First sighted by European explorers in 1503 in a voyage headed by Christopher Columbus, this port of call is famous for beaches, sparkling blue waters and exceptional shopping. Discover a place that-once a refuge for buccaneers - now holds the distinction as the largest island in the British West Indies.

Grand Cayman draws visitors worldwide with its Seven Mile Beach-an ethereal site for snorkeling and swimming-and various sanctuaries and natural habitats for exotic wildlife. Beyond the natural wonders find chic luxury shopping for astonishingly low prices, exciting night clubs, luxury resorts and top-notch restaurants serving native Caymanian cuisine.

Places to Explore

• Hell
  Send a postcard from this seaside village's post office and find quirky souvenirs and curiosities. Snap photos along Hell's beautiful coastline, which-paradoxically-looks like sheer paradise.
• Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park
  Discover a treasure trove of mahoganies, agave thickets, native palms and cacti in this peaceful 65-acre woodland reserve, along with such species as the Cayman blue iguana and the majestic Cayman parrot.
• Pedro St. James Historic Site
  History springs to life at the birthplace of democracy in the Cayman Islands. This structure, built in 1780, burned to the ground in 1989, but has been meticulously restored and declared a national landmark.
• Cayman Islands National Museum
  Located in late 19th century buildings, the museum showcases time-tested methods of rope-making, fishing and roof-thatching.
• Cardinal Avenue
  Attention serious shoppers! Take a stroll down George Town's main district, home to well-known jewelers, galleries specializing in local artwork, and clothing boutiques.
• Cayman Turtle Farm
  Located in the district of West Bay, visitors can see and even pet green sea turtles during a visit to this world-renowned turtle nursery.
• Stingray City
  A brief boat ride from the north side of the island will take you to this location which, true to its name, is teeming with friendly stingrays that visitors can feed, pet and play with.
• Seven Mile Beach
  Discover a fantastic underwater world when you snorkel through colorful coral gardens amid a kaleidoscopic flurry of tropical fish.
• Boatswain's Adventure Marine Park
  This stunning beach is a natural paradise, with exotic birds, nature trails, a turtle farm and even a marine predator tank!
• North Sound Club
  Get ready for a first rate round of golf on Grand Cayman's premier golf course. Designed to complement the terrain, this 6605-yard, par-71 course features narrow fairways and an abundance of water and sand.
• Rum Point Beach
  Enjoy a leisurely beach day swimming, sunning or snoozing as you take in the authentic island atmosphere.

Visitor Information

• Language
  English is universally spoken throughout the British Virgin Islands.
• Money
  Though under the British flag, the U.S. dollar is the common currency. Major credit cards and travelers checks are also widely accepted.
• How to Get Around
  
  • Taxis are readily available at the dock and in shopping areas.
  • A reliable bus system with color coded routes runs throughout Grand Cayman. Look for vehicles with official blue license plates.
  • A number of well-known services offer car rental, but you must obtain a temporary driver's license from the car rental agency or the police station, and driving is on the left side of the road.