Grand Cayman Beaches For Cruisers

As a cruise specialist travel advisor and frequent cruiser, I’ve had the pleasure of visiting many incredible destinations around the world, and Grand Cayman is undoubtedly one of the highlights for any Caribbean cruise itinerary.

This island is renowned for its pristine turquoise waters, powdery sand, and the unmistakable charm of its swaying palm trees. If you’re planning a cruise that stops at Grand Cayman, visiting its stunning beaches should be at the top of your list.

Arriving in Grand Cayman: What to Expect

When your cruise ship arrives at Grand Cayman, the largest of the Cayman Islands, you’ll disembark at the George Town Port. This bustling capital city is a hub of activity and the primary port of call for all cruise ships visiting the island.

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The port is often referred to as the Royal Watler Cruise Terminal, and due to the shallow waters and coral gardens, your ship will anchor offshore.

To reach the island, you’ll take a tender boat—a smaller vessel that transports passengers to shore—giving you a scenic introduction to the beauty of Grand Cayman.

Exploring the Best Beaches in Grand Cayman

Grand Cayman boasts an array of beaches, each offering something unique. Whether you’re interested in swimming, snorkeling, or simply soaking up the sun, there’s a beach that will suit your needs.

Seven Mile Beach

One of the most iconic beaches on the island, Seven Mile Beach, is a must-visit. Located just a short distance from the cruise port, this stretch of soft white sand and crystal-clear water is consistently ranked as one of the best beaches in the Caribbean.

Although it’s named Seven Mile Beach, the actual length is slightly less than six miles, and the entire shoreline is public, lined with restaurants, shops, beach bars, and hotels.

While the beach is free to visit, amenities like cabanas and water sports equipment, such as jet skis and snorkel gear, are available for rent. Given its popularity, Seven Mile Beach can be crowded, so consider walking a bit further from the cruise port for a more peaceful experience.

Transportation to the beach is easy, with taxis and local buses offering affordable rides for around $2 USD, taking roughly 15 minutes to reach your destination.

Rum Point

If you’re looking to escape the crowds, Rum Point on the northern side of the island is an excellent option. It’s about a 45-minute drive from the cruise port, but the journey is worth it for the serene atmosphere and beautiful scenery.

This beach is famous for its shallow, clear waters and is perfect for relaxing in a hammock, playing sand volleyball, or snorkeling. You can rent equipment from Red Sail Sports, which is located nearby.

Rum Point is also home to a few restaurants where you can enjoy a meal, as well as a beachside snack shack offering delicious fish dishes and refreshing drinks.

For those with limited time on the island, consider booking an island tour or a private shore excursion to maximize your experience.

Starfish Point

Further along the northern coast, you’ll find Starfish Point, a unique beach where you can see many starfish in their natural habitat. It’s about a 50-minute drive from the cruise port, and while there are no direct rentals on the beach, you can bring your own snorkeling gear or rent some near Rum Point.

Remember to avoid lifting the starfish from the water, as they are delicate creatures best observed in their natural environment.

While Starfish Point isn’t the best beach for lounging, the chance to see these incredible sea creatures up close makes it a worthwhile visit. The nearest restaurants are closer to Rum Point, so plan accordingly.

Cemetery Beach

Cemetery Beach, located at the northern end of Seven Mile Beach, is ideal for those looking to experience the beauty of Grand Cayman with fewer crowds. This beach is known for its fantastic snorkeling opportunities, with plenty of coral and marine life to explore just 60 meters offshore.

If snorkeling isn’t your thing, you can still enjoy swimming in the shallow waters or relaxing on the soft sand under the shade of palm trees. The beach is easily accessible via a 15-minute bus ride from the cruise port. Since there are no facilities or rentals available, it’s best to bring your own snacks, drinks, and snorkeling gear.

West Bay Beach

West Bay Beach, at the far end of Seven Mile Beach, offers a more tranquil experience for visitors. This lesser-known spot is perfect for those seeking peace and quiet, with palm trees providing shade and warm Caribbean waters inviting you in for a swim. The area is also home to the USS Kittiwake, an artificial reef and popular snorkeling and scuba diving attraction.

While public facilities are nearby, including restrooms and picnic tables, you’ll need to rent any water gear from Diver’s Supply near Seven Mile Beach. Reaching West Bay Beach is straightforward, with public buses providing a quick and affordable 15-minute ride.

Stingray City Sandbar

For a truly unique experience, consider visiting the Stingray City Sandbar, one of Grand Cayman’s top attractions. Located about 25 miles offshore, this protected area within the North Sound barrier reef is accessible only by boat and offers the chance to interact with friendly stingrays in their natural environment.

Many tours include stops at other beautiful locations, such as Starfish Point, and provide all the necessary snorkeling gear. Since there are no facilities at Stingray City, be sure to bring your own snacks and drinks for a day on the water. Some tours even offer convenient pickup directly from the cruise port.

Final Thoughts on Grand Cayman Beaches

Grand Cayman is a dream destination for cruise passengers, offering some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. Whether you’re looking for relaxation, adventure, or a bit of both, this island has something for everyone.

As a seasoned cruiser and travel advisor, I highly recommend exploring these stunning beaches and creating memories that will last a lifetime.