Getting Around in the Cayman Islands
Your guide to getting around in the Cayman Islands with transportation options and helpful tips on driving and renting a car.
The Cayman Islands is a British Overseas Territory located in the Caribbean Sea. Consisting of three islands—Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac, and Little Cayman.
With the Islands well-equipped for tourism, getting around Cayman is a breeze! Whether it's a quick inter-Islands flight, a leisurely coastal drive from A to B, a bike ride exploring the Eastern Districts or a ferry to cross the North Sound to Kaibo, the options are varied and you'll definitely find one that suits your needs and budget.
Getting to the Sister Islands
There are several daily flights from Owen Roberts International Airport to both Cayman Brac Airport and Little Cayman Airport. There are also daily flights from Cayman Brac Airport to Little Cayman Airport. From Grand Cayman to Cayman Brac, the flight time is around 30-40 minutes. From Grand Cayman to Little Cayman, the flight time is approximately 20-30 minutes. Flight time from Little Cayman to Cayman Brac is generally around 15-25 minutes. Visit www.caymanairways.com for more information.
Getting Around in Grand Cayman
Grand Cayman is easy to navigate with a wide variety of transportation options. If you want to get out and explore the entire Island, a rental car will be your best option. If you just want to relax and remain within the area you're staying, using a taxi service or the public buses might be easier and a more economical approach.
Rental Cars
Choosing the right vehicle
The number of passengers you have with you notwithstanding, here are some things to consider when renting your vehicle:
- Be environmentally conscious - although currently it is not possible to rent electric cars, chose a car that is the best size for your needs
- Gasoline prices are nearly double the average price per gallon in the US (c. Dec 2023)
- During periods of heavy rain, Cayman's roads flood quickly, and open-top cars are less desirable!
Renting a car in the Cayman Islands offers a convenient way to explore its scenic beauty. To rent, you must be at least 21 years old with a valid driver's licence and a credit card for the deposit. Prices vary based on the car type and season, with peak times being more expensive. Comparing prices, booking in advance, selecting the right car for your individual needs (as opposed to a generic choice), thoroughly reviewing rental agreements, and securing insurance are all recommended. Enjoy your journey!
Driving in Cayman
Drivers new to Cayman's roads should exercise caution due to the wide array of nationalities, both tourists and residents, on local highways and their adherence, or lack of it, to international driving standards and practices. In addition, with a considerable amount of construction work on Cayman's roads taking place at the moment, enhanced care and attention is an absolute must for navigating around. Safely following essential "rules of the road" is crucial for the safety of all users. Only cellphone usage with hands-free devices is permitted, all other use is prohibited.
Buses & Taxis
Cayman's public bus system provides a cost-effective, albeit less convenient, alternative to renting a vehicle or paying for taxis. Bus fares start at $2/2.50 for one-way and $5 for round-trip. To learn more about the schedules, click the 'Buses' button below or you can visit the Public Transport Unit website or call the PTU office in George Town at (345) 949-5410.
Taxis are a convenient option for direct transportation with regulated fares. While not metered, you can agree on a fare before starting your journey or use the CI:GO Taxi Fare App for accurate estimates. Taxis can be hailed on the street, and several taxi companies are available.
Eco-friendly forms of transport
The Cayman Islands offers a variety of alternative and convenient forms of transportation. Some are eco-friendly. Here are a few options to consider:
Rent a gas-powered scooter to see all that Little Cayman has to offer.
Little Cayman Scooter (Moped) Rental: Rent a moped with a full tank of gas included, to tour picture-perfect Little Cayman in style
Electric Scooters: Electric scooters have become increasingly popular in recent years, offering a fun and efficient way to get around.
Cycling: Dedicated bike lanes in George Town and a network of scenic cycling trails.
Learn more about the Cayman ferry service and enjoy lunch in Kaibo!
Ferry Service: Cayman has a very reliable ferry service that runs from Camana Bay to Kaibo and back, and from the Newlands public dock to Camana Bay and back.
Pick up THE only Cayman Islands map you'll need!
Take home the best, FREE map for navigating Grand Cayman's roads and top attractions, the Cayman Explorer Map, found at magazine stands, hotels, condos and car rental agencies across the Island, to name but a few. Featuring a comprehensive key system, so you can find everything with ease, you can even pick up your copy from the airport arrivals hall as soon as you land!
