Much more than a turtle farm, encounters now range from butterflies to sharks, Cayman’s Turtle Farm encapsulates the very essence of the Cayman Islands, providing a one stop attraction where you can experience all of the very best sites and culture that make the Cayman Islands one of the most sought after destinations in the world.
To see all of the many sights and attractions at Cayman Turtle Farm, you would have to drive to numerous different attractions and pay several admission fees. At Cayman Turtle Farm, everything a visitor could possibly want to see, learn and encounter about the Cayman Islands is all in one spectacular park.
Experience the rich history of Caymanian life in a fun and safe environment while providing opportunities to observe and interact with everything from sharks to butterflies and native flora and fauna.
In maintaining its unique cultural heritage, Boatswain’s Beach is the new home of the world renowned Cayman Islands Turtle Farm; although, with the many attractions they have added, Grand Cayman’s Turtle Farm is now but a microcosm of this mammoth park.
The new expanded facilities at Boatswain’s Beach ensure visitors continue to learn more about these amazing sea creatures as well as our new additions including the predators, birds, caiman, and other exciting creatures.
The new park also houses a world-class research and educational facility that focuses on the conservation of sea turtles.
Turtle Farm offers two of the largest swimming areas in the entire Caribbean. One is a salt water lagoon filled with dozens of species of fish, coral, turtles and other exotic marine life. The other is a fresh water swimming pool with waterfalls. They both offer beach chairs and comfortable surroundings, making entry and exit as easy as jumping into a pond or using a ladder to ensure your comfort and safety. Lifeguards surround all swimming areas to ensure your safety.
Visitors can now enjoy a refreshing, cool dip in the ever inviting Breaker’s fresh water tidal lagoon; this swimming pool is one of the largest in the Cayman Islands and is certainly the most unique.
The rock work around the pool imitates views typical of the cliffs around the Cayman Islands.
Two beautiful waterfalls cascade over mossy rocks and beach chairs facing a central island allow you a chance to relax and swim in the always calm and safe waters. There is not such thing as a bad day at Cayman Turtle Farm. Because everything is fully enclosed, even on days when the ocean is rough or conditions prohibit swimming and snorkeling, Turtle Farm is calm, tranquil and beautiful.
Cayman Turtle Farm offers visitors a unique opportunity to swim and snorkel with fish and other marine life in its 1.3 million gallon salt-water lagoon. Their Lagoon is filled with thousands of colourful fish and marine life happy to make your acquaintance.
Non-swimming guests can peer through the predator tank’s many expansive windows see sharks, eels and other exciting marine animals up close and personal.
Take a leisurely stroll down their expansive nature trail, where you will encounter many species of plants endemic to the Cayman Islands. Most of the plants are marked with their names, making it easy to identify the many interesting species of plants and flowers that you will encounter.
Let your imagination soar as you wander through the beautiful free-flight bird aviary. Explore on your own or follow the tour guides who will explain everything about the many exotic and endemic birds that inhabit the aviary.
Take a stroll down an historic Caymanian street complete with porch side artisans. Children and adults alike will delight in interacting with starfish, urchins and crabs at the touch pool.
Relax on the patio at Schooner’s Bar and Grill overlooking the sparkling water of the snorkeling lagoon.
Watch the chefs prepare unique menu items that will entice and delight.
Everyone will enjoy the experience of the finest Caymanian cuisine at a variety of locations throughout the park.
Cayman Turtle Farm became instantly famous for their delicious mudslides. Made from a traditional Cayman recipe combining a variety of locally produced rums and other ingredients, they are sure to quench your thirst and leave you wanting more.
The only one of its kind in the world, the Cayman Turtle Farm is home to over 11,000 Green Sea Turtles, ranging in size from six ounces to six hundred pounds each. Visitors can tour an actual working farm, which is both educational and entertaining, and turtles are available for guests to hold for an amazing and unique photo opportunity.
Source: Cayman Activity Guide
If the most demanding question of your holiday is “where shall we go for dinner?”, then on the Cayman Islands you’d better allow plenty of discussion time. With a population drawn from across the world, choice is the watchword, especially on Grand Cayman where visitors can dine on anything from traditional Cayman dishes to top-class French cuisine.
With its rich seafaring heritage, it’s not surprising that Cayman specialises in seafood. Top of the list is the islands’ signature dish: conch stew, a spicy concoction that is on the menu of several traditional establishments and well worth investigating. If you fancy something simpler, there are also conch fritters and conch burgers. Even more widely available are fresh snapper, wahoo (similar to tuna) and mahi-mahi – another delicious white fish that is also known as dorado or locally (and rather bizarrely) dolphinfish.
The nearby islands of Cuba and Jamaica exert their influence, from spicy jerk meats – barbecued chicken or pork – and goat curry, to coconut rice, beans and fried plantain which are served with most meals, especially on the sister islands, Little Cayman and Cayman Brac. Even more relaxed are the beach barbecues, such as that held every Tuesday evening at Cayman Kai, and reached by water taxi from across the bay. They are popular on Little Cayman, too.
US cuisine is represented with a good line in burgers and steaks, ideal for families with big appetites and those after something simple or familiar. There’s pizza and pasta, Trinidadian and Thai, Mexican and Mediterranean, and a whole lot more besides. Perhaps not surprisingly for a destination that is a British overseas territory, standard British fare is also on the menu; you can even get a mean fish and chips in the islands’ capital George Town.
Style is another decision. Family-friendly restaurants abound both in George Town, and along Seven Mile Beach. Dress to the nines for dinner at the classiest hotel restaurants, or for a more traditional venue try the elegant Grand Old House. For a romantic dinner à deux, there’s no beating a waterfront setting under the stars, with only the sound of the waves breaking softly on the sand.
Luckily the best meals aren’t always taken in the evening. Brunch, that great American tradition, has been taken on board and given a Cayman twist, emerging polished and elegant, at its best served with sparkling wine on a Sunday at the Westin Casuarina. Then, if mid-afternoon hunger pangs strike, top up with an ice-cream at Camana Bay, or head to Farmers’ Market for a slab of rich cake or a refreshing tropical fruit such as pineapple or soursop (similar to pawpaw).
So you’ve made your choice. Now what to drink? The classic rum punch, or perhaps a Cayman mudslide – a decidedly sticky cocktail of vodka, Kahlua and Baileys – make a good pre-prandial tipple. High-quality rum, though, such as the local Seven Fathoms, aged underwater in oak barrels, is best savoured slowly. The standard of wines available is exceptionally high, with 13 establishments currently boasting the award of excellence from Wine Spectator magazine. The islands even have their own beer, Caybrew, a lager-style number brewed on Grand Cayman.
Cayman’s night scene is far from the brash offering of many tourist resorts. A couple of dance clubs close to the tourist hotspots of Seven Mile Beach attract a lively crowd, and several venues showcase live music on different days of the week – so boogying by the beach is an option. Most, however, head for a convivial session at a late-night bar – casual or more formal, the choice is yours.
Source: The Guardian
The Grand Cayman Islands are actually a group of three islands in the Caribbean, the Grand Cayman, Little Cayman and Cayman Brock. Grand Cayman receives the most tourists throughout the year, with cruise ships docking year round. Despite the bustling tourist activity, the Grand Caymans are well-developed and diverse islands.
History
In 1503, Christopher Columbus discovered the Cayman Islands, which he named Las Tortugas. In 1586, Sir Francis Duke visited the islands and renamed them the Caymans, which according to the Cayman Islands Chamber of Commerce, is the Caribbean word for turtle. When Jamaica became an independent nation in 1962, the Cayman Islands elected to remain under British rule, according to Travel Muse. As of 2010, the Cayman Islands are a British Overseas Territory.
National Logo
Like most countries, the Grand Caymans have their own national song, flag, flower, and bird. However, the Grand Caymans also have their own national logo. The logo, known as “Sir Turtle,” is a cartoon turtle decked out in pirate gear. Sir Turtle wears a pirate’s hat, carries a bayonet and dons a wooden leg. According to the Cayman Islands Chamber of Commerce, Suzy Soto designed the logo in 1963.
Culture
According to Travel Muse, a treaty in the early 1700s brought several pirates to the Grand Caymans. The pirates remained on the islands and helped develop the culture; now the Cayman Island is a blend of British, American, and Jamaican cultures. With tourism being the economic background, entertainment is a large part of daily life in the islands.
Neighborhoods
Six neighborhoods divide the Grand Caymans. George Town holds the island’s capital city, the airport, and the docks for the cruise ships. This is the most active area for tourists to the island. Seven Mile Beach, a long stretch of white sand beaches, is a famous tourist attraction. The West End holds attractions such as Sting Ray city and other nature observatories. Bodden Town is the historical district of the Grand Caymans. The North End and East End neighborhoods are less crowded, local areas.
Geography
One of the most striking features of the Grand Caymans is the crystal clear water surrounding its beaches. According to Travel Muse, there are no rivers or fresh water sources on the islands, which makes the crystal clear salt water possible. The islands themselves are full of lush tropical plants and white sand beaches.
Source: ehow.com, by Amelia Jenkins
Grand Cayman Parrot
The sight of a pair of Cayman parrots is a familiar one to many Caymanians. You are more likely to hear the raucous squawking of the National Bird of the Cayman Islands before actually seeing one, especially in the early morning and late afternoon when they are most vocal. When feeding quietly in the tops of trees, they are so well camouflaged you may never realize they are there.
The Cayman Islands’ parrots are, in fact, two subspecies of the Cuban Parrot (Amazona leucocephala). Both subspecies are endemic to the Cayman Islands – which means they are found nowhere else in the world. In fact, there are only three other subspecies of this parrot in the world – two in Cuba and one in the Bahamas.
Cayman’s parrots have iridescent green feathers with darker edges over the body, a white eye ring, red cheeks, black ear patches and brilliant blue wing feathers which are only obvious when the bird is in flight. The tail has blue outer edges, with some red and yellowish green underneath.
The Grand Cayman Parrot (Amazona leucocephala caymanensis) in particular has a pink flush to its whitish forehead. The male is slightly larger and more brightly coloured than the female. Juvenile birds have yellowish foreheads, gradually becoming more washed with pink as they mature.
Cayman Brac Parrot
The Cayman Brac Parrot (Amazona leucocephala hesterna) is slightly smaller, with more black trim on its green feathers. The crown is pure white, and there is a large maroon area on the abdomen. It is now found only on Cayman Brac: although it used to inhabit Little Cayman it was apparently wiped out from there in the great storm of 1932. The Cayman Brac Parrot has the smallest range of any Amazon parrot and so is one of the rarest.
The Cayman Islands’ parrots feed on Sea Grapes, Red Birch berries and the flowers, seeds and berries of many other native plants. They are usually seen in pairs or small family groups, and are most active in the early morning or just before sunset. They have a wide range of different calls, some only used in particular contexts, such as while in flight, when alarmed, or advertising their position to other parrots. Larger flocks will sometimes gather, especially just before the breeding season. The Cayman Brac Parrot is quieter, has different calls and is very secretive. It is rarely seen in winter, and has earned the nickname the “Stealth Parrot”.
Cayman’s parrots mate for life, and use the same nesting sites over and over again. They nest in rural areas, either mangrove or dry forest, in hollow trees, laying between one and five eggs every spring. The eggs hatch after about 24 days, and the young remain in the nest for about eight weeks and are able to fly by mid-summer.
Beyond the sun and the sand, lies another, entirely different part of the Cayman Islands – the shady recesses of the Mastic Trail. Covered with dense, diverse plant life including tall trees, flowering vines, wild orchids and endemic island species, the trail provides a unique opportunity to see another aspect of this beautiful Caribbean island. From the Black Mangrove Wetland to the sunny meadows of North Side, the Mastic Trail offers a complete change of scenery for the adventurous traveler. Alive with birdsong, the squawk of parrots and the rustling of lizards, geckos, crabs and other wildlife, the trail stands in sharp contrast with to world of bright waters and cocktails beside the swimming pool.
The Mastic Trail passes through a lovely mosaic of different terrains. There are a variety of ecosystems and habitats including Black Mangrove Wetlands, stands of Royal Palms, which are often home to families of raucous Cayman Parrots, abandoned agricultural land, jagged rocky fissures, and ancient dry forests. It takes its name from the Mastic trees that grow there in two varieties. The Black Mastic tree was thought to be extinct in the Cayman Islands for over a century, but in 1991 was rediscovered in this area. Yellow Mastic trees were heavily logged but still thrive here. One highlight of the hike is the huge Yellow Mastic at the highest point on Grand Cayman – a towering 60 feet above sea level! This impressive tree is home to many types of wildlife. Parrots nest in its hollow cavities, geckos hide under its loose bark, land crabs scuttle under its roots, and hermit crabs patrol its limbs searching for food.
To enter this tree-covered path is to step back in time. From the Mahogany logs laid in the wetland for footing 100 years ago, to the old coastline ridge of 125,000 years ago, to the two-million year-old forest that is one of the last of its kind in the Caribbean, the Mastic Trail is steeped in history. The trail was once the main overland route between North Side and Bodden Town and was used to transport thatch rope, produce and staples across the island. Often donkeys or oxen were used as pack animals. Sturdy shoes are recommended now, but the old-timers walked the trail barefoot to save their valuable footwear! As better coastal roads were built, the trail gradually fell into disuse and became overgrown.
In 1994, aided by a grant from the RARE Center for Tropical Conservation, the Governor’s Fund for Nature, and Rotary Central Club, this traditional pathway through the forest was reopened by the National Trust for the Cayman Islands. The National Trust is a non-profit, non-governmental organization whose mission is to preserve natural environments and places of historic significance for present and future generations of the Cayman Islands. The trail is still not yet completely protected and some areas are still in private ownership and susceptible to development. To make a donation or to find out how you can help to protect this historic and beautiful trail contact the National Trust.
The National Trust office can direct you to guided tours of the Mastic Trail and is producing a pocket Trail Guide for self-guided tours. The Trail Guide or a guided tour is recommended, as there are seasonal changes on the trail and poisonous plants to avoid. The Trail Guide also provides information about the traditional uses of many of the plants and background information about the variety of ecosystems through which you will pass.
The Cayman Islands have no poisonous snakes or other dangerous animals. Even the iridescent blue and orange wasps that can be seen buzzing above their holes in the red earth are harmless. However, there are three plant species that grow along the trail that contain skin irritants and should be avoided. One of these plants, the Manchineel tree, produces a “little green apple” that is eaten by Blue Iguanas, but should never be tasted or eaten by humans!
The trail is rocky and uneven and is about 2 miles long. With stops for rest, observation, and photography it takes about three hours to walk the entire length. It is not a loop-trail. Directions to each end of the trail and suggestions for arranging the logistics of your hike are in the Trail Guide. Bring mosquito repellent and a bottle of water and take a walk into another world – the world of the magical Mastic.
Most vacationers opt to stay on Grand Cayman as it is the most developed of the “Three Sisters.” Doing so will also put you within convenient distance of many beautiful and diverse beaches. Because the island is completely surrounded by the Caribbean Sea, expect the water to be calm, clear, and warm. Without a doubt, the island’s most well-known beach is Seven Mile Beach, located on the western shore, and popular for both its fine white sands and its convenient location. In 2011, Seven Mile Beach was ranked number one by readers of Caribbean Travel + Life. To get away from the crowds, try Rum Point in the north, which is an ideal spot for water sports.
Cayman Brac, on the other hand, is better known for its interior wildlife than its outstanding beaches. A number of underwater “walls” make for interesting scuba diving and snorkeling, but the rocky outcrops found throughout the island may deter sunbathers. The southwestern region features a bit of sand and a protected beach just east of the island’s hotels.
Although Little Cayman is the smallest of the three islands, the beaches here are highly regarded. Likewise, some of the best diving in the world can be found here. From end to end, this tiny island offers stunning beaches and ideal conditions for swimming, diving, and snorkeling. Visitors can also take an excursion to the uninhabited Owen Island; located just 200 yards offshore, it’s a great destination for swimming and picnicking in private.
No matter what your vacation style, the beaches of the Cayman Islands are sure to please. In fact, you can get further help determining the beaches you’d most enjoy visiting with the detailed beach pages, linked below.
Source: caymanislands-guide.info
Chicharron, fish tea, escovitch, bammy and mannish water. If you’re wondering, or worrying, what these exotic-sounding island specialties are, have no fear. They’re all part and parcel of experiencing true island fare, and many are staples at Cayman’s famous roadside fish fry huts.
The fish fry is a Caymanian tradition steeped in the island’s seafaring past. Fried fish, known as “fish fry” here, was a staple in days of yore, when islanders lived on the fruits of the sea. As the islands developed, mainly in the mid-1960s when Cayman first began its ascent as a world-class tourism and financial services destination, the time constraints of catching, cleaning, seasoning and cooking fish for the family meal left the kitchen and stepped onto the streets.
Today, there are a growing number of fish fry huts dotted around the island where you can sample island dishes and recipes handed down for generations. Many community associations, schools and non-profit groups also hold fish frys as fundraisers.
Some fry huts are small ventures located in out-of-the-way spots and are only open for limited hours, while others are well-known island institutions that draw in crowds on weekends.
Whatever the case, these rustic seaside stands have several things in common: generous portions of fresh-cooked fish, heaping helpings of sides and affordable prices — usually under CI$12. The atmosphere at these open-air eateries is decidedly down-home, giving visitors a chance to mix and mingle with the locals and experience island living. For locals, the fish fry is often a chance to get together over some good grub while catching up on the “marl road,” Cayman’s version of the grapevine. It all adds up to an island experience that’s a must for visitors who want to sample authentic Caymanian food and culture.
Some huts offer whatever is caught fresh that day, usually snapper, mahimahi, grouper, tuna or wahoo, while others rely on suppliers to guarantee the fish of your choice is always at hand. When in season, lobster and conch stew can be found on the chalkboard menu, along with such local dishes as jerk pork and chicken, turtle, oxtail and curried goat.
Grape Tree Café in Bodden Town regularly features snapper, mahimahi and grouper on its menu, along with chicken tenders for any non-seafood fans. It’s run by Osbourne “Ozzie” Bodden, Cayman’s own Ozzie Osbourne, and his wife Nancy. The politician-turned-entrepreneur is a born and bred “Bodden Towner” who grew up across the street from the seaside fish fry. When he left politics, he saw a chance to open a business that was tied to his Caymanian heritage, and the Grape Tree Café was born.
“I’ve always wanted to create something that both residents and tourists could enjoy,” he notes. “Fry fish is part of Caymanian culture, and it’s important to keep it alive.”
The Grape Tree Café is located behind Lorna’s Texaco, also one of Ozzie’s business ventures, on a narrow stretch of beautiful, white sand beach where cool breezes from the Caribbean Sea make it an ideal spot to kick back, relax and enjoy a meal. You can sit down under thatch-roof shaded picnic tables on the beach or dine on the small terrace attached to the hut.
Ozzie and Nancy opened the venture in 2009, cooking the fish themselves at the start. They’ve since hired a cook and chef to take over the major duties, but often stop by to ensure everyone is enjoying good food and having a good time. Ozzie grew up “eating a lot of fish,” and along the way became an expert at preparing it.
Ozzie’s mastery of the skillet shines at Grape Tree, where the fish is simply delicious and even generated quite the buzz from guest reviews on the travel site TripAdvisor. Its fried fish is topped with a wonderful sautéed escovitch, a Latin dish of sweet pepper, onions and carrots in a tangy vinaigrette. Grape Tree also serves roast fish, which is stuffed with cabbage or okra, doused with butter, wrapped in foil and cooked in the oven. Other seasonal specialties include roasted breadfruit, a starchy island treat that is similar to a potato, fritters, plantains and fried cassava. On Saturdays, you can pick up chicharron, seasoned, deep fried pork cracklings that are decadent and delicious.
Grape Tree has become an increasingly popular stop for tourists and a hit with the locals — it goes through an average of 400 pounds of fish each weekend. Closed on Mondays, Grape Tree offers local dishes during the week and serves up fish fry Friday through Sunday. There’s Caribbean music playing in the background on Friday and Saturday. You can bring your own beer, or pick your poison at Ozzie’s liquor store next door, except on Sundays. There’s also a great selection of fresh juices.
Other popular fish fry spots can be found in West Bay and East End. Heritage Kitchen in West Bay is a long-standing weekend tradition. Here, along with fresh fish, you’ll find the famous fish tea, a soup of sorts that includes a savoury mix of fish, onions and peppers. You can also sometimes sample mannish water, a spicy soup made from various goat parts, including the head.
On the other side of the island, in the sleepy district of East End, you’ll find several popular fish fry stops. One is located across from the blowholes en route to the village and another is behind the East End Texaco station, both open only on Sunday. Captain Herman, who runs deep sea fishing charters, fries up fresh catch at his new, brightly decorated hut set on a prime seaside spot. Decorated with conch shells and featuring a menu written on the sail of catboat, a traditional island fishing vessel, it offers a true taste of island flavour.
The history of Pedro’s Castle is by far one of the more impressive stories to be told in the Cayman Islands. Grand Cayman’s Pedro’s Castle soars three stories with 18 inch thick stone walls. So large that the Great House at Pedro Point dwarfed the surrounding single-level “wattle-and-daub” dwellings that were its neighbors in 1780. The massive size of Pedro’s Castle was accentuated by sweeping verandahs, large shuttered windows, and English slate adorning its roof and floors.
The elaborate construction made Grand Caymans Pedros Castle the Cayman Islands answer to a European castle and the term Pedro “Castle” is used by local residents to this day, despite many larger dwellings now in existence. However in the late 18th century, the population of the Cayman Islands was all of about 500 people with Grand Cayman comprising little more than an undeveloped fishing village. Using slave labor, an Englishman by the name of William Eden built the expansive Pedro’s Castle Great House and farmed the adjoining land as a plantation.
At a time when when most people in the Cayman Islands lived in tiny thatch-covered houses, an astonishing 3-storey building was certainly looked upon as a castle, hence the original coining of the term, Pedro St. James “Castle”.
Since Pedro St. James construction in the Cayman Islands more than two centuries ago, Pedro St. James has been put to a variety of uses, including a courthouse, jail, Government Assembly and restaurant. Surviving hurricanes, fires, vandalism, and rumors of being jinxed or haunted, it stands to this day. In its restored state, Caymans Pedro’s Castle is an expansive monument to the Cayman Islands heritage.
Often termed “The Birthplace of Democracy in the Cayman Islands”, Pedro St. James was the venue for a meeting on December fifth, 1831 where the decision was made to form the Cayman Islands first elected parliament. Later, on 3 May 1835, Robert Thompson—dispatched from the Governor of Jamaica, held court at Pedro St. James and issued the proclamation that forever ended slave labor in the British Empire.
During the ensuing years, Pedro’s Castle has been buffeted by hurricanes; struck by lightening; and engulfed in an extensive fire. Pedro St. James Castle was abandoned by the Eden family in 1877 after lightening struck the main building and took the life of the daughter of the house, Mary Jane. Unused, Pedro’s Castle gradually fell into decay, and by 1910 it was reported that only the original stone walls remained.
The building was renovated by the Hurlston family in 1914, only to be abandoned again in 1920. In 1959, a portion of the property was purchased by Thomas Hubbell who renovated Pedro St. James Castle and occupied the residence until 1963.
Pedros Castle functioned as a restaurant and hotel from 1967 until yet again it fell victim to severe fire in 1970. It was repaired and again operated as a restaurant from 1974 until the late 1980s when it was damaged by a hurricane and yet another fire.
In 1989, the restaurant operation declared bankruptcy and Pedro’s Castle again sat vacant. Finally, in 1991, the castle and land was purchased by the Cayman Islands government for development as an historic site; the Canadian firm of Commonwealth Historic Resource Management Limited was retained to develop a restoration and interpretation plan for the site. The ensuing work concluded in 1996 to the tune of $8 million and produced the historic site that today stands high among the trees.
The historical significance of the events of the 18th and 19th centuries attract many visitors to Pedros Castle but destiny-shaping history does not reside exclusively in the recesses of the distant past.
On September 12th, 2004, Hurricane Ivan—a category 5 hurricane, struck the Cayman Islands, causing horrific devastation throughout the Cayman Islands including Pedro St. James. The Great House, Theatre, Cafe, and vegetation were extensively damaged during Hurricane Ivan and the cost to repair Pedro St. James Castle was estimated at CI$1.4 Million (approximately US$1.8 million). So once again, restoration took place and was completed in May of 2006, when it once again reopened for visitors.
Mr. Gilbert Connolly, CEO of the Tourism Attraction Board which oversees the management of Pedro St. James Castle created the Hurricane Ivan Memorial. The monument reflects an enigmatic expression of the symbolism and resolve of the Caymanian people and the timing of the significant events occurring at Pedro’s Castle. This circular memorial was constructed using local stones and tamarind tree trunks to visually demonstrate their significance. Now you can experience the Hurricane Ivan Memorial as a modern monument to the forces of Nature that continue to shape the history of the Cayman Islands. The Memorial continues Cayman’s tradition of preserving its history on this site by chronicling the tragic circumstances of that historic storm and transforming products of its destruction into symbols of hope for future generations. The tale is inscribed into the monument and there are always a few guides or old timers around the castle who will be more than happy to explain it to you in greater detail.
The new theater at Pedro’s Castle was a tremendously impressive addition to the castle following the restoration in the wake of Hurricane Ivan. At Pedro St. James Castle extraordinary multifaceted theater, you will actually feel the fury of nature’s tempests as a storm manifests itself around you. So real are the effects you will feel as though you are actually touching the authentic artifacts and tools that permitted past generations to survive in an untamed land bordered by restless seas. You will feel the pain as you witness the hardships of early settlers, the danger of marauders; the lives of the slaves who built and maintained the property, and the vision of the Caymanians of 1831 who introduced democracy to the Cayman Islands.
Café Pedro serves up its prize-winning Turtle Stew every Friday, but the same devotion to taste and quality go into every dish served at this seaside dining establishment. With sweeping views overlooking the Caribbean Sea, Café Pedro offers a dining experience unlike anything else. At Cafe Pedro, you will experience award-winning local cuisine by the sea. Specializing in authentic Caymanian delicacies as Turtle Stew, Cayman-style Beef, and Cassava Cake, it is clear why the chefs at Café Pedro were the proud winners of the 2006 Taste of Cayman Cook-Off for the best Traditional Caymanian Dish!
Pedro’s Castle gift store feature an abundance of historically significant souvenirs, arts and crafts; and when you shop at Pedro St. James, you’re doing more than selecting the perfect gift, enjoying a great meal or visiting one of the Cayman Islands most historically significant sites. You are also helping keep the past alive for generations to come.
Pedros Castle is perfect for group events and weddings. With highly experienced wedding planners on staff, they can help you plan the perfect wedding to suit your individual tastes and budgets.
Located in the eastern district of Savannah only 20 minutes east of George Town, denoted as a star attraction on our Grand Cayman Map 1. Turn onto Pedro Castle Road at the roundabout next to the Countryside Village shopping center. Use our Go East tour to incorporate Pedro’s Castle into your itinerary in the most efficient manner.
Source: Cayman Activity Guide
The Cayman Islands is blessed with a rich sailing heritage. This heritage continues with a strong recreational sailing community. The Cayman Islands Sailing Club is the National Authority for sailing in the Cayman Islands and affiliated to the ISAF and the Olympic movement.
There is a strong commitment to developing the sport in the Cayman Islands, and the club maintains a strong school and youth training programme. Families are especially welcome, with Saturday sailing classes for children. If you are a really keen sailor, interested in taking up the sport or just want to join our social activities, you’ll fit in straight away! The CISC is happy to provide lessons or recreational sailing to tourists visiting Grand Cayman.
If you are interested in taking a day sail, sunset sail or a romantic dinner cruise, there are various charter operators in Cayman that can accommodate private charter or scheduled service. There is no better way to experience the dramatic Cayman Sunset than under sail.
Source: caymanislands.ky
On the picturesque Caribbean island of Grand Cayman, there is place known as Hell. Just a short drive from five-star resorts and pristine beaches, rests an ominous field of brimstone with a fascinating geological history. There are certainly several versions to the story of how Hell got its name. Yet, most variations involve a local official seeing this strange limestone field for the first time and saying, “This is what Hell must look like.” Whatever you may think of this unique version of Hell, the surrounding West Bay area of Grand Cayman offers some of the best photo opportunities in the Caribbean, while Hell itself promises an unforgettable sightseeing opportunity.
At this point, you are probably wondering what is so hellish about this little Caribbean town. The story is interesting, but certainly nothing to fear.
Approximately 1.5 million years ago, the sea level was 15-20 higher than it is today. As a result, Grand Cayman and many other Caribbean islands were largely flooded. When the water receded, limestone-based coral formations were left behind. Scientists have recognized a large formation of such ancient coral – known as ironshore – covering most of the western half of Grand Cayman.
Ironshore is the central attraction of Hell. Yet, in Hell, the limestone deposits have taken on an ominous shape. In an area about the size of half a football field, you will see exposed black ironshore that has been uniquely weathered to resemble the fires of the netherworld. Though the formations may look like the result of volcanic activity, the limestone was in fact darkened by eroding algae after the sea waters receded. As the limestone was simultaneously exposed to acidic algae and the elements over many centuries, the field of Hell took on its devilish form.
Unfortunately, you won’t be able to walk among the limestone formations. However, the viewing platforms grant you a bird’s eye view of the sharp, blackened ironshore. Beyond the rocks of Hell, you will see mangrove trees and the beautiful Caribbean scenery you expect of Grand Cayman.
There is also plenty of fun to be had with Hell’s secondary attractions. At the town’s small gift shop, you will be greeted by the devil himself (or perhaps just a man in costume) with such phrases as, “How the hell are you?” or “Where the hell are you from?” After picking up some “postcards from hell,” you can send your friends and family a unique message courtesy of Hell’s themed post office. Opened in 1962, the post office allows visitors the ability to postmark their Caribbean correspondence from Satan’s hometown.
Just south of Hell, you will find Seven Mile Beach, one of the island’s most famous beaches. Though the beach is only 5.5 miles long, it promises plenty of pristine, powdery sand. Many of the island’s most popular resorts are located along this stretch, as well, yet the beach is rarely overcrowded. At the south end of the beach, you will find more exposed ironshore – further evidence of the formations resting beneath the island’s surface. Though the limestone at Seven Mile Beach wasn’t weathered as dramatically as in Hell, it certainly gives you an idea of the island’s – and the entire Caribbean region’s – unique geological makeup.
The trip to Hell is a short one (the town, that is). Mini buses run throughout the island and Hell is a popular stop. It is even possible to walk to the site from many of Grand Cayman’s resorts – most being about 5-7 miles away. However you choose to get to Hell, the journey will definitely offer scenic views of the island’s West Bay region.
You probably won’t need to spend much time in Hell either. Offering a unique brand of fun, the town and its wicked rocks offer a simple, pleasant family activity. When planning your tour around beautiful Grand Cayman, plan an afternoon stop at the place no one wants to end up (but everyone seems to enjoy).