Snorkel and Swim: Marine Life Right Off the Beach

If you’re thinking about traveling to Grand Cayman in the Cayman Islands, you might be wondering which activities to do during your stay. While walking along the beach, exploring the pristine wilderness, and dining at world-class restaurants are all appealing, one of the best options is snorkeling.

The waters surrounding Grand Cayman are teeming with wildlife, including exotic fish, stingrays, sharks, and sea turtles. With around two dozen snorkeling sites around the island, there’s no shortage of places to see these marvelous creatures up close. But, since you can’t hit them all in a single trip, here are our five top picks.

The 5 Best Snorkel Sites in Grand Cayman

1. Cemetery Beach
Seven-Mile Beach is one of the main attractions on Grand Cayman, and Cemetery Beach is located just offshore. Simply put on your snorkeling gear, swim out about 200 yards, and you’ll run into reefs and colorful fish species.

2. Cali Wreck
Although coral reefs are fantastic for snorkeling, there’s something captivating about exploring a sunken wreck. The Wreck of the Cali is close to George Town, making it super convenient and easily accessible. Plus, once you’re done in the water, you can grab a bite to eat at a nearby restaurant.

3. Stingray City
Stingrays are an impressive sight to behold from above the water, but they’re truly magnificent when you can see them from under the waves. Stingray City allows you to get up close and personal with these majestic creatures, making for a memorable vacation experience.

4. USS Kittiwake
While the Wreck of the Cali is fun to explore on your own, the wreck of the USS Kittiwake is much larger and more impressive. Purposefully sunk to help stimulate fish ecosystems, you must book a snorkeling tour to explore the Kittiwake up close. However, it’s worth the price as you won’t get another chance to see something so awe-inspiring.

5. Spotts Beach
Like stingrays, sea turtles are another fabulous creature to see up close while snorkeling. One of the best places to see these animals in Grand Cayman is Spotts Beach on the southern edge of the island. Alternatively, if you want a guaranteed interaction, you can visit the Cayman Turtle Center, which rehabilitates and cares for these creatures.

Begin Your Snorkeling Expedition From South Bay Beach Club

Before you can venture out into the water, you’ll need a place to stay and keep your snorkeling gear. South Bay Beach Club is conveniently located next to Seven-Mile Beach, so it’s close to multiple snorkeling sites and provides easy access to George Town. Book your stay today and start exploring the world under the sea in no time!