Family Travel to the Cayman Islands

Grand Cayman and, to a much lesser extent, the Sister Islands are buzzing with activities and attractions that will keep children of all ages (and their parents) happily occupied. Some resorts and hotels welcome children, others do not, and still others restrict kids to off-season visits. All but the fanciest (and most expensive) restaurants are kid-friendly.

Family-Friendly Resorts

The Ritz-Carlton, one of the most fashionable of the island's resorts, welcomes children at any time with "edu-tainment" programs for all ages, including Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ambassadors of the Environment initiative introducing Cayman’s culture and ecology. Less pricey is Grand Cayman Marriott Beach Resort on Seven Mile Beach, which has children's programs. Many of the condo complexes toward the northern end of Seven Mile Beach, such as Christopher Columbus and Discovery Point Club, offer good value and a wide rock-free strand. On Cayman Brac, the Brac Reef Beach Resort is best equipped for families. Little Cayman is too quiet for most kids, but the Little Cayman Beach Resort can keep children occupied while their parents dive. The Kimpton Seafire Resort also offers Camp Seafire for kids, featuring thoughtfully planned programs for ages 3½ to 12, with a creative new theme every day. For smaller children or families who want childcare in their guestrooms, Camp Seafire also offers a nanny service.

Family-Friendly Dining and Activities

Dining out with the family is not an issue, as Grand Cayman has more restaurants than you can count serving a virtual United Nations of cuisines. The Sister Islands are much more limited in their offerings, though the friendly locals will do their utmost to please finicky palates. Camana Bay is definitely family-friendly, from climbing the Observation Tower to see gorgeous panoramas, to splashing in the fountains and watching the frequent street performers. Most of the islands’ water-based activities cater to kids, including the Atlantis semisubmersible, Stingray City snorkeling tours, and the Dolphin Discovery. The attractions at the Cayman Turtle Centre, including the predator reef and breeding facility, mesmerize all ages, as will learning about blue iguanas at their habitat in the Queen Elizabeth II Botanical Garden. Pipes, ramps, and rails galore, not to mention a wave-surf machine at Black Pearl Skate & Surf Park, appeal to both kids and adults.