Has anyone ever stayed at the Marriott in the Cayman Islands? How is the beach? Are the rooms updated and clean?

I was in Cayman in june and I can tell you that not only is the marriott on the lower end (and less desirable) part of 7mb, but it has practically no beach, and what it does have is rocky ironshore. I would suggest a condo. Youll save a lot by eating some meals in. I stayed at Victoria House and it was awesome, and 185/night for a one bedroom w. a fully equipped kitchen. Right on the beach and the beach is gorgeous.

I differ from the previous response. We didn't stay at the Marriot, but ate there for breakfast and one dinner. It was one of the best hotels on the island. The marriot beach was one of the best beaches if you were walking from the south. The southernmost have coral. You can't go wrong at the Marriot. We just came back july 26th, thats where i am staying next time!

Vinnie - if you think the beach at the Marriott is one of the best beaches walking from the south, you sure didn't get very far north. The beach there is no comparison for the Westin Beach and the beaches on that part of 7 Mile. It's narrow, rocky and has no shade.

In short, don't stay at the Marriott unless you don't care at all about having a nice beach. The northern half of 7MB is the nicest and prettiest by far. Also, I would notice at night as we drove down toward the southern tip, where the Marriott is, we noticed a funky smell. Anyone know what it is? Reminded me of the smell I get as I go outside at the Newark airport!

I think the funky smell is from the excavation they are doing in conjunction with the new Ritz Carlton which has been stymied, as I understand it, because of some zoning issue. I have stayed at Treasure Island which is south of the Mariott and I did not notice the smell at any time of the day there. Have never stayed at the Mariott, but they have a great restaurant: The Penninsula. Eat there even if you don't stay there. <BR> <BR>Asking how the beach is depends on what you are looking for in a beach. TI has a very rocky, coral beach. But it is great for snorkeling. Not great if you have small children who just want to splash in the beach. The beach at the Aqua Bay Club is a wonderful beach and not at all crowded. But ABC is pretty far north on 7MB and not within walking distance of anything. So part of your decision should be made on whether you are going to have a vehicle to drive. I would recommend renting a vehicle, tho, regardless of where you stay.