The Best Beaches in the Cayman Islands

Cemetery Beach is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, who are looking for a more tranquil, less crowded beach experience than typically found on Seven Mile. Soft white sand (of course), and shady Seagrape trees await you after the brief walk along the walled edge of the cemetery, which gives the beach its name.

Renowned as a great spot for snorkelling, there is a reef located in about 30ft of water, at a distance of about a 6-minute swim offshore. Watch out for the current though as it can be strong in this area, but proficient swimmers should be fine. You can see a variety of marine life, including colourful fish, coral reefs, and even sea turtles. It is quite a secluded and quiet beach so there isn't other watersports going on, although you may see a paddleboarder pass by from time to time.

In 1990, Mr. and Mrs. Charles Adams generously donated a small area of beach to the former Cayman Heritage Trust. This donation was made with the intention that the beach be held in perpetuity for the benefit of the people of the Cayman Islands.

This idyllic spot is not really suitable for swimming due to the abundance of seagrass, but it is perfect for a picnic in a picturesque setting. Parking is quite limited, with a small driveway available for maneuvering and there is a single central cabana surrounded by beautiful flora and fauna.

Colliers Beach is large and relatively flat on the eastern tip of the island. The sand is not particularly deep, so it may suit the elderly to visit this spot as it is level and very easy to walk on. It beckons visitors with simple amenities, including a dock, basic wooden cabanas and picnic areas for leisure.

On the periphery, there are several trees providing shade. If travelling by car, there are ample car parking spaces and the site has facilities such as showers and toilets. If using public transport, there is a bus stop conveniently located at the entrance to the beach area.

Governor's Beach, situated on Seven Mile Beach right next to the Governor's House, is renowned for its pristine white sand, clear waters, and breathtaking sunsets. It's no secret amongst locals that this public beach is ideal for activities such as swimming, snorkelling near the offshore reef, sunbathing, building sandcastles, and for coming together with friends.

It's the spot in Grand Cayman that when a certain kind of day at the beach is needed, you are prepared to bring all of your own equipment and refreshments for complete self-sufficiency, just to enjoy how perfect a location it is. That being said, a very short walk away, there are also restaurants and bars and other vendors based in the hotels, ready to supply watersports equipment and many other things.

Public Beach is the largest and most popular public beach on Seven Mile Beach. It is located on West Bay Road just south of the Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa. The beach has a wide expanse of soft white sand and clear turquoise waters, making it a perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, snorkelling and a plethora of other watersports and fun beach activities.

There are a number of restaurants and bars located near Public Beach, offering a variety of dining options, from casual snacks to upscale dining. There are also multiple local vendors selling home cooked food and beverages to tourists.

Smith's Barcadere, also known as Smith's Cove, is loved by both locals and tourists. A picturesque beach with crystal-clear waters. Visit at the right time on non-cruise ship weekdays and it’s close to perfect for a relaxing and tranquil swim and sunbathe.

The cove is dotted with natural rock formations, creating a stunning backdrop for swimming, snorkelling, and even cliff (rock) jumping! There’s well-maintained facilities including restrooms and showers and several shaded picnic tables, Smith's Barcadere is a must-visit spot and charmingly different from 7MB.

Starfish Point is a secluded beach in Grand Cayman that is famous for its abundance of starfish. The water here is very shallow, making it a great place to snorkel and see the starfish up close. It's also great for young children to explore and learn the marine environment in relative safety.

There is ample parking and the site can be reached by car or by boat. The beach also has public restrooms. There are no onsite vendors but Rum Point and Kaibo restaurants are nearby.

Spott's Beach is a snorkeller's paradise. There are very few amenities, just the basics such as a portaloo and the odd, shaded picnic table, and no vendors, so make sure to bring your own refreshments if making an afternoon of it.

That being said, the snorkelling, sunbathing and swimming are all first rate here and there is sufficient parking.

Cayman Kai public beach offers excellent snorkelling in crystal-clear waters. There's basic restrooms, a single cabana and substantial parking. Convenient on-site washrooms ensure a comfortable stay. This is a secluded and tranquil oasis, the type of Cayman escape that requires you to bring your own cooler, seating and shade, but its definitely worth the extra effort.

There's no on-site vendors or amenities, but then that is part of its castaway charm. However, there are plenty of amenities available a few minutes drive away at Rum Point and Kaibo Beach Restaurant.

Rum Point Beach, situated on the north side of Grand Cayman, is a picturesque destination renowned for its serene and shallow waters, making it ideal for families, especially those with young children.

The beach offers a range of activities, from swimming and watersports to snorkelling (at its best under the pier), to explore the vibrant marine life. There's full restroom and shower facilities and plenty of parking.

Governor Russell Beach is a tranquil and picturesque spot, perfect for a photo opportunity, as you drive the coast road of the Island. A single and robust cabana, which makes for a very pleasant spot to enjoy a picnic lunch, overlooks the ocean and narrow beach, which is inviting and worth a walk.

The area is sandy, with not too much debris and there is undergrowth dotted around. If using public transport, there is a bus stop nearby.

Coe Wood Beach, (also known as Bodden Town Public Beach), has a basic but usefully equipped setup, with cabanas and ample parking ensuring convenient access. Similar to Colliers Beach, the sand is relatively flat and easy to navigate for the elderly. There is a wheelchair ramp for access to the cabanas.

Families can enjoy the children's play area, some fun beachcombing and there are public restroom facilities available. Visit the Grape Tree Café nearby for a delectable fish fry, adding a bit of local flavour to your beach outing.

This South Sound community beach was renamed as Consuelo’s Beach in memory of the Caymanian icon, Anna Consuelo Ebanks, who was a community activist, author, environmentalist, actress and businesswoman in 2019. The beach is not known for swimming and snorkelling because of the strong currents and is eclipsed by Smith's Barcadere (aka cove) near by for those activities.

It is a popular location with Cayman's surfing community though, with 'Surfers Beach', as it is known, breaking right next door. Consuelo's beach is charming and very well kept, there are several picnic tables and ample parking and it is an absolutely beautiful spot to watch the sunset. It is no surprise then that Consuelo's beach is known for being a go-to destination for a beach wedding in Cayman.

West Bay Public Beach is a serene shoreline spot that caters to a laid-back day in the sun. Situated on the quiet north end of Seven Mile Beach, it offers ample white sandy space for relaxation and embraces the typical Caribbean vibe. The beach provides a decent range of amenities, including a limited number of public changing rooms and toilets.

Alfresco restaurant is nearby for a convenient lunch option, and Foster’s Republix supermarket is within walking distance for those interested in a picnic. Public cabanas with seating, shaded areas, and a small number of parking spaces near the ramp enhance the overall convenience.

Cayman Brac public beach has several, sizeable concrete cabanas, a few picnic tables and shaded areas surrounded by lush vegetation. Public restrooms are available and the flat, easily accessible beach makes it suitable for the elderly. While somewhat rocky at the entrance to the ocean, it is just about okay for swimming.

The beach's location has ample parking and offers a different atmosphere compared to Seven Mile Beach, which is part of its charm. It's a great location for kids to explore and play on the beach as its easy underfoot and reasonably level, but is not primarily known for snorkelling or swimming.

Little Cayman's poorly kept secret, charming and somewhat magical Owen Island features pink sand flats and the patches of rocky terrain don't detract from the desert island experience.

Many make a kayaking ritual each day from the Southern Cross resort to snorkel around the island and experience the diverse marine life, from conch to nurse sharks. On calm days, swimming can also be an enjoyable pastime in the area. Either way, its definitely a spot that young and older adventurers can explore.

Point of Sand, situated on the northeastern tip of Little Cayman, is a serene beach known for its soft white sand, clear turquoise water, and gentle waves. It's perfect for swimming and sunbathing, and even better for snorkelling.

Little Cayman is one of the world's top diving destinations, but even snorkellers can enjoy the diverse marine life in the surrounding waters. There's no facilities except a few loungers and a wooden cabana, so come fully prepared.