Discover George Town, Grand Cayman: Culture, Shopping, Walking, Cruise Ships, and Relaxation

Where is George Town?

The capital, George Town, is located on the southwestern coast of the Islands. It is the heart of Grand Cayman, the largest and most populated island of the Cayman Islands. George Town is a busy retail and cultural hub. Whether you arrive by air or cruise ship, this lively town will be your gateway to the natural beauty and vibrant experiences of Grand Cayman.

Is George Town Safe?

Yes, George Town is a safe town and one of the most welcoming destinations in the Caribbean. The police force does not carry guns. The small city is designed to provide visitors with a secure and comfortable environment. You can freely explore the streets, beaches, and shops as a solo traveler or with the family. Of course, we do not recommend leaving your valuables, computer, or purse in plain sight with the doors unlocked. It is just too tempting for anyone to borrow your valuables. Do not be afraid to wear your expensive watch or jewelry; you can walk around town or on the beach without being robbed or threatened.

What to Do in George Town

Engel & Völkers real estate advisors invite you to immerse yourself in the diverse range of activities that George Town has to offer. From shopping to cultural experiences, this vibrant town has something for everyone.

Shopping: Explore downtown George Town with duty-free shops, local boutiques, gelato and high-end merchants. Whether looking for that exclusive luxury watch or unusual souvenirs, George Town offers something for everyone. George Town is a hub for duty-free shopping, offering jewelry, watches, perfumes, and luxury goods. Some popular stores include Kirk Freeport and Tortuga Duty-Free. You can find locally made jewelry featuring unique materials like Caymanite (a semi-precious stone found only in the Cayman Islands) and black coral. The Cayman Craft Market in George Town is a great place to shop for local art, handmade crafts, and souvenirs. Vendors sell everything from woven baskets to island-themed artwork. Tortuga Rum Cakes makes you visit the factory to purchase freshly made rum cakes in various flavors; they always give out rum cake tastings!

Dive into the history of the Cayman Islands by visiting the Cayman Islands National Museum or exploring the town's colonial architecture. Art lovers will appreciate the local galleries displaying work by talented Caymanian artists. Interesting fact about the museum: The building dates back to the 1800s and was used as a jail, courthouse, and other governmental functions before becoming a museum.

Visit the Cayman Spirits Co. distillery for a tour and tasting. They produce local rum and spirits, including the famous Seven Fathoms Rum. Check out Fort George; it was built in the 1790s to protect the Cayman Islands from invasion. Fort George is one of the few remaining historical structures in George Town. Though only a portion of the original fort remains, it symbolizes the island's colonial history. It offers insight into the region's defensive efforts against pirates and other threats. Check out the George Town Post Office, which was built in 1939. The George Town Post Office is a historic building still in operation today. It's a fine example of colonial architecture and remains integral to Cayman's postal history. The Clock Tower, also called the Peace Memorial, was erected in the 1920s to honour the Caymanians who served in World War I. It stands in the center of town and is a landmark and symbol of remembrance.

Outdoor Adventures: George Town is a paradise for water lovers. You have to visit our Caribbean sea and go snorkelling and diving. If you are uncomfortable doing that, you can enjoy a boat tour. Glass-Bottom Boat Tours will keep you dry, but you can still see the marine life and the underwater world without diving. Stingray City is a must. You will never forget this experience. The Cayman Islands are known for crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life. You can snorkel at spots like Eden Rock and Devil's Grotto, which are located near George Town. For divers, numerous dive shops offer trips to coral reefs, wrecks, and walls.

The Port: A Major Hub for Cruise Ships

George Town's port is a bustling hub, welcoming thousands of cruise ship passengers weekly. If you are arriving by ship, you will find the town easily accessible, with many attractions, retail shops, and restaurants all within 3- 5 minutes' walk from the port. However, the Cayman Islands do not have luxury goods shops like Prada, YSL, Louis Vuitton, or Hermes. Whether you are here for a few hours or days, George Town is a convenient and comfortable place to explore.

Is George Town Walkable?

Is George Town a Walkable Town? Absolutely. George Town's layout is designed for easy exploration, with most key attractions, dining spots, and shopping areas within a short walk. Whether you're strolling through the historic streets or browsing the open-air markets, you'll find it both convenient and enjoyable to navigate the town on foot.

Come visit us in George Town!

In conclusion, George Town offers the perfect blend of culture, excitement, and relaxation, all within a safe and walkable environment. Make sure to stay at least 6 days or longer. The real estate team at Engel & Völkers looks forward to welcoming you and ensuring your time in George Town is exceptional. And remember, while you're here, feel free to call Heidi Kiss, Broker and Engel & Volkers Cayman Islands owner, for a real estate tour of the island!