Did you know that the Cayman Islands has 365 recognized dive sites? If you had the time available, you could dive into a different part of our beautiful underwater world for an entire year! It’s no surprise, then, that people travel from all over the world to enjoy our diving trips in Grand Cayman.
But if you’re not a qualified scuba diver, and you don’t intend to become one, there are still thrilling adventures waiting for you in our crystal-clear waters. That’s because you can find captivating places to snorkel straight from the shore as well as others that are only a short boat ride away.
At Sunset House, we provide exciting Grand Cayman snorkeling tours, so our picks for the best places to snorkel in the Cayman Islands will focus exclusively on our home island. If you have any questions for the Sunset House team as we go, please feel free to get in touch.
Explore the Wonders of Our Own Sunset House Reef
Difficulty: Easy (Calm, shallow water suitable for beginners and families)
Let’s start right at home – the Sunset House Reef! We have something that other dive operators in Grand Cayman can only dream of… our own house reef with world-class shore diving and snorkeling opportunities. In fact, we include complimentary shore diving here as part of our 2-tank boat diving packages.
The sea is only 20 yards away from our onsite bar and pool! Vibrant coral formations provide a backdrop for schools of colorful fish, making every moment a dazzling memory. The accessibility and diversity of marine life make Sunset House Reef a perfect spot for both beginners and experienced snorkelers.
The Sunset Divers team is truly passionate about coral reefs and the oceans, so we’re more than happy to point out the highlights and help you learn about the importance of coral reef restoration.
Say Hello to Grand Cayman’s Mermaid at the Sunset House Reef
Difficulty: Moderate (At a depth of around 55ft, this is beyond the ‘easy’ part of Sunset Reef)
From the natural to the man-made, discover our very own underwater masterpiece – the Mermaid, also known as Amphitrite. As part of the Sunset House Reef, this artistic installation adds a touch of magic to your snorkeling experience.
The Mermaid, gracefully nestled among coral formations, becomes a surreal companion as you explore the surrounding marine life. A captivating blend of art and nature, this 9-foot-tall bronze statue is a must-visit for those seeking a unique snorkeling adventure.
For a more up-close-and-personal experience, you can also dive the Mermaid in Grand Cayman.
Take in the Eerie Sight of Grand Cayman’s USS Kittiwake Wreck
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate (Boat access, typically calm waters, suitable for beginners)
For those who like a touch of history with their marine exploration, the 251-foot-long USS Kittiwake wreck is calling your name. This former submarine rescue vessel, intentionally sunk off Seven Mile Beach, has transformed into an artificial reef teeming with life.
Of course, the best way to explore the wreck up close — including venturing inside to swim around the decks — is to join our Kittiwake Grand Cayman Dive. However, snorkeling above the wreck and peering down from the surface, observing the intricate ecosystem that has developed around it, is still a breathtaking experience.
Are you planning to spend time exploring the Seven Mile Beach area before and after your dives? Don’t miss our Visitor’s Guide to Grand Cayman’s Seven Mile Beach. It’s filled with valuable local insights to help you make the most of your time here!
Immerse Yourself in Nature at Stingray City and the Coral Gardens
Difficulty: Easy (Shallow, calm waters suitable for beginners)
Let’s follow one iconic Cayman attraction with another! No trip to Grand Cayman is complete without a visit to the world-famous Stingray City. While renowned for its encounters with friendly stingrays, snorkelers can also enjoy the crystal-clear waters and the vibrant marine life that surrounds the area.
Glide alongside these gentle creatures as they gracefully move through the shallow sandbars. The sheer novelty of snorkeling with stingrays in their natural habitat makes Stingray City a destination that underwater enthusiasts simply cannot miss.
Most Stingray City boat tours also include at least one stop for snorkeling at the stunning coral reef surrounding our island, giving you two unforgettable experiences in one trip.
Read our blog Is Stingray City in Grand Cayman Worth the Visit? to find out more!
Eden Rock Offers Beautiful Coral Right from the Shore
Difficulty: Moderate (Variable depths, suitable for confident beginners and up)
Named after the biblical garden, Eden Rock is a snorkeler’s paradise located just south of George Town. Anyone can visit this spectacular reef and marine park with ease directly from the shore. There’s even a ladder leading into the sea for safe and simple access!
The Eden Rock area is rich in hard and soft corals, sponges, and an array of tropical fish and marine life. Large numbers of shimmering silver tarpon call this part of the reef home. And as a bonus, Devil’s Grotto, another incredible shallow reef, sits right beside Eden Rock, so you can explore that while you’re here too.
Don’t forget to wear reef-safe sunscreen during your adventures in the sea! These products play a key role in helping us preserve our beautiful underwater world. Find out more by reading our blog What is Reef-Safe Sunscreen and What is its Importance?
Find a Quieter Corner at Cemetery Beach in Grand Cayman
Difficulty: Challenging (Requires a long swim out and back, requires experience and fitness)
Escape the crowds and head to Cemetery Beach for a more serene snorkeling experience. This hidden gem is part of Seven Mile Beach and is named after the old cemetery nearby. It boasts calm, shallow waters and a thriving coral reef around 60 yards offshore.
The abundance of marine life, including colorful reef fish and gentle sea turtles, makes Cemetery Beach a peaceful sanctuary for snorkelers. The relaxed atmosphere and stunning underwater vistas are made for unwinding and connecting with nature.
If you want to be able to identify some of the species you may see when snorkeling, start by reading up on our picks for 10 aquatic animals you will encounter in Grand Cayman.
Swim with Sea Turtles While Snorkeling at Spotts Beach!
Difficulty: Challenging (Requires a long swim to the reef, not suitable for beginners)
Last but certainly not least, Spotts Beach offers a different snorkeling experience, with a focus on encountering Grand Cayman’s magnificent sea turtles. The seagrass beds near the shore attract these graceful creatures, providing snorkelers with a unique opportunity for up-close encounters. It’s possible to see turtles throughout the day, but they are particularly active in the mornings and evenings.
The tranquil waters of Spotts Beach, combined with the chance to observe and swim with sea turtles, make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers. In fact, we even included it in our picks for the most beautiful beaches in the Cayman Islands.
This spot is nestled in Grand Cayman’s south coast, so it’s another place that doesn’t draw in huge crowds. In fact, given the residential surroundings, you’re more likely to encounter locals than tourists here.
Sunset House Grand Cayman is Your Home Away from Home
So, now you know the best places to snorkel in the Cayman Islands, it’s time to start booking your stay! At Sunset House, we have created a comfortable, welcoming environment loved by divers and snorkelers from all over the world.
Browse the rooms at Sunset House and find out more about our Grand Cayman dive packages. If you have any questions about planning your Cayman trip, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
