Laid-Back Luxury: Best Resorts in the Cayman Islands

To truly make the most of your Caymanian escape, choosing the right resort is essential. Imagine unwinding in a luxurious beachfront suite where the sound of the waves soothes you to sleep, or perhaps staying in an eco-friendly retreat surrounded by lush gardens, where sustainability meets serenity. From lavish, all-inclusive resorts that cater to your every need to intimate boutique hotels offering personalized service and a touch of local charm, the Cayman Islands' top resorts are designed to elevate your island getaway.

Each resort on these enchanting islands offers something unique, ensuring that every traveler finds their perfect slice of paradise. Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a family adventure, or a solo retreat, here’s your ultimate guide to the best resorts in the Cayman Islands. Prepare to discover where luxury meets island charm, and where your dream vacation becomes a reality.

1. The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman

A Luxury Beachfront Oasis
Rating: 4.9/5
Price Range: $600 - $1,500 per night

Located on the iconic Seven Mile Beach, The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman offers an unparalleled experience of luxury and tranquility. This five-star resort is known for its elegant design, impeccable service, and breathtaking ocean views. The spacious rooms and suites are beautifully appointed, featuring private balconies that overlook the turquoise Caribbean Sea. The resort's architecture blends modern sophistication with island-inspired elements, creating an ambiance of refined elegance.

Amenities and Experiences

• Private Beach: Enjoy exclusive access to Seven Mile Beach, where you can relax on plush sun loungers, take a refreshing dip in the sea, or indulge in water sports like paddleboarding and snorkeling.
• Spa & Wellness: Rejuvenate at the world-class La Prairie Spa, offering a range of treatments that incorporate local ingredients. The spa also features a sauna, steam room, and outdoor relaxation areas.
• Dining: Savor gourmet cuisine at the resort's fine dining restaurants, including Blue by Eric Ripert, known for its exceptional seafood, and Andiamo, offering Italian cuisine with a Caribbean twist.
• Activities: Engage in activities such as snorkeling, sailing, and yoga, or explore the island’s rich cultural heritage with guided tours and local experiences.

How to Get There
Fly into Owen Roberts International Airport (GCM), which is about a 15-minute drive from the resort. The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman offers luxury airport transfers upon request.

2. Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa

Perfect for Romance and Relaxation
Rating: 4.8/5
Price Range: $500 - $1,000 per night

Situated on Seven Mile Beach, Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa is a luxurious, modern retreat that offers a tranquil escape with breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea. Known for its vibrant design, world-class spa, and exceptional dining, this resort is ideal for couples and those seeking a romantic getaway.

Unique Features

• Accommodation: The resort’s rooms and suites are designed with contemporary decor, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows, private balconies, and stunning ocean views. The exclusive Presidential Suite offers additional luxury with its spacious layout and personalized service.
• Spa at Seafire: Rejuvenate your body and mind at the resort’s luxurious spa, which offers a range of treatments inspired by the island’s natural beauty. The spa’s serene ambiance and expert therapists ensure a deeply relaxing experience.
• Dining: Enjoy a variety of culinary delights at the resort’s restaurants, including Ave, which offers Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, and Coccoloba, a beachside taco bar with a laid-back vibe.
• Activities: Take part in activities such as stand-up paddleboarding, cooking classes, and sunset yoga. The resort also offers easy access to local attractions and nightlife.

How to Get There
Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa is approximately 15 minutes from Owen Roberts International Airport. The resort provides luxury airport transfers for a seamless arrival.

3. The Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort & Spa

A Family-Friendly Paradise
Rating: 4.7/5
Price Range: $400 - $900 per night

Nestled on the world-famous Seven Mile Beach, The Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort & Spa is a top choice for families and travelers looking for a mix of relaxation and adventure. The resort offers a wide range of amenities, including multiple swimming pools, a kids' club, and direct beach access.

Highlights

• Variety of Rooms: Choose from oceanfront rooms, garden view suites, or the exclusive Club Rooms with upgraded amenities. All accommodations are designed with comfort in mind, offering modern decor and private balconies.
• Recreation: Enjoy the resort's expansive swimming pool, complete with a swim-up bar and waterfalls, perfect for families. The resort also features a fitness center, water sports facilities, and easy access to local attractions.
• Dining Options: The resort offers several dining options, including Beach House, known for its fresh seafood and farm-to-table dining, and Ferdinand’s, offering Caribbean cuisine in a casual setting.
• Spa & Wellness: Relax at the Hibiscus Spa, which offers a range of treatments inspired by local traditions and natural ingredients. The spa features a tranquil garden, private treatment rooms, and a sauna.

How to Get There
The Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort & Spa is a 15-minute drive from Owen Roberts International Airport. The resort offers complimentary shuttle services to popular shopping and dining areas.

4. Palm Heights

An All-Suite Boutique Beachfront Hotel
Rating: 4.6/5
Price Range: $450 - $1,000 per night

For those who seek a boutique experience with all the luxuries of a larger resort, Palm Heights is the ultimate choice. Located on the golden sands of Seven Mile Beach, this stylish all-suite hotel offers an intimate setting with a strong emphasis on personalized service and unique experiences.

What to Expect

• All-Suite Accommodations: Palm Heights’ suites are spacious and elegantly designed, featuring mid-century modern decor, separate living areas, and private balconies with ocean or garden views. The hotel’s penthouse suite offers a particularly luxurious experience, with expansive views and exclusive amenities.
• Wellness & Fitness: The hotel offers a range of wellness programs, including beach yoga, personal training sessions, and access to a state-of-the-art fitness center. Guests can also enjoy personalized wellness consultations to enhance their stay.
• Culinary Excellence: Dine at The Bird, the hotel’s signature restaurant, offering a menu that blends Caribbean flavors with international influences. For a more casual experience, visit the Coconut Club, a beachside bar serving light bites and craft cocktails.
• Activities & Excursions: Guests can enjoy a variety of water sports, including kayaking, snorkeling, and paddleboarding. The hotel also offers curated experiences, such as art tours, culinary workshops, and private yacht charters.

How to Get There
Palm Heights is located about 15 minutes from Owen Roberts International Airport. The hotel provides personalized airport transfer services upon request.

5. Grand Cayman Marriott Beach Resort

A Blend of Luxury and Comfort
Rating: 4.5/5
Price Range: $350 - $800 per night

Situated on the stunning Seven Mile Beach, the Grand Cayman Marriott Beach Resort offers an elegant blend of luxury, comfort, and exceptional service. This resort is the perfect choice for travelers seeking a serene retreat with easy access to Grand Cayman’s vibrant shopping, dining, and entertainment districts.

Key Attractions

• Luxurious Accommodations: Each room at the Grand Cayman Marriott is designed with a modern, sophisticated touch, featuring plush bedding, private balconies, and breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea or the resort’s tropical gardens.
• Culinary Experiences: Indulge in a variety of culinary delights at the resort’s restaurants. Enjoy beachfront dining at Veranda, savor fresh seafood at Anchor & Den, or unwind with a cocktail at the Vista Bar while enjoying the stunning sunset.
• Wellness and Recreation: Rejuvenate at the resort’s on-site spa, offering a range of treatments designed to relax and revitalize. The resort also boasts a state-of-the-art fitness center, a beachfront pool, and direct access to Seven Mile Beach for water sports and relaxation.
• Family-Friendly Activities: The Grand Cayman Marriott offers a range of activities for guests of all ages, from kids' club programs to daily beach yoga sessions. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, there’s something for everyone.

How to Get There
The Grand Cayman Marriott Beach Resort is a quick 15-minute drive from Owen Roberts International Airport. The resort offers airport transfers and shuttle services to nearby attractions, ensuring your stay is as convenient as it is luxurious.

6. Sunshine Suites Resort

Affordable Luxury Near Seven Mile Beach
Rating: 4.3/5
Price Range: $200 - $500 per night

For travelers seeking an affordable yet luxurious stay near Seven Mile Beach, Sunshine Suites Resort is the perfect option. This charming resort offers the comforts of home with the added benefits of a top-tier hotel, making it ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

Resort Highlights

• Spacious Suites: Sunshine Suites offers a variety of suite options, each equipped with a full kitchen, comfortable living area, and private balcony or patio. The resort’s Garden Suites are especially popular for their lush surroundings and tranquil ambiance.
• Casual Dining: The resort’s Sunshine Grill is a local favorite, known for its delicious island-inspired dishes and casual atmosphere. Guests can enjoy everything from fresh fish tacos to the famous “Sunshine Sliders,” paired with a cold drink from the bar.
• Access to Seven Mile Beach: Although not directly on the beach, Sunshine Suites provides easy access to Seven Mile Beach, just a short walk away. Guests can enjoy all the perks of the nearby Westin Grand Cayman, including beach chairs, water sports, and pool access.
• Activities & Excursions: Take advantage of the resort’s partnerships with local tour operators to arrange activities like snorkeling trips, horseback riding, and island tours. The resort’s concierge is happy to assist with personalized recommendations.

How to Get There
Sunshine Suites Resort is about a 15-minute drive from Owen Roberts International Airport. The resort offers shuttle services to Seven Mile Beach and nearby shopping areas.

7. The Reef Resort

A Secluded Getaway on the East End
Rating: 4.5/5
Price Range: $300 - $600 per night

Located on the quiet East End of Grand Cayman, The Reef Resort offers a secluded getaway perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Seven Mile Beach. This resort is ideal for couples, families, and nature lovers who want to experience the island’s natural beauty in a tranquil setting.

What to Expect

• Beachfront Accommodations: The Reef Resort offers spacious beachfront suites with stunning views of the Caribbean Sea. Each suite includes a private balcony or terrace, a full kitchen, and a separate living area, making it an ideal home away from home.
• Wellness & Relaxation: The resort’s Le Soleil Spa offers a range of treatments designed to rejuvenate the mind and body. Guests can also enjoy beachfront yoga classes, a fitness center, and a tranquil swimming pool surrounded by lush gardens.
• Dining Options: Savor Caribbean-inspired cuisine at the resort’s on-site restaurant, Tides, which offers both indoor and al fresco dining with ocean views. The resort also features a beach bar where guests can enjoy tropical cocktails and light snacks.
• Activities & Excursions: Explore the natural beauty of the East End with activities like snorkeling, kayaking, and diving. The resort also offers guided tours to nearby attractions, including the famous Stingray City and the Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park.

How to Get There
The Reef Resort is about a 45-minute drive from Owen Roberts International Airport. The resort provides shuttle services and can arrange car rentals for guests who want to explore the island.

8. Cobalt Coast Grand Cayman Resort

A Diver’s Paradise
Rating: 4.4/5
Price Range: $250 - $550 per night

Situated on the northwest shore of Grand Cayman, Cobalt Coast Grand Cayman Resort is a haven for scuba divers and snorkelers. This resort is perfect for those looking to explore the island’s vibrant marine life, with easy access to some of the best dive sites in the Caribbean.

Resort Highlights

• Oceanfront Accommodations: The resort’s oceanfront rooms and suites offer breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea, with direct access to the water for diving and snorkeling. Each room is equipped with modern amenities, comfortable furnishings, and a private balcony or terrace.
• Diving & Snorkeling: Cobalt Coast is home to a PADI 5-Star dive center, offering a range of dive packages and certifications for all levels. Guests can explore the nearby North Wall, renowned for its dramatic drop-offs and rich marine life, or take a guided snorkeling tour right from the resort’s shore.
• Dining: The resort’s on-site restaurant, Duppies, offers a menu of Caribbean and international dishes, with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients. Guests can enjoy meals in the open-air dining room or on the oceanfront patio.
• Relaxation & Activities: After a day of diving, guests can unwind by the resort’s freshwater pool or enjoy a massage at the on-site spa. The resort also offers guided island tours, beach barbecues, and sunset cruises.

How to Get There
Cobalt Coast Grand Cayman Resort is approximately a 20-minute drive from Owen Roberts International Airport. The resort offers airport transfers and can assist with arranging diving excursions and other activities.

9. Southern Cross Club

A Boutique Dive Resort on Little Cayman
Rating: 4.9/5
Price Range: $400 - $900 per night

For those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience, the Southern Cross Club on Little Cayman is a boutique resort that offers unparalleled diving, fishing, and relaxation. This intimate, all-inclusive resort is perfect for divers, anglers, and anyone looking to unwind in a secluded paradise.

What Sets It Apart

• Intimate Accommodations: The Southern Cross Club offers just 14 beachfront bungalows, each designed with comfort and simplicity in mind. Guests can enjoy stunning views of the turquoise sea from their private porch, with hammocks and lounge chairs perfect for relaxation.
• World-Class Diving: The resort is located near some of the Caribbean’s best dive sites, including the famous Bloody Bay Wall. The on-site dive shop offers guided dives, certifications, and equipment rentals for all levels of experience.
• Fishing & Watersports: In addition to diving, the Southern Cross Club is known for its world-class fishing, offering guided bonefishing, reef fishing, and deep-sea fishing excursions. Guests can also enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters.
• All-Inclusive Dining: The resort’s all-inclusive plan includes gourmet meals prepared with fresh, local ingredients. Guests can enjoy dining in the open-air pavilion or opt for a private beach dinner under the stars.
• Relaxation & Wellness: After a day of adventure, guests can unwind with a massage or yoga session. The resort also offers a freshwater pool, beachfront hammocks, and a cozy bar and lounge for evening cocktails.

How to Get There
The Southern Cross Club is located on Little Cayman, a short flight from Grand Cayman’s Owen Roberts International Airport. The resort provides complimentary airport transfers and can assist with booking inter-island flights.

10. Le Soleil d'Or

A Luxurious Farm-to-Table Experience on Cayman Brac
Rating: 4.8/5
Price Range: $500 - $1,200 per night

Nestled on the rugged cliffs of Cayman Brac, Le Soleil d'Or offers a unique blend of luxury, wellness, and farm-to-table dining. This boutique resort is perfect for travelers seeking a serene escape with a focus on sustainability and gourmet cuisine.

Why It Stands Out

• Elegant Accommodations: Le Soleil d'Or offers a range of accommodations, from oceanfront villas to cozy garden cottages. Each room is beautifully designed with natural materials, modern amenities, and private outdoor spaces, providing a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature.
• Farm-to-Table Dining: The resort’s on-site farm provides fresh produce, herbs, and eggs for its farm-to-table restaurant, where guests can enjoy gourmet meals prepared with seasonal ingredients. Cooking classes and farm tours are also available for those interested in learning more about sustainable agriculture.
• Wellness & Fitness: Le Soleil d'Or offers a variety of wellness programs, including yoga, meditation, and fitness classes. Guests can also enjoy personalized wellness consultations, massages, and treatments at the resort’s spa, which is set amidst lush gardens.
• Outdoor Adventures: Explore the natural beauty of Cayman Brac with guided hikes, rock climbing, and birdwatching tours. The resort also offers snorkeling and diving excursions to nearby reefs and shipwrecks.
• Private Beach: Le Soleil d'Or’s private beach is a secluded paradise, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or simply unwinding with a good book. The resort provides beach chairs, umbrellas, and water sports equipment for guests to enjoy.

How to Get There
Le Soleil d'Or is located on Cayman Brac, a 30-minute flight from Grand Cayman’s Owen Roberts International Airport. The resort offers complimentary airport transfers and can assist with booking inter-island flights.

When to Visit the Cayman Islands

The Cayman Islands boast a tropical climate, making them an ideal destination year-round. However, the best time to visit is during the dry season, from December to April, when the islands enjoy warm, sunny days with low humidity and minimal rainfall. This period is perfect for beach activities, snorkeling, and exploring the islands' natural beauty. The wet season, from May to November, brings higher humidity and occasional rain showers, but it’s also a time when the islands’ lush landscapes are at their most vibrant. The Cayman Islands are known for their festive spirit, with events like Pirates Week and the Cayman Cookout offering unique opportunities to experience the local culture. No matter when you visit, the Cayman Islands’ stunning scenery, warm hospitality, and diverse experiences are sure to create lasting memories.

As your Cayman Islands journey winds down, let the echoes of turquoise waves and golden sunsets linger in your soul. Each resort offered not just a stay, but a story—one filled with adventure, luxury, and the gentle whispers of island breezes. Whether you’ve explored hidden coves, indulged in gourmet delights, or simply lost yourself in the rhythm of the sea, these memories will call you back to this paradise time and again. Until your next island escape, let the Cayman Islands' charm continue to inspire your wanderlust and dreams.