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Grand Cayman might not be the first Caribbean island that comes to mind, but it’s one of my favorite islands because it’s close to the mainland and has a secluded feel without sacrificing things to do. Whether you want to lie on the beach, shop, explore the island, or get out on the water, there is no shortage of island fun. The island offers a polished, relaxed atmosphere that makes it feel less like a party island and more of an upscale retreat.
Why Grand Cayman?
Grand Cayman is approximately an hour and twenty minutes from Miami, with direct flights often available from major East Coast cities. Even if you have to book a connection, I think it is well worth the trip. The island’s location in the western Caribbean, with some geographic shielding from Cuba, means it’s statistically less likely to be hit by a hurricane.
International flights will arrive at Owen Roberts International Airport (GCM) near George Town where you can easily rent a car if needed. A rental car is helpful if you plan to explore the island beyond Seven Mile Beach or Rum Point which is where many tourists stay. Roads are easy to navigate, but keep in mind, you’ll be driving on the left.
No matter where you are staying, make time to explore George Town for shopping, rum tours, and restaurants. Grand Cayman Spirits and Grand Cayman Distillery are two great places to join a tour and get a taste of the island. If beers are more your speed, check out 19-81 Brewing or Cayman Island Brewery. Looking to get out on the water? Grand Cayman is a great place to get up close and personal with stingrays on a boat tour or see the bioluminescence on an evening tour.
Beyond George Town, consider visiting the Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park to enjoy the diverse plant life, water features, blue iguanas, and butterflies. You can also drive out to the Blowholes to watch the waves crash into the rocks near the East End. Or get out of the sun with a 90-minute tour of Cayman Crystal Caves.
Seafire Resort and Spa
IHG invited me to experience Seafire Resort and Spa and Hotel Indigo firsthand. I paid for all of my food and activities but IHG covered the room costs. As always, I am sharing my honest take so I can help travelers like you find the vacation spot that is best for you.
Seafire Resort and Spa strikes a balance between polished luxury and a relaxed Caribbean feel. The resort is set directly on Seven Mile Beach with direct access to sand and surf. Beach chairs and towels are provides with options in the full sun or shade. I loved the convenience of the beachside taco bar, Cocoloba, where you can order straight to beach chair or grab a shaded table just steps from the sea. The water is calm and relaxing with few waves so it’s perfect for little ones or anyone who doesn’t like navigating rougher waters. The pool is just steps away for guests who prefer to be out of the sand. The pool has its own lounge chairs and a separate bar.
Inside, our room was spacious with lots of attention to detail. There was a beautiful balcony with a ocean view and calming lighting controls to create a relaxing mood. Families will appreciate a range of room configurations including connecting rooms and suites. There’s even a suite that with bunk bed options that can fit up to 6 people. Ideally this would be 2 adults and 4 younger kids since the bunks are on the smaller side. In the evenings, the hotel hosts a happy hour with complimentary wine. They even put out juice boxes for the kids – a small but thoughtful touch.
One standout space is Library by the Sea, a lobby bar recently named one of North America’s 50 Best Bars. It’s part cocktail lounge, part working library so you can enjoy the books while sipping a cocktail. And don’t miss the buffet breakfast including fresh fruit, pastries, an omelet station, and granola. Even better: if you book with me, enjoy breakfast for two complimentary as part of your stay.
Pictured: Tacos and interior of Cocoloba
Hotel Indigo
For travelers looking for a lower price point without giving up comfort and service, Hotel Indigo Grand Cayman, offers a thoughtfully designed, upscale experience right next door.
The hotel is not directly on the beach, but is an easy 5 minute walk or shuttle ride away. Once you arrive, you have access to beach chairs, umbrellas, and full-service drinks and food. The pool area is also a beautiful, relaxing space with a pool bar and a shallow end ideally for younger children.
Like Seafire, Hotel Indigo also offers a variety of family-style rooms that can fit up to 6 people and connecting room options. We loved our ocean front room and enjoyed sipping wine while watching the sunset in the evenings. In room, you’ll also find pour over coffee with the most adorable mugs made by a local artist.
Guests have access to several restaurants on-site but be sure to make time for the rooftop bar, Pom Pom. Pom Pom offers amazing cocktails and some of the best chicken and beef skewers I’ve ever had. Plates are small but worth it or you can check them out for happy hour specials from 4 to 6 pm. Pom Pom is 18+ and has a live DJ in the later hours.
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