We're going to grand cayman in February and trying to figure out where to stay. This will be our first trip and we'll have our 8-month old son. Looking for a suite-type setup with oceanfront outdoor space so we can kind of feel like we're at beach or hang out in living room while baby sleeps in bedroom. Some kind if shade on the beach is a must; kid friendly pool is a plus, as is proximity to golf for husband. Pre-baby we favored quiet, high end resorts - cuisinart in Anguilla was perfect. Loved the beach, setup, and ability to drive he island checking out beaches/food. Not sure where to stay in cayman - 7 mile beach seems most practical, but hotels/condos all look like high rise without great oceanfront access. Ritz Carlton looks so tall and generic for the price; carribean club is perfect but too big. Should we do grand cayman beach suites? Any other hotel or cOndo we should look at? Budget wise we'd like to keep it under $700 a night if we can.

Skip the Ritz..Try for Villas of the Galleon..no pool but awesome beach as is Plantana..near groc/rest/trans. The Ritz is a mess of high priced,high rise accom.

We used to stay at Villas of The Galleon all the time when our kids were small. No idea if it's been kept up to par, but maybe you can check reviews online? Location is hard to beat- beach is right in front of the hotel, and supermarket if you want to stock up for food or need baby supplies, is just across the street.

Thanks for the suggestions! I think we will try to go with a condo, though since we have decided to go at the last minute, things look a little booked up unfortunately. Is there a reputable site you suggest for condo bookings? We've always stayed at resorts, so I'm a little nervous I'll book something then find out it doesn't exist - or it does exist but not what was represented. Is VRBO the best way to go?

The best value is the north part of Seven Mile Beach. Most of the properties are low rise and are reasonably priced. Some of the properties to consider are Discovery Point, Aqua Bay, Christopher Columbus and Anchorage. They all have swimming pools, are right on the beach and have plenty of shade structures. They are not as luxurious as the Caribbean Club, but are much cheaper.

VRBO is a good place to look. Usually I get quick responses from the owners.
Don't be afraid staying at condos. The amenities such as a full kitchen and in condo washer/dryer are great to have. Plus all of the condos mentioned above have maid service.

Villas of the Galleon were completely redone after IVAN..The causarinas(sp) have matured and provide beach shade now and everything is just fine. VBRO is also a great way to try to find a place but be aware that the area of 7 Mile closer to town is mostly iron shore with few sandy patches.

I've stayed at Harbour Heights and thought it was great. And it meets all your criteria. Also stayed at Sunshine Suites, but have to cross the street to get to the beach.