Cayman Islands accommodations welcome you to a destination also known as “The Caymans”.
Cayman Islands known for: 7-mile beach, stingrays, sea turtles, turquoise waters, white sand, parks, ponds, bays, points, waterfront restaurants, snorkeling, scuba diving, sport fishing, iguanas (endangered), seabirds, red-footed boobies
Located about 270 miles west of Cuba and Jamaica, Cayman Islands is a British Overseas Territory. Cayman Islands consists of 3 islands: Grand Cayman (largest), Cayman Brac and Little Cayman (smallest).
Grand Cayman main attractions: Rum Point (picturesque-Caribbean point / beach club – pier, photo spot (signage), snorkeling (barracuda possible)), Starfish Point (near Rum Point – shallow-water starfish), Cayman Turtle Centre (wildlife park), Camana Bay (retail / entertainment district), Peppers Bar and Grill (Caribbean restaurant), Stingray City Cayman Islands (sandbar tourist attraction), Tukka East End (restaurant), Cracked Conch Restaurant & Macabuca Tiki Bar, Casanova Restaurant (Italian restaurant), Cayman Crystal Caves (tourist attraction), Seven Mile Beach (coral-sand, snorkeling, swimming, resorts, bars), Smith’s Barcadere (sandy cove, snorkeling, picnic tables, showers, restrooms), Spirit of the West (tour operator), Coccoloba Bar (Mexican restaurant), Governors Beach (white-sand, snorkeling, picnicking), Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park (wildlife park), Lobster Pot (seafood restaurant), Pedro St James (tourist attraction), Cayman Spirits Co. (brewery), Czech Inn Grill (restaurant), Tillies (restaurant), Bàcaro (restaurant), Calypso Grill Cayman (seafood restaurant), Spotts Public Beach, Ristorante Pappagallo (restaurant), Cayman Islands National Museum (museum), The National Gallery of the Cayman Islands (art museum), Cemetery Beach (long-sandy, snorkeling, beach glass, picnics, shady trees), Cayman Islands Brewery Ltd (brewery)
Cayman Brac points of interest: Pioneer Bakery, Brac Scuba Shack (dive shop), Cayman Brac Lighthouse (tourist attraction), Bat Cave (tourist attraction), Great Cave (tourist attraction)
Little Cayman: Point Of Sand (beach pavilion), Hungry Iguana Restaurant, Seahorse Boutique & Coffee Shop
Cayman Islands main airport: Owen Roberts International Airport (ORIA)
Keep in mind that Cayman Airways is the only airline that operates between Grand Cayman and Cayman Brac (no ferry service).
Airport car rental agencies: Budget of Grand Cayman, Europcar Grand Cayman, Firefly Rental Car Grand Cayman
Cars travel on the left-hand side.
More fun things: Stingray City Catamaran Cruise
Cayman Islands currency: Cayman Islands Dollar (KYD) (USDs also readily accepted)
Legal drinking age: 18 years old
English is the Cayman Island’s official language. Relative to other Caribbean destinations the Caymans tend to be more expensive and laid-back. Located in Grand Cayman’s North Sound, Stingray City is a series of shallow sandbars (home to southern stingrays). Snorkelers may encounter and swim with stingrays at the secluded Stingray City (accessible by boat). Prior to snorkeling in places such as Rum Point be sure to remove (or not wear) jewelry, as a barracuda could mistake its shine for baitfish. Of course in Cayman Islands sandals and sunscreen are essential items. Cayman Islands accommodations are some of the Caribbean’s best. Before we get to Cayman Islands accommodations, let’s take a look at some more background information on the area to help you along the way.
Cayman Islands likely was uninhabited prior to European arrival. Christopher Columbus (final voyage to the Americas) probably was the first European to observe the islands on May 10, 1503. Columbus named the new islands “Las Tortugas” after the large sea turtle population (almost hunted to extinction after publicity) he had spotted on Cayman Brac and Little Cayman. Hunted locally to extinction, “caimans” (alligatoroid) were also present on the island at one time and inspired the islands’ modern name. No immediate colonization ensued following Columbus’ sighting. Sir Francis Drake sailed through the area briefly circa 1586. Subsequently a variety of individuals would find themselves on the islands (pirates, Oliver Cromwell deserters, shipwrecked sailors), with some literally washing ashore. Legendary pirate “Blackbeard” (Edward Teach – 1680-1718) was known to operate in Cayman Islands waters. As pirate lore goes, Blackbeard buried treasure in one of Cayman Brac’s 170+ caves (littoral limestone caverns), which has allegedly never been found. Isaac Bodden (first permanent inhabitant) was born on Grand Cayman sometime around 1661. Bodden was the grandson of an original settler who was likely a Cromwell deserter (British capture of Jamaica from Spain c. 1655). The 1670 “Treaty of Madrid” saw England take control of the Cayman Islands and Jamaica. A permanent, English-speaking settlement would develop in the Cayman Islands during the 1730s. Robert Hunter (Scottish colonial administrator / governor of Jamaica) introduced slaves to the islands around this time. On February 8, 1794 the “Wreck of the Ten Sail” occurred on the East End, causing a shipwreck. Caymanians helped rescue crews from ten merchant ships (including HMS Convert). The islands’ first census (1802) tallied 933 (Grand Cayman – 545 of which slaves). Slavery was abolished in the Cayman Islands by way of the 1833 “British Parliament’s Slavery Abolition Act”. A “dependency of the Crown Colony of Jamaica”, “Cayman Islands” was officially declared on June 22, 1863. Cayman Islands would become a “separate Crown colony” following Jamaica’s independence from a “Commonwealth realm”. Owen Roberts International Airport opened in 1952. From there the tourism industry would help bolster the local economy. Jamaica’s independence (1962) saw the Cayman Islands fall under direct British rule (though the islands historically have been a tax-exempt territory). In 1972 a new constitution was written, with the Cayman Islands being granted a large degree of internal autonomy. 2 deaths and $4.61 billion in damages occurred on Cayman Islands as a consequence of Hurricane Ivan (September 11, 2004).
Home to around 88,000 “Caymanians”, Cayman Islands is the largest (by population) self-governing British Overseas Territory. Tourism and shipping are top economic contributors. Caymanians (& Cayman Islands companies) enjoy zero direct taxation, while financial institutions (hedge funds) utilize the Caymans for its tax / regulatory-friendly offshore funding. George Town (capital) is inhabited by almost half the islands’ population (around 40,000). About 70% of islanders identify as Christian. Lacking full political independence / sovereignty, the Cayman islands is a “parliamentary dependency under a constitutional monarchy”. Over 100 square miles in total area, the territory is part of the Western Caribbean zone and Greater Antilles. Found on the North Side / North Sound, Rum Point is named after rum barrels that once washed-up along its shoreline. The middle-sized Cayman Brac is home to a 140-foot limestone bluff (Blackbeard’s treasure?). Cayman Islands is characterized by a tropical wet / dry climate, with high temperatures remaining in the 80s °F throughout the year. Wet season occurs September-October, and hurricane season June-November. Direct hurricane hits are rare but possible.
Additional points of interest: George Town, Heroes Square , Mastic Trail, Pedro St. James Castle, East End Light, Hell, Truman Bodden Sports Complex
Cayman Islands local foods: snapper, mahi-mahi, conch fritters, coconut shrimp, jerk chicken, turtle soup, heavy cake (unofficial national dessert – margarine, vanilla, boiled coconut milk, brown sugar, spices, grated cassava)
Popular drinks: mudslide (vodka, coffee liqueur, Irish cream, vanilla ice cream, chocolate syrup – originated Rum Point c. 1970s), seven mile breeze (local vodka, cranberry / grapefruit juices, garnished w/ lime, over ice), frozen drinks (daiquiris, piña coladas, etc.), rum punch, bikini martinis
With some background information on the area, we’re ready for Cayman Islands accommodations that will help make for an outstanding experience.
Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa
60 Tanager Way, West Bay
West Bay
Resort amenities: beachside bar & grill, restaurant, bar, private beach area, year-round outdoor pool, sea views, sun terrace, spa center, fitness center, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, iPod docking stations, tea / coffee makers, 24-hour front desk, free bicycle usage, facilities for disabled guests, free on-site parking
Nearby restaurants / bars: Morgan’s Seafood Restaurant, Coccoloba (Mexican restaurant), Bacaro (restaurant), Bonny Moon Beach Club (restaurant), Calico Jacks Bar & Grill, Jungle Bar & Lounge, Pom Pom (bar)
Nearby misc: GC’s Liquor Depot, Cayman Turtle Divers, KAABOO Cayman (festival), Dexter’s FantaSea Tours, Acquarius Sea Tours, Six Senses Cayman Adventures, George’s Watersports, Sail with Friends, Island Splash Water Sports, Cobalt Custom Charters
Within feet:
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- West Bay
- Seven Mile Beach
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Within 2.3 miles:
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- Laguna Del Mar
- Scholars Park
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Within 2.8 miles:
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- West Bay Beach
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Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa by IHG is 4.2 miles from Owen Roberts International Airport.
Approximate cost per night (Two-Bedroom Presidential Suite): $1,779
Cost per person (six people): $296
Hotel Indigo Grand Cayman
32 Seafire Way
Governors Creek
Resort amenities: multiple restaurants, bar, continental / American breakfast, private beach area, outdoor swimming pool, balconies, fitness center, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, desks, 24-hour front desk, currency exchange, ATM, concierge service, private parking, facilitates for disabled guests, shuttle service
Also in the area: Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa
Within feet:
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- Governors Creek
- Seven Mile Beach
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Within 2.5 miles:
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- Jacksons Pond
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Within 4.5 miles:
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- Boatswains Beach
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Hotel Indigo Grand Cayman by IHG is 5 miles from Owen Roberts International Airport.
Approximate cost per night (One-Bedroom Suite with Two Queen Beds and Ocean View): $1,521
Cost per person (six people): $253
The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman
Seven Mile Beach, Grand Cayman, George Town
The Ritz-Carlton Golf Club Grand Cayman
Hotel amenities: 6 restaurants, bar, snack bar, outdoor pool, sea views, terraces, balconies, spa, hot tub, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, desks, concierge services, tennis court, on-site shops, facilities for disabled guests, free on-site parking
Nearby restaurants / bars: The Falls Steakhouse, Luca Restaurant (Italian restaurant), Good Mood Food Co. (restaurant), Yoshi Sushi, Edoardo’s (Italian restaurant), Blue by Eric Ripert (restaurant), Andiamo (restaurant), Seven (restaurant), Sunshine Grill, Legendz Bar and Grille, Bar Jack, Barolo Bar
Nearby misc.: Island Naturals Cafe, Cost-U-Less (supermarket), Foster’s Supermarket, Tortuga Liquors, Glamorous Hair Studio, Man Cave (hair salon), Beautiful Nails & Day Spa (nail salon), Governors Square (shopping mall), NKY Fashion, The Funky Monkey (clothing store), Kirk Freeport (duty-free store), Ageless Body Cayman (wellness center), The Da Vinci Wellness Centre, Karv Gym, Living The Dream Divers, Governors Beach, St. Matthew’s University
Within feet:
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- The Ritz-Carlton Golf Club Grand Cayman
- Seven Mile Beach
- Laguna Del Mar
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Within 1.9 miles:
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- George Town
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Within 7 miles:
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- Water Cay Park
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The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman is 2.7 miles from Owen Roberts International Airport.
Approximate cost per night (Three-Bedroom Suite): $6,605
Cost per person (eight people): $825
The Locale Hotel
455 West Bay Rd, George Town
Peppers Bar & Grill
Hotel amenities: restaurant, bar, à la carte, continental or American breakfast, outdoor swimming pool, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, tea / coffee makers, safety deposit boxes, hairdryers, 24-hour front desk, luggage storage space, facilities for disabled guests, free parking
Nearby restaurants / pubs: Cimboco (restaurant), The Burger Shack, Chicken! Chicken! (restaurant), Bonfire Urban Kitchen, Al La Kebab, Caribos 7 Sausasian (restaurant), Treats Restaurant, Craft Food & Beverage Co. (gastropub)
Nearby misc.: Havana Cigar Bar, Mariposa Cabaret, Cafe del Sol (coffee shop), Little Tortuga Liquors, Focus Hair and Beauty Salon, Bliss Yoga, Cayman Scents (gift shop), Divers Supply, Chelsea’s Bar (pool billiard club), Kennedy Gallery (art gallery), Seven Mile Beach Post Office, Be Well Pharmacy
Within feet:
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- Peppers Bar & Grill
- Seven Mile Beach
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Within 2.7 miles:
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- Dart Family Park
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Within 7 miles:
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- Water Cay Park
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The Locale Hotel is 2.3 miles from Owen Roberts International Airport.
Approximate cost per night (Family Suite): $683
Cost per person (six people): $113
Governors Village Seven Mile Beach Corridor
1240 W. Bay Rd., Seven Mile Beach
Governor’s Beach
Hotel amenities: outdoor pool, children’s pool, garden, gym, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, meeting rooms, free parking
Nearby: The Village Café & Bar, Island Naturals The Grove (restaurant), Seven Mile Burger (restaurant), Seven Mile Greens (restaurant), Shopright – The Grove (supermarket), Cost.U.Less (grocery store)
Within feet:
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- Governor’s Beach
- Seven Mile Beach
- Governors Square
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Within 1 mile:
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- The Strand Shopping Center
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Governors Village Seven Mile Beach Corridor is 14 minutes from Owen Roberts International Airport.
Approximate cost per night (Standard Apartment, 4 Bedrooms): $562
Cost per person (eight people): $70
Palm Heights
747 West Bay Road, George Town
Tillies | Ragazzi
Hotel amenities: restaurant, bar, Full English/Irish, American or vegetarian breakfast, nightclub, private beach area, 2 swimming pools, sea views, terrace, garden, hot tub, fitness center, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, tea / coffee makers, mini-bars, 24-hour front desk with English, Spanish, French and Italian-speaking staff, free bike usage, table tennis, water sports facilities, free private parking
Nearby restaurants: Lauren’s (Italian restaurant), Wok-n-Roll (Asian restaurant), Blue Cilantro (restaurant), Saltwater Grill (restaurant), Fresh Kitchen & Coffee, PD’s Sports Bar & Grill
Nearby misc.: The Wine Cellar, Big Daddy’s Liquor Store, Smoothie King, Buy Smart (discount store), The Grand Pavilion (business center), Waterman Cayman Surf Co
Within feet:
Within 2.2 miles:
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- Heroes Square
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Within 3.3 miles:
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- Dart Family Park
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Palm Heights is 2.7 miles from Owen Roberts International Airport.
Approximate cost per night (Superior Suite): $7,463
Cost per person (four people): $1,865
Regal Beach Club
West Bay Road 431, George Town
Seven Mile Beach | The Wharf Restaurant & Bar
Apartment amenities: outdoor swimming pool, sea views, patio, whirlpool, fitness center, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, fully-equipped kitchens, coffee machines, free on-site parking
Also in the area: The Locale Hotel
Within feet:
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- Seven Mile Beach
- The Wharf Restaurant & Bar
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Within 1.1 miles:
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- Kirk Market and Fosters Food Fair IGA Market
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Within 1.6 miles:
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- Copper Falls Steakhouse
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Regal Beach Club is 2.3 miles from Owen Roberts International Airport.
Approximate cost per night (Penthouse Apartment): $1,794
Cost per person (seven people): $256
Galleon Villas by Hello Cayman Vacation
1083 West Bay Road, Seven Mile Beach
The Strand Shopping Center
Villa amenities: private beach, terrace, outdoor furniture, garden, barbecue grills, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, kitchens, concierge services, laundry facilities, free parking
Also in the area: The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman
Within feet:
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- The Strand Shopping Center
- Seven Mile Beach
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Within 1 mile:
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- Grand Cayman Beaches
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Galleon Villas by Hello Cayman Vacation is 13 minutes from Owen Roberts International Airport.
Approximate cost per night (Deluxe Villa, 3 Bedrooms): $1,416
Cost per person (seven people): $202
West Bay Condo
299 W Bay Rd, George Town
National Gallery of the Cayman Islands | Camana Bay
Condo amenities: 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, outdoor pool, hot tub, kitchen, washer, parking
Nearby: Bevvy Lobby Bar, Piccolino’s Cafe
Within feet:
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- National Gallery of the Cayman Islands
- Camana Bay (retail / entertainment district)
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West Bay Condo is 8 minutes from Owen Roberts International Airport.
Approximate cost per night: $404
Cost per person (six people): $67
Shangri-La Boutique Bed & Breakfast
29 Sticky Toffee Lane, West Bay
North Sound | Dolphin Cove
B&B amenities: full breakfast (surcharge), outdoor pool, hot tub, terrace, garden, barbecue grills, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, luggage storage, free parking
Nearby: Calypso Grill (seafood restaurant), McRuss Grocery Store
Within feet:
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- North Sound (lagoon)
- Dolphin Cove
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Within 1.1 miles:
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- Barker’s National Park
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Within 1.3 miles:
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- Seven Mile Beach
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Shangri-La Boutique Bed & Breakfast is 16 minutes from Owen Roberts International Airport.
Approximate cost per night (Apartment, 2 Bedrooms): $486
Cost per person (six people): $81
The Grove
1350 W Bay Rd, Seven Mile Beach
Grand Cayman Beaches
Hotel amenities: multiple restaurants & bars, full breakfast (surcharge), outdoor pool, terrace, garden, spa, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, front desk (limited hours), concierge services, luggage storage, laundry facilities, bike rentals, electric vehicle charging point, free parking
Also in the area: Governors Village Seven Mile Beach Corridor
Within feet:
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- Grand Cayman Beaches
- Governors Square
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The Grove is 13 minutes from Owen Roberts International Airport.
Approximate cost per night (Luxury Apartment, 4 Bedrooms): $970
Cost per person (ten people): $97
Black Urchin Boutique Resort
1264 Bodden Town Road, Belford Estates
Meagre Bay Pond
Hotel amenities: private beach area, bar, infinity pool, sea views, terrace, balconies, barbecue facilities, garden, yoga & fitness classes, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, fully-equipped kitchens, coffee machines, kettles, bathrobes, free private parking, shuttle service
Also in the area: Bodden Town Beach House
Within feet:
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- Meagre Bay Pond
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Within 5 miles:
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- Frank Sound Community Park
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Within 12 miles:
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- Dart Park
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Black Urchin Boutique Resort is 9 miles from Owen Roberts International Airport.
Approximate cost per night (Deluxe Suite with Sea View): $9,874
Cost per person (eighteen people): $548
Club Suites at Rum Point
2166 Rum Point Drive
Starfish Point
Suite amenities: outdoor swimming pool, sea views, terraces, balconies, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, fully-equipped kitchens, walk-in showers, free on-site parking
Within feet:
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- Starfish Point
- Rum Point Beach
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Within 6 miles:
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- Mastic Trail
- Old Man Bay Playfield
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Within 9 miles:
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- Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park
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Club Suites at Rum Point is 26 miles from Owen Roberts International Airport.
So there they are, Cayman Islands accommodations that will help make for an incredible trip. We hope you have found this information valuable and most importantly, that you enjoy your time in the Caribbean!