Grand Cayman is known for its beautiful beaches. One pleasant surprise that visitors often don’t know about until they arrive is that all Grand Cayman beaches are free and open to the public! That means you can take your pick from several beautiful beaches known for their white sand, palm trees, sea turtles, and more.
Ready to start planning some unforgettable beach days in the Cayman Islands? Here’s your list of the best beaches in Grand Cayman:
A tour we think you'll love
1) Swim With Friendly Rays At Stingray City
While it’s not technically a beach, Stingray City is one of Grand Cayman’s most important attractions. Stingray City is a series of shallow sandbars in Grand Cayman’s North Sound. Visitors from far and wide come here to swim among the abundant population of friendly stingrays.
Yes, you can actually pet and interact with stingrays right in their home in the water! It’s a magical experience that brings you face-to-face with some of the ocean’s most beautiful creatures.
Anchor Tours is proud to be the #1 tour provider of excursions to Stingray City. In addition to bringing you to this unforgettable location, our boat tour packages can also include stops at:
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Coral Gardens and Barrier Reef
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Starfish Point
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Kaibo Beach
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Rum Point
Keep an eye out for wild sea turtles – you never know when you’ll see them congregating near Rum Point and other spots on our itineraries. With a private, guided excursion, you’ll discover hidden spots that most beachgoers miss.
We offer sightseeing tours, private snorkeling charters, and unforgettable mangrove kayaking adventures. Start your quest to experience Grand Cayman best beaches off right by cruising with our knowledgeable captains.
Why settle for the usual when you can start your tropical journey with an unforgettable cruise around paradise? Book your adventure with us today!
2) Bask In Paradise On The Iconic Seven Mile Beach
Seven Mile Beach is by far the most popular beach on Grand Cayman, and for good reason. This long, crescent-shaped beach on the island’s western side offers an endless stretch of silky white coral sand that seems to melt into the turquoise waters. It’s no surprise that Caribbean Travel and Life Magazine crowned it “The Caribbean’s Best Beach.”
Whether you’re a beach bum or a water enthusiast, Seven Mile Beach is the perfect place to soak up the sun. The warm, crystal-clear water invites you to dive in for a swim or simply wade along the shore. And when you’re ready to take a break from the sun, you’ll find plenty of shaded spots under swaying palm trees.
The area is lined with fantastic beachfront restaurants, where you can grab a refreshing cocktail or enjoy fresh seafood:
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Morgan’s – Seafood restaurant
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Ragazzi – Italian and seafood restaurant
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Casa 43 – Mexican restaurant and tequila bar
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Burger Shack – American restaurant
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Chicken! Chicken! – Wood roasted chicken
Pro tip: Want to make a day of it? You can easily rent a beach chair or even a cabana if you’re in the mood to lounge in style. The nearby luxury resorts also offer day passes if you’re looking for a touch of extra pampering, complete with pools, spas, and beachside service.
Plus, if you’re eager to explore, George Town is just a short drive away, offering everything from local markets to duty-free shopping.
3) Experience Seclusion At Cemetery Beach
If you’re craving a more peaceful escape from the busier stretches of Grand Cayman, Cemetery Beach is your perfect haven. Located at the northern end of Seven Mile Beach, this little hidden beach is pure tropical bliss. As the sun goes down you’ll get some of the most beautiful sunsets in the Cayman Islands, with gold, pink and violet colors in the sky and on the water.
Why you’ll love Cemetery Beach:
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Uncrowded Paradise – Enjoy peace and quiet away from the crowds of Seven Mile Beach
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Stunning Sunsets – Capture the beauty of some of the best sunsets in the Cayman Islands
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Snorkeling Heaven – Explore the nearby coral reef brimming with colorful fish and sea creatures
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Natural Shade – Relax under the sea grape trees, offering natural shade for a perfect beach day
Pro tip: For the more adventurous, Cemetery Beach is also a popular spot for experienced divers to start their dive to the famous USS Kittiwake wreck. This former Navy ship, now an artificial reef, is just a short distance away and attracts divers from around the world.
4) Discover The Serenity Of West Bay Beach’s Hidden Gem
Found at the northern end of Seven Mile Beach, West Bay Beach is one of the idyllic beaches where gently swaying palms with hammocks tied to their trunks make reality feel like a postcard. The natural beauty here is breathtaking – calm turquoise water lapping at the shore, perfect for a dip or to sit with your toes in the sand.
Unlike the busier beaches on Grand Cayman, West Bay Beach is peaceful. You’ll feel like you’ve stumbled upon a secret paradise, far from the crowds. The lush greenery and quiet surroundings will have you imagining yourself in an adventure novel, discovering a deserted beach hideaway. It’s the perfect spot to relax, soak up the tranquility and slow down.
Although it feels secluded, West Bay Beach has restrooms so it’s a practical choice for families or if you plan to stay for a while. The beach is also close to some local eateries if you want to grab a bite after a day of sunbathing or swimming:
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JJR Restaurant
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Heritage Kitchen
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Subway
Pro tip: Bring along your own snacks and drinks. This way, you can fully relax and enjoy the unspoiled tranquility of West Bay Beach without needing to leave for supplies.
5) Soak Up Luxury And Sun At Governor’s Beach
After the peaceful charm of West Bay Beach, you may be looking for something with a touch more luxury, which is exactly what Governor’s Beach provides.
The big draw of Governor’s Beach is that you’ll have a gorgeous view of the governor’s residence from the sand. Of course, the other view to be enjoyed here is an unspoiled shoreline. This mix of elegance and island charm creates a special vibe you won’t find anywhere else.
Whether you’re looking to take a leisurely swim or snorkel, Governor’s Beach is a prime spot for both. The calm waters here are perfect for families and snorkelers alike, with plenty of colorful fish and marine life just below the surface. Plus, the visibility is usually fantastic, offering a great opportunity to explore without needing to venture far from shore.
Pro tip: As the day winds down, make sure to stick around for the breathtaking sunsets that this beach is known for. The sky comes alive with vibrant oranges, pinks, and purples as the sun sinks into the horizon, creating the perfect backdrop for a memorable evening by the sea.
6) Embrace Nature’s Beauty On Untouched Barefoot Beach
Located on the island’s east end, Barefoot Beach is a secluded beach with amazing snorkeling potential. A barrier located about 100 yards from shore at Barefoot Beach is teeming with tropical fish and coral. Just swim past the seagrass area to get to the reef.
However, the secluded nature of this Grand Cayman beach means that you should only proceed if you’re experienced. You should also wear a life jacket to be safe in the parts of the water where you won’t be able to stand. While this is a public beach, there’s a chance you won’t see anyone around.
Fun fact: Despite its name, Barefoot Beach is ideal for adventurers who love a bit of a hike! To reach this secluded spot, you’ll have to hike along a rough scenic trail. But the beach is worth the walk!
7) Dive Into Local Charm At Picturesque Smith Cove
Also known as Smith Barcadere, Smith Cove is a beautiful spot nestled in Grand Cayman’s South Sound. This beautiful spot is perfect for families, couples, and anyone looking to enjoy a relaxing day by the water with a touch of local flavor.
The natural rock formations add a touch of rugged beauty to the beach, and the nearby coral makes it an excellent spot for snorkeling. Beneath the stunning turquoise water, you’ll find a world of marine life waiting to be explored. It’s the perfect place to unwind and soak up the beauty of the Cayman Islands.
Good to know: With public restrooms and outdoor showers available, it’s easy to spend the whole day here without worrying about heading back to town for a break. The beach also has picnic benches scattered around, so you can enjoy a leisurely meal or snack while taking in the peaceful surroundings.
Experience The Best Beaches Of The Cayman Islands
From its white sand beaches to its amazing snorkeling spots, Grand Cayman is the place where beach lovers find their bliss in the Cayman Islands. At Anchor Tours, we specialize in one-of-a-kind trips that take you beyond what’s available at a public beach to experience Rum Point, Stingray Island, Starfish Point, and more.
Anchor Tours is conveniently located just a short distance from George Town in Camana Bay in West Bay. See a different side of Grand Cayman than most tourists! Book your spot with us today!