A QUICK GUIDE TO GEORGE TOWN, CAYMAN ISLANDS FOR VISITORS ON A CARIBBEAN CRUISE
One of the most popular Caribbean Cruise stops is George Town. George Town is the capital city of the Cayman Islands and harbors the main cruise ships’ port. The people of the Cayman Islands speak English and the money used is the Cayman Islands dollar (CI), however, the US dollar is widely accepted on the island. Cash points/ATMs are plenty around the town.
The weather in George Town is always warm enough for a swim. In the summer, the temperature averages 80-95 °F (27-35 °C), whereas in the winter the temperature is between 75-85 °F (24-29 °C). See this cruise packing list post for what to wear on a cruise and general important things to pack.
Other popular stops on the Caribbean cruise are Ocho Rios Jamaica, Cozumel Mexico, Florida, and for Holland America Line and Carnival, Half Moon Cay in Bahamas.
Best Beaches in George Town
SEVEN MILE BEACH
Seven Mile Beach is the main attraction cruise passengers can’t wait to visit and just soak in its crystal waters. The beach is located just a short drive from the center of George Town and has a stretch of white sand. Some of the public beaches on the stretch of Seven Mile Beach are Governor’s Beach, Cemetary Beach, and Public Beach.
SMITH BARCADERE BEACH
Smith Barcadere Beach was known as Smith Cove before the change of name. The beach is smaller but has beach chairs, umbrellas, and other important facilities.
RUM POINT BEACH
Rum Point Beach is located about an hour from George Town’s center. This beach is fully equipped with chairs, umbrellas, good restaurants, and is popular with families.
Other popular beaches in George Town are Marriott Grand Cayman Beach Resort and the Royal Palms Beach Club.
Other things to do in George Town
Excursions/Tours in George Town
Stingray City – One of the most popular activities in George Town is visiting Stingray City to swim with stingrays and feed them. Tours are offered by different Cruise Ships and tour operators on the ground.
Submarine Tour – Take this tour to see the deep sea world of colorful fish and other marine life.
Snorkeling Tours – There are many places where people can snorkel around George Town. From Rackham Dock, you can access the popular snorkeling spot—Wreck of the Cali. Another snorkeling place is the Smith’s Cove on the Smith Barcadere Beach.
Diving – People who want to dive in the Cayman Islands can go to places like the Devil’s Grotto, Eden Rock, and the famous Kittiwake shipwreck site.
Other tours include Glass-Bottom Boat Tours, Rum Distillery Tours, Parasailing, and Horseback Riding.
Places to Visit for Shopping & Sightseeing
The Cayman Islands National Museum is located at 3 Harbour Drive and showcases art and other historical items related to the Cayman Islands.
Cardinal Avenue has duty-free shopping. This is one of the most visited places where tourists buy souvenirs and other items to take back to the cruise ship.
Farmers Market is on Huldah Avenue. If you want to taste the fresh produce of the Cayman Islands—especially those tropical juices drank from a coconut—head over to this market. The market also has crafts and baked food.
Camana Bay is located at 10 Market Street. This modern bayside and entertainment area is a tourist hotspot for shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Cayman Turtle Centre. For those wanting to see big turtles, visit the Centre.
For more information on George Town, see the official website for Cayman Islands tourism office.