Kuoni and other luxury tour operators have reported significant demand for multi-destination itineraries, more complex travel arrangements and longer stays as travellers become more Carbon conscious. The Cayman Islands is responding to this demand by placing more emphasis on its unique position as a tri-island destination and 2024 sees the announcement of its ‘Island Hopping Series’ in the hope to educate travellers about its diverse product ranging from an abundance of nature and wildlife and world-class diving to rock climbing and wellness. Nestled in the Caribbean Sea Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac and Little Cayman boast a different experience to suit everyone and this three-island product has worked hard to earn the accolade of one of the world’s premier places to visit.
The addition of a fifth weekly British Airways flight direct from London Heathrow to Grand Cayman means this Caribbean mecca has never been easier to reach. Cayman Airways offers regular flights to the two sister islands which are less than forty minutes away.
From diving at one of the 365 internationally recognised dive spots and dining on the shores of Little Cayman, pampering and shopping in the tax-free shopping district of George Town, Grand Cayman or climbing and caving across the tropical cliffs of Cayman Brac – each island has its own personality which allows visitors to enjoy a multi-faceted holiday.
Nature lovers will be pleased to know that incredible wildlife spans all three islands, with the Cayman Islands which reportedly have more indigenous species than the Galapagos. From the rare red-footed booby bird to the endangered blue iguanas and the technicolour Cayman Brac parrots, youngsters and adults alike will be amazed.
Grand Cayman
The largest of the three-island archipelago, Grand Cayman offers complete relaxation, exquisite dining, exciting nightlife and, of course, crystal-clear waters and white sand beaches. Visitors can experience the cosmopolitan atmosphere of Seven Mile Beach, world-class hotels, nearly 200 restaurants, laidback beach bars and blissful wellness activities.
Where to stay on Grand Cayman:
Palm Heights – Located on the famous Seven Mile Beach, the stylishly chic Palm Heights offers a stunning location and a wealth of A-List-worthy services – perfect for a romantic retreat on Grand Cayman. Offering ocean views from every suite, stylish design, a guest-only pool, top-class restaurants, a lounge, beach club and an abundance of water activities – including kayaking, snorkelling and paddleboarding – guests can relax in style.
Botanica Cayman – Botanica Cayman’s luxury boutique cottages offer jet-setting guests the feel of a ‘home away from home’, complete with private gardens, a swimming pool, organic skincare and plush bamboo bedding. The boutique resort is just a short distance from the white sands of Seven Mile Beach and within easy reach of the atmospheric restaurants and shops of George Town and Camana Bay.
There’s also a wealth of luxurious private villas to suit all tastes and group sizes, including Black Urchin, a hidden designer boutique villa resort nestled on a 2.5 acre property. Boasting its own private beach, chic accommodation with stunning views, beachfront pools, access to a world-class chef, exemplary amenities and a ‘nightclubbing’ experience, this property is truly fit for VIPs.
Little Cayman
As its name suggests, Little Cayman is the smallest of the Cayman Islands – and home to more iguanas than people – making it perfect for those looking for privacy and to spend quality time together away from prying eyes, which is likely why both celebrities and Royals have spent time here.
Only one mile wide and ten miles long, Little Cayman dazzles with pristine sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, a beautiful nature reserve and world-class diving sites – all the makings for a private romantic retreat.
Those looking for a gentle immersion in nature can take a bicycle around the island visiting the Booby Pond Nature Reserve or to Point of Sand for what is often a private swim. Another spectacular adventure of cinematic beauty is a kayak to Owen Island. Couples can snorkel through stunning marine life or delve a little deeper with a dive at the Bloody Bay Wall – a world-renowned dive site with a dramatic 5,000 foot drop-off that would not look out of place on the silver screen.
Where to stay on Little Cayman:
Southern Cross Club, Little Cayman – Offering ‘barefoot elegance’, guests can choose to simply relax at the hotel, take a kayak out onto the crystal clear waters, explore Little Cayman’s famous dive sites or immerse themselves in nature. Located on the edge of the beachfront property, the hotel’s Honeymoon Suite offers a spacious room, king size bed, private outdoor shower and, of course, stunning views.
Cayman Brac
Known for its breathtaking bluff, Cayman Brac is the most rugged of the three islands and well known for its dramatic views and exotic flora. From limestone caves to lush green forests and spectacular underwater worlds – one diving site even boasts a sunken shipwreck – adventurous visitors can channel their inner desert island explorer on this island.
Where to stay on Cayman Brac:
Le Soleil d’Or – For privacy-seeking couples looking for a secluded island for their romantic break, Cayman Brac offers the perfect hideaway. Amidst untamed coastal landscapes awaits Le Soleil d’Or, a Caribbean Farm Inn, nestled into twenty acres of elevated botanical gardens. Guests are encouraged to embrace mindful living in harmony with nature and enjoy g the fresh flavours of homegrown produce in a true farm-to-table experience. The nearby Beach Club dazzles with white sands, crystal waters and thatch-shaded loungers – it couldn’t get more idyllic!