Grand Cayman is more than just white-sand beaches and turquoise seas. Inland and along the coast lies a rich medley of natural habitats, from dry forests and mangroves to botanical gardens, that host a remarkable array of plant and animal life — including species found nowhere else on earth!
When you visit us at Rum Point Club, whether for a drink at the Rum Deck or to enjoy some beach activities, you’ll find that many of the island’s best natural attractions are within easy reach. If you’re interested in what you may see during your adventures here, we’ve created this guide to the flora and fauna of Grand Cayman. Keep reading to learn more, and don’t hesitate to contact us about our club!
The Stunning Flora of Grand Cayman
Grand Cayman’s plant life is hardy yet beautiful flora that thrives in coastal and inland habitats. The Cayman Islands are home to 415 species of plants, 21 of which are unique to the islands.
One of the most iconic native plants is the silver thatch palm. The national tree of the Cayman Islands, the silver thatch palm has been an essential part of the islands’ economy and culture, used for everything from rope-making to baskets and even roofs.
Another striking native plant is the Agave caymanensis, a succulent plant that grows in rocky inland areas and can tower over visitors when it sends up its dramatic flowering stalk.
In more sheltered environments, such as the Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park, you’ll find the island’s delicate orchids. The wild banana orchid is the Cayman Islands’ national flower, and blooms in spectacular yellow and purple hues. The ghost orchid grows solely on Grand Cayman, a threatened species that only flowers for approximately two weeks between April and June.
Mangroves also play a starring role in the island’s ecosystem. Red, black, and white mangroves form dense coastal forests that help protect shorelines while providing habitat for countless species.
Fauna of Grand Cayman, from Land to Sea
Grand Cayman’s wildlife is incredibly diverse, spanning everything from rock-dwelling reptiles to friendly stingrays. Whether you’re wandering inland or heading out on the water from Rum Point Club, you’ll undoubtedly encounter one of our beloved creatures.
Grand Cayman’s Land Animals
The island’s most famous land animal is the blue iguana — a large, prehistoric-looking reptile found only on Grand Cayman. Despite being the largest native land animal on the island, the species was nearly driven to extinction, with fewer than 25 remaining in 2002. Thanks to ongoing conservation efforts, the species has made an impressive comeback.
Smaller reptiles are common, too. The vivid blue‑throated anole stands out with its bright-blue throat fan, and can often be seen on trees or building walls across the island. You may also spot the curious Grand Cayman curly‑tailed lizard — also known locally as the “lion lizard” — near beaches or basking in the sunlight.
Birdlife is abundant on the island. Keep an ear out for the native Cayman parrot, often heard before it is seen. You’ll spot them in the old-growth forest of the Mastic Reserve, where you may also see the West Indian woodpecker. In the shallows of mangroves, watch out for patrolling herons and egrets.
Marine Life in Grand Cayman
The waters surrounding Grand Cayman are just as lively. Coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangroves support a wide diversity of marine species, one of the most notable of which is stingrays!
Grand Cayman is home to Stingray City, a sandbar where numerous wild stingrays gather. These stingrays have become accustomed to the presence of people, allowing visitors to wade with them in the shallow waters and even touch them for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Near Rum Point Club, Starfish Point is a unique natural attraction where countless starfish rest in the shallows. You can also venture here to see these stunning beauties up close, but make sure not to remove them from the water!
Snorkelers and divers will also find colorful reef fish, sea turtles, and sometimes even nurse sharks patrolling Cayman’s clear waters. To learn more, read our guide to 9 Aquatic Animals You’ll See in Grand Cayman.
Where to See Grand Cayman’s Flora and Fauna
Much of Grand Cayman’s wildlife is best seen on the quieter North Side and East End, away from the developed Seven Mile Beach. Rum Point Club is primely positioned near many of the best natural sites on the island. We are the closest departure point to Stingray City, so you can easily join one of our Grand Cayman Boat Tours for a unique wildlife encounter.
The Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Garden is also just a 20-minute drive away from Rum Point. Here, you’ll not only be able to see the island’s spectacular orchids, but also come across blue iguanas while on a stroll.
Between the two lies the Mastic Trail, where you can immerse yourself among old-growth forests and picture what Grand Cayman must have been like before it was inhabited. Cayman parrots, woodpeckers, and a variety of butterflies and reptiles may be spotted along the trail.
Of course, the waters surrounding Grand Cayman are ripe for exploration. With our North Wall Dive in Grand Cayman, you’ll get to explore some of the pristine wall dives abounding with life.
To learn more about other noteworthy animals and locations, read our guide to Where to Spot Grand Cayman’s Rare and Endangered Wildlife!
Experience Grand Cayman with Rum Point Club
When you join us at Rum Point Club, you’ll not only get to enjoy delicious food and drinks at either our Rum Deck or Solis Restaurant, but also easy access to some of Grand Cayman’s most beautiful and wild locations. You can even go exploring right from our beach with our selection of beach toys to discover the island’s natural beauty. If you have any questions for us about our club and offerings, don’t hesitate to get in touch!
