Driving Tour of the North Side & East End of Grand Cayman
The ultimate driving tour of the east and north sides of Grand Cayman, starting in Savannah and journeying through Bodden Town, East End and North Side.
You can easily spend a full day on a driving tour of North Side and East End as there is a lot to see. Pick from the list below, depending on how much time you have, what you are interested in, where you are starting from and whether you have kids to entertain.
Driving Tour Stops
Learn about “the birthplace of democracy” in the Cayman Islands at this national historic site. Explore the house and gardens, then watch a 3D presentation in their theatre. (1–2 hours).
Mission House
Visit this historic house in Bodden Town and get a taste of how people lived in the 1800s. Open Friday and Saturday, or by appointment only. (30–45 minutes). Call (345) 749 1121.
If possible, it’s best to visit the gardens in the cooler hours of the day. Enjoy walking the grounds. Located on Frank Sound Road. (1–3 hours).
Lunch Stop
Time to recharge your batteries. Tukka, Kaibo and Eagle Rays Bar & Grill offer great food at reasonable prices with views to die for.
Chisholm’s Grocery is a family-owned grocery store located on North Side Road opposite the entrance to Hutland. Stop in for a picnic basket of items, a cold drink, ice cream or pattie. You can hunt for presents and keepsakes in the gift shops at Cayman Crystal Caves, Pedro St. James and the Botanic Park.
A chance to see the stalactite and stalagmite crystal structures and other wonderous, natural formations. Their gift stop offers some fantastic momentos from your special day of adventure. And if you’re still hungry, Treehouse Restaurant at the caves has an array of delicious food and drinks. (2–3 hours).
Advanced booking is required.
Go Swimming and Snorkelling
At any time explore some of the amazing beaches! Rum Point has clear, shallow waters ideal for children. Cayman Kai’s Public Beach is also excellent. Ideally it is done as a drift snorkel and you will see lots of coral and colourful fish. Alternatively, drive to East End and snorkel beneath Mimi’s Dock at Morritt’s Resort.
For the Snorkelling Enthusiast
Take the road east and enjoy the rugged “Other side of the Island”. Find a deserted seagrass-strewn beach and go exploring or snorkelling. The snorkelling from Cayman Kai Public Beach is also excellent. It is ideally done as a drift snorkel and you will see lots of healthy coral and colourful fish.
Wreck of the Ten Sail
Keep driving south past the Wyndham Reef Resort and Ocean Frontiers and you’ll see this historic site out at sea. (10 mins).
Head to the Parrot Sanctuary where over 30 parrots have been released back into the wild since opening in June 2020. Meet the Island’s most famous agouti, Lil Bit, and a whole host of other creatures! (1–2 hours)
Lighthouse Park
Stop at this historic landmark to climb the lighthouse and enjoy the sea view. (15-20 mins).
Blow Holes
If it’s windy, you can admire these dramatic water geysers as they shoot sea water skywards from the ironshore. (10-15 mins).
Lovers Wall
Just a bit further up the road you will see a heart-shaped sign for Lovers Wall. Stop for a quick photograph and enjoy the spectacular view. (5 mins).
Dining Under the Stars
Sit on the waterfront deck at Tukka East, Upstairs at Kaibo or Over the Edge to be dazzled by the stars. There’s also La Casita and Thatch & Barrel.