featuring legendary Caymanians

• Audiovisual presentation on the Islands’ history

• Fun Children’s Gallery

• See the historic Old Gaol (Jail)

• Gift shop with locally made souvenirs

• Guided tours by appointment

• Local food from The Caribbean Kitchen

DETAILS

Opening hours: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm, Sat 10am-2pm

Admission:

• Adults US$8, Seniors US$6, Children 5-12 US$3, Children under 5 enter for free

• Residents visit for free on the first Saturday of every month

• School groups and Museum members enter for free

Payment method: Cash, Visa and MC Mention EXPLORE and receive US$1 off admission.

MAP page 96............................................ 5 (345) 949 8368
PROMOTIONS HIGHLIGHTS
Intro Best of Land Best of Water Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay West Bay Eastern
www.ExploreCayman.com 111
Districts Staying Longer
Services/Index
George Town

The Shoppes at Grand Harbour manager@ghrestaurants.com harbourgrille.ky

At Harbour Grille, beach chic meets contemporary cuisine as guests enjoy an extensive menu in this casual yet stylish dining room. Diners can taste the delights of comfort food favourites as well as fresh home-cooked dishes and Caribbean classics. Their breezy patio is the perfect spot to stop and cool down during your exploration of the Island.

Must-have dishes include the Harbour Grille Burger with indulgent crispy fries, the Cayman favourite Red Snapper and a variety of delicious pizzas to satisfy all preferences. Embrace your Caribbean surroundings and choose Coconut Crème Brûlée or Coconut Pineapple Cake from their list of decadent desserts. Brunch lovers get their fix every Sunday as Harbour Grille features a selection of sweet and savoury staples and of course, all-you-can-drink bubbles!

Sample Starters

Shrimp Tempura

CI$12.95

Chilli honey glaze, lemon and lime dressing, crispy glass noodles

Pork Belly

CI$12.95

Roast pork belly, mango chutney, fennel, orange segments, spinach, ricotta mousse

Lobster Tortellini

CI$12.95

Wild mushroom purée, shaved pecorino, arugula, crouts, ricotta

HIGHLIGHTS

• Fresh, home-cooked dishes

• Caters to all dietary requirements

• Dine in or on the patio

• Kids menu available

• Brunch every Sunday

• Take out available

DETAILS

Operating hours: Tuesday-Saturday 5pm-10pm Sunday brunch 11.30am-3.30pm (Closed Mondays)

Payment method: Cash, Visa, MC and Discover

PROMOTIONS

Pizza Night 50% off pizza every Wednesday (dine-in only)

Happy Hour Monday-Friday 4pm-6pm

Surf & Turf Special Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday 5pm-10pm

MENU HIGHLIGHTS

Sample Mains

Pan Seared Salmon

CI$29.95

Butternut squash purée, snow peas, onions, fennel salad

Chicken Inasal

CI$21.95

Lemongrass, ginger, garlic, soy sauce, scallions, bell peppers, carrots, cabbage atchara, coconut rice, tzatziki

Pesto Tagliatelle

CI$17.95

Grilled chicken, house creamy basil pesto, sundried tomato

GT MAP page 96..........................................
11 (345) 945 5200
Harbour Grille American Bar and Grille
Intro Best of Land Best of Water
Seven Mile Beach
Camana Bay Eastern Districts Staying Longer Services/Index EXPLORE 2023 • Explore more with the free Explore Cayman iPhone and iPad app 112
West Bay George Town

Sunset House Restaurant, Bar and Dive Resort

At Sunset House, find great accommodation options, crystal clear water, an amazing reef just steps away and fantastic food and drink. Add some warm Caymanian hospitality, and you’ll never want to leave this piece of paradise. They welcome outside business to visit their famous restaurant, bar and beautiful house reef. Guests staying at the resort also have access to the pool.

Snorkelling, Shore & Boat Dives

Sunset House has plenty of snorkelling, boat and shore dive options. In fact, the resort is consistently rated as offering one of the best shore dives in the world. In about eight minutes, you can swim to the wreck of the Nicholson, a World War II landing craft, or visit Amphitrite, a nine-foot-tall, 600lb bronze mermaid statue that stands 50ft below the surface. The full-service dive shop offers a range of courses, from getting your feet wet to master diver. Hop on one of the dive boats to see Cayman’s dramatic walls, colourful reefs, the Kittiwake and more.

My Bar & SeaHarvest Restaurant

After a day at the beach or diving, anyone who likes a casual bar type place will truly enjoy the wooden deck and thatched roof atmosphere of Sunset House. Known for its local flavour, Indian curry and friendly staff, many people enjoy the stunning sunsets and sea-views of this local

HIGHLIGHTS

• Home of Sunset House, Grand Cayman’s hotel for divers, by divers

• Award winning Sunset Divers full-service dive shop

• Excellent shore diving and snorkelling

• Local bar and seaside restaurant, along with an upscale, air-conditioned restaurant perfect for events

• Stunning sunsets

• Cathy Church’s Underwater Photo Centre

• Cayman’s oldest hotel since 1958

• On-site parking available

Hotel Office: 7am-10pm

Sunset Divers: 7am-5pm

DETAILS

SeaHarvest Restaurant: 11am-10pm

My Bar: Monday-Friday 10am-1am, Saturday 10am-midnight, Sunday 11.30am-midnight

Photo Centre: Monday-Saturday 10am-6pm

Payment Methods: Cash, Visa, AMEX, MC and Discover

Receive a free one-time gift with a dive shop purchase.

favourite. It doesn’t get much better than reliving the day’s diving with a drink in hand while watching the sun set over the beautiful Caribbean Sea.

MAP page 96.......................................... 10
7111 or
854 4767
GT
(345) 949
(800)
390 South Church Street, George Town reservations@sunsethouse.com sunsethouse.com
PROMOTIONS Intro Best of Land Best of Water
Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay Services/Index www.ExploreCayman.com 113
West Bay Eastern Districts Staying Longer George Town
No r th Sound Beach B a y Little Sound Old Man B a y F r ank Sound Gun B a y Me a gr e B a y P on d Malp o r t a s P on d B oo b y C a y A nchor P oi n t C ottage P oi n t N e wlands Spotts S a v annah L o w er V all e y P ease B a y P oint Rum P oi n t Hutland Old M an B a y C olliers Half M oon B a y B r ea k ers F r ank S ound BODDEN T O WN NORTH SIDE EAST END S H AMROCK R D DOB D NE WOT N R D S E A VIE W R D DRYLLONOCNITSUA Q U E E N S H I G H W AY N ORTH SIDE RD RUMPOINT DR YACRETAW DR HIRSTRD Morrit t s Shopping C ent r e A T M C o e W oo d B each Heritage B each C olliers P ublic B each B a r ef o ot B each C aym a n K a i P ublic B each W a t er C ay P ublic B each W r e ck of The T en S a il P e d r o S t . J a mes Mastic T r a il Q u e en Eliza b eth II B ot a nic P a rk E ast End Lighthouse P a rk The Bl o w Holes M ission House 8 Sting r ay Ci t y S a ndb a r Cli f t on Hun t er High S ch o ol W yndham R eef R eso r t M orrit t ’s R eso r t Tukka C ompass P oi n t H H H C ount r yside Shopping V illage Health Ci t y C aym a n Isl a nds dRrehtruF M a s t ic Road BotanicRoad Crystal Caves Kaibo Restaurant, Beach Bar & Marina Silver Thatch Plaza RDSOUNDFRANK S ea P alm V illas T u r tle Nest I nn Cayman Parrot Sanctuary 7 1 6 4 5 3 2 CAMANA BAY © Acorn Media 2023 p126 p123 p122 p120 p124 p125 p127 Cayman Kayaks Cayman Parrot Sanctuary Chisholm’s Grocery Crystal Caves Pedro St. James Castle Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park Tukka East 1 5 2 3 7 6 4 ED Key 114 Intro Best of Land Best of Water Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay West Bay George Town Staying Longer Services/Index Eastern Districts

The Eastern Districts & North Side of Grand Cayman are scenic, unspoilt, quieter and less developed than the manicured sands and luxury resorts of Seven Mile Beach. You will find a wealth of things for the whole family to enjoy, from relaxing beaches and cultural activities to diving and kayaking.

www.ExploreCayman.com 115
Photo By Julie Corsetti

6 Top Things to do in the Eastern Districts

 Cayman Crystal Caves is the Island’s oldest landmark where you can embark upon an underground adventure into a fascinating world. Take a guided tour to learn the history of these fascinating natural creations and enjoy the beautiful surrounding tropical forest. There is also a restaurant and gift shop for a spot of lunch and a souvenir. SEE PAGES 120-121

 Cayman Parrot Sanctuary, which has proudly released over 30 parrots back into the wild since opening in June 2020, is an interactive experience that’s perfect for the whole family. Learn about Cayman’s native animals as you hold agoutis, rabbits, guinea pigs, cockatiels and various reptiles before running round the playgrounds, zip lining and tucking into some delicious lunch. SEE PAGE 123

 Pedro St. James Castle, built in 1780, is set in over seven acres of gardens overlooking the sea. Explore the castle that is often termed “the birthplace of democracy” in the Cayman Islands. It is also where, in 1835, it was announced that slavery had ended in the British Empire. Don’t miss the 3D multi-sensory movie or the rum tasting overlooking the crystal blue waters of the Caribbean Sea.

 Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park is a 65–acre site made up of a woodland walking trail, floral colour gardens, a lake and wetlands for wildlife, a children’s garden and a heritage garden with an old Caymanian house where you can learn how early settlers lived. You will also see butterflies, birds, turtles, agoutis and the indigenous and endangered Blue Iguana.

SEE PAGE 125

 The Mastic Reserve and Trail is the largest area of untouched, old growth dry forest remaining on the Island. It represents some of the last remaining examples of the Caribbean’s dry, subtropical, semideciduous dry forest and is home to a wide variety of animals unique to the Cayman Islands. Tours are available for CI$52 for adults, CI$24 for children. Visit nationaltrust.org.ky.

 Experience the Bioluminescence which is found in the mangroves off Cayman Kai. Explore with an easy kayak ride or aboard a boat and marvel at this magical world on moonless nights. For this unforgettable experience, call Cayman Kayaks (SEE PAGE 126) who also have an electric powered catamaran.

Eastern Districts
SEE
PAGE 124
Finger Cay, Cayman Kai
EXPLORE 2023 • Explore more with the free Explore Cayman iPhone and iPad app 116
of
Intro Best
Land Best of Water
Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay West Bay George Town
Services/Index
Staying Longer

Other Activities

 Visit the Mission House which was built in the 1800s. Once owned by Presbyterian missionaries, this traditional Caymanian house is a time capsule of life in the 1800s. CI$10 for adults and CI$4 for children under 12. (345) 749 1121.

 Go Beachcombing where the sand is littered with turtle grass, interesting coral and shells that the sea has washed up. Closer to the west, in Breakers, is Heritage Beach which is also strewn with shells and turtle grass and has a great view.

 Dive the Walls in East End which are known for their dramatic coral and drop offs. Many of the dive sites in this area are a short boat ride away. You will see brightly hued sponges, coral, turtles, eagle rays, angelfish and reef sharks. For dive trips, contact Ocean Frontiers in East End.

 Kayak the Mangroves with Cayman Kayaks (SEE PAGE 126) who take small groups into the mangroves on eco–adventure tours. Look out for birds, starfish, sea anemones and jellyfish.

 Feed the Frigate Birds and Tarpon at Tukka East (SEE PAGE 127) from 5pm daily. This feeding frenzy will delight children and families alike, and get you close to nature whilst enjoying a fantastic meal!

 Take a North Sound Boat Trip with Crazy Crab (SEE PAGE 42) , Cayman Luxury Charters (SEE PAGE 41) , Cayman Eco Adventures (SEE PAGE 40) or Five Star Charters (SEE PAGE 43) which all offer boat trips to Stingray City Sandbar. Arrange to be collected from your vacation rental or another convenient spot. Tie in some snorkelling at various reefs in the North Sound, such as Coral Gardens.

 Explore the Shallows at Rum Point where fish, baby stingrays, crabs and even some small nurse sharks sometimes swim in the warm waters. It is hoped that Rum Point Club will be open in 2023, offering sun loungers, watersports, a casual bar and restaurant.

 Relax at Cayman Kai on the white sandy beach, with calm waters and lots of shade. Kaibo Beach is a tranquil spot offering beachfront dining. There’s a quiet beach to relax on while you watch the boats coming and going from the dock.

 Picnic at Starfish Point where you can admire the stars of the sea. As you drive up to Starfish Point, call at Chisholm’s Grocery (SEE PAGE 122) and pick up your beach snacks and cold drinks for a sunny Island picnic. There are also restrooms and showers at Starfish Point.

 Explore New Snorkelling Spots on this side of the Island. Find plenty of coral formations, sea fans and schooling fish at various East End and North Side stops, including Starfish Point and Coral Gardens which are both shallow areas where you can spot all sorts of amazing corals and sea creatures. Snorkelling under the dock at Morritt’s is also fun as you’ll spot tarpon and a whole host of brightly coloured fish.

 Take a Driving Tour around the Eastern Districts with Cayman Safari (SEE PAGE 83) and their knowledgeable guides in their open top cars. Alternatively, see our recommended Eastern Districts Driving Tour later in this section.

 Climb the Lighthouse at Lighthouse Park, a port of entry to East End in the 19th century. The site of Cayman’s first lighthouse, visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse and enjoy the incredible views out to sea. (345) 749 1121.

 Try Bird Watching at Governor Gore’s Bird Sanctuary and marvel at the abundance of native and migratory birds that Cayman attracts. The pond’s popularity with the birds is seasonal and the greatest activity is during the dry season. The native freshwater turtle - the Hickatee - is often spotted amongst the reeds. Turn into Spotts Newlands Road, off Shamrock Road. Take the first right to Pennsylvania Ave.

www.ExploreCayman.com 117
Intro
Best of Land Best of Water Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay West Bay George Town
Services/Index
Staying Longer

Eastern Districts

Food & Drink

RESTAURANTS & BARS

Blue Rock Restaurant – Health City, East End

Large menu of international dishes, plus drinks and a pool table. (345) 945 7625.

David’s Deep Blue Restaurant – Morritt’s, EE Serves fresh seafood. (345) 947 7449.

Eagle Ray’s – Ocean Frontiers, East End Caribbean dishes and bar food at reasonable prices. The fish tacos and sliders are delicious! Enjoy a 180 degree view of the water.

Italian Kitchen – Morritt’s Plaza, East End Serves a wide range of pastas and brick oven pizzas inspired by Italian cuisine.

Kaibo Beach Restaurant – Cayman Kai

Features pizzas made in their outdoor woodfired oven, a selection of salads, mains and catch of the day. They also host a monthly full moon party, ‘Luna del Mar’.

Kaibo Espresso – Cayman Kai

They serve great coffee and fresh pastries from 7am. Perfect for a beachside breakfast.

La Casita – Austin Conolly Drive, East End

An intimate restaurant located in the tranquil district of East End, serving authentic and traditional Mexican cuisine and delicious, handcrafted cocktails. (345) 949 2272.

Mimi’s Dock & Restaurant – East End

Located at Morritt’s and surrounded by the sea, they serve food all day. (345) 947 7449.

South Coast Bar & Grill – Breakers

Located on the water they serve local Caribbean food with a beautiful backdrop. (345) 947 2517.

Thatch & Barrel – Pedro St James, Savannah

Located on the oceanside cliffs of Pedro St. James in Savannah, Thatch & Barrel creates craft cocktails and serves modern Caribbean cuisine. SEE PAGE 124

Tukka East – Gun Bay, East End

This waterfront restaurant serves fresh local seafood with an authentic Australian flair and a Caribbean twist. They host an Australian night on Wednesdays and also a Fresh Fish Friday,

where you can watch the fish being prepared by the chef. Their Sunday brunch, served with endless bubbles, is always busy. SEE PAGE 127

Upstairs at Kaibo – Cayman Kai

Dine alfresco on the sea-view veranda at this upscale restaurant. Enjoy vintage rums, artisan cocktails and delicious snacks on the cosy couches of The Rare Rum Bar.

Wyndham Reef Beach Bar – East End

A beach bar and restaurant located at the Wyndham Reef Resort in East End.

RUSTIC DINING

Czech Inn Grill – Bodden Town

A rustic shack serving up local food with an Eastern European twist. Try the fresh salads, sandwiches and burgers. (345) 923 1986.

Grape Tree Café – Bodden Town

A simple beach café serving excellent fresh and local flavours. Open Friday-Sunday.

Over the Edge – Old Man Bay, North Side Find great seafood at reasonable prices at this waterfront restaurant. (345) 947 9568.

Rankin’s Jerk Centre – Bodden Town Enjoy Miss Rankin’s delicious, authentic Caymanian dishes. (345) 947 3155.

Vivine’s Kitchen – Austin Conolly Drive, EE

Local cuisine served in a homely setting. Try the conch, crab or lobster. (345) 947 7435.

Scan QR code for more restaurants in the Eastern Districts, including menus, opening hours & promotions.

Tukka East Restaurant & Bar
EXPLORE 2023 • Explore more with the free Explore Cayman iPhone and iPad app 118 Intro Best of Land Best of Water Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay West Bay George Town Staying Longer Services/Index

Eastern Districts Driving Tour

You can easily spend a full day on a driving tour of the Eastern Districts as there is a lot to see. Pick from the list below, depending on how much time you have, what you are interested in, where you are starting from and whether you have kids to entertain.

 Pedro St. James Castle Learn about “the birthplace of democracy” in the Cayman Islands at this national historic site. Explore the house and gardens, then watch a 3D presentation in their theatre. (1–2 hours). SEE

PAGE 124

 The Mission House Visit this historic house in Bodden Town and get a taste of how people lived in the 1800s. (30–45 minutes, by appointment only). (345) 749 1121.

 Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park If possible, it’s best to visit the gardens in the cooler hours of the day. Enjoy walking the grounds. Located on Frank Sound Road. (1–3 hours). SEE PAGE 125

 Lunch Stop Time to recharge your batteries. Tukka East (SEE PAGE 127) , Kaibo Beach and Eagle Ray’s offer great food at reasonable prices with views to write home about.

 Cayman Crystal Caves A chance to see the stalactite and stalagmite crystal structures and other wonderous, natural formations. Located in Old Man Bay. (345) 949 2283. (2–3 hours). SEE PAGES 120-121

 Go Swimming and Snorkelling Rum Point is a great snorkelling spot as the clear shallow water is ideal for children. Cayman Kai’s Public Beach is also excellent. Ideally it is done as a drift snorkel and you will see lots of coral and colourful fish. Alternatively, drive to the East End and snorkel beneath Mimi’s Dock at Morritt’s.

 Find a Deserted Beach Enjoy the rugged “other side of the Island”. Find a secluded beach and go exploring.

 Wreck of the Ten Sail Keep driving south past the Wyndham Reef Resort and Ocean Frontiers and you’ll see this historic site out at sea. (10 mins).

 Cayman Parrot Sanctuary Head to the Parrot Sanctuary where over 30 parrots have been released back into the wild since opening in June, 2020. Meet the Island’s most famous agouti, Lil Bit, and a whole host of other creatures! (1–3 hours) SEE PAGE 123

 Lighthouse Park Stop at this historic landmark and climb to the top of the lighthouse. Enjoy the sea views. (15-20 mins).

 Blow Holes Continue on and, if it’s windy, admire these dramatic water geysers as they shoot sea water skywards from the ironshore. (5-10 mins).

 Lovers Wall Just a bit further up the road you will see a heart-shaped sign for Lovers Wall. Stop for a quick photograph and enjoy the spectacular view. (5 mins).

 Dining Under the Stars Head to Tukka East and be amazed at the stars, the light of the moon upon the water and the delicious food! SEE PAGE 127

Scan QR code for more details on driving tour ideas.

SHOPPING

Chisholm’s Grocery (SEE PAGE 122) is a familyowned grocery store located on North Side Road opposite the entrance to Hutland. Stop in for a picnic basket of items, a cold drink, ice cream or pattie. You can hunt for presents and keepsakes in the gift shops at Cayman Crystal Caves, Pedro St. James and the Botanic Park.

Eastern Districts
www.ExploreCayman.com 119
Intro Best
of Land Best of Water Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay West Bay George Town
Services/Index
Staying Longer

Cayman Crystal Caves Attraction, Restaurant and Gift Shop

HIGHLIGHTS

• Three caves, including the open-ceiling cave, the roots cave and the lake cave

• Nature walks

• Knowledgeable tour guides offering stories from Cayman’s history and facts about the geological significance of this natural wonder

• The Treehouse Cafe, offering fresh dishes of local and international fare

• On-site gift shop with beautiful souvenirs, including locally-made items

DETAILS

Operating hours: Open seven days a week, with the exception of Good Friday and Christmas Day. Guided tours (90-minutes) take place eight times a day and run from 9am-4pm

The Treehouse Cafe is open 10am-5pm

Admission: Adults: US$40 Children (12 and under): US$30

Please note that all tours need to be prebooked before arrival. 48 hours notice is required for cancellation without penalty

Payment method: Cash, Visa, MC, Discover and AMEX

Things to note:

All participants must be able to climb stairs unassisted for this tour

(345) 949 2283

69 North Side Road Old Man Bay, North Side info@caymancrystalcaves.com caymancrystalcaves.com

ED MAP page 114.........................................

Cayman Crystal Caves is situated in the lush tropical forest of beautiful North Side. Book a guided tour and get ready to embark upon an underground adventure into a fascinating world. You’ll experience some of the best nature Cayman has to offer.

All visitors will be escorted through the caves by a knowledgeable tour guide, discovering the beauty of “Cayman Down Under” and listening to stories and facts about Cayman’s oldest landmark. Within the caves, visitors can spy spectacular stalactite and stalagmite crystal structures formed by nothing more than single drops of water and the slow passage of time.

Guests will also have the opportunity to tour the surrounding tropical forest, which is home to a variety of tropical plants and animal life, including magnificent strangler balsam trees, air plants and parrots. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for bats inside the caves, too!

Tour Information

Each guided tour is approximately one-and-ahalf hours and begins with a 45-minute guided walk through the caves. There are three separate caves to explore in the area, including the openceiling cave, the roots cave, and finally, the lake cave. At the end of the tour, visitors will be led to the viewing deck, where they can enjoy the

3
EXPLORE 2023 • Explore more with the free Explore Cayman iPhone and iPad app 120 Intro Best of Land Best of
Water
Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay West Bay
Staying Longer Services/Index Eastern Districts
George Town

scenery, snap some photos and check out the on-site restaurant and gift shop.

The Treehouse Cafe serves freshly prepared meals all day, specialising in tasty Caribbean and international cuisine. Menu items are sourced locally depending on the season to showcase the best of what Cayman has to offer. There is also a full bar, including local draught beer and soft drinks. Grab some lunch and a cold drink and take a seat on their elevated deck. As you relax and enjoy your meal, you’ll be treated to views overlooking a canopy of trees and cave entrances.

A gift shop is also available on-site and has beautiful locally-made products. Browse Silver Thatch crafts, unique Caymanite pieces and other lovely souvenirs.

Please note that the maximum group size for each tour is 15 people and all participants must be able to walk up stairs unaided. All tours require pre-booking before arrival.

History

Over the course of millions of years, the Cayman Crystal Caves were created by nature. Fossilised shells and animal life found within reveal that they first originated under the sea.

As time went by, sea levels around the Cayman Islands changed and the erosion from these events helped carve out a series of interior rooms within the rocks. A beautiful cave system developed.

Within these caves, spectacular stalagmite and stalactite crystals began to form. Rain

water dripping through the limestone ceiling left calcium deposits, and as the rain travelled from the surface, it also passed through the surrounding plants, earth and organic matter. This made the rain water turn acidic, and it dissolved parts of the limestone, dripping through the cave ceilings. Over time, these single drops have formed incredible otherworldly crystal structures — a natural phenomenon that is still happening today!

Hundreds of years ago, these caves provided hideouts for pirates and shelter for sailors looking for respite from the elements and tropical hurricanes. Legend has it that pirate treasure may still exist today, buried deep within the caves!

When the Island eventually became home to permanent settlements, locals used the lush forest around the caves as farmland. The community mined the caves for the rich fertiliser which was produced by the bat guano. However, in the last half-century, farming around the area came to a close, and the caves sat mostly forgotten until the early 1990s when proper search and exploration began. It took almost two decades to officially open the caves, and now, many years later, locals and tourists have the opportunity to experience this incredible part of Cayman’s history.

Mention EXPLORE for a 10% discount on admission to the Cayman Crystal Caves.
www.ExploreCayman.com 121
PROMOTIONS
Intro Best of Land Best of Water Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay West Bay George Town Staying Longer
Services/Index
Eastern Districts

1240 North Side Road, North Side chisholmsgrocerydelivery@gmail.com facebook.com | @Chisholm’s Grocery

Established in 1954, Chisholm’s Grocery is a family-owned and operated supermarket located in the North Side district of Grand Cayman. Founded by Mr Will and Mrs Ida Chisholm, the former momand-pop store has been a staple for people in Cayman’s Eastern communities for many years.

The store is conveniently located at the Hutland Junction on North Side Road and is open seven days a week. It has a large selection of food, toiletries and beverages and even carries items like snorkelling and fishing gear, toys, clothing and more.

Chisholm’s Grocery also provides a delivery service to households around this part of the Island. Orders are able to be submitted online by email, and clients can browse a spreadsheet of current items in stock. For orders over $25 within the Frank Sound and Rum Point areas, delivery is free of charge and items are dropped off within three hours. Customers in East End or Bodden Town can receive express delivery for a $10 service fee.

Still fully family owned and now managed by a thirdgeneration operator, you can be assured of the Caymankind spirit at Chisholm’s. Stop in for a cold drink, ice cream or pattie and watch the waves roll in while sharing in a small part of Cayman’s history.

• Family-owned grocery store

• Online ordering via email

• Free delivery (within three hours) for orders over $25 in the Frank Sound to Rum Point areas

• Express delivery to East End and Bodden Town for a $10 service fee

• Great selection of food, including fresh local produce

• Toiletries

• Wine, beer, liquor

• Cold drinks

• Ice cream

• Snorkelling gear

• Fishing supplies

• Souvenirs

• Kids beach toys

• Towels

• Ice

• Casual clothing

• Breezy ocean views

Opening hours: Daily: 7am-10pm

Payment method: Cash, Visa, MC, Discover and AMEX

Email for delivery: chisholmsgrocerydelivery@gmail.com

ED MAP page 114........................................ 2 (345) 947 9418
Grocery Grocery Store and Delivery
HIGHLIGHTS
Chisholm’s
DETAILS
EXPLORE 2023 • Explore more with the free Explore Cayman iPhone and iPad app 122
of
Intro Best
Land Best of Water
Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay West Bay
Services/Index
George Town Staying Longer Eastern Districts

HIGHLIGHTS

• Meet Cayman’s native animals

(345) 936 4400

835 Austin Connolly Drive, East End caymanparrotsanctuary@gmail.com facebook.com/CaymanParrot instagram.com/CaymanParrot

ED MAP page 114......................................... 5

The Cayman Parrot Sanctuary offers a friendly, interactive and educational experience for the whole family. Come face-to-face with Cayman’s native animals, discover the Islands’ indigenous plants and explore unspoiled natural landscapes. Working in conjunction with the Department of the Environment, they are a registered rehabilitation facility for hurt, distressed and mishandled parrots, and have proudly released over 30 parrots back into the wild since opening in June, 2020. It is also the only place in Cayman that rehabilitates Cayman parrots to be released.

The Sanctuary is home to a number of animals including the Cayman Parrot, the national bird of the Cayman Islands. There are also agoutis, rabbits, guinea pigs, cockatiels and various reptiles. Families can enjoy feeding the frigate birds which swoop down from the coast. Children can run wild in the two playgrounds, relax in plenty of shaded areas and experience the thrill of zip lining!

After hours of fun, families can tuck into some delicious food delivered by Tukka East, which serves fresh local seafood with an authentic Australian flair and a Caribbean twist. The Cayman Parrot Sanctuary is a fantastic spot to interact with Cayman’s wildlife and is a must-see for little ones and families during their exploration of Grand Cayman.

• Explore indigenous plants and unspoiled landscapes

• Daily bird feeding

• Kids slides, zip line, sand pit and toys

• Toilet and hand wash stations

• Shaded seating areas

• Food and beverage delivery from Tukka restaurant available on request

• Interactive experiences with guinea pigs, rabbits, Cayman snakes and hermit crabs

• Meet Lil Bit, Cayman’s famous agouti rabbit

• Birthday parties/events welcome

DETAILS

Opening hours: Wednesday-Sunday 9am-4pm. Open on Public Holidays

Admission: Adult (16+): CI$16, Kids (3-15): CI$10, Ages 2 and under: Free, Seniors (65+): Free

Payment method: Cash US$ and CI$, Visa, MC and Discover

Cayman Parrot Sanctuary Native Animals, Indigenous Plants and Natural Landscapes
www.ExploreCayman.com 123
Intro Best of Land Best of Water
Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay Services/Index
West Bay George Town Staying Longer Eastern Districts

Pedro St. James Castle National Historic Site

HIGHLIGHTS

Pedro Castle Road, Savannah info@pedrostjames.ky pedrostjames.ky

ED MAP

page

Known by locals as ‘Pedro Castle’, this Great House is the oldest surviving stone structure in the Cayman Islands and is home to many cultural and historic tales. It was built using slave labour in 1780 by a wealthy Englishman, William Eden and has been put to a variety of uses, including a cotton plantation, courthouse, jail and Government Assembly. It was the venue for not only the decision in 1831 to form the Cayman Island’s first elected parliament, but also to announce that slavery had been abolished in the British Empire in 1835. Surviving hurricanes, fires, vandalism, and rumours of being both jinxed and haunted, it stands today, in its restored state, as a dynamic piece of Cayman’s heritage.

Pedro Castle Great House & Gardens Relive history at the 18th century Great House, explore the rooms and learn about its history of pirate raids, tragedy, triumph and political reformation. Take a stroll through the seven acres of lush gardens, enjoy stunning sea views, rugged bluffs and perhaps even sip on a 1780 rum, only available at the Castle!

Pedro Tour, Theatre & Rum Tasting Enjoy a 3D multi-sensory movie that will transport you back in time, or a guided tour to learn about the true history and heritage of Cayman. A rum tasting tour can be found in the Thatch & Barrel, overlooking the crystal blue waters of the Caribbean Sea. Seating and

EXPLORE 2023 • Explore more with the free Explore Cayman iPhone and iPad app 124 Intro Best of Land Best of Water Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay West Bay George Town Staying Longer Services/Index Eastern Districts

• 18th century Great House

• Multi-sensory 3D movie theatre

• Old stamp collection and picture room

• Local rum tasting tours

• Seven landscaped acres and panoramic ocean views

• Gift shop and small playground

• Stunning wedding location

DETAILS

Opening hours: Daily 8.30am-5pm

Admission: Guided tours: CI$15, Selfguided tours: CI$10, kids (6-12): CI$5. Guided tours are on the hour, every hour. Last guided tour at 4pm

Rum Tours: Must be over 18yrs, CI$5. Daily 9am-4pm (excl. Fridays)

Payment method: Cash US$ and CI$, Visa, MC, and Discover

• Free WiFi 114......................................
7
(345) 947 3329
shade are available for those wanting to stay a while and relax in the tranquil atmosphere.
Thatch & Barrel Enjoy lunch, dinner or weekend brunch at this family-friendly restaurant serving delicious international fare. With stunning ocean views and a full bar, this is the perfect way to start or finish a visit to historic Pedro St. James.

Off Frank Sound Road, North Side manager@botanic-park.ky botanic-park.ky

ED MAP

The Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park was opened in 1994, in partnership with the National Trust, to preserve and promote local flora, fauna and wildlife. It is home to the Blue Iguana Recovery Programme, and is the only place in Cayman where you can see these magnificent creatures.

The Botanic Park is split into several areas for you to explore. Here are just a few of the highlights:

Heritage House & Garden Explore a traditional Caymanian home, view artefacts, a medicinal and sand garden, a cooking Caboose and learn how early settlers lived.

Woodland Trail The trail is just under a mile long and takes you through a lush natural landscape which is home to 40% of Cayman’s native flora.

Lake & Wetlands Popular with birdwatchers. In cooler months the banks are a lovely spot for a picnic.

Colour Garden A series of gardens arranged by colour, the garden is a year-round explosion of hues. Meander through the trails and end at the gazebo, a favourite for weddings and intimate brunches.

Blue Iguana Recovery Programme The National Trust operates this wonderful programme to help increase the endangered species’ population. Tours are available Monday-Saturday at 11am. Tours can be booked at the Botanic Park admission desk.

• Over 65 acres to discover

• Tropical landscape and comfortable trails to follow

• Five themed gardens

• Home to the National Trust’s Blue Iguana Recovery Programme

• Picturesque picnic area

• Spot butterflies, parrots and other native wildlife

• Gift shop

• Stunning location for weddings

DETAILS

Opening hours: Open daily 9am-5.30pm, last admission at 4.30pm

Admission: Guided tours: CI$15, (Tuesdays & Thursdays at 2pm only) Self-guided tours: CI$10, kids (6-12): CI$5, infants (0-5): free

Payment method: Cash US$ and CI$, Visa, MC and Discover

The Children’s Garden Opened by King Charles in 2019, this interactive garden features a splash pad, observation tower, a rock climbing wall, playground, giant bird’s nests and animal sculptures, plus plenty of shaded picnic areas for parents and children to enjoy a well-earned rest.

page 114......................................... 6 (345) 947 9462
Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park Botanical Gardens
HIGHLIGHTS
www.ExploreCayman.com 125
Intro Best of Land Best of Water
Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay Services/Index
West Bay George Town Staying Longer Eastern Districts

Cayman Kayaks Bioluminescence Tours

Rum Point, Sand Point Road, North Side reservations@caymankayaks.com caymankayaks.com

ED MAP page

Cayman Kayaks offers sustainable bioluminescent tours by double kayak and Cayman’s only electric boat. Safety is their utmost concern. Their top notch guides will lead you through the night, teach you about this natural phenomenon and the importance of exploring in an environment-friendly manner.

Bioluminescent Kayak (1 ½ hours)

A night adventure begins with a paddle into the Bioluminescent Bay. Be dazzled by a sky of stars and awed by the bioluminescence below on the darkest nights of the lunar cycle. Their skilled naturalist will use a laser pointer to interpret the night sky. Their double kayaks have a high-backrest to provide comfort. Come prepared to get wet. Kayaking is a great way to explore quietly and eco-consciously.

Bioluminescent Electric Boat (1 ½ hours)

The custom design of this electric boat creates a perfect pocket of darkness to view the night sky above and the glowing world below. The observation deck is low to the water, so your hands and feet are able to reach the surface to swirl around in the glowing water. Water shoes, swim shorts and a shirt are suggested for this expedition.

Is it Safe to Swim?

Guests are encouraged not to swim to prevent being stung by jellyfish or fouling the water. Swimmers

HIGHLIGHTS

• Focused on preservation

• Led by certified staff

• Stargazing laser show

• Parking at Rum Point

• Transportation can be arranged

• Cassiopeia jellyfish show and tell

• No swimming needed to experience

DETAILS

Bioluminescent Kayak: US$70 per person. Ages 6 and up, 250lbs and under

Bioluminescent Electric Boat: US$75 per person. Ages 4 and up, 270lbs and under

Location: Rum Point Club – rent a car or transportation can be arranged

Tour times: 7.30pm and 9.30pm Arrive 10 minutes prior to check-in

Payment method: Visa, MC, Discover and AMEX

Mention EXPLORE at time of booking for US$5 off per person.

should wash off all lotions, bug repellents, hair conditioners and deodorants prior to the tour. The ecosystem here is fragile!

114...................................... 1 (345) 926 4467
EXPLORE 2023 • Explore more with the free Explore Cayman iPhone and iPad app 126 Intro Best of Land Best of Water
PROMOTIONS
Seven Mile Beach
Camana Bay West Bay
Staying Longer Services/Index Eastern
George Town
Districts

If you’re craving cuisine from Down Under, you don’t need a Qantas ticket. Simply head to Tukka East, where there’s great food served with a laidback oceanfront atmosphere.

Tukka presents Australian and Caribbean fusion dishes that will make your mouth water. A traditional Aussie Burger, Steak and Mushroom Pie, Conch and Crocodile Fritters, Kangaroo Sausages and Tukka Brochettes are just some of the signature dishes you’ll find at Tukka. Boasting the largest rum collection on-Island, Tukka also invites you to indulge in Chef Ron’s 220 top luxury rums from around the world.

Sundays mean brunch at Tukka, where there’s shrimp on the barbie, a hot and cold buffet and endless bubbles. As you eat, enjoy the cool breeze on the veranda, overlooking the sea and the Wreck of the Ten Sail – a top historic site.

Tukka East is the perfect spot to relax, refuel and take in the beauty of the coastline during an East End road trip. There’s also wildlife to admire as you eat, including frigate birds and tarpon.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Taste of Australia with a Caribbean twist

• Family and pet friendly

• Spectacular oceanfront views

• 2 for 1 tacos and margaritas every Tuesday

• Frigate bird and tarpon feeding daily from 5pm

• Monthly full moon dining event

• Walk-About Wednesday’s dinner

• East End’s Fresh Fish Friday

• Oceanside Sunday Brunch

DETAILS

Opening hours: Daily: 11am-10pm Breakfast: Saturday-Sunday 8.30am-11am Sunday Brunch: 11am-3pm Happy Hour: Monday-Friday 3pm-6pm

ED MAP page 114........................................ 4
2700 898 Austin
East End reservations@tukka.ky
PROMOTIONS
(345) 947
Connolly Drive,
facebook.com/caymantukka Complimentary return shuttle service to Morritt’s, Wyndham and Compass Point Resorts. Call to book or ask your concierge for details.
Tukka East Restaurant and Bar
Discover
Payment method: Cash, Visa, MC,
and AMEX
www.ExploreCayman.com 127
Intro Best of Land Best of Water
Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay Services/Index
West Bay George Town Staying Longer Eastern Districts

If you like what you have seen of the Cayman Islands and can imagine yourself enjoying year round sunshine, a high standard of living, a stable and thriving economy and access to world class healthcare, then read on to find out how you can make that dream a reality. Over 78,000 people now live in Cayman, of which about 50% are expats who hail from over 136 different countries.

128 EXPLORE 2023
Photo by Jonathan Sparrow

Immigration

The first step is figuring out how long you can legally stay in the Cayman Islands. We have briefly outlined some of the immigration options below.

Visitors – most visitors will get 30 days as a maximum. However, if you would like to spend more time here, like many of our winter ‘snow birds’ do, then you will have to show the Immigration Officer your return ticket, your hotel/condo reservation (or lease) and proof that you can support yourself for six months without needing to seek work. With this documentation you will be given up to six months. If you own a property in Cayman, and can prove this, then you will automatically get six months. To stay longer than six months, you will need to look into one of the options below.

Work Permits – by securing a job in the Cayman Islands you can be granted a work permit for anything between three months to five years. During that time you may live in the Cayman Islands and come and go as you please so long as you stay employed. Your work permit can be renewed until you reach a total of nine years of residency, after which you must apply for ‘Permanent Residency’.

Special Economic Zone Certificate (SEZ) –allows foreign nationals to set up businesses within Cayman Enterprise City (CEC), and therefore live in the Cayman Islands on the basis that their organisation does not compete with local operations.

Residence as a Person of Independent Means – for those wishing to live in the Cayman Islands without having a local job, you must be able to show proof of an annual income of at least CI$120,000 (without employment in the Cayman Islands) along

For more detailed information and other immigration options, visit www. caymanresident.com/move/immigration.

Buying Property

The next thing you have to think about is finding a home, whether through buying or renting. There are so many property options in Cayman from high-end luxury offerings to those on the more affordable end. Turn to pages 130-135 for more information on Cayman real estate.

Health Insurance

The Cayman Islands enjoys access to an extremely high level of health care, however, it is not a free service and every resident (including children) of the Cayman Islands are required, by law, to have a health insurance policy in place. For those who are on work permits, their employer is required, at the very minimum, to provide the most basic of health care plans, and most professional service employers will pay 50% of a more comprehensive plan. Those who are not on work permits are required to purchase a health insurance policy, which can cost thousands a month, especially if you would like good coverage and if you have children.

For more information on health insurance, visit www.caymanresident.com/health/ health-insurance. Also turn to page 136 to find out more about Cayman’s health care.

WEBSITES

Intro Best of
Staying
Land Best of Water Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay Services/Index
West Bay George Town Eastern Districts Longer
with an investment of CI$1,000,000 (of which CI$500,000 must be in developed real estate). The “remaining” CI$500,000 must be invested in a company or property.
Photo by Jonathan Sparrow at Cayman Islands Sotheby’s International Realty
USEFUL
www.ExploreCayman.com 129
www.caymanresident.com www.worc.ky

Cayman Real Estate

The Cayman Islands have a mature yet thriving real estate market. Properties are well constructed and there is a wide variety available including condos, apartments, townhouses and standalone houses. Prices of properties have risen significantly in the last two years.

OVERVIEW OF RESIDENTIAL AREAS

Below is a brief description of the Island’s residential areas:

Seven Mile Beach: Properties along Seven Mile Beach (SMB) usually demand a premium price. Depending on the size, age and location of the property, the price can vary hugely. You can purchase a 610sq ft Grand Hyatt Beachfront Studio Suite for US$521,375, or, on the other end of the spectrum, is an immaculate four-bedroom Watermark ground floor estate residence for sale at US$25 million.

Canal Front Properties: Prestigious canal front neighbourhoods along the Seven Mile Beach corridor, such as Vista Del Mar, Salt Creek, Canal Point and Crystal Harbour, have some of the Island’s finest homes. For those on the hunt for luxury at the next level down, consider looking in Governor’s Harbour, the Shores and Patrick’s Island, with prices starting at around US$1.4 million and reaching in excess of US$5.65 million.

South Sound: The affluent seaside community of South Sound has a good mix of homes on the market, including the new multi-purpose destination Harbour Walk and the modern development Privé, where two-bedroom and three-bedroom townhomes start at CI$735,000 and CI$925,000 respectively. You can also find beach front mansions, able to withstand the scrutiny of the most discerning luxury property buyers.

North Side & Cayman Kai: A wide selection of condos, luxury villas and

delightful Cayman-style beach cottages are for sale in North Side. A stunning fivebedroom beach front home in Rum Point can go for around US$5.3 million.

East End: The district of East End offers a quiet and more laid back feel, yet some properties are as well-appointed as those found along the Seven Mile Beach corridor. The cost for an elevated ocean front lot with panoramic views can range from US$999,999 up to US$1.4M.

Sister Islands: The Brac’s Bluff has stunning views of the Caribbean Sea and is perfect for those who want a sea view with the added height protection from a potential storm surge. A beautiful .45 acre beach front parcel starts at US$135,000. A one-bedroom 898sq ft ocean view cottage can be yours for US$250,000.

RENTING A HOME

Most new arrivals to the Cayman Islands begin with renting property. This gives you time to get to know the different areas and understand which might be best suited for your lifestyle. There are numerous options for renting from beachfront condos on Seven Mile Beach to townhomes with swimming pools, gyms and other facilities that are great

Intro
of
Best
Land Best
of Water Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay West Bay George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer
Services/Index
1. No restrictions on foreign ownership 2. No property, income or capital gains taxes 3. High standard of living 4. Stable economy 5. Low crime rate 6. Top dive sites and beaches 7. Located a one hour flight from the United States Reasons to buy In Cayman 7 EXPLORE 2023 • Explore more with the free Explore Cayman iPhone and iPad app 130

for families. Contact one of the realtors listed on the following pages to discuss your requirements.

BUYING A HOME

Buying a property in Cayman has many advantages, not least that if you are staying for some time, mortgages tend to work out cheaper than rents over a three to five-year period. There is no annual property tax and there are also no restrictions on foreign ownership of a single property. With no requirements for immediate development on purchased land, building is another great option for those desiring a second home.

Investment Landscape

There has never been a better time to invest in Cayman property! Agua, Seacrest and The Watermark are amongst the new wave of exclusive luxury developments rising up along the sought-after Seven Mile Beach corridor. Featuring 54 residential units, The Watermark will provide owners with access to 12 swimming pools, a library and an exclusive owner’s lounge. South Sound is in the midst of a housing boom and modern developments like Fin, situated on the waterfront, are a top choice for investors. New standards of environmental practices, panoramic roof terraces, private beaches and saltwater lagoons are just a few of the distinguishing features that these properties boast. For those seeking sustainable living complemented by luxury services and amenities, look no further.

Financing

There is a level playing field for prospective home owners and investors. Banks welcome overseas clients and many offer great mortgage packages. Interest rates are quoted based on the CI and US dollar prime rates published in Cayman’s retail banks. Many banks require a life insurance policy for mortgages. Your loan officer will advise you if this is required. Standard mortgage terms are usually between 10 to 15 years and can be taken out in either CI or US dollars.

Stamp Duty & Other Charges

A one-off 7.5% stamp duty is payable on all real estate and land purchases and transfers.

This duty is paid by the buyer of the property on the purchase price or market value – whichever one is higher. If you’re building a house, provided that stamp duty is paid before construction begins, duty is payable only on the land value and not on the building. There are other charges, such as the one-off 1% duty on mortgages of less than CI$300,000 and 1.5% on mortgages of CI$300,000 or higher.

Choose an Agent

There are many real estate companies based in the Cayman Islands and an ample roster of professionals on hand to assist you with your search. As a visitor to the Islands, we strongly recommend that you select an experienced real estate professional to guide you. You can find some popular real estate agencies on the following pages.

For a more in-depth guide to purchasing real estate or renting a property in Cayman, visit www.caymanresident. com or www.explorecayman.com. Happy house huntin’.

Intro
Best of Land Best of Water Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay West Bay George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer Services/Index Calico Quay
www.ExploreCayman.com 131
Sea Star
9 4 9 -2 3 9 6 / 1 (877) 286-4243 1 (345) 916-0378 kass.coleman@remax.ky “Let Exp erience Work For You!” KASS COLEMAN 30 ye a rs wi t h t h e B EST Member of 7 Mile Shops | West Bay Rd. | Each of fice is inde pendently owne d
We know Real Estate. We know Cayman. Connect with us On Instagram @engelvolkerscayman On Facebook or online at Contact one of our 15 advisors, today or call Heidi Kiss, Broker & Owner on Office +1.345.623.1400 | Cell +1.345.525.1126 Live Your Luxury. We know Real Estate. We know Cayman. Connect with us On Instagram @engelvolkerscayman On Facebook or online at Contact one of our 15 advisors, today or call Heidi Kiss, Broker & Owner on Office +1.345.623.1400 | Cell +1.345.525.1126 Live Your Luxury. We know Real Estate. We know Cayman. Connect with us On Instagram @engelvolkerscayman On Facebook or online at Contact one of our 15 advisors, today or call Heidi Kiss, Broker & Owner on Office +1.345.623.1400 | Cell +1.345.525.1126
| | |
Cayman.

Cayman’s trusted healthcare providers

• Confusion or change in mental status Intro Best of Land Best of Water Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay

The Cayman Islands is fortunate to have over 200 registered healthcare facilities, including pharmacies, laboratories, physician practices and therapy clinics, over 700 registered practitioners and numerous private specialists. Incredibly, there are approximately 4.7 doctors and 7.8 nurses for every 1,000 people residing in the Cayman Islands.

Grand Cayman also has three fully equipped hospitals: Cayman Islands Hospital, Doctors Hospital and Health City Cayman Islands. The latter hopes to have a second speciality hospital in Camana Bay completed by the end of 2023. For those living or visiting Cayman Brac, there is Faith Hospital.

Healthcare in the Cayman Islands has seen continued innovation over the years and Grand Cayman has achieved technologically-enhanced excellence in a number of medical fields. Because of these advancements, more individuals are making a choice to take up treatment in Cayman, and the Island has cemented its place as the top medical tourism destination in the Caribbean.

If you are visiting the Islands and you do fall sick, you could not be in a better place with regards to the quality of care and service, outside of mainland America. However, there is no free medical care in Cayman, and so you should make sure you are covered by a travel insurance plan. Over the next few pages you’ll find healthcare providers that offer some of the key services you may need or choose to use while visiting.

If you are travelling and begin to notice symptoms, it can be hard to pinpoint when a trip to the hospital is actually needed. The following symptoms are signs that urgent medical help may be required. Keep these in mind so that you can help yourself in the event of a potential medical emergency.

When to Go to the Hospital

Sudden or severe pain

• West Bay George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer Services/Index

Deciding when to go to the hospital can be challenging, but the below symptoms are a sign that urgent medical help may be required. • Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath • Chest or upper abdominal pain or pressure • Fainting, sudden dizziness or weakness • Changes in vision or difficulty speaking EXPLORE 2023 • Explore more with the free Explore Cayman iPhone and iPad app 136
Uncontrolled bleeding
Severe or persistent vomiting or diarrhea
Coughing or vomiting blood

Doctors Express is healthcare for the whole family. As an urgent care clinic, their team treats everything from coughs, colds, fevers and flu to cuts that need stitches, bad burns and fractures. They function just like a walk-in GP clinic, except they have an in-house x-ray, lab and pharmacy. Best of all, no appointments are necessary – just walk in and get the care you need.

Open 7 days a week, 9am–9pm (including most public holidays) • On site lab • On site X-ray • On site pharmacy • GP and ER consultant physicians • Walk-in (no appointments needed) • Urgent care • GP services • Prescription refills • Allergies • Cold/flu/fever symptoms • Urinary tract infections • Fractures and sprains • Lacerations and burns • Back pain • Women’s health • School physicals • Work permit medicals • Immigration medicals • Wellness exams • Pre-employment physicals • Drug testing • Imaging and radiology • Laboratory services • Pharmacy • Medical cannabis consultations
OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK
• Walk-ins accepted • Services include urgent care, diabetology, ophthalmology, dental, physiotherapy, ENT, nutrition and more • On-site laboratory and imaging • Pharmacy Monday-Saturday 8am-8pm Conveniently located on SMB
Health offers a comprehensive healthcare solution under one roof. From urgent care to specialist consultations, their
is
healthier
They
imaging services and
pharmacy
convenience. The Grand Pavilion, 802 West Bay Road (345) 333 4444 (Pharmacy) totalhealth.ky (345) 333 2222 (Clinic) HIGHLIGHTS HIGHLIGHTS www.ExploreCayman.com 137 Intro Best of
81 Godfrey Nixon Way, George Town (345) 745 6000 info@doctorsexpress.ky doctorsexpress.ky
Total
team
primed to help you lead a
life.
also have an onsite laboratory,
a
for your
Land Best of Water
Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay West Bay
Services/Index
George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer

13 Belmont Close, Crewe Road, GT

(345) 939 4505 (Cell)

PensumMed.pro

Pensum Regenerative Medicine is a stateof-the-art stem cell clinic conveniently located in George Town. The clinic specialises in the use of regenerative cell and PRP therapy for orthopaedic, cosmetic and overall health conditions.

Cellular repair therapy has many advantages and can significantly help relieve pain. To reap the benefits of these regenerative procedures, patients will have cells harvested from their blood, fat or bone marrow.

This method can help reduce inflammation and cause new cells to grow. Many experts in the regenerative cell field feel that fat tissue may be the ideal option for these procedures. This is because our fat tissue has everything we need, including essential growth factors.

Regenerative cells have the ability to completely renew themselves and can become other types of cells in the process. These cells are the body’s natural repair system and boost our recovery from injury and disease.

The team at Pensum Regenerative Medicine can treat any condition that is responsive to procedures that use your own cells; however, a great deal of their work involves treating orthopaedic conditions. Orthopaedic conditions can be very painful, so their priority is to alleviate as much pain as possible. In many cases, they can even help patients avoid undergoing major surgery.

Pensum also offers a selection of other services, including EBO2 therapy. This procedure helps

patients remove toxins from their bodies by implementing a type of minimallyinvasive intravenous therapy that is similar to hemodialysis. It was developed as a treatment for many cardiological problems, allowing patients to avoid life-threatening, highly risky, painful, expensive and complicated surgeries and long recovery periods.

EBO2 is also an excellent option for patients who are experiencing auto-immune-related diseases, inflammatory diseases, arthritis and other infections, as it can help reverse the effects of these diagnoses.

Pensum’s clinic also has a visiting Beverly Hills cosmetic surgeon who uses state-of-the-art methods and techniques to provide cosmetic treatments. These are completed in the leastinvasive way possible and include eyelid, nose and ear surgeries. Botox and fillers, fat transfer, liposuction and other procedures are also available so that you can look and feel your best.

HIGHLIGHTS

• State-of-the-art stem cell clinic

• Cellular repair therapy to help heal the body, alleviate pain and, in most cases, avoid major surgery

• Leading technology from around the world

• Orthopaedic treatments

• Auto-immune disease treatment

• Anti-ageing treatments

• Experienced team

• Reduction of inflammation

• Visiting Beverly Hills cosmetic surgeon for state-of-the-art cosmetic treatments and techniques

• Eyelid, nose and ear surgeries

• Botox and fillers

• Fat transfer and liposuction

• EBO2 procedures to help reverse auto-immune-related diseases, arthritis and more

• Complimentary pre-screening for stem cell candidate eligibility

Call to learn more about which therapy is best suited for you and your needs

(Clinic)
(345) 949 8676
Health@Pensum.pro
EXPLORE 2023 • Explore more with the free Explore Cayman iPhone and iPad app 138 Intro Best of Land Best of Water
Eastern Districts Staying Longer Services/Index
Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay West Bay George Town

Trusted PHARMACIES

Pharmacies in Grand Cayman are well-stocked, open at very convenient hours and have informed, helpful pharmacists who not only dispense medications, but will review medicines and provide additional drug information. Several pharmacies have multiple branches. Relative to mainland America, medications are costly, so it is recommended that you stock up on necessary medications before arriving or have a health insurance policy that covers travel. Consider buying generic brand medications as they are substantially cheaper.

If you plan to stay a little longer or are an island-regular, many pharmacies offer online prescription refills (with some even offering delivery!). Register your insurance details with the pharmacies and if your insurance plan covers prescriptions, then you may only need to pay the co-pay amount.

413 Eastern Avenue, George Town (345) 949 7180 pharmacy@ksl.ky pharmacy.ky

HIGHLIGHTS

• Prescription and non-prescription drugs

• Online refill ordering: pharmacy@kirkmarket.ky

• Delivery service for over-the-counter and prescription medications

• Pill pack service offered for those on multiple medications

• Personal care products

Your Health. Your Life. Your Pharmacy.

Kirk Pharmacy is more than just a place to fill your prescription. Pharmacists take the time to explain medications and provide information to inform you on how to use them safely and effectively. Kirk Pharmacy also has all of your other island essentials, such as sunglasses and suncream, along with a wide selection of personal care items that you may have accidentally forgotten! Its location in Kirk Market just off Seven Mile Beach is very convenient, and their friendly staff are ready to help. They also offer a delivery service for over-the-counter and prescription medications.

Monday-Saturday 8am-9pm Holidays 10am-6pm Located in Kirk Market
• Greeting cards and gifts
• Vitamins and herbal supplements
• Baby products
• Blood pressure checks
• Stop smoking service
• Environmentally-friendly vials
• Pharmacy library
• Prescription transfer
Special orders
available
• Sunglasses and suncream
www.ExploreCayman.com 139
Intro Best of Land Best of Water Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay West Bay
Services/Index
George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer

West Bay George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer

HOSPITALS

Accident & Emergency 911

Cayman Islands Hospital (345) 949 8600

Doctors Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . (345) 949 6066

Health City Cayman Islands . . (345) 640 4040

Faith Hospital, Cayman Brac . . (345) 948 2243

URGENT CARE

Doctors Express (345) 745 6000

Cayman Islands Hospital (345) 949 8600

DISTRICT HEALTH CENTRES

Bodden Town Health Centre (345) 947 2299

East End Health Centre (345) 947 7440

Smith Road Medical Centre (345) 244 2800

North Side Health Centre (345) 947 9525

West Bay Health Centre (345) 949 3439

Little Cayman Clinic (345) 948 0072

PHARMACIES

Doctors Express, GT . . . . . . . . (345) 745 6000

Doctors Hospital, GT (345) 946 2407

Foster’s Airport, GT . . . . . . . . . (345) 815 4051

Foster’s Camana Bay, SMB .(345) 815 4061

Healthcare Pharmacy, GT (345) 947 8900

Kirk Market Pharmacy, GT (345) 949 7180

Smith Road Pharmacy, GT (345) 244 2715

Total Health, SMB . . . . . . . . . . . (345) 333 4444

Valu-Med Pharmacy, GT (345) 949 0442

GENERAL PRACTITIONERS

Dr. Louis Cona

The Strand Medical Ctr (345) 945 7077

DIVE MEDICINE

PAEDIATRICIANS Intro Best of Land Best of Water Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay

Cayman Islands Hospital

The Hyperbaric Services (345) 949 2989

Dr. Sara Watkin

Integra Healthcare (345) 745 7450

DENTISTS

Dr. Sandhya Tripathi

Total Health (345) 333 2222

Total Health 802 West Bay Road (345) 333 2222

Will of Wellness

The Belmont, Suite 2 (345) 926 2428

Dr. Gordon Smith

Safety & Security

CONSIDERATIONS

WEATHER

Regardless of your skin type, apply highfactor sunscreen and put SPF 50 sun tops on children. Ideally, you should avoid the midday sun altogether, particularly as it is easy to underestimate the power of the sun’s rays with a cool tropical breeze. If you get heatstroke, rehydrate with water or juices with electrolytes. Aloe vera gel is great for treating sunburn. See page 49 for sun safety tips.

CRIME

The crime threat in the Cayman Islands is generally considered low, although you should always take normal precautions. Petty theft does occur occasionally, but Cayman is one of the safest places in the Caribbean. Visitors from America are warned to never carry ammunition or firearms in their luggage when travelling to Cayman as it is illegal and you will face prosecution and a hefty fine if caught.

ROADS

KEEP LEFT when driving! When on foot and crossing a road LOOK RIGHT! As in Great Britain and its other territories, vehicles in the Cayman Islands travel on the left-hand side of the road. Drink-driving laws are strictly enforced. Seatbelt laws are also enforced and require all passengers to buckle up. Children’s seats are strongly recommended. Only use hands-free mobile devices when driving. Understanding the rules of a roundabout is also essential.

FOOD & WATER

Dr. Keelin Fox

The Dental Centre (345) 943 7000

Water from the tap and locally grown produce are all considered very safe to consume. The majority of accommodation is connected to ‘city water’, which is great to drink, but a few places still have ‘cistern’ or ‘well’ water. In these situations check with the owner if it is safe to drink.

Services/Index 140
QUICK REFERENCE
The Children’s Clinic (345) 949 2970 EXPLORE 2023 • Explore more with the free Explore Cayman iPhone and iPad app 140

MEDICAL

The World Health Organization (WHO) states that no vaccinations are required for international travel to the Cayman Islands. However, ensure you have adequate travel and medical insurance as Cayman does not operate a national ‘free’ health service. Serious medical cases will normally be transferred to Miami via air ambulance.

LAND

There are no dangerous animals in Cayman and we are rabies-free. Grass snakes are rare and harmless. The odd spider and scorpion are nothing to fear, but if you are bitten/stung get an anti-histamine from a pharmacy or, for serious cases, get a steroid shot from a doctor. There are some plant species, like Maiden Plum and Lady Hair, that can irritate skin and should be avoided.

MOSQUITOES

Mosquitoes are typically very active at sunrise and sunset, so keep a bottle of mosquito repellent close by. If bitten, use an anti-inflammatory cream. Cayman does not have malaria, zika or chikungunya but there have been a few imported cases of Dengue over the last few years.

SEA

Jellyfish stings and sea itch are rare but not fun, so be careful snorkelling and diving. Sea itch is the invisible larvae of thimble jellyfish, and usually appears from late March to June. You can use Safe Sea cream to prevent any issues from both. If stung, a splash of vinegar is soothing and for serious cases, get an anti-histamine from a pharmacy or a steroid shot from the doctor.

DIVING

Be aware of the ‘bends’. Cayman does have a decompression chamber, but don’t plan to use it! Ear complications can result from diving with a cold or sinus infection, and may require a doctor’s attention. Lionfish are venomous so avoid them.

Useful NUMBERS

EMERGENCIES

Fire, police and ambulance 911

Police headquarters . . . . . . . (345) 244 2900

Domestic abuse hotline . . . . . (345) 943 2422

TELEPHONE SERVICES

International operator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0

Directory enquiries. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .411

Dialling Codes

Cayman Islands numbers: omit (345) North America, Canada or Caribbean: 1 + area code + 7 digit number

To dial other countries: 011 + country code + telephone number

SUPPORT GROUPS

Alcoholics Anonymous (345) 926 9044 Narcotics Anonymous . (345) 929 6262

AIRPORT & AIRLINES

Airport Authority (345) 943 7070 Lost and Found . . . . . . . . . . . (345) 244 5863

Flight Information & Reservations

Air Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 800 744 1112

American Airlines. . . . . . . . . . (345) 949 0666 British Airways (345) 945 6382 Caribbean Airlines 1 (800) 920 4225

Cayman Airways (345) 949 2311 Delta Airlines . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 800 221 1212 JetBlue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 855 710 2951 Southwest 1 844 670 7914 United Airlines 1 800 231 0856 WestJet 1 888 937 8538

GOVERNMENT NUMBERS

Dept. of Environment (345) 949 8469

Dept. of WORC . . . . . . . . . . . (345) 949 8344

H.M. Customs . . . . . . . . . . . . (345) 949 4579

General Post Office (345) 949 2474

Tourism Attractions Board (345) 949 6999

Nature Cayman (345) 948 2222

Vehicle Licensing Dept.. . . . . . (345) 945 8344

CONSULARS/PASSPORTS

Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (345) 949 9400

United Kingdom . . . . . . . . (345) 244 2431 United States (345) 945 8173

Download the Explore Cayman app or visit www.explorecayman.com for flight info and other useful numbers.

www.ExploreCayman.com 141
Intro Best of Land Best of Water
Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay Services/Index
West Bay George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer

Abacus

, 93

After dark activities, 34

Airport & airlines, 141

Anchor & Den, 70-71

Antiques, 104

Art classes, 98

Art galleries, 67, 82

Artifacts, 104

Bàcaro

, 77

Balaclava Jewellers, Back Fold

Banana rides, 66

Barefoot Beach, 51

Barkers National Park, 56

Bars and pubs, 34, 69, 90, 101, 118

Batabano Festival, 29

Beach volleyball, 27

Beachcombing, 117

Beaches, 50-51

Beauty products, 100

Beauty treatments, 28

Bioluminescence tours, 38, 48, 116, 126

Bird watching, 117

Blackbeard’s Liquors, 11

Blow Holes, 119

Blue iguanas, 125

Boat charters, 36-47

Boat trips, 40-47

Body fitness, 28

Botanic Park (QE II), 125

Brewery tour, 26, 99

Brunch, 32

Buses, 25

Business hours, 21

Buying property in Cayman, 128-135

Camana Bay, 86-95

Cameras, 100, 105

Car rentals, 24

Caribbean Club, 74

Cathy Church’s Photo Centre, 105

Caves, 120-121

Cayman Airways, 141

Cayman Eco Adventures, 40

Cayman Ferries, 48

Cayman Islands Helicopters, 110

Cayman Kai Public Beach, 51, 52

Cayman Kai, 51, 52, 117, 130

Cayman Kayaks, 126

Cayman Luxury Charters, 41

Cayman National Gallery, 82

Cayman National Museum, 111

Cayman Parrot Sanctuary, 123

Cayman Safari Adventures, 83

Cayman Turtle Centre, 58-59

Cayman Villas, 4

Caymanian cuisine, 33

Caymanite, 30, 67, 99

Cemetery Beach & Reef, 50, 52

Cheeseburger Reef, 52

Chisholm’s Grocery, 122

Cinema, 34, 91

Climate, 18

Clothing, 68, 76, 84, 91, 92, 100

Coe Wood Beach, 50

Coldwell Banker, 135

Consulates, 141

Cooking classes, 34

Coral Stone Stables, 61

Cracked Conch, 60

Craft Market, 99, 102

Crazy Crab, 42

Crighton Properties, 132

Crime, 140

Crossfit, 28, 67

Crystal Caves, 26, 116, 120-121

Cultural activities, 29

Currency, 20

Customs & attire, 20

Dart Family Park, 99

Davenport Development, 3

Decompression chamber, 141

Deep sea fishing, 38

Dentists, 140

Distillery tour, 99

Dive & snorkel equipment, 53

Dive operators, 53

Dive sites, 50, 53

Diving, 53

Doctors Express 137

Doctors, 136-140

Driving regulations, 24

Driving tour, 102, 119

Duty free, 30-31, 98, 100

Early settlers, 19

Eastern Districts, 114-127

Eden Rock & Devil’s Grotto, 52, 53

Elmslie Church, 102

Emergency numbers, 141

Engel and Volkers, 134

Entertainment, 34-35, 91

Falls Steakhouse (The), 72-73

Farmers’ Markets, 88

Fish market, 102

Fishing, 38

Fitness centres, 28

Five Star Charters, 43

Formalities, 20

Fort George, 102

Fountains, 26, 89

Franks Watersports, 44

Free activities, 27

Full moon activities, 34

Funky Monkey, 76

Geography & geology, 18

George Town, 96-113

Get Bent Charters, 45

Getting around, 24-25

Golf, 28, 98

Government numbers, 141

Government, 21

Grand Cayman Condos & Villas, 9

Grocery stores, 68, 122

Guardian of the Reef, 52, 53, 56

Gyms, 28

Harbour Grille, 112

Health centres, 136-140

Health insurance, 129

Health treatments, 138

Helicopter rides, 99, 110

Services/Index
Index EXPLORE 2023 • Explore more with the free Explore Cayman iPhone and iPad app 142
Intro Best of Land Best of Water
Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay West Bay George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer

Hell Geological Site, 56

Heroes Square, 102

History, 18, 19

Horseback riding, 61, 62

Immigration, 129 Island Plaza, 106

Jacques Scott, 12

Jellyfish, 141

Jet skis, 48

Jewellery & watches, 30-31, 67, 100

Jewellery Palace (The), 5, 109

Jewels In Paradise, 75

Kay

’s Fine Jewelry, 7

Kayaking, 116, 117, 126

Kirk Freeport, 107

Kirk Market, 13

Kirk Pharmacy, 139

Kitesurf Cayman, 84

Kittiwake, 50-51, 52, 66

Legislative assembly, 21, 102

Lighthouse Park, 117, 119

Lighthouse Point, 52, 53, 56

Lionfish, 56, 141

Liquor stores, 68

Live music, 35

Local collectables, 30, 67, 88, 99

LUCA, 78

Macabuca Bar, 60

Mangrove tours, 48, 117

Mastic Reserve & Trail, 29, 116

Medical care, 136-141

Mermaid (The), 99

Mission House, 29, 117

Money and banking, 20

Mosquitoes, 19, 141

Museum (National), 111

Music, 35

National Gallery, 82

National symbols, 21

Nature, 56, 117

Nicholson (wreck), 99

Night activities, 34-35

Night diving, 34

Nightclubs, 34-35

North Side, 114-127

North Sound boat trips, 36-47

North Sound Golf Club, 28, 67 North Sound, 36-39

Observation Tower, 89

Omega, back cover

Paddleboarding, 48

Paediatricians, 140

Paradise Pontoons, 46

Parasailing Professionals, 85 Parasailing, 48, 85

Pedro St James Castle, 124

Pensum Health, 138

Personal fitness trainers, 28 Pharmacies, 139

Pilates, 28

Pirates Fest, 29 Pirates, 18 Population, 19

Ragazzi

, 79

RE/MAX - Kass Coleman, 133

Real estate, 128-135

Reel-Fin-Addict Charters, 47

Restaurants, 32-34

Roberto Coin, Front Fold

Rocky’s Diamond Gallery, 108 Rubis, 24

Rum Point, 51, 52, 117, 119

Safety considerations, 140141

Sailing, 49, 66

Salsa dancing, 34

Scoops Cayman, 80 Scooter rentals, 24

Seven Mile Beach, 64-85

Shipwrecks, 19, 52

Shopping, 30-31, 67, 68, 88, 91, 99-100, 119

Shore diving, 53

Silhouette, 92

Silver Thatch Palm, 21

Simply Weddings, 17

Smith Barcadere Beach, 50, 52

Snorkelling equipment, 98

Snorkelling, 50-52

Souvenirs, 30, 99

Spas, 28

Spirit of the West, 62

Splash pads, 26, 49, 66

Sportswear, 68

Spotts Public Beach, 50, 52

Starfish Point, 36, 51, 117

Step Well, 102

Stingray City, 36, 37

Sun protection, 49, 140

Sunset cruise, 34, 66

Sunset House/Divers, 53, 99, 113

Support groups, 141

Surfing, 49

Swimming with stingrays, 37

Taxes

, 20

Taxis, 24

Tennis, 28

Time zones, 18

Tipping & haggling, 20

Tortuga Beach Grill & Bar, 81

Tortuga Rum Co Ltd, 22

Total Health, 137

Tourism & finance, 20

Tours - driving, 83, 119

Tours - land based, 26

Tours - walking, 102-103

Tours - water based, 36-47

Transportation, 24-25

Tukka East, 127

Turtle Centre, 58-59

Turtle Reef, 52, 53

Union Grill & Bar, 94

Useful numbers, 141

Volleyball, 27

Walking tours, 102-103

Watches, 30-31, 67, 100

Water slides, 46, 58-59

Waterfront dining, 32

Waterparks, 26, 49

Waverunner/jet ski, 48

West Bay, 54-62

West Indies Wine Co., 95

Windsurfing, 49, 56

Wine tasting, 26, 34, 95

Wreck dives, 98

Wreck of the Cali, 52

Wreck of the Ten Sail, 119

Yacht & boat charters, 36-47

Yoga, 28, 67

www.ExploreCayman.com 143 Intro
Best
of Land Best of Water Seven Mile Beach Camana Bay West Bay
Services/Index
George Town Eastern Districts Staying Longer
Sea Pond VulgunnersPond SALT CREEK sreltaW rD Bernard Dr K ngb rd Dr Belmont Cl neH i n g CARD NALL RDHOSPITAL FINCH DRIVE B O A T S W SNIA B AY R D NWOT LLAH DR NORTH W E S T POINT ROAD EH LL RD RETAW C SRUO E R O A D F ATNUO I N DR TSEW HCRUHC TS REVEREND BLACKMANDR EILLIW RDNOTGNIRRAF B A T A B A NOROAD W E S T B A Y R O A D ESTERLEY T IBBETTS HIGH W A Y WEST BAY ROAD LAWREN EC BLVD EASTERN AVENUE EL GIN AVENUE SAMOHTR EVALLESSU HU DAH AVE SMITHROAD N O RTH S O NU D AOR D FNIL O R D P I ERSON H I G H WAY A S P I R A T I ON DR F A I R B A N KS RD ESTERLEY TIBBETTS HIGHWAY D YCRO EVIRD O W EN R O B E R T S IRD V E RED GATE RD CREWE ROAD SKNABRIAF DR YBBOB NOSPMOHT YAW S O HTU NUOS D R O A D SHAMROCK ROAD MARYST S HTUO TEERTSHCRUHC SREKLAW DAOR ACADEMYWAY WEST BAY ROAD ESTERLEY TIBBETTS HIGHW AY NORTH C H U RCH S T G N IXON SRERAFAES YAW FORT TS DR ROY S DR HS E DDEN ROAD MANST TM LP E A S TNA DR TPAC DLANIGER OSRAP SN D R MUIDATS RD HCRIB EERT LLIH DR C O N C H POINT RD ATM E A S TTSEW HTRON DNUOS R D AGNESWAY eP n u a vA H o y a Q u a y Peninsula Qyau iVats Devir Stewart Lane airotciV enaL Emerald Lane Bro A aunah Ln A c a d o L a n e Britannia Drive tnewGWay Topaz Lane Jennifer Dr iF sucC l eso LizardRun Dr. CaptainsCourt Palm Heights Drive ananaB yauQ nevahweN yauQ okaD ayauQ CalicoQuay tneccA yauQ PassageLn Grackle Rd We twood D HickoryDr hklEnro Ctnecser rPetnW ya Parkland Close Morningside Dr Domino St Mahoe St SatinwoodSt Bonn i e View Ave LasBrisasDrive C r e n t C l o s e Poinsettia Ln Croton Ln Hibiscus Ln Duke Way Galway Quay WaterfordQuay MimosaQuay BaccaratQuay Bonsal Crescent Carnation Ln PebblesWay Earth Cl L i m e T e e Bay Ave D m Quay VulgunnersDrive Gorse Lane opweV tn enaL Shoreview Pt Memorial Ave HollyDrive Barnes Drive Rosemary St Bamboo Slate Dr MelmacAveElleryMerren Dr AAvedoownottuB lmondAve NewportSt yaB AvednasI onsho e Dr ve Moxam Rd CrestimmuS B A Dr Britannia Drive Fairview Rd Fe n C i c le Parkway Dr Pa r k Ln Turnberry Dr i e yebbA yaW dooW kcot daoR DrProspectAveyrotciV DrMarina Andrew Dr ShorewindsTrail Selkirk Drive raM an D Glidden Ln notgnirraF nL Elizabeth St Boggy SandRoad Billy MandersonRoad CurrysRoad Capt E u r e ka D r Po inc iana Ln BonaventureRd alliH n dale lC se DratsdniW K olls Cre s c ent Josephs Dr Banson D F m a s t C os e DuxesLane gnK dR hTeltsi L n B b Cl Tops S A d e s e n R d Aurora Dr Borea l St M lr Cres t dR Banke r s R d Jade Dr Park ViewCres aebbiraC nL nLhsnapS -temeCe dRyret Bay s ho e Dr S h orescapeLn Shoreline Dr S horewi n sd T a i yrewoP dR Y a c h t evirD Y c h t D ev Stone I dnals rDdihcrO usnineP a evA Crighton Dr Pinehu t dR Sa d na C Crysta Dr Cana l Point Dr C a p ts J eo na d Osbert Rd Chevy St M a d A v e Bro hak C U T e Hill Rd Glade D B n evlle Dr hS ore link Ter R dienLn elcnU B o b dR dAsino D LynetteCres TsdniwerohSliar Po yre dR SimonCres Scholars Dr esoR solC Vibe Ln C edn nL ssiM nLysaD F u ht A e SkyWay BoltinsAve Cap t Allies RdUncleJimmys Lane JeffersonLn E anks Rd Malwinas Way Ca lame D Dunop D veiveneG e neddoB Dr hP l p Cl whtoB Dll Hillard Dr S p urgeon Cr s Raleigh Quay Marsh Rd Prince Charles Quay Magellan Quay Magellan Drive Magellan Quay Jellicoe Quay Nelson Quay Drake Quay Cook Quay Kinty e rD HelenDrive Ma b l Dr ezoonS n Cou t s Rdao Sp uce Ln B o d den R d School Rd Sdnuo W a y G e soL n eFcM d Annex nL Diaz Ln Washing ton Rd G eenwood Dr E c l ipseDr Woodp e c k e r C l Kennedy Dr W o o dlake D oghsA St -gnddaP not nL pmoC a s rD Portland Rd Indust ialWay nodnelcaM D r Tortuga Way omyeS r dR remmoC c ial evA Sher w doo Dr apS y D W n Ln evAgniroG Bo er Rd Warwik D Forum Ln NexusWay StMarket Emeritus Dr ParsonsCircle Maple Rd DynohtnA r Co me r Dr Hawkins Dr Williams Dr Theresa Dr TemplewoodSt OlympcWay Leg u aine criC e LatanaWay WaysdniH BebeeClose M u lberry Dr Stonewall Dr sbeW re s Dr A n toine e Ave ehT eunevA V i e n naC c yraM R e a d Cres Aenn Bynno Cser Grace St tStsoptuO Silver Palms Cres O d ewerC dR TdraGlacipor e n s R d hP elanClGlenEdenRd Clayton KeturahSt Temp ton St Denham Thompson Way FourPoEchointSt St Zeeda h C se July S t FairfaxWay O dnalka S t epoH rD C usader Way Gen tnom C l Rankin Dr RandykeWay Con or Av e Hla fax Ro da M u s i c C l ydoleM nL MaeElla Gardens bnaC koo D WoodBirch Rd Alamo Dr Bowie Cl Crocket Ln Windfern Cl LnCanal ClMistrel nayR dR otA yaW P m D A v e Succes Cir TranquilWay T r op i ana C oS r e D nimiB rD Lords W a y Is a d Dr sekaL ed D larimdA A e Anchoage Ave evAevorgnaMyaWynagohaM evAhcriByaWdoowgoL GrapeAve aP t y nL OrangeDr Sib ra dRnoveD Ithmar Cir Fa r awn Rd wanuR a y C l P o pe Poin t Road S c y nLeefoT GarstonSmithDr V lm B k Dr vnI at rD rDatcivnI Lincoln Dr S l e e p y Hollow Dr retsacnaL serC TempestWay Oak M St SandalwoodCre s noC h D egdE aW e yaW Sp nn ke Rd Barnett Cl znorB dR S fanevahe D nevahefaS rD Scotts Landing B yzee GrandIsle W ya R bx o hg S P e feclu C l Rainbow Ln oeL naRd dRhtimSlewoP Ritz Carlton Dr kcoR H o e R d Parrot Ave epsorP t rD M dd e Rd PinesDr T hompsonD ekaL no D EdgemereCir Sting r ay D r EastBlvdWindsor Park Rd dRdnoP L hdny ts PalmDa Ave L e ycag D r vaD oF e D H a r q u a i l Dr ShadowLn Garvin Rd Slo a is Ave B evAretawkae Stadiu m esoreM nL yaW Aev Blue Lagoon Dr The Mantras C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C H C C C C H B C C C C C C C C H H H H H H H C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C H C C C C H H H C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C H C C H C H C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C GEORGE TOWN WEST BAY Acorn Publishing Acorn Publishing Acorn Publishing Bonnies Arch Lighthouse Point Cobalt Coast Sea Orchard Villas Pappagallo Conch Pointe Sea Breeze Drifters Cove Silver Sands Aqua Bay Club The Palms The Discovery Point Club The Christopher Columbus The Anchorage Commonwealth London House The Renaissance Heritage Club White Sands Harbour Heights Avalon Plantana Pinnacle Great House Westin Hotel Villas of the Galleon Ritz-Carlton Coralstone Club Water’s Edge Beachcomber The Meridian Caribbean Club Casa Caribe The Islands Club The Colonial Club Palm Heights WaterColours Lacovia Cayman Club Seagull Cayman Reef Resort Laguna Del Mar Regal Beach ClubMarriott Seven Mile Beach Resort South Bay Tamarind Bay Plantation Village Crescent Point Margaritaville Resort Sunset Cove George Town Villas The Grandview Grape Tree Coco Plum Poinsetta Coral Sands Holiday Inn Resort Sunshine Suites Sunset House GOVERNORS CREEK MITCHELLS CREEK NORTH SOUND SOUTH SOUND DolphinDiscovery CaymanTurtle Centre Ed Bush Stadium Plaza Del Sol Batabano Plaza Centennial Towers Foster’s Republix Dolphin Cove TrafalgarSquare RegattaO ce Park Cayman Falls Governor’s Residence Governors Square Coconut Place Strand ShoppingCentre Caribbean Plaza Park Place Cost-U-Less Galleria Plaza Royal Palms Camana Bay F.J. HarquailCultural Centre Cayman International School National Gallery Marquee Plaza West Shore Center Seven Mile Shops Kirk Market Kirk Home Centre CaymanSpiritsCo.Distillery Rankin’s Plaza DolphinCentre CUC Power Plant Barcadere Marina Owen RobertsInternational Airport Foster’s Airport Govt. Admin, Bldg. Pasadora Place Eden Rock Bayshore Mall Royal Watler Cruise Terminal Fish Market Port Authority Truman Bodden Sports Complex UCCI JacquesScott Cannon Place Queen’sCourt CaymanPrimary Sch Windjammer Plaza Further Education St Ignatius Catholic Sch Cayman Prep & High School John Grey High School Triple C Sch. South Sound Community Centre South Sound Community Cemetery The Pines National Trust Visitor Centre Buckingham Square A.L. Thompson’s Grand Harbour Plaza & Hurley’s Supermarket Prospect Playhouse Lions Centre Cayman Islands Sailing Club ProspectPrimary Turtle Reef Hell West Bay Public Beach Kittiwake Garvin Park Cemetery Beach CI Yacht Club Marina CI Yacht Club Dock Public Beach Governor’s Beach Ritz-Carlton Golf Course Cricket Pitch Field of Dreams Smith Barcadere Rugby Club Squash Club Tennis Club National Museum SouthSound North Sound Club Doctors Hospital CTMH C.I. Hospital Dart Family Park Barkers National Park The Shores Seven Mile Beach Crystal Harbour Canal Point Snug Harbour Grand Harbour Bonnie View Estates Admiral’s Landing Omega Prospect Park Prospect Sand Cay Red BayEstates Safehaven Port Authority Marina Kimpton Sea re Resor t ATM ATM ATM ATM ATM ATM ATM Vista Del Mar Shangri-La B&B West Bay Nurses Health Centre Coconut Bay Foster’s Camana Bay Farmers Market Football Pitch Grand Old House Barkers Beach Resort CalypsoGardens ‘The Meadows’ at Batabano Sea Dreams Dolphin Point Club Boggy Sands Beach Deck WaterMark Coral Beach Island Pine Villas Hampton by Hilton Bay Town Plaza Kailani –Curio Collection by Hilton Grand Hyatt Residences FIN The Residences Oceana Seaview Kisha Casa Luna Caribbean Courts Cayman Coves Church of God Chapel First BaptistChurch Windsor Village Coccoloba Condos South Bend Villas Tides Emerald Beach CaribbeanClub Paradise Winter Haven Nautica Marina Residences Diamond’s Edge One Canal Point Lotus at Canal Point Solara OLEA Pirates Lair By The Sea Bahia Privé South Bay Residence Shore Club Cayman Crossing Sunrise Silver Oaks RoyalPines Grand Palmyra Ocean Crest Blue Palms Salt Air Townhomes West Bay 1 61 West 19 North Seascape Villa The Sovereign The Venetia Police Detention Centre Downtown Reach Vela The Bentley Hilton Estates San Sebastian South Sound United Church Periwinkle Harbour Walk Vista Caribe Aura Indigo Bay Paraíso Residences Cayman Motor Museum Jacksons Pond The Grove Locale Seacrest Port Authority Car Rentals Private Aircraft Terminal Lakeside Agape Arvia The Retreats Minerva Dr ©Acorn Media 2023

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.