Grand Cayman is known around the world for its spectacular diving, but there’s so much more waiting for you above the water. From pristine beaches and vibrant coral reefs to hidden caves and cultural experiences, our island offers a wealth of activities for visitors with a wide range of interests.
Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or planning a dive-focused getaway with Sunset House on one of our Dive+Stay custom Grand Cayman dive packages, this guide will help you make the most of your time here in paradise.
Keep reading to find our picks for the top seven things to do in Grand Cayman beyond diving! And if any questions come to mind as we go, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
Relax or Play on Grand Cayman’s Seven Mile Beach
No trip to Grand Cayman is complete without a visit to Seven Mile Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in the Cayman Islands. Known for its soft white sand and calm, turquoise waters, it’s perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or simply soaking in the Caribbean sunshine. You’ll find plenty of shaded areas for a break from the sun and beachfront restaurants serving fresh seafood and tropical drinks.
You will also find an array of beach activities and watersports if you want to keep the energy up during your dive downtime. From the thrill of Waverunner rides to the more serene kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding rentals, you’ll find something for every mood!
Our Visitor’s Guide to Grand Cayman’s Seven Mile Beach takes a closer look at this world-famous, award-winning stretch of coastline. If you’re a beach lover or simply don’t want to miss out on this must-do Cayman experience, be sure to read it when you have finished here.
If you’re staying at Sunset House, the good news is that Seven Mile Beach is just a short drive away, making it easy to combine time on the sand with your dive plans.
Meet the Friendly Stingrays at Grand Cayman’s Stingray City
Even if you’re not diving, Stingray City is a must-visit. This iconic sandbar lets visitors safely interact with southern stingrays in shallow, crystal-clear water. Tours typically include guidance from experienced staff, so you can feed and photograph these gentle creatures without worry.
The southern stingrays at the sandbar are completely accustomed to the presence of humans. In fact, they will often approach swimmers first in the hope of being fed. But, still, these are wild animals in their natural habitat, so you must always practice common-sense behavior, such as soft touches, slow movements, and not startling the animals.
The experience is suitable for all ages and makes a memorable addition to your Grand Cayman activities. For more tips on visiting this unmissable place, check out our blog Is Stingray City in Grand Cayman Worth the Visit?
Discover the Magic of the Cayman Crystal Caves
Grand Cayman’s Crystal Caves offer a fascinating glimpse into our island’s geology. Guided tours take you through subterranean chambers filled with stalactites, stalagmites, and hidden pools. It’s a great way to learn about natural history and experience a side of Grand Cayman many visitors miss.
The caves are well-maintained, so you can rest assured that the guided tours passing through them are safe. This means you can focus on the breathtaking scenery all around you, while also gaining expert insights into how these formations developed over millions of years.
Please keep in mind that you can only explore the Cayman Crystal Caves on a guided tour, so you must book a ticket in advance.
Connect with Nature at Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park
For a leisurely and immersive nature experience, head to Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park. Wander the walking trails to admire tropical flowers, mangroves, and local wildlife. The park is also home to the blue iguana, a species native to Grand Cayman, making it an educational stop as well as a beautiful one.
Whether you’re interested in photography, botany, or simply a quiet escape, the park offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling beaches and vibrant seafronts. Located on Frank Sound Road, near the boundary between North Side and the East End, you will need your own vehicle to visit this wonderful sanctuary.
Experience Local Culture in George Town
George Town, Grand Cayman’s capital, has plenty to offer those interested in local culture. From the National Gallery of the Cayman Islands and the Cayman Islands National Museum to boutique shops and souvenir markets, you can spend a day exploring the creative and historical side of our island.
Food is a key part of the experience, too. While out and about, be sure to enjoy Sunset House’s own dining options: My Bar and Sea Harvest Restaurant. Both offer a glimpse into local life here in Grand Cayman, not to mention a convenient place to relax after a day of diving or sightseeing. My Bar is our island’s largest and often liveliest outdoor bar and has been a favorite with locals and visitors for over 60 years.
Exploring George Town’s streets, attractions, and flavors gives you a real sense of Grand Cayman’s character beyond the water.
Grand Cayman Snorkeling and Shallow Water Adventures
Grand Cayman is full of accessible snorkeling spots, perfect for beginners and experienced snorkelers alike. At the top of the list is Sunset Reef, our very own house reef! The reef is easily accessible from the shore and it teems with colorful fish, corals, and an array of other incredible marine life. Conditions in our shallow water are usually calm, making it suitable for beginners and families.
Snorkeling at Sunset Reef is especially convenient if you’re staying at Sunset House, allowing you to enjoy a vibrant underwater world without needing to book a boat trip. The ladder into the ocean is mere steps from our rooms!
Sunset Reef features in our picks for the best places to snorkel in the Cayman Islands, along with some of the other amazing spots around our island. Check out our full list and start planning your adventures!
Take a Grand Cayman Boat Tour or Sunset Cruise
Exploring Grand Cayman from the water gives you a completely different perspective. Boat tours can take you to secluded beaches, private snorkeling spots, Stingray City, or anywhere around our island to enjoy the sparkling Caribbean views. Sunset cruises are another popular option, offering a relaxing way to enjoy the beautiful evening sky and take memorable photos. Many tours are eco-conscious, too, ensuring that you can experience marine life responsibly.
Our friends at Red Sail Sports provide customizable private boat charters as well as a Sunset Sail from Seven Mile Beach. If you’re tempted by either option, be sure to check them out later.
Book Your Stay and Dives at Sunset House, Grand Cayman
Grand Cayman offers so much more than its world-class diving. From white-sand beaches and crystal-clear reefs to caves, botanical parks, and the vibrant culture of George Town, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Combining these above-water experiences with your dives creates a complete Caribbean getaway.
When planning your trip, consider staying at Sunset House. Our unique location means you can access outstanding diving and above-water adventures with ease. Browse our Dive+Stay custom Grand Cayman dive packages to create a vacation that combines the best of both worlds.
Do you have any pre-booking questions for us? Please just get in touch for the answers you need.
