Look closely at the map and you’ll just about spot them...but so exotic, exquisite and ethereal are the trio of stunning isles that make up the Cayman Islands that you’ll be hard pressed to find a more secluded, sun-kissed paradise. A sublime blend of white sand beaches, world class diving and turquoise seas, this minute archipelago in the western Caribbean Sea is so jaw-droppingly laid-back that even the stingrays will eat straight from your hand.
Little Cayman, Cayman Brac and Grand Cayman make up the Cayman Islands and sun-drenched Seven Mile Beach on Grand Cayman is where our sumptuous hotels are located. Perfect for couples, families and honeymooners, Grand Cayman is a mix of luxurious accommodation, award-winning dining, opulent spas, abundant marine life and informal yet plush living. Hand feed morsels of squid to friendly stingrays at Stingray City, walk through the ancient forest on the Mastic trail, take a tour through the glittering crystal caves and snorkel amongst spectacular coral formations at Eden Rock.
The scuba diving around Grand Cayman is regarded as some of the best in the world due to the crystal clear waters and teeming marine life. Spectacular drop-offs, swim throughs, pinnacles, drifts, wrecks and vibrant coral reefs are all on offer. The marine life at Cheeseburger Reef is magnificent and the shallow waters of the Wreck of Cali are perfect for beginners, while for the more advanced diver Bloody Bay Marine Park, just off Little Cayman, is one of the best sites in the Caribbean. If you can tear yourself away from your shady hammock, we recommend a visit to the Queen Elizabeth II Botanical Park, where blue iguanas are bred to protect them from extinction, and the historic capital, George Town. Dining on the Cayman Islands is as superb as the service, and our favourites include Osetra Bay at Morgan's Harbour, the swish Tiki Bar on Seven Mile Beach and elegant fine dining at the Ritz Carlton’s Blue.
These tiny islands are supremely friendly, safe and unassuming. Hospitality and luxury are paramount and you won't find a better place to meet affectionate locals willing to share their rich heritage. Jazz and calypso are the music of choice, conch, coconut and snapper make up the flavour of the islands, and the warm Caribbean Sea still provides a livelihood for many Caymanians. On Cayman Brac head to the lighthouse for remarkable views of the Bluff, while away days on beautiful beaches, explore limestone caves, dive into inviting waters and spot the endangered Cayman Brac parrot. For a picture-perfect day visit tiny cigar-shaped Little Cayman and the magical beach of Point of Sand, on an island that's home to a population of just 170. Famed as one of the best diving spots in the world, here it's just you and the beach (and a few divers), so prepare for shipwrecked bliss, solitary exploration and private picnics. Come with the one you love and swim and dine in uninhibited privacy. For the brave or truly romantic, swim or kayak across Bloody Bay's waters to isolated Owen Island for the ultimate deserted beach experience.
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