5 Reasons to Take an Eco-Wellness Getaway in the Cayman Islands
In recent years, the Cayman Islands have become an eco-wellness hub to reconnect with nature, feel the island vibe, and truly relax. Imagine a sunrise bike tour, snorkeling over pristine reefs, strolling through lush botanical gardens, horseback riding on white sandy beaches, and kayaking under the stars through glowing phosphoresce.
What also makes the Cayman Islands so memorable is Caymankind. Not just a buzzword – it’s an emotion you’ll feel interacting with locals who are as warm as the sun. Their relaxed joyful approach to life is infectious in the best way.
1. Take an Eco-Tour in Grand Cayman
Island dawn patrol has its advantages. Start your day with a three-hour sunrise bike ride with Eco-rides Cayman and experience the quieter side of Grand Cayman’s East End. Cycle through pristine beaches, charming fishing villages, past natural blowholes, and keep your eye out for rare birds.
Equally magical is a guided Bioluminescent Tour with Cayman Kayaks starting at Rum Point. Run by a husband and wife team of conservationists, meet at the beach for a quick briefing. Then it’s an easy paddle through a calm bay under a blanket of stars. Once you reach Bio Bay dip your paddle in the water and watch it light up in silvery streaks. If your guide says it’s safe, jump in and swim through the glowing water. Or float on your back and stargaze.
Hop aboard a 65-foot luxury catamaran with Red Sail Sports and sail to a stunning offshore sandbar bar where an eco-guide shows you how to safely interact with giant stingrays. Then sail to a thriving coral reef for excellent snorkeling. If you book the morning sail, chances are you’ll see even more marine life.
Hiking enthusiasts will love the protected Mastic Trail exploring an old growth dry forest full of indigenous animals and plants. Tours are guided so book in advance.
2. Beach Yoga, Chakra Balancing, and Sunset Massages
You’ll feel relaxed, rejuvenated, and balanced.
Get up early for an invigorating beach yoga class as the Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort and Spa. No yoga mat necessary. Just grab a beach towel and get your yoga fix while the negative ions work their magic as you stretch and tone on a white sand beach with turquoise water views.
Then head to the Hibiscus Spa for their signature 7 Chakras Energy Balancing Ritual. Harnessing the power of essential oils, reflexology, and hot and cold stones – this is no ordinary massage. You’ll feel relaxed, rejuvenated, and balanced.
If mornings aren’t your thing – unwind after a day of sun and fun with a Caribbean Sunset Ocean Front Massage at the Hibiscus Spa’s oceanfront cabana. Choose between a Lomi-Lomi, Swedish, or Aromatherapy massage treatment. Feel the tropical breeze on your skin and drink in the stunning views of Seven Mile Beach’s turquoise waters.
3. Relax at Kaibo Restaurant and Beach Bar
Committed to going 100% plastic free, Kaibo Restaurant and Beach Bar is the kind of place where the hours melt away. As does the desire to go anywhere else. Setting the perfect vibe, eat, swim, drink, dance, and play all day. Its multilevel restaurant and beach bar concept, allows you choose your own adventure. Stay at the Beach Bar for a barefoot in the sand day. Or visit Kaibo Upstairs for casual fine dining with a sustainably sourced menu. There’s no dress code. So, come as you are. Every Tuesday is Kaibo’s Barefoot Beach BBQ where you’ll be whisked away to a private island for a magical night of music, limbo, and dancing on the beach.
4. Visit Cayman Brac
One of Grand Cayman’s sister islands, Cayman Brac is the place to go when you want to truly get away. Popular with divers, stay at the Cayman Brac Beach Resort where you’ll want to take off your watch and lose track of time. There’s not much to do on “The Brac” except to snorkel, dive, and enjoy the natural beauty of the island. Make sure to book an Island tour with Nature Cayman. Your guide will personally show you where to snorkel, explore caves, kayak, bird watch, and fish. If you’re certified, book a dive excursion with Reef Divers. Or join the afternoon boat trip and snorkel over the reef.
5. Eat Your Way Through Grand Cayman
The self-proclaimed culinary capital of the Caribbean, it’s impossible to go hungry in the Cayman Islands. Visit the weekly farmer’s market and circle your calendar for Slowfood Day that celebrates local ingredients and traditional cooking methods at Camana Bay. For haute island farm-to-table cuisine, dine at Abacus. VIVO Cafe Restaurant as well is dedicated to sustainable and organic dishes. With lionfish – an invasive reef predator – on its menu, Vivo helps protect the local reefs. For your green juice fix, head to Green2Go and the Cayman Breakfast Club.
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