Along Grand Cayman’s western shoreline is a stretch of sand known in the travel community as one of the best beaches in the world. With placid waters and endless amounts of pure white sand, Seven Mile Beach is what makes Grand Cayman special. Although the beach is a mile and a half from its name, there is certainly no shortage of space to relax in the sun. Also, as you walk along the beach you will notice activities ranging from cafes and bars under the palm trees to diving and snorkeling. When you visit Grand Cayman, you’ll immediately see why Seven Mile Beach is at the top of so many lists.
Thanks to its calm waters and casual atmosphere, Seven Mile Beach is known as one of the most family-friendly recreation spots in the Caribbean. The warm water has a sandy bottom, making it a great place for kids to swim. Families can rent all kinds of water toys, from snorkeling gear and paddle boats to jet skis and windsurfing for the adults. There are also some spectacular dive sites off the coast of Seven Mile Beach. Where the gently sloping shoreline meets the wall of coral that surrounds the island, you’ll find the popular reefs known as Paradise and Aquarium.
Seven Mile Beach is also the site of the best resorts and restaurants on the island. Even if you’re not staying at Seven Mile Beach, many of the resorts have facilities open to the public. As many of the resorts open directly onto the beach, you’ll find several bars and snack stands equipped with easy-going lounge chairs. Throughout this area you’ll find several world-class restaurants serving everything from rustic Italian fare to fresh seafood with a Caribbean twist. The resorts also make it easy to rent water sports equipment without leaving the beach. Most importantly, all of these activities (and, of course, the beach itself) are open to the public, whether or not you’re lucky enough to spend your nights here.
At the southern end of Seven Mile Beach is one of Grand Cayman’s favorite family attractions: The Butterfly Farm. Within the tropical gardens of the estate, you can see the life stages of butterflies among exotic flowers and tranquil ponds. Many early morning visitors have the pleasure of seeing new butterflies emerge from their cocoons to take their first flight. On guided tours of the facilities, specialists will allow you to handle both caterpillars and butterflies. As butterflies are attracted to bright colors and perfumes, those who want some personal attention from the fluttering creatures should dress to impress. Open daily at 9 am, The Butterfly Farm also allows visitors to return during their vacation with paid admission. If you don’t see a butterfly emerge from its shell the first time, you can stop by and take more photos whenever you like.
Most of Grand Cayman’s other premier tourism opportunities are within a few miles of Seven Mile Beach. South of the beach is the island’s capital, Georgetown. This historic capital boasts a host of excellent boutiques, art galleries, and shopping areas nestled among an impressive array of colonial architecture. Georgetown also has several great dining and nightlife options.
North of Seven Mile Beach, you’ll find popular attractions like Hell and The Cayman Island Turtle Farm in the small town of West Bay. Known for its fiendish black coral formations, Hell is a favorite of resourceful travelers hoping to mail friends and family from the underworld. On the other hand, The Cayman Island Turtle Farm is a great family destination where kids can interact with these endangered creatures. In addition to its conservation efforts, The Cayman Island Turtle Farm also remembers the island’s colonial history. Upon his arrival, Christopher Columbus named the islands “Las Tortugas” (The Turtles) in honor of the multitude of sea turtles along the coast.
Whether you want to relax on the sand, find adventures on the water, or enjoy world-class restaurants and attractions, a stroll along Seven Mile Beach will put you in the heart of the action.