The Cayman Islands: Things Must Know Before Your Visit
Who hasn’t imagined a picture-perfect getaway to the Cayman Islands? Three tropical islands are surrounded by pristine beaches, exhilarating water sports, and vibrant, colorful events like Carnival Batabano, Mardi Gras, and Kaaboo festival throughout the year. Sounds fun, right?
However, venturing somewhere new when you know very little about the location can be a little overwhelming. This is why you must do travel research beforehand to ensure everything goes smoothly.
To make your vacation a breeze, we have drafted this blog to give you an understanding of what you must know before traveling to the Cayman Islands.
- Cayman’s Weather
Cayman, located in the Western Caribbean, has a tropical marine climate all year around. Generally, the wet season starts in mid-May and stays throughout October. You will experience warm, rainy summers during these six months of showers.
As for winters, they start in November and last till April. This dry season has relatively mild winters, with temperatures lower than in summers. However, they are still suitable for swimming and sunbathing.
The Cayman Islands hurricane season hits in June and extends till November, and it gets bumpy, especially in September and October. So, planning your trip between these two months is not advisable.
If you plan to visit Cayman, March to June is perfect. The temperature in the Cayman Islands around these four months is warm and pleasant, ideal for scuba diving, snorkeling, sailing, fishing, and numerous other water activities.
2. Clothing and Necessities — Checklist
- Daytime Clothing
During the day, men can pack T-shirts, polos, shorts, tank tops, half-sleeved shirts, and trousers. Women can pack maxi dresses, camisoles, blouses, shorts, skirts, sundresses, jumpsuits, and sarongs.
- Nighttime Clothing
Evening calls for something smart and casual, so packing summer dresses, long skirts with crop tops, and pashmina would be great for women. You can even wear any of these outfits while dining in a restaurant.
Men can carry comfortable pairs of trousers and collared shirts, making them feel cool after a full day lounging under the sun.
- Beachwear
Both men and women must at least carry swimwear! Get all the Vitamin-SEA!
- Footwear
Flip flops and slip-on are an excellent choice for island excursions, but at the same time bringing classy heels would be wonderful for candle night dinners and salsa nights.
- Must-Have Essentials
Remember to pack waterproof sun protection with at least SPF 50, a wide-brimmed hat, your favorite pair of shades, mosquito repellent, and a supply of medications to cover the duration of your trip.
Additional tip- Comfort is always the key, so carry clothes and footwear that make you feel comfortable and relaxed.
3. Cayman Islands Currency
The local currency in the Cayman Islands is CI$, although the US$ is widely accepted throughout the Islands. So you can use all the major credit cards for transactions at any restaurant, resort, or local store.
4. Wine and Dine in the Cayman Islands
While in Cayman, try out Caribbean-style seafood. From raw tuna tartare to ceviche and sashimi, satiate your palate deliciousness. Also, chow down mahi mahi and whaoo. These meaty dishes will surely tickle your tastebuds.
The fine dining experience is incomplete without an alcoholic beverage in the hands. Sip, swirl, and savor, a selected range of worldwide spirits as you take a bite of Caribbean delicacies.
Always remember, the drinking age in Cayman is 18 years or more, and you are not permitted to drink on the beach or have an open alcoholic container on the beach or in the car.
5. Best Places to Visit in Cayman
- Seven Mile Beach
This award-winning beach should be on your list when you visit the Islands. Take a stroll on the beach stretching for 6.3 miles and admire the gorgeous views of the sea as your feet get soaked in the coral sands.
- Stingray City
Explore the magical underwater life and get up close and personal with flat-bodied rays by snorkeling in a series of shallow sandbars of Stingray City.
- Rum Point
Chill, eat, and relax with your buddies, family, or partner under the shade of a hammock placed right at the front of Rum Point. Also, don’t forget to slurp on the ‘Mudslide’ — their signature boozy milkshake.
- Cayman Turtle Centre
Get an educational experience in a fun way by checking out Green sea turtles and swimming with them. This centre also has a large enclosed bird sanctuary with different species of birds. Also, say hi to Smiley, the croc!
- Cayman Crystal Caves
Witness paradise on earth by visiting these lush underground tropical caves surrounded by naturally solidified stalactites and stalagmites — these are elongated forms of different minerals deposited from solution by slowly dripping water.
Pack Your Bags…
We hope these travel tips make the most of your expedition to the Cayman Islands. Here’s a tip: be sure to book your flight and hotels in advance, as you will likely receive great deals and better options for your accommodation.