By Ron Stern, Travel Photo Journalist
The Cayman Islands – consisting of Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac, and Little Cayman – lie in the Caribbean Sea just a 1 ½ hour flight from Miami, Florida. Grand Cayman is the largest and most populous of the three islands. Cayman Brac and Little Cayman are situated to the northeast and are only a few minutes away by plane. These islands offer beautiful beaches, natural attractions, and culinary adventures as alluring as a tropical breeze and will have your mouth watering well before you arrive.
Many of the hotels, such as the Marriott Grand Cayman Beach Resort are located right on Seven Mile Beach with access to water sport activities such as jet skis, paddle boarding, and kayaking. For the most popular attraction on Grand Cayman book a trip to Stingray City with Red Sail Sports. Your catamaran will take you to a turquoise oasis surrounded by boats and lots of people in the waist high water surrounded by dozens of large and small stingrays. They are so playful you can literally cuddle them in your arms (with some help from your guides, of course.)
The trio of islands also have more than their share of dining hotspots from casual to fine dining. The Grape Tree Café in Bodden Town is where you can feast on fried fish right on the beach under a thatched hut. Others not to miss are Blue Cilantro, Calypso, and The Brasserie.
Taking a short trip via Cayman Airways to the neighboring islands is also a fun way to experience all three islands. On Cayman Brac check out the Garden Farm Tour at Le Soleil d’ Oro and on Little Cayman, the Pirate Point Resort for some of their great breads, cakes, and sushi (Fridays). Be sure to bring back some of their homemade jellies.
For more information: www.caymanislands.ky