Welcome to the tropical paradise of Grand Cayman, the largest of the Cayman Islands. You will find powdery white sands, turquoise waters, and fascinating marine life. The beach that gets the most attention is Seven Mile Beach, but the island’s coastline is dotted with hidden treasures waiting to be enjoyed. Whether you’re into snorkeling, wildlife spotting, or soaking up the sunshine on a lounger, there’s a Grand Cayman beach to suit you.
At Rum Point Club, we know a thing or two about the best beaches in Grand Cayman as the club is located on the beautiful Rum Point Beach. With an idyllic beachfront location on the North Shore of Grand Cayman, you can dine, drink, play, and put your toes in the sand. Check out our Rum Point Beach Activities, as well as our fun Boat Excursions from Rum Point.
Let’s dive into the best beaches on the island, including the often-overlooked North Shore.
Seven Mile Beach
Undoubtedly the crown jewel of Grand Cayman, Seven Mile Beach stretches along the western coast. It is a stunning blend of soft white sand and crystal-clear water, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
While the beach is often busy, the sheer size of it ensures there’s space for everyone. The calm, shallow waters are perfect for families with children. Get some inspiration for keeping the little ones entertained with our blog: Top Things to Do in the Cayman Islands with Kids. The calm waters also lend themselves nicely to stand-up paddleboarding, one of the more relaxing water sports available.
There are plenty of beachside amenities at Seven Mile Beach, including luxury resorts and open-air bars, so grab a cocktail, lay back, and enjoy one of the island’s best sunset views.
Rum Point Beach
Rum Point is located on the island’s northern coast, known to all who visit as the epitome of relaxation. Imagine swaying palm trees and clear, shallow waters inviting you in. It has a relaxed vibe because of fewer crowds compared to Seven Mile Beach.
Head to The Rum Deck at Rum Point Club to sample the famous Mudslide cocktail. It is a Grand Cayman classic, and it originates from our property back in the 1980s. After your Mudslide, be sure to taste a Rumslide, our take on another Grand Cayman classic!
Rum Point Beach is also a launch point for trips to Stingray City, a sandbar where you can interact with friendly stingrays. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Grand Cayman, and for good reason! At Rum Point Club, we are well-known for our beachfront restaurant and bar but we also run a number of boat excursions, including to Stingray City. Get more information on this trip in our blog: Is Stingray City in Grand Cayman worth a visit?
Starfish Point
Just a short distance from Rum Point, you will see Starfish Point, a tranquil beach with shallow, clear waters and beautiful red and orange starfish peppered across the seafloor. This beach is perfect for children, with safe, calm water for swimming, wading, and splashing about.
It is a quiet, serene setting, ideal for a picnic or relaxing day trip with the family. Starfish Point is a great place for nature lovers to explore, as well as photographers (or keen amateurs) to get many amazing pictures of this beautiful beach. The starfish alone are worth hundreds of photos! Be sure not to touch the starfish, or remove them from the water as this can cause stress or harm. Admire from a distance.
Smith’s Barcadere
Just south of George Town, Smith’s Barcadere (also known as Smith Cove) is a small, pretty beach that’s popular among the Grand Cayman locals. It has a more intimate, less touristy atmosphere giving authentic Cayman charm. It has the benefit of being a fantastic spot to escape the crowds, while also still being close to town.
Rocky cliffs and shaded picnic areas provide a scenic and peaceful setting. The turquoise waters of Smith’s Barcadere are great for snorkeling, and limestone foundations and coral protect the site.
Cayman Kai
On the island’s north side, Cayman Kai is an upscale area offering secluded beaches with soft sand and the turquoise waters Grand Cayman is famous for — perfect for those wanting to escape the more developed areas of the island.
There are opportunities for water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding, with excellent snorkeling spots at the North Sound. Cayman Kai Beach is the type of escape that requires you to bring your own cooler, seating, and shade but it’s definitely worth the extra effort for that castaway charm.
Explore the calm waters and secluded coves of one of Grand Cayman’s best-kept secrets.
Barefoot Beach
Just the name of the beach is enough to draw you in! Barefoot Beach, on the North Shore, is a hidden gem that offers unspoiled beauty and serenity. It is one of the most pristine beaches on the whole island and is accessible just a short walk from the main road. Be wowed by the rugged coastline and the Caribbean Sea while you settle in for a relaxing day on this secluded beach.
It’s about an hour’s drive from the popular Seven Mile Beach so you are well away from the crowds of tourists. Find peace and connect with nature at this beautiful spot on Grand Cayman. As with many beaches on the island, snorkeling here is good with plenty of sealife to admire.
Collier’s Beach
At the eastern end of Grand Cayman, Collier’s Beach is another quiet spot that is loved by locals for its picnic areas and shady palm trees. The shallow waters and gentle breeze here make it ideal for kiteboarding. The beach is also close to East End attractions such as the Wreck of the Ten Sail and several dive sites.
Early risers will benefit from a trip to Collier’s Beach with truly breathtaking sunrise views. Set an alarm, grab a good book, and make the most of your time in Grand Cayman!
Spotts Beach
On the southern coast, Spotts Beach is one of the best places to spot sea turtles in their natural habitat. Visit early in the morning to give yourself the best chance of seeing these gentle creatures. As well as turtles, you can also see tropical fish – it is a wildlife enthusiast’s dream come true!
Spotts Beach is peaceful, with fewer visitors than other beaches, so a trip here can help you recharge for other activities planned on your vacation to Grand Cayman. Shady spots under trees will provide great cover from midday sun, and great picnic areas. If you like snorkeling, this beach is another great place to marvel at sea life.
The East End Beaches
Those looking for rugged and remote beaches should head to the East End of Grand Cayman. While they may lack amenities like some of the other beaches, their untouched beauty is worth going without a few little luxuries.
Blowholes and natural rock formations create dramatic scenery, offering a more authentic Caymanian experience. You can snorkel (of course) and explore tidal pools at these beaches, as well as other great attractions, including the Wreck of the Ten Sail, East End Lighthouse, and Lovers Wall. Explore Cayman gives more information on the Grand Cayman East End attractions.
Grand Cayman’s beaches are plentiful and range from the lively energy of Seven Mile Beach to the quiet serenity of Barefoot Beach. Let’s not forget Rum Point Beach and all the delicious food, must-try cocktails, and exciting excursions with Rum Point Club. Don’t hesitate to contact us with any queries about your vacation to Grand Cayman. Pack your snorkel and we’ll see you soon!
