Grand Cayman, Cayman Guide

An enviably high standard of living, tax-free status and hundreds of offshore banks and financial institutions per square mile, the Cayman Islands remain a trio of lovely, unspoiled islands basking peacefully in the Caribbean sun. Miles from their nearest neighbors, Jamaica and Cuba, these three small specks in the vast ocean are known for some of the best scuba diving in the world. The Cayman Islands is a British Overseas Territory located in the Western Caribbean, 480 miles south of Miami, Florida, 150 miles south of Cuba and 180 miles northwest of Jamaica. By jet, the Cayman Islands is only a 70-minute direct flight from Miami.

Grand Cayman might be small in size, but in every other aspect it is truly “grand.” The largest of the three at 22 miles long, Grand Cayman’s capital George Town boasts a bustling harbor and financial district. Shopping here ranges from duty-free merchandise of all types to wonderful local crafts. The island’s turtle farm is the only one in the world raising hatchlings and re-populating the Caribbean Sea. Seven Mile Beach begins just north of George Town and is home to the many luxury resorts and water sports facilities on the island. Fringed by tall pines and palm trees, its sheer beauty beckons one and all to its sun-baked sand and warm sea. Here you will find any and all types of accommodations (including many condos), restaurants, dive shops, and stores. Many cruise ships also frequent this lovely island. Whatever you do, don’t miss diving or snorkeling with the stingrays at famous Stingray City, as well as a visit to Starfish Point and the Bioluminicent Bay.

Cayman Brac is the middle Cayman island, 86 miles northeast of Grand Cayman (a 20-minute flight), and 15 miles long. Despite its history as a pirate hideout, Cayman Brac today is a peaceful hideaway for divers, fishermen, snorkelers, and those travelers wanting to get away from it all. A nature preserve hosting more than 150 bird species, iguanas and a colorful variety of tropical plants and flowers sits atop the cliffs. A few small resorts catering to divers make Cayman Brac a favorite with the underwater set.

Little Cayman lies five miles west of Cayman Brac and has a population of 50 residents. Only 11 miles long, this coral atoll has changed very little since Columbus’ discovery in 1503. Another favorite with divers, Little Cayman’s Bloody Bay Wall is consistently ranked as one of the top five dive sites in the world. Such a high honor for this tiny, unspoiled beauty. Most of this island’s interior is mangrove jungle sporting the third largest bird sanctuary in the Caribbean.

The ideal tropical climate cooled by the trade winds keeps the Cayman Islands’ average temperature at 80° F with water temperatures ranging from 78°-85° F and 80-100 foot or more visibility. Since scuba diving is so popular here, this is the perfect Caribbean vacation destination to learn to dive, take an advanced course, or get the kids certified.

The Cayman Islands, a British Overseas Territory located in the western Caribbean Sea, is made up of three islands: Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac, and Little Cayman. These small islands have a rich and interesting history that has shaped the unique culture and identity of the Caymanian people.

The history of the Cayman Islands begins with the indigenous people, the Taino, who were thought to have migrated from South America around the 4th century AD. They were skilled fishermen and farmers, living off the land and sea. However, in the 16th century, the islands were discovered by Spanish explorers who named them “Las Tortugas” due to the abundance of turtles in the surrounding waters.

The first European settlers to inhabit the islands were British buccaneers and pirates in the early 17th century. The islands were used as a base for their raids on Spanish ships passing through the Caribbean. In the mid-1700s, the islands were officially claimed by the British and became known as the Cayman Islands, named after the caiman crocodiles that were once found on the islands.

In the late 1700s, the Cayman Islands became a popular stop for ships traveling between Europe and the Caribbean. The islands were known for their safe harbors and abundant supply of fresh water, making them an ideal place for ships to rest and resupply. This led to the development of the islands’ main industries: fishing, turtle harvesting, and shipbuilding.

The 19th century brought significant changes to the Cayman Islands. In 1831, the islands were officially declared a British colony, and the first permanent settlement was established on Grand Cayman. The population grew as people from other Caribbean islands, such as Jamaica and Cuba, came to the Caymans to work in the turtle and fishing industries.

In the early 20th century, the Cayman Islands experienced a boom in the export of sea turtles, which were highly valued for their meat and shells. This industry brought wealth and prosperity to the islands, and the population continued to grow. However, in the 1960s, international laws were put in place to protect sea turtles, causing a decline in the industry.

Today, the Cayman Islands are known as a popular tourist destination, with visitors coming to enjoy the beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rich culture and history. The islands have also become a major offshore financial center, attracting businesses and investors from around the world.

Despite the changes and developments over the years, the Cayman Islands have managed to maintain their unique charm and laid-back Caribbean lifestyle. The history of the islands, from its indigenous roots to its role as a haven for pirates and its growth into a modern society, has contributed to the vibrant and diverse culture of the Caymanian people.