Consistently rated as one of the best beaches in the Caribbean and the world—rivaling even the famous shores of Hawaii—Grand Cayman’s Seven Mile Beach is a truly unforgettable destination. This iconic stretch of public coastline is famous for its soft, powdery white sand and calm, turquoise water. But Seven Mile Beach is more than just a beautiful view—it’s the social hub of Grand Cayman, with luxurious resorts, delicious restaurants, and endless ways to have fun. Whether you’re looking to simply relax or go on an adventure, this guide will show you how to experience everything this world-class beach has to offer.
Water Activities
Stingray City
What It Is
No trip to Grand Cayman is complete without a boat trip to Stingray City! Stingray City is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the Cayman Islands, offering a unique opportunity to interact with wild Southern stingrays in their natural habitat. It is a shallow sandbar in the North Sound where you can stand in waist-deep, turquoise water (2-3 feet/60-90 cm deep) and interact with dozens of friendly Southern stingrays. It’s a truly unforgettable experience for all ages.
What You Do
The main activity in Stingray City is to pet and feed the friendly stingrays. Tour guides provide small pieces of squid, which you can hold flat in your hand to feed to the rays. Guides are on hand to show you the proper way to interact with the animals and to ensure their well-being. Many tours also include other activities, such as snorkeling at a nearby coral reef or at Coral Gardens, where you can see a variety of tropical fish and marine life, and visiting Starfish Point, which is a secluded beach with shallow water where you can find an abundance of starfish.
Tour Operators
A wide variety of companies offer tours to Stingray City, catering to different group sizes, budgets, and interests. Some well-known operators include George’s Watersports, Captain Marvin’s Watersports, and Red Sail Sports. You can choose from group tours on large boats or private charters for a more personalized experience.
Price
Prices for visiting Stingray City tours can vary widely depending on the company, the duration of the tour, and the number of stops included. Group Tours generally range from $50 to $100 USD per person for a standard 2-3 stop tour that includes Stingray City and snorkeling. Combination tours that add a stop at Starfish Point or the Turtle Centre will be more expensive.
Private Charters are significantly more expensive but offer more flexibility. Prices can range from $500 to over $1,500 USD for a half-day or full-day charter for a group, with the cost increasing based on the size of the group and the boat.
Most tours include the boat ride, a guide, and the squid for feeding the stingrays. Some may also provide complimentary bottled water and snorkeling gear.
Swimming
Swimming on Grand Cayman’s Seven Mile Beach is an unparalleled experience. The water is a sheet of glass-like turquoise that’s warm all year round. Unlike other beaches with crashing waves, the shallow, protected bay here ensures a gentle, wave-free environment that’s perfect for all ages. Additionally, there are no strong currents or dangerous marine life to worry about in the immediate swimming area.
You can wade out into the soft, powdery sand for dozens of feet before the water gets deep, making it ideal for families, non-swimmers, or just wading. Generally, the best times to swim are in the morning for the calmest, most reflective water or the late afternoon for the best light. While you’re there, grab some snorkel gear and look for small fish near the shore, or float effortlessly on your back as you soak in the tropical sun. Be sure also to take a sunset dip as the sky explodes in vibrant colors right before your eyes!
Snorkeling
What You Will See
Dive into Grand Cayman’s world-class snorkeling right off Seven Mile Beach–it’s the best spot to snorkel on the island! Explore the vibrant underwater world just offshore, with stunning coral reefs and tropical fish! The underwater world of Seven Mile Beach is a protected marine park, so you’ll find a healthy and vibrant ecosystem. The variety of life you’ll encounter can include:
Colorful Fish: Look for schools of tropical fish like parrotfish, angelfish, butterflyfish, and sergeant majors darting around the reefs. You’ll see them in a bunch of different colors, from bright blues and yellows to striped patterns.
Sea Turtles: While not guaranteed, it’s not uncommon to spot graceful Hawksbill or Green sea turtles gliding through the water or grazing on the seagrass beds.
Other Marine Life: Keep an eye out for marine animals like squid, small stingrays (much smaller than the ones at Stingray City), and various kinds of eels peeking out from coral crevices. The sandy bottoms are also home to conch shells and a variety of starfish.
Where It’s Best To Snorkel
While you can see some fish just about anywhere on Seven Mile Beach, the best snorkeling is at specific sites where the reef comes close to the shore. These are the top spots to see fish:
Cemetery Reef: Located at the northern end of Seven Mile Beach, this is widely considered the best shore-snorkeling spot on the island. The reef is a protected marine reserve, so it’s a very healthy ecosystem. The reef is a bit of a swim out, so it’s best for confident swimmers, but the payoff is excellent. The beach here is quiet and has a lovely, shady atmosphere.
Governor’s Beach: Located near the Governor’s Residence, this spot offers a more easily accessible reef closer to shore. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for a quick, convenient snorkel without a long swim out.
The Wreck of the Cali: This historic shipwreck is just off the coast near the George Town area and is a fascinating site for snorkelers. It sits in shallow water, so you can easily see the remains of the ship and the marine life that has made it their home.
Where To Get Snorkeling Gear
Water Sports Operators: Many of the resorts and larger water sports companies on Seven Mile Beach (such as Red Sail Sports) have rental counters. They offer convenient daily or weekly rentals of masks, snorkels, and fins.
Dive Shops: For a larger selection to choose from and expert advice, head to one of the dedicated dive shops on the island. Places like Divers Supply or Divers World are great options. They often have higher-quality equipment and offer both short-term and long-term rentals.
Hotel and Condo Concierges: Some smaller hotels and private condos may offer complimentary or discounted gear for their guests, so make sure to check with your accommodation provider for snorkeling gear.
Kayaking
For a peaceful and active way to explore the shoreline, grab a kayak and hit the water! Kayaking on Seven Mile Beach gives you a unique point of view, allowing you to glide over the crystal-clear water and spot marine life from above. Unlike a structured boat tour, kayaking lets you explore the coast at your own leisure, paddling to different beaches, hotels, or quiet spots. Additionally, this is a great option for all skill levels, including families with children.
You can rent a standard single or double kayak, or even a popular glass-bottom kayak that offers a stunning view of the underwater ecosystem. Rentals are easy to find, with many major resorts and watersports operators like Red Sail Sports offering them right on the beach.
If you prefer, some companies (such as Adventura Cayman or Paradise Paddle Cayman) will even deliver a kayak directly to your condo or a public beach access point. Rentals typically range from around $30-$40 USD per hour, and many companies also offer half-day and full-day rates, which can be more economical. Kayaking on Seven Mile Beach offers an affordable way to enjoy the tranquil beauty of the beach from a new perspective.
Parasailing
For a truly exhilarating and unforgettable view of Seven Mile Beach, take to the sky with a parasailing adventure! You’ll be harnessed to a parachute-like sail and towed by a boat, soaring hundreds of feet above the stunning turquoise water. The ride is surprisingly peaceful and gentle, and the view is breathtaking, giving you a unique perspective of the entire coastline.
You can choose to fly solo or with a partner, taking off and landing directly from the boat without even getting wet. A few operators, such as Parasailing Professionals, operate right off the beach and will often pick you up directly from your hotel. While the entire experience may last up to an hour, your time in the air will be about 8-12 minutes. Expect to pay around $125 USD for a single ride, with discounted rates for tandem flights. It’s a thrilling, safe, and memorable way to experience the beauty of Grand Cayman from above!
Other Activities
Sunbathing
Seven Mile Beach is a prime location for relaxation on Grand Cayman. Find your perfect spot on the powder-soft white sand and soak up the Caribbean sun! The calm, turquoise water is perfect for a refreshing dip between sun sessions, and you can easily find a beach chair or a shady spot under a palm tree. With a refreshing drink from a nearby beach bar in hand, you can spend the whole day simply unwinding and enjoying the idyllic scenery. For a truly magical experience, stay until the late afternoon to witness a breathtaking sunset right from your beach towel.
The cost to rent a beach chair on Seven Mile Beach can vary. At the public sections of the beach, such as Public Beach, you can often find rental setups. People have been able to pay only around $20 for a package that includes two chairs and an umbrella, a very cost-effective option.
Many of the resorts and beach clubs along the beach offer chair rentals, which may be more expensive. Some hotels, like The Grove, provide complimentary beach chairs, umbrellas, and towels to their guests. Remember to check with specific vendors or resorts along the beach for the most current pricing, as rates can change.
Visit the Cayman Turtle Center
Grand Cayman is a world-class destination for its abundant and diverse marine wildlife. For a chance to see and learn about some of the island’s most famous sea creatures up close, visit the Cayman Turtle Center. The Cayman Turtle Center, also known as the Cayman Turtle Conservation and Education Center, is a Cayman Islands Government-owned and operated facility and a division of the Ministry of Tourism. It is a unique land-based attraction on Seven Mile Beach that is both a tourist destination and a leading conservation and research facility.
Visitors can interact with turtles at various life stages, from holding young turtles in touch tanks to viewing large, adult breeding turtles in the Green’s Breeding Bay. The park also features a saltwater Turtle Lagoon where you can swim and snorkel alongside green sea turtles and other marine life. It also has a freshwater pool called Breakers Lagoon, which is the largest swimming pool in the Cayman Islands and includes two waterfalls and a waterslide.
Beyond turtles, the center is home to other animals, including crocodiles at Smiley’s Croc Cove, sharks and other predators in the Predator Reef viewing tank, and native birds in the Caribbean Free Flight Aviary. Lastly, the center’s mission is to conserve the endangered green sea turtle. It has been releasing captive-bred turtles into the wild since 1979, with over 36,000 released to date. The facility’s work on breeding and research is considered a significant part of global turtle conservation efforts.
Cayman Turtle Center offers 2 price packages for visitors: the Turtle Safari and Turtle Adventure. Their Turtle Safari package is 30 to 90 minutes and is $30 USD per person; their Turtle Adventure package is 1 to 3 hours and is $47 USD per person. Check their website for more information about their packages and discounted tickets.
Note: The Cayman Turtle Center is located on the northern end of Seven Mile Beach, about a 20-minute drive from George Town.
Walk the Beach at Sunset
The sunsets on Grand Cayman’s Seven Mile Beach are breathtaking, painting the sky in fiery shades of orange, pink, and purple. The powdery white sand and the gentle lapping of the waves create the perfect backdrop for a stroll. This simple, free, and utterly beautiful experience is a perfect way to end a day in paradise and create a lasting memory. Feel free to walk the beach, then grab a drink at a beachfront bar to watch the last colors fade. Make sure to take tons of photos!
Shopping
Beyond the beach, Grand Cayman is a shopper’s paradise. When you’re ready to take a break from the sand, a vibrant shopping scene awaits. From duty-free luxury goods in bustling plazas to handcrafted souvenirs in unique local boutiques, Seven Mile Beach caters to every shopper.
Shopping Centers
- The Strand Shopping Centre: A major shopping center on Seven Mile Beach, The Strand is known for selling luxury items. It houses a Kirk Freeport, which sells high-end brands like Bulgari, Chopard, and Citizen.
- Camana Bay: This is a mixed-use development with a wide range of shops, from international brands like Polo and Michael Kors to local boutiques. It’s a pedestrian-friendly area with a variety of retail options, restaurants, and a weekly farmer’s market.
- West Shore Center: Known as the “Pink Plaza,” this shopping strip has a mix of stores, including boutiques and specialty shops like Divers Supply, which sells scuba and snorkeling gear.
- Galleria Plaza: Also called the “Blue Plaza,” this center features art galleries and home-accessories stores, as well as souvenir shops.
Specific Shops & Boutiques
- Kirk Freeport: Kirk Freeport has multiple locations, including at The Strand and within The Ritz-Carlton and Westin hotels. This is the place for duty-free luxury goods like watches, jewelry, and fragrances!
- Funky Monkey: This lifestyle boutique offers fashionable clothing and accessories for men and women of all ages, from beachwear and tank tops to everyday outfits.
- Off The Peg: A clothing boutique located in Seven Mile Shops, it’s known for its well-made clothing and accessories.
- Divers Supply: A great spot for anyone interested in water activities, this store offers everything from beachwear to scuba and snorkeling equipment.
- National Gallery of the Cayman Islands: While an art gallery, its gift shop is a great place to find unique, locally-made keepsakes and art prints.
- Cayman Craft Market: Located in nearby George Town, this is an excellent place to find authentic, locally-made souvenirs and handicrafts, such as woven thatch hats, paintings, and jewelry made from Caymanite gemstones.
- Balaclava Jewelry: Located in Governors Square behind Governor’s Beach, this jewelry store offers unique jewelry pieces.
- Kennedy Gallery: This open gallery showcases beautiful artwork created by local artists in every price range. You will discover a diverse range of artwork, including stunning photography, elegant sculpture, classic paintings, and unique prints.
Dining
From upscale dining to casual beachside bars, Seven Mile Beach is a foodie paradise. Grand Cayman’s culinary scene offers a delicious array of options for every palate. Here are popular places to dine, categorized by dining experience.
Casual
- Bonny Moon Beach Club: This is a new beachfront destination on Seven Mile Beach that has a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere. You can listen to live music from DJs, and enjoy a laid-back environment. The menu features “beach comfort food” and a focus on fresh, local seafood.
- Coccoloba Bar: This is a beachfront restaurant located at the Kimpton Seafire Resort and Spa. It is known for its casual, open-air atmosphere and its unique menu that features a fusion of Mexican street food and Caribbean seafood.
- Peppers Bar and Grill: This restaurant is well-known for its authentic Caribbean and Jamaican jerk cuisine, with an outdoor space and seating under a traditional thatch roof.
- Rackam’s: This is a favorite among both locals and tourists for its laid-back island atmosphere and stunning views, especially at sunset. The menu features a mix of bar food favorites and island specialties. Rackam’s is particularly famous for its nightly tarpon feeding at 7:30pm, where large tarpon gather for a feeding frenzy.
- Coconut Joe’s Bar & Grill: This is a laid-back and casual restaurant with a friendly atmosphere, located just steps from Seven Mile Beach. The restaurant serves a mix of international and Caribbean dishes, with a Caribbean buffet on Wednesday nights. They are also known for their breakfast menu and their live music and DJ on Fridays.
- Taco Cantina: This popular Mexican tequila and taco bar features authentic and unique tacos, as well as classic Mexican dishes like burritos, fajitas, and quesadillas. The restaurant is also known for its daily specials.
- Anchor & Den: This is a stylish restaurant and lounge at the Grand Cayman Marriott Resort, offering a globally inspired menu with comfort food and creative cocktails. Guests especially like their breakfast and Sunday brunch.
- Fidel Murphy’s Public House: This is described as Grand Cayman’s oldest traditional pub, located in the Queen’s Court Plaza. It is a major hub for watching a variety of sports and features authentic pub food with a modern twist. The pub also has a large whiskey collection, with over 200 whiskeys.
Upscale and Fine Dining
- LUCA: This restaurant offers contemporary Italian cuisine with stunning beachfront views. It is known for its Sunday brunch and has been highly rated by visitors.
- Ragazzi Italian & Pizza Restaurant Cayman: From the same restaurateurs as LUCA, this is their more “smart-casual” restaurant, with a balance between a relaxed, friendly setting and a high-quality dining experience. It also has an award-winning wine list and a more extensive menu beyond just pizza.
- Blue by Eric Ripert: A fine dining experience at The Ritz-Carlton, this is the only AAA Five Diamond restaurant in the Caribbean! The menu celebrates seafood, and it’s a great option for a special occasion.
- Morgan’s Seafood Restaurant: An elegant waterfront restaurant located at the Cayman Islands Yacht Club, known for its fresh, ocean-to-table seafood, where local fishermen bring their daily catch directly to the restaurant. It also has options for meat lovers!
- The Wharf Restaurant and Bar: This is a highly-regarded, waterfront fine dining restaurant located at the start of Seven Mile Beach. It serves continental and Caribbean cuisine and is known for its romantic and scenic atmosphere. It also has one of the largest underground wine cellars on the island, with over 1,000 wines.
- Veranda on Seven Mile Beach: This seafood-focused restaurant is situated ocean-side at the Grand Cayman Marriott Beach Resort and is known for its romantic and tranquil setting.
- The Falls Steakhouse (formerly called Copper Falls Steakhouse): This is a good option for those craving a premium steak, but also offers a variety of other options, including chicken, seafood, and vegetarian dishes.
- Lobster Pot: This is one of the oldest restaurants on Grand Cayman, established in 1965. It’s known for its authentic Caribbean seafood and stunning waterfront views.
Visiting Seven Mile Beach For Cruise Ship Passengers
A significant portion of visitors to Grand Cayman’s Seven Mile Beach are cruise ship passengers. Grand Cayman’s cruise port, located in George Town, is a major hub for Western Caribbean itineraries. If you are visiting Grand Cayman on a cruise, you already know that you have a limited amount of time on the island, so it is important to know the logistics of getting to the beach.
Distance and Travel Time to Seven Mile Beach
The cruise port in George Town is only about a 10-15 minute drive from Seven Mile Beach. This is a very manageable distance for a shore excursion and allows you to spend several hours relaxing and having fun on the beach before heading back to the ship.
Transportation Options to Get to Seven Mile Beach
Taxis
Taxis are readily available just outside the cruise terminal. They are a convenient and quick option, with the ride typically taking about 10-15 minutes. Prices are often per person and may vary, but shared vans are a common option that cost around $5 to $6 (USD) per person for a ride to Coral Beach or Public Beach. Coral Beach and Public Beach are both specific sections/access points along the main Seven Mile Beach. Think of Seven Mile Beach as a long, continuous stretch of coastline, and Coral Beach and Public Beach are two of the well-known, public access points on that beach.
Public Buses
The public bus system in Grand Cayman consists of air-conditioned vans with blue license plates. This is the most budget-friendly option, with fares around $2-$3 USD per person. You can find the bus depot a short walk from the cruise port. The bus will take you along West Bay Road, which runs parallel to Seven Mile Beach, and you can simply tell the driver where you want to get off. Both public buses and taxis from the cruise port will take you directly to either Coral Beach or Public Beach.
Pre-Booked Excursions/Shuttles
Many cruise lines and independent tour operators offer pre-booked excursions that include round-trip transportation to Seven Mile Beach. This is a hassle-free option that guarantees your ride to and from the beach. Prices range depending on the cruise line, usually from $25 to $70 USD or more, depending on the excursion, and often include amenities like beach chairs or other activities.
My Recommendations for Cruise Passengers
If you are visiting on a cruise, your time is limited due to the travel to and from Seven Mile Beach. You also have to keep your “all aboard” time in mind. Therefore, I suggest making the most of your day by heading to Stingray City. If you have extra time, feel free to explore other activities. Stingray City is an experience like no other, something not offered on other Caribbean islands. It’s an adventure you will not regret!
Conclusions
No trip to Grand Cayman is complete without experiencing the calm, clear waters of Seven Mile Beach. From snorkeling to sunset sails, this iconic stretch of sand offers a unique activity for every type of traveler. Whether you’re seeking a thrilling adventure or pure relaxation, it’s more than just a beach—it’s the perfect backdrop for creating unforgettable memories. Pack your bags, leave your worries behind, and get ready to discover your own favorite part of paradise!