Kayaking

Cayman Kayaks. Even beginners find the tours easy (the guides dub it low-impact aerobics), and the sit-on-top tandem kayaks are stable and comfortable. The Bio Bay tour involves more strenuous paddling, but the underwater light show is magical as millions of bioluminescent microorganisms called dinoflagellates glow like fireflies when disturbed. It runs only on moonless nights and books well in advance. Passionate environmentalists, owners Tom and Lisha Watling, devised a way to limit exposure of harmful repellent and sunscreen: they designed a "black box" electric boat with a viewing hole at the bottom, as well as high walls that focus your glimpse of the stars above. Tours ($59–$69 with some kids' and group discounts) depart from different locations, most from the public access jetty to the left of Rum Point. They've temporarily discontinued the mangrove wetlands tour, but it's a splendid learning experience when it runs, providing an absorbing discussion of indigenous animals (including a mesmerizing stop at a gently pulsing, nonstinging Cassiopeia jellyfish pond) and plants, the effects of hurricanes, and conservation efforts.

Rum Point Club, North Side, Rum Point, Grand Cayman, KY1-9006. 345/746–3249; 345/926–4467; www.caymankayaks.com.