Just a short flight from Miami, Grand Cayman offers the tranquility of the Caribbean, but the modernity and luxury of being back home. It’s the perfect combination.
Tourist Hot Spot:
Stingray City
Strap on your snorkeling gear and go swimming with Stingrays in the crisp blue waters around Grand Cayman! One of the most popular trips is the half-day trip, where you’ll take a cruise out to a sandbar, where you can snorkel with the Stingrays in about three feet of water. After that you’ll head out to the Barrier Reef for more snorkeling, followed by the Coral Gardens before you head back to shore. This trip is for adults and children alike, so this is a great chance for families to experience the stingrays together. With three trips a day, reservations are certainly recommended in advance.
Off the Beaten Path
Camana Bay
Camana Bay might not be off the beaten path in a true sense of the phrase, but it’s a great place to go for live entertainment in the evenings, as well as grabbing a great meal. Camana Bay is a relatively new area on Grand Cayman, and is still being developed. Locals and visitors alike head to Camana Bay to shop and eat, so be sure to check it out.
Local Food
Conch Fritter
Although a Conch Fritter is typically a Bahamaian meal, conch fritters are rampant in Grand Cayman, and they Caymanians might even call them their own. Regardless of origin, you must try them while you’re in Cayman. There are several restaurants that offer them, but you might want to try The Cracked Conch.
Splurge Hotel
The Ritz Carlton Grand Cayman
Situated directly on Seven Mile Beach, you don’t need to go far to get to one of the most gorgeous beaches when you stay at The Ritz Carlton Grand Cayman. Walk directly out the back of the hotel, past the pool and there you are – Seven Mile Beach and all its beauty. While you’re out there, be sure to hop on one of the trampoline-y things in the water. As with every Ritz Carlton, the service in Grand Cayman is fantastic and the food is delicious. From couples to families, there’s something to do for all of your destination wedding guests. Depending on when you go, rates can be reasonable considering the luxurious service you’ll receive.
Bang for your Buck Hotel
The Reef
With just over 150 rooms / condos, The Reef isn’t as large as some of the other resorts on the island, so you’ll get a little more peace and quite here. Despite offering guests condos for their accommodation, The Reef hasn’t forgotten to offer guests the amenities of a full-service resort. And with some amazing packages and deals going on right now, be sure to take advantage of all that The Reef has to offer, including the spa!
Wedding Reception Venue
Caribbean Club
What’s great about the Caribbean Club is that it’s a luxury boutique hotel with only 37 three-bedroom condos. That means you can ensure that you’ll have a very private stay and reception for your destination wedding. All of your guests can stay on the property, and if you’re having a large wedding, you can buy out all of the condos at the Caribbean Club. With your wedding ceremony on the beach, you’ll move over to Luca, the property’s restaurant, for your wedding reception. And unlike some venues whose inside space lacks a view of the beach, if you need to move inside due to weather, the views won’t escape you and your guests. The other benefit of working with Luca is that you’re not tied into catering package like some wedding factories. With fantastic Chefs, you’ll have much greater flexibility over your menu selections.
Cultural Considerations
Our experiences have been really great on Grand Cayman. With everyone being extremely friendly, you’ll have little problems on the island. Take note, however, that while on the island things are a little more expensive than we would probably find in the US. With everything having to be shipped in, it’s to be expected.
If you plan on renting a car, just remember that Caymanians drive on the left side of the road.
Marriage Requirements
If you’d like to have a legal wedding ceremony while you’re in Grand Cayman, be sure to follow the requirements below:
- You must hire a Marriage Officer on the Island and obtain a Non-Resident Marriage License. When obtaining a Marriage License, you and your fiancé must show that you both have a Cayman Islands International Immigration Department Pink Slip, which shows your proof of entry. To get your Marriage License, go to:
Deputy Chief Secretary
3rd Floor, Government Administration Building
George Town
Grand Cayman
Tel: 534 949 7900
- You must also have a valid passport. If you don’t have this, your original or certified copy of your birth certificate, plus a photo ID will do.
- If you’re divorced or widowed, be sure to have the divorce decree or death certificate with you.
- Bring two witnesses to the ceremony.
- Fees will total about $200 USD.
