Best Things to Do in George Town: A Diver-Friendly Guide

Are you planning your stay at Sunset House on Grand Cayman? You’ve made a great choice! Not only are you a 10-minute drive from the airport, but you’re also perfectly placed to enjoy the very best of George Town, the capital of the Cayman Islands. Our oceanfront location sits just a few minutes from the capital’s heart; close enough to explore its museums, shops, and waterfront cafés, yet far enough away to keep that peaceful island vibe.

When you’re not enjoying diving trips with Sunset Divers, you’ll find plenty of ways to immerse yourself in Cayman culture, from distillery tours and art galleries to relaxing afternoons at nearby Smith’s Cove. Whether you want to explore, unwind, or simply soak up the scenery, George Town offers a perfect balance of island energy and laid-back charm — and Sunset House puts it all within easy reach.

Here’s your diver-friendly guide to the best things to do in George Town, Grand Cayman, both above and below the water. And if you think of any questions in the meantime, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Explore the Best George Town Dive and Snorkeling Spots

If you’re a diver, you’re in luck! George Town is your gateway to some of the easiest and most rewarding diving on our island. Right off Sunset House lies Sunset Reef, one of Grand Cayman’s most accessible and beloved shore dive sites. It’s home to coral pinnacles, vibrant marine life, the wreck of the Nicholson, and the famous 9-foot bronze Mermaid statue, affectionately known as “Amphitrite.” 

You can explore Sunset Reef’s highlights through our shore diving experiences or join one of our snorkeling tours if you prefer to stay closer to the surface. Our snorkeling excursions join dive trips as far afield as the USS Kittiwake Wreck. But you don’t need to board a boat to enjoy breathtaking snorkeling! You can simply slip on your mask and access our reef via a ladder into the sea that’s mere steps from our rooms.

Other top George Town dive sites include Eden Rock and Devil’s Grotto, famous for their dramatic tunnels and the schools of silversides that fill them during the summer. For beginners, our Guide to Shore Diving from Sunset Reef is a great place to start.

Mermaid statue under water

Immerse Yourself in Cayman Culture

George Town is the cultural heart of the Cayman Islands. In the capital, you can experience the island’s history, art, and traditions firsthand. Start with the Cayman Islands National Museum, housed in a 19th-century building and filled with exhibits on seafaring heritage, local wildlife, and daily life on the islands. A short stroll away, the National Gallery of the Cayman Islands showcases both contemporary and traditional Caribbean art, often with outdoor sculptures in its tropical garden.

If you enjoy local architecture and history, stop by the Fort George ruins. Dating back to the 17th century, this small fortification on the harbour is one of only three built heritage sites remaining in central George Town. 

These landmarks offer an easy introduction to our local culture without straying far from the waterfront, making them great additions to any Grand Cayman itinerary.

Savor George Town’s Flavors: Dining and Drinks by the Water

After a morning exploring or diving, it’s time to unwind with great food and an ocean view. The Sea Harvest Restaurant at Sunset House serves fresh local seafood with relaxed, open-air seating overlooking the Caribbean. If you prefer to eat inside, we have an indoor, air-conditioned seating area for the ultimate comfort, and the large windows looking out over the ocean offer incredible views.

Next door, My Bar is a thatch-roofed, open-air cabana and one of Grand Cayman’s most iconic bars. It has been a favorite hangout for divers, locals, and visiting underwater photographers for decades. There’s no better place on the island for a cold drink and a sunset view. We’re also renowned as one of the best places in Grand Cayman for mouthwatering Indian food!

If you venture into town, be sure to check our recommendations for the best places to eat in Grand Cayman. Our list features numerous standout restaurants and bars in George Town, including Rackam’s Waterfront Restaurant & Bar, Grand Old House, and Casa Nova by the Sea.

Indulge in Rum, Sweet Treats, and Cayman Craftsmanship

One of the best things to do in George Town, Grand Cayman, is to explore our island’s best homegrown producers. Cayman Spirits Co. Distillery offers fascinating tours and tastings — it’s where the island’s famous Seven Fathoms Rum is aged underwater. You can also stop by Cayman Islands Brewery for craft beer tastings in the friendly and welcoming Tap Room.

Do you have a sweet tooth? There are plenty of amazing options for you, too! Just two of our favorite spots include Sweet Crumbs Cafe and Gelato & Co. If you plan to rent a car during your stay, we also recommend making the trip to Scratch Doughnuts + Bakehouse for their delectable bites.

These experiences are great ways to connect with Cayman culture while supporting local artisans and producers.

Stroll and Shop Along George Town’s Waterfront

The George Town waterfront is perfect for a slow afternoon. Wander along Harbour Drive and explore the mix of boutique shops, craft markets, and duty-free stores. Heroes Square, in the center of town, honors the selfless people who dedicated their lives to improving civic life in the Cayman Islands. You’ll find beautiful fountains and sculptures as well as the centerpiece, the ‘Wall of Honor’. This features the names of the 500 most notable Caymanians. The square is a wonderful place to stop by before continuing your browsing along the waterfront.

You can easily spend a few hours wandering and shopping, then stop at My Bar on your way back for a much-needed drink by the sea!

two females snorkeling in the Cayman Islands

Relax at Grand Cayman’s Smith’s Cove

When you’re ready for some downtime, Smith’s Barcadere (Smith’s Cove) is one of Grand Cayman’s most beautiful beaches. It’s just a few minutes from Sunset House and great for swimming, snorkeling, or relaxing on the sand. The cove’s calm waters and easy access make it popular with both visitors and locals.

Sunset House even offers a daily 2:00 p.m. shuttle that stops at Smith’s Cove before heading into George Town, so whether you want to kick back and relax on the beach or get your fix of retail therapy and local culture, we can get you where you need to go!

Plan Your Stay: Dive, Relax, and Explore from Sunset House

After a day of exploring George Town attractions, there’s no better place to unwind than Sunset House. Our hotel’s location means you’re minutes from the best Cayman activities — picture yourself diving at Sunset Reef in the morning, shopping or sightseeing downtown in the afternoon, and enjoying sunset drinks by the ocean in the evening.

Whether you’re here for world-class diving, local culture, or simply to relax in tropical comfort, Sunset House offers the perfect balance between adventure and ease. Explore our custom Grand Cayman dive packages to start planning your Caribbean getaway today.

Do you have any pre-booking questions for our team? Please just get in touch for the information you need.

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