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Grand Cayman is just a little over an hour from Miami by plane — quick enough for a weekend escape, but far enough to feel like a full reset. If you can, grab a window seat on the right side of the plane. The landing views are unreal: turquoise waters fading into glass-clear shallows, a preview of the island calm waiting for you.
There’s something about Grand Cayman that doesn’t just invite you in — it softens you. Mornings are still. The sand feels like silk. And the whole island moves at a pace that lets you breathe deeper. I didn’t just vacation here — I recalibrated.
From hammock views to poolside skincare, here’s my Grand Cayman travel guide: where I stayed, what to do, what to pack, and the best moments you shouldn’t miss.
Where to Stay in Grand Cayman: The Sands Cayman
We booked The Sands Cayman through Airbnb, and it completely exceeded expectations. The property is a collection of privately owned condos, with excellent host communication and even housekeeping during our stay.
- Location: Old West Bay, with oceanfront balconies.
- Vibe: Modern, boutique-style, lots of natural light.
- Highlight: Sunrise and sunset views from the balcony — golden hour was a dream.
The Sands Cayman: Perfect for travelers who want boutique luxury with calm energy.
Check rates for The Sands Cayman on Airbnb.
Pro Tip: Sundays in Grand Cayman
On Sundays, many restaurants and shops outside Seven Mile Beach are closed. Instead of stressing, we booked a private dinner with Roman Private Chef Services at our villa.
The experience was incredible — they tailored the menu, set the table, passed appetizers, and even mixed drinks. (You’ll need to provide your own liquor, but local stores make it easy.) It felt like a full restaurant experience, in the privacy of our condo.
Book Roman Private Chef Services here.
Arrival & Customs in Grand Cayman
- Arrival: Customs was fast. Passport kiosks + officer = 10 minutes total.
- Departure: Cayman is stricter than the U.S. on liquids. All carry-on liquids must fit into one quart-sized clear bag — even travel sizes. If the bag doesn’t zip shut, they toss it.
- Pro Tip: If you’re bringing multiple beauty/skincare items, consider checking a bag for the return trip.
Getting Around Grand Cayman
- Rental Car: Highly recommended. We booked with National Car Rental, located right next to the airport.
- Cost: ~$375 for 5 days.
- Worth it: Way cheaper than $30–$60 taxi rides.
- Driving: On the left side, calm traffic, plenty of roundabouts. Very safe and easy to navigate.
- Taxis: $25–$40 from airport to Seven Mile. Confirm price (per ride, not per person).
Tip: Download offline Google Maps. Works seamlessly on the island.
Check car rental rates for Grand Cayman.
Top Things to Do in Grand Cayman
- Swim with the Stingrays: A must-do, unforgettable. Pair it with nearby Starfish Point for calm water and gorgeous scenery.
- Bioluminescent Bay Tour: We booked a private catamaran (~$500) from Rum Point. Watching the water glow under the stars was pure magic.
- Starfish Point: Don’t miss the food-truck-style spot Pirates built over the water. Their chicken wings? The best I had on the island.
- Seven Mile Beach: Iconic stretch of white sand + calm turquoise water.
- Old West Bay: Quiet, authentic, perfect for a slow morning.
Book Bioluminescent Bay tours here.
A Little Color Therapy
Grand Cayman is full of “pull over the car” beauty. My favorite? A bougainvillea wall that turned into an impromptu photo shoot. Between the florals and my linen outfit, the whole mood felt soft, light, and completely unbothered.
Skincare That Traveled Well
I kept my island routine minimal but effective — glow, hydration, and SPF protection were non-negotiables.
- Beauty of Joseon SPF – lightweight, no white cast.
- SAI Glow Serum – instant lit-from-within look.
- Rhode Pocket Blush (Freckles) – soft color, easy to apply.
- U Beauty Eye Cream – brightened and smoothed.
- Rhode Glazing Milk – perfect under SPF or at night.
- U Beauty Resurfacing Compound – extra-smooth texture.
- Alastin SPF – reliable reapply option.
- Mad Hippie Vitamin C – gentle, antioxidant-packed.
- Caudalie Beauty Elixir – aromatherapy refresh.
- Summer Fridays Lip Balm – poolside essential.
Shop my TSA-friendly skincare favorites.
What to Pack for Grand Cayman
- Reef-safe sunscreen (lots!)
- Lightweight linen/cotton clothing
- Hat + sunglasses
- Waterproof sandals/water shoes
- Small crossbody or beach tote
- Snorkel mask (optional but useful)
- Quart-size zip bag for liquids
- Dramamine/motion bands for boat rides
Shop my Grand Cayman packing list here.
My Grand Cayman Highlights
- Ms. Piper’s – garden vibes, cocktails, amazing food.
- Seafire Resort (Ave Restaurant) – Friday Fish Night (~$110 pp). Book ahead; no heels, it’s barefoot dining on the sand.
- Starfish Point + Pirates Food Spot – calm water + best chicken wings.
- Bioluminescent Bay – surreal, magical, worth every dollar.
Final Thought
Grand Cayman isn’t just a beach escape — it’s a reset. From boutique stays at The Sands, to slow mornings in Old West Bay, to skincare that survived the sun, every moment softened me.
Planning a trip? Save this guide for later and share it with your travel buddy. Your glow (and your skin) will thank you.
XO Selina
