Penelepy

Thinking of stayng at The Reef Resort in Grand Cayman...I would really appreciate any thoughts anyone has about this resort- good and bad...we plan on staying for about 20 days with 2 young boys... Thank you !!!

TurtleTagger

Check some other travel advising sites that have reviews of hotels and resorts. The Reef Resort is usually well regarded as a family destination. It is located on the less developed and more isolated East End, so a rental car is a must. The beach is rather nice, but can get choppy in the late winter/early spring. Haven't stayed there, but know a former manager and am familiar with the property.


Here is a recent post regarding the neighboring Morritts resort.
http://www.fodors.com/community/cari...s-east-end.cfm

luvtotravl

We love the Reef Resort and the east end of Grand Cayman. We go there every winter for 1-2 weeks with our family, and then a week with just my husband and myself. However, we like more of the "island" experience and less of the 7MB "US" experience so we started staying on the east end where it is quieter, less busy, and more of a local island feel. The 7MB beach is amazing, but the Reef's beach is really nice too, and all units are full ocean front with great views. If you like snorkeling, long white soft sand beaches, with a fun beach bar and plenty of pools, it might be right for you. For sure you will want a car to explore the island and buy groceries, etc. Post any specific questions you have

StanKase

It is lower key than 7 Mile beach and prices are adjusted downward accordigly. you are near some good snorkeling, just be careful of currents, so wear an inflatable vest and you aare all set. Diving off the Wall is good but the last time of was there, six years ago, not many boats were available, right from there to dive sites on the reef.

Penelepy

Thank you everyone! I think we will be booking our trip tomorrow, since I just found a steal in airfare from my own town (usually have to drive to ATL or CLT to fly out). I don't want to miss the great rates... I do have a question about the grocery store across the street...would it be a good idea for me to bring things like ketchup, etc instead of buying it there? How are the prices? Thanks again!!

StanKase

I have not been there for a few years but the cost savings might end up being $60-$70 dollars with the possiblility of a leak. When you add up the few thousand the trip is costing anything under $100 is really "not to worry" unless you like a special coffee, tea, etc.

TurtleTagger

I would suggest not bringing any inexpensive food items like condiments, unless you have checked luggage space to spare. You will probably end up paying 25-40% more than back home, but bringing things like ketchup and mustard don't really save you that much $$. We usually bring some of the higher ticket items like coffee, sugar/sweeteners, some snacks and a few condiments like Parmesan cheese (available, but the mini-store may not always have it.

TurtleTagger

Should also add, since you are planning on an extended stay, the closest full size/service grocery store is about 25 minutes from the Reef Resort.

Penelepy

I thought the grocery store was across the street from The Reef. Fosters? It's not a full service? Well, certainly not a deal breaker...lol. I appreciate all the advice. StanKase said to watch for currents...does that mean out near the Wall or right in front of our hotel. I was told there are practically no currents close to the beach. We have young children, should they wear vests right off the beach? They can both swim well. Thanks again...what would I do with you?!

TurtleTagger

There is a Foster's Express mini-grocery across the street from the Reef and Morritt's resorts that is good for basics and then some, but may not have the best selection of produce, meats and fish at all times. Think and over-sized convenience store. There is a Dunkin Donuts and the thirsty Surfer liquor store as well.

There is a cut/channel in the barrier reef that can see strong tidal currents and should be avoided by all but the strongest swimmers at times other than a slack tide. Plus it is over 400 yds from shore. There is a piece of the reef further NE of the resort on the other side of the channel opening that is a bit closer.

Unless there is a storm system the water immediately in from of the resorts is fine for snorkeling and for kids to play in. Vests wouldn't hurt, but would be your call based on your kid's abilities.

Penelepy

Thank you Turtle Tagger...very helpful. And I meant to write "what would I do withOUT you" All of you Fodorites have been such a HUGE help...Thank you very much!!