George Town in the Cayman Islands is one of the world’s biggest financial centers and this little city, with only about 40,000 people, has over 600 banks and trust companies. That’s more banks than they have palm trees – well, almost! But don’t worry, George Town isn’t all business. Today, I’ll tell you all the fun things to do in George Town Cayman Islands.
We’ll check out the awesome beaches (Seven Mile Beach is a must!), try some local food (ever had turtle stew?), and even make friends with some stingrays at Stingray City. Whether you’re coming on a big cruise ship or flying in for a longer stay, I’ll tell you everything you need to know to have an amazing time in George Town.
How Do You Get to George Town, Cayman Islands?
First things first – how do you actually get to George Town? If you’re coming from the US, there are direct flights to Owen Roberts International Airport in George Town from several US cities. Here are some options:
- From Miami: American Airlines and Cayman Airways fly daily (flight time about 1 hour 20 minutes)
- From New York: JetBlue and Cayman Airways have flights (about 4 hours)
- From Atlanta: Delta offers flights (about 3 hours)
- From Houston: United Airlines flies to George Town (about 3 hours 30 minutes)
Remember that these flight times and options can change, so always check with the airlines for the most up-to-date information.
If you’re coming on a cruise ship, you’ll dock right in George Town Harbor. The city is a popular stop for many Caribbean cruises.
Where Exactly is George Town Cayman Islands?
George Town is the capital city of the Cayman Islands. It’s on the western shore of Grand Cayman, which is the largest of the three Cayman Islands. The other two are Cayman Brac and Little Cayman.
The Cayman Islands are in the western Caribbean Sea, about 150 miles south of Cuba and 180 miles northwest of Jamaica. They’re part of the British West Indies, which means they’re a British Overseas Territory.
What Makes George Town Famous?
George Town is a place where old and new come together in a really cool way. It’s a busy cruise port and a big financial center, but it still feels like a laid-back Caribbean town.
The city has been around since the 1700s which started out as a tiny fishing village and grew into the busy place it is today. As you walk around, you’ll see colorful old buildings next to modern shops and restaurants.
One of the best things about George Town is how friendly everyone is. The people here are called Caymanians, and they come from all over the world. More than 100 different nationalities live here!
What’s the Weather Like in George Town?
George Town has great weather pretty much all year round. It’s warm and sunny most of the time. Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Season | Months | Temperature | Rainfall |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dry Season | December – April | 75°F – 85°F | Less rain |
| Wet Season | May – November | 80°F – 90°F | More rain, but usually short showers |
If you’re visiting George Town Cayman Islands, the best time to go is from late October to April. Why? It’s because the weather is nice and it’s not too hot. But really, any time is a good time to visit George Town!
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What Are the Must-See Attractions in George Town?
There’s so much to see and do in George Town Cayman Islands, like learning about island history at the Cayman Islands National Museum, relaxing on the famous Seven Mile Beach, and even hanging out with stingrays at Stingray City.
These are just a few of the cool attractions that make George Town special. Let’s take a closer look at some of the top spots you shouldn’t miss during your visit.
Cayman Islands National Museum
This museum is in one of the oldest buildings in George Town, built in 1833. It’s right on the waterfront, overlooking a place called Hog Sty Bay (funny name, right?). Inside, you’ll find over 8,000 cool things that tell the story of Cayman. Here’s what you can see:
- A big 14-foot boat called a catboat. People used these for fishing and traveling between islands. The one in the museum was built in 1948 by Captain Kem Jackson.
- Old stuff that people used in their homes long ago, like a 1930s Caymanian kitchen setup and tools used for shipbuilding.
- Information about plants and animals that live on the islands, including the endangered blue iguana and the Cayman parrot.
- Art made by people from Cayman, like the colorful paintings of Miss Lassie (Gladwyn K. Bush) and sculptures by Horacio Esteban.
The museum is open Monday to Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM, and Saturdays from 10 AM to 2 PM. It costs 10 Cayman dollars for adults and 5 for kids.
Heroes Square
After the museum, take a short walk to Heroes Square, which is like the heart of George Town. It’s where people gather for big events and where the city remembers important people from Cayman’s history. The square was renovated in 2003 to create this special place.
At Heroes Square, you’ll find:
- The Wall of Honour: This lists the names of Caymanians who’ve done great things for their country. It’s a 3-foot high wall with 500 names on it.
- The Mariner’s Memorial: This remembers people who were lost at sea. It’s a bronze statue showing four figures looking out to sea.
- The Clock Tower: This big clock has been here since 1937! It’s 50 feet tall and chimes every hour.
- The Peace Memorial: This was built in 1919 to remember the end of World War I. It has the names of 24 Caymanians who fought in the war.
Take your time walking around and reading the signs. It’s a great way to learn about Cayman’s history.
Fort George
Near Heroes Square, you can see what’s left of Fort George. It’s not a big fort, but it’s really old – from 1790! People built it to protect George Town from pirates. It was only about 57 feet by 38 feet in size.
As of today, only parts of the fort are left. There’s a cool picture that shows what it used to look like. It’s actually a three-piece mural painted by local artist John Broad. It’s a quick stop, but it’s worth seeing.
George Town Step Well
This is a neat bit of history hidden in plain sight! Inside Bayshore Mall, you can see an old step well from the 1700s. People used to use these wells to get fresh water. It’s pretty cool to see something so old right in the middle of a shopping mall! The well is about 30 feet deep and is made of cut coral stone.
What Are the Best Beaches Near George Town?
George Town Cayman Islands has some amazing beaches nearby, and the most famous is Seven Mile Beach, which has soft white sand and clear blue water. If you want something quieter, Smith Barcadere is a great spot for swimming and snorkeling.
These beaches are easy to get to from George Town and offer different experiences for beach lovers. Let me share with you what makes these beaches so special.
Seven Mile Beach
Seven Mile Beach is probably the most famous beach in all of Cayman, and it’s only a 10-minute drive from George Town, about 4 miles north along West Bay Road. Fun fact: it’s not actually seven miles long. It’s more like 5.5 miles, but that’s still plenty of beach!
Here’s why Seven Mile Beach is so great:
- The sand is super soft and white, made of crushed coral that stays cool under your feet.
- The water is really clear and a beautiful turquoise blue color, with visibility up to 100 feet on calm days.
- You can do lots of fun things like paddle boarding, jet skiing, and snorkeling. There’s a reef about 100 yards offshore great for seeing colorful fish.
- There are lots of places to eat and drink along the beach, like the Coccoloba Bar & Grill at Kimpton Seafire and Calico Jack’s Bar & Grill.
I love spending a whole day at Seven Mile Beach. You can swim, try some water sports, relax on the sand, and watch the sunset. It’s perfect! The best spot for sunset watching is around the Ritz-Carlton area.
Smith Barcadere (Smith Cove)
For a more relaxed and quieter beach, try Smith Barcadere. Some people call it Smith Cove. It’s about a 5-minute drive south of George Town, located at the end of South Sound Road.
Here’s what’s special about Smith Barcadere:
- It’s smaller, only about 400 feet long, and less crowded than Seven Mile Beach.
- The water is calm, which is great for swimming and snorkeling. The best snorkeling is on the left side of the cove where you can see parrotfish and sergeant majors.
- There are big limestone rocks around the beach that are fun to explore. Some are great for jumping into the water, but be careful!
- You’ll find picnic tables and shady spots under casuarina trees. There are also newly added restrooms and outdoor showers.
This is a great spot for a relaxing day at the beach. The snorkeling here is really good too! Early morning is the best time to visit for the calmest water and fewest people.
What Fun Water Activities Can You Do in George Town?
George Town’s got some awesome water activities that’ll make your trip super fun! The ocean here is super clear and warm all year round, usually between 78°F and 86°F.
Do you wanna get up close with stingrays? Check out colorful fish while snorkeling? Or see the underwater world without getting wet? Well, George Town’s got you covered. There’s cool stuff for everyone, no matter if you’re a pro swimmer or just like to splash around.
Stingray City
Stingray City is one of the coolest things you can do near George Town Cayman Islands. It’s not actually a city – it’s a sandbar in the North Sound, about 25 miles from George Town, where you can stand in waist-deep water and hang out with friendly stingrays!
Here’s what you need to know about Stingray City:
- It’s about a 30-minute boat ride from George Town harbor, covering around 7 miles.
- The stingrays are wild but they’re used to people. There are usually 30-50 stingrays in the area.
- You can feed them squid (provided by tour operators) and even touch them gently. Their skin feels like wet portobello mushrooms!
- Most trips to Stingray City take about 3 hours, including the boat ride there and back. The actual time at the sandbar is typically 45 minutes to an hour.
Snorkeling
George Town has some great places to go snorkeling right from the shore. Here are some good spots:
- Eden Rock: This is right in George Town, about a 5-minute walk south of the cruise ship terminal. It has underwater caves that are fun to explore. The water depth ranges from 20 to 40 feet.
- Devil’s Grotto: This is next to Eden Rock, just 100 yards further south. It has lots of fish and pretty coral to see. You might spot parrotfish, sergeant majors, and even sea turtles here.
- Cheeseburger Reef: This reef has a funny name, but it’s a great place to snorkel. It’s right off Seven Mile Beach, about 100 yards offshore from Burger King on West Bay Road. The water is usually 5-15 feet deep here.
You can rent snorkel gear in George Town if you didn’t bring your own. Prices are usually around $15-$20 per day for a mask, snorkel, and fins. Just remember to be careful and don’t touch the coral or fish!
Glass-Bottom Boat Tours
If you want to see what’s under the water but don’t want to get wet, try a glass-bottom boat tour. These boats have a clear part on the bottom so you can see everything underneath.
Most tours from George Town will show you:
- Coral reefs with lots of colorful fish, including the Barrier Reef which is about a mile offshore
- The wreck of the Cali, a 220-foot steel schooner that sank in George Town harbor in 1944. It sits in about 20 feet of water.
- Shallow areas where you might see stingrays or sea turtles, especially in areas like Spotts Beach
These tours usually last about an hour and are fun for all ages. They typically cost around $40-$50 for adults and $20-$30 for children.
Where Can You Go Shopping in George Town Cayman Islands?
George Town is a shopper’s paradise, with a mix of high-end boutiques, souvenir shops, and local markets. The city’s duty-free status makes it especially attractive for luxury goods.
Most shops are open from 9 AM to 5 PM Monday to Saturday, with some staying open later when cruise ships are in port. Remember, you can use both Cayman Islands Dollars and US Dollars for shopping.
Let’s look at some of the best places to shop in George Town:
- Bayshore Mall: This mall is right by the water at 55 Fort Street. It has lots of stores selling jewelry, watches, and fancy things. You’ll find brands like Pandora, Swarovski, and Diamonds International here. The mall covers about 80,000 square feet and has a great view of the cruise ship terminal.
- Cardinal Avenue: This street, which runs for about half a mile through downtown George Town, has many shops selling souvenirs like t-shirts and local art. Check out Island Company for beachwear or Churchill’s Cigars for Cuban cigars.
- Cayman Craft Market: Located on South Church Street, this market is open Monday to Friday from 9 AM to 3 PM. Here, you can buy things made by local artists. You’ll find about 30 vendors selling everything from handmade jewelry to coconut oil beauty products. It’s a great place to pick up authentic Caymanian souvenirs.
- Kirk Freeport: This is where you can buy very nice jewelry and watches. They have several locations in George Town, including a flagship store at 56 Cardinal Avenue. They carry luxury brands like Rolex, Cartier, and TAG Heuer. Kirk Freeport has been in business since 1972 and is known for their duty-free prices.
When you’re shopping, look for things made from Caymanite. It’s a special kind of rock that’s only found in the Cayman Islands. Jewelry made from Caymanite makes a great souvenir!
Caymanite comes in various colors including red, brown, and cream, and is often used in pendants and earrings.
What Are Some Good Places to Eat in George Town?
George Town has lots of yummy food to try. Here are some restaurants I really like:
Cayman Cabana
This restaurant is right on the water at 53 North Church Street. You can eat outside and watch the boats go by. They serve lots of local food like fresh fish and conch fritters.
Their “Farm-to-Table” Thursday dinner uses ingredients from local farmers and fishermen. Try to get a table outside if you can – the view is amazing! The restaurant is open from 11 AM to 10 PM daily, and their conch ceviche is really popular.
Rackam’s Waterfront Bar and Grill
This is another great spot by the water, located at 93 North Church Street. They have good burgers and seafood. Their fish tacos and jerk chicken are local favorites.
If you’re there at 5 PM, you might see them feed the tarpon fish. It’s really cool to watch! The restaurant is open from 11 AM to 1 AM, and they often have live music on Friday and Saturday nights.
Chicken! Chicken!
This place is famous for its wood-roasted chicken. It’s on the Seven Mile Beach strip at West Shore Centre, West Bay Road. They also have yummy sides like Cayman-style cornbread.
They use a secret blend of 20 herbs and spices on their chicken. The restaurant is open from 11 AM to 9 PM daily and they cook about 300 chickens every day!
Levonna’s Kitchen
This is a small place at 6 Walker Road. The menu changes every day, but they always have delicious local food. It’s a great place to try real Cayman cooking.
They’re only open for lunch from 11 AM to 3 PM, Monday to Friday. Their oxtail stew and fried plantains are really popular. Remember to bring cash because they don’t take credit cards.
What Local Food Should You Try?
When you’re in George Town, you should definitely try some local Cayman food. The island’s cuisine is a delicious mix of Caribbean flavors and seafood. Here are some dishes to look for:
- Conch: This is a type of sea snail that’s really popular in Cayman. It might sound weird, but it’s actually really good! Try conch fritters at Rackam’s Waterfront Bar – they’re crispy on the outside and tender inside. Or, go for the conch stew at Cayman Cabana, where they use fresh conch caught daily.
- Turtle stew: This is a traditional Cayman dish that’s been around for centuries. You can find a great version at the Cayman Islands Brewery’s restaurant. They use green sea turtle meat and local spices for a rich, flavorful stew.
- Cassava cake: If you’ve got a sweet tooth, you’ve got to try this dessert. It’s made from cassava, a local root vegetable. Try it at the Cayman Craft Market, where Miss Gale makes it using her grandmother’s recipe.
Don’t be afraid to try new things – that’s part of the fun of traveling! Many restaurants in George Town have “Taste of Cayman” nights where you can sample different local dishes.
What Else Can You Do in George Town?
There’s so much more to do in George Town! The city is packed with interesting attractions and activities. Here are a few more ideas to add to your George Town Cayman Islands itinerary:
- Visit the Cayman Spirits Co. Distillery: They make rum here and you can take a tour to see how it’s made. It’s at 65 Bronze Road and tours run Monday to Friday. Don’t miss their Seven Fathoms Rum, aged underwater in the Caribbean Sea!
- Check out Guy Harvey’s Art Gallery: Guy Harvey is a famous marine artist and his gallery is in George Town. Find it at 55 South Church Street.
- Go to the Farmers’ Market: It’s on Huldah Avenue, open Monday through Saturday from 7:30 AM. You can buy fresh local produce, crafts, and treats. Try unique Cayman fruits like naseberry!
- See the Bodden Roofs: These special roofs on some old buildings in George Town look like upside-down boats! Check them out on the Town Hall and Public Library. They were designed in the 1920s, inspired by shipbuilding.
These activities offer a great way to explore more of George Town’s culture and history. Why not give them a try and see a different side of the city?
When Should You Visit George Town?
George Town is nice to visit all year round, but some times are better than others. Here’s a quick guide:
| Time of Year | Weather | How Busy It Is | Prices |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dec – Apr | Warm and dry | Very busy | Higher |
| May – Nov | Hotter, some rain | Less busy | Lower |
| Sep – Oct | Hurricane season | Least busy | Lowest |
Like I said earlier, I usually like to visit between October and April. The weather is really nice then and there’s lots going on. But if you don’t mind some rain and want to save money, coming in the summer can be good too.
How Can You Get Around George Town?
Getting around George Town is easy and there are several transportation options to suit different preferences and budgets. The downtown area is compact and walkable, making it perfect for exploring on foot.
For longer distances or trips to other parts of Grand Cayman, you can choose from taxis, public buses, or rental cars. Let’s look at each option in more detail:
| Transportation | Cost | Convenience | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Walking | Free | High for downtown | Short distances, sightseeing |
| Taxis | $$$ | High | Airport transfers, longer trips |
| Public Buses | $ | Medium | Budget travel, local experience |
| Rental Cars | $$$$ | High | Island exploration, flexibility |
Walking
George Town’s downtown is small enough to explore on foot. Most attractions, shops, and restaurants are within a 15-20 minute walk of each other.
Walking is free, allows you to soak in the atmosphere, and gives you the flexibility to stop and explore whenever something catches your eye. The main shopping area along Cardinal Avenue is about a half-mile long, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Taxis
Taxis are readily available in George Town, especially near the cruise port and major hotels. They’re a convenient option for longer trips or when you’re carrying luggage.
Fares are set by the government and drivers should have a rate card available. A typical fare from the airport to Seven Mile Beach is about 20-25 Cayman Islands Dollars (KYD). Look for the yellow “TAXI” sign on the vehicle to ensure it’s an official cab.
Public Buses
Public buses, locally known as “mini-buses,” are an affordable way to get around. They run from George Town to most districts of Grand Cayman.
The main bus depot is on Edward Street in downtown George Town. Fares are inexpensive, usually 2-3 KYD for most routes. Buses are white with colored stripes indicating their routes. The most popular route for tourists is #1, which goes to Seven Mile Beach.
Rental Cars
If you want to explore more of Grand Cayman, renting a car is a good option. There are several rental agencies in George Town and at the airport, including familiar names like Hertz and Avis.
Remember, in the Cayman Islands, you drive on the left side of the road! Daily rental rates typically range from 40-60 KYD depending on the type of car. You’ll need a valid driver’s license and be at least 21 years old to rent a car.
What’s the Currency in George Town?
The official currency in George Town and throughout the Cayman Islands is the Cayman Islands Dollar (KYD). However, US Dollars are widely accepted. Here are some important things to know about money in George Town:
- The exchange rate is fixed at 1 KYD = 1.25 USD
- ATMs are widely available and dispense Cayman Islands Dollars
- Credit cards are accepted in most establishments
- It’s a good idea to have some cash for small purchases and tipping
Many prices in tourist areas are listed in US Dollars, but always confirm which currency is being used to avoid confusion.
Are There Any Special Events or Festivals in George Town?
George Town and the Cayman Islands host several exciting events throughout the year. These festivals celebrate local culture, food, and traditions. Here are some of the most popular events:
| Event | Time of Year | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Cayman Carnival Batabano | May | Colorful street parade with music and costumes |
| Pirates Week | November | 11-day festival celebrating Cayman’s pirate heritage |
| Cayman Cookout | January | Food festival featuring world-renowned chefs |
| Gimistory | November/December | International storytelling festival |
If you’re visiting during one of these events, you’re in for a special treat! They offer a unique glimpse into Caymanian culture and are lots of fun for visitors of all ages.
What Are Some Important Cultural Tips for Visiting George Town?
Understanding and respecting local culture will enhance your visit to George Town. The Cayman Islands have a unique blend of Caribbean and British influences. Here are some important cultural tips to keep in mind:
- Dress Code: While beach attire is fine for the beach, it’s polite to cover up when walking around town or entering shops and restaurants.
- Greetings: Caymanians are friendly and it’s common to greet people with a smile and a “Good morning” or “Good afternoon.”
- Tipping: A 15% service charge is often added to restaurant bills. If it’s not, a 15-20% tip is customary for good service.
- Photography: Always ask permission before taking photos of individuals, especially at markets or craft stalls.
- Environment: The Cayman Islands take pride in their natural beauty. Don’t litter and be mindful of coral reefs when swimming or snorkeling.
What Are Some Day Trips You Can Take from George Town?
While George Town offers plenty to see and do, there are also great options for day trips to explore more of Grand Cayman. These excursions give you a chance to experience different parts of the island, from beautiful beaches to unique natural wonders.
Here are some popular George Town in Cayman Islands day trips you can take:
| Day Trip | Distance from George Town | Travel Time | Main Attraction |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rum Point | 23 miles | 45 minutes | Beach & Mudslide cocktail |
| Crystal Caves | 20 miles | 30 minutes | Stalactite formations |
| Cayman Turtle Centre | 6 miles | 20 minutes | Sea turtle interaction |
| Mastic Trail | 15 miles | 30 minutes | Ancient forest hike |
Rum Point
Located on the north side of Grand Cayman, Rum Point is about a 45-minute drive from George Town. It’s known for its calm waters, beautiful beach, and the famous Mudslide cocktail.
Here, you can relax on the beach, try water sports, or enjoy a meal at the Wreck Bar & Grill. The beach here has soft white sand and shallow, crystal-clear water perfect for swimming.
Crystal Caves
The Crystal Caves are a newer attraction, opened to the public in 2016. They’re located in Old Man Bay, about a 30-minute drive from George Town.
The caves feature stunning stalactite and stalagmite crystal structures. Guided tours take about 1.5 hours and provide fascinating insights into the island’s geology. There are three caves to explore, each with its own unique formations.
Cayman Turtle Centre
Just a 20-minute drive from George Town in West Bay, the Cayman Turtle Centre is a conservation facility where you can learn about and interact with sea turtles.
You can swim in a lagoon with young turtles, visit a breeding pond, and even hold a baby turtle. The centre also has a nature trail and an aviary with local birds.
Mastic Trail
For nature lovers, the Mastic Trail offers a chance to explore Grand Cayman’s untouched forest. This 2.3-mile trail winds through a 2 million-year-old woodland area. It’s about a 30-minute drive from George Town to the trailhead.
Guided tours are available and recommended to fully appreciate the unique flora and fauna. You might spot native birds like the Grand Cayman Parrot or the rare Blue Iguana.
What Should You Know About Safety in George Town?
George Town and the Cayman Islands in general are considered very safe for tourists. The crime rate is low compared to many other Caribbean destinations. However, as with any travel, it’s important to take common-sense precautions:
- Keep valuables in your hotel safe
- Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night
- Don’t leave belongings unattended on the beach
- Use reputable tour operators for excursions
- Stay hydrated and use sun protection to avoid heat-related illnesses
In case of emergency, the number to call is 911, just like in the US. The George Town Hospital is well-equipped to handle most medical emergencies.
What Are Some Practical Tips for a Smooth Trip to George Town?
To ensure your trip to George Town goes smoothly, keep these practical tips in mind:
- Electricity: The electrical current in the Cayman Islands is 120 volts/60 cycles, the same as in the US and Canada. If you’re coming from Europe or other regions, you may need an adapter.
- Water: Tap water in George Town is safe to drink. It’s processed by reverse osmosis and meets high quality standards.
- Internet: Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, restaurants, and cafes. Some public areas in George Town also offer free Wi-Fi.
- Time Zone: George Town is in the Eastern Standard Time zone (EST) and does not observe daylight saving time.
- Language: English is the official language and is spoken everywhere.
- Customs: When entering the Cayman Islands, you’ll need a valid passport. US citizens don’t need a visa for stays up to 30 days.
So why should you visit George Town? For the chance to swim with stingrays in the morning, explore a colonial fort in the afternoon, and dine on fresh seafood while watching the sunset in the evening.
For the opportunity to snorkel in some of the clearest waters in the world, shop in duty-free boutiques, and learn about a unique island culture. But most of all, for the memories you’ll create in this beautiful corner of the Caribbean.
