Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands

Carnival Ship docked @ Grand Cayman

Grand Cayman is the largest of the three Cayman Islands and contains the capital George Town. Towns on the island are referred to as "districts".

The island is a high-lying reef of "iron shore" (limestone fringes with numerous marine fossils), with the highest elevation a couple of feet above sea level. There is no natural fresh water (lakes, rivers, etc) on the island, so any fresh water needs must be met by catchments or desalination of seawater. The lack of rivers does however account for the exceptional clarity of the sea.

The eastern side of the island is somewhat undeveloped, while the western side of the island, which holds George Town and the airport, Owen Roberts International Airport, is more developed.

Freedom of the Seas docked @ Grand Cayman

The economy depends mainly on tourism. Grand Cayman claims many other tourism attractions other than Seven Mile Beach. Grand Cayman is particularly well known for spectacular diving and snorkeling. The island features many reefs and walls, some of which can be accessed by swimming from shore.

The district of West Bay features a turtle farm. The majority of Green Sea Turtles are raised for their meat, the theory being that this eliminates consumption of wild animals. Some of the farmed turtles are released, and have good survival rates in the wild. The turtle farm also has several rare Blue iguanas and a caiman on display.

West Bay district is also home to a formation of limestone affectionately known to islanders as Hell. Merchandise "from Hell" can be purchased nearby.

Stingray City, located a short boat ride from the northern end of Grand Cayman, is a series of shallow sand bars where sting rays are found in abundance and visitors can feed, pet, and interact with the animals. The southern stingrays can grow to large sizes and are quite accustomed to being handled and fed. A trip from a local tour operator will usually include snorkeling in coral gardens before arriving at Stingray City.