Has anyone any info on the Cayman Islands? Cruising there soon and would like to just spend some time on the beach and do some shopping. Not crazy about the ships packages. Any info would be greatly appreciated!

We had a port stop in Georgtown this past December and took a shuttle down to the public access area of 7-mile beach (free) and then walked a little ways down to the Holiday Inn's beach area which had a restaurant/bar and bathroom facilities. And, even though it was not run by the Holiday Inn there were also beach rentals available. We asked the bartender before actually plopping into their lounge chairs, because there are signs posted that the facilities are for hotel guests only; it wasn't very busy though and he said we were welcome to hang out there. The beach was beautiful and there was good snorkeling. Many other people on the shuttle we took got off at beach clubs where you had to pay for access, I don't have direct knowledge to make a comparison, but I can't imagine their beach area, facilities or service was any better than where we were. To get back, we just went back to the public access area--there were plenty of shuttles going back and forth throughout the day. We did not do any shopping ourselves, but there are plenty of shops right where you get on/off the tenders (also where you catch the beach shuttles), so you could easily do some shopping before or after you go to the beach. Our one regret was that we didn't get off our ship sooner and get to the beach right away--it seemed we had to leave way too soon since our ship sailed at 3:30 or 4:00 and you have to plan in time to shuttle back to the dock plus time for waiting in line/catching the tender.

We are "beach people" and always go to the beach in the various ports if there is a decent one. Cayman is one of the very best! Go on your own - we went two different times and didn't have any trouble. Don't bother to shop there - everything is very expensive. Bon Voyage!

Haven't been to Gr. Cayman in two years, but I do remember they had a Coach store. It is not an outlet. Found some great bags but in horrible colors. Returned them NO questions asked in the States for colors of choice. I estimate there is about a 30% discount. Will be paying them a visit this May agian. Unless you really know jewlery steer clear of the shops. Its a nightmare to return anything your unhappy with.This goes for all the islands. Can share some horror stories from friends who had nightmares returning rings and bracelets they were unhappy with..andthis was from big name shops. NOt the locals. ...oh yeah, haven't been to each there I didn't like.

I recommend going to String Ray City. www.captainmarvins.com

Thanks for the information-I am sure it will help. And as for shopping for gold, I found the best shops in St. Thomas for that-had it checked out when I got home and it was top of the line and a great price.

Grand Cayman is wonderful--one of the best beaches is 7 Mile Beach just a short taxi ride from the pier. But if your going to Grand Cayman--don't miss<BR>Stingray City. It is wonderful swimming with the Stingrays--nothing like it--you would love it.

Swimming with the Stingrays is WONDERFUL and I highly recomment it.

7 mile beach is only 5 miles long. Hope this doesn't spoil your trip.<BR><BR>Jack Facts

5 mile beach is more than enough for someone that is land locked! lol

Spent a week in the Caymans' about 10 yrs ago. You didn't say how long you would be in port, but time permitting you could visit "Hell" at the Northern tip of Grand Cayman, take the submarine dive to around 110 feet (magnificent)and of course Sting City. If you have time and feel adventurous you can rent a motor scooter for the day and travel all over the island. It's only 28 miles long and 8 miles wide, so you can pretty much cover it in a day. Shopping is a bit expensive, as is everthing on the island. As I remember back then my $20 dollar bill was worth about $16. Anyway I hope you have enough time to explore the island. Have fun.