Grand Cayman: From Devilish Rock Formations to Stingray Encounters

The Cayman Islands have a way of surprising you. I’ve visited Grand Cayman twice now on cruises, once solo and once with friends, and each trip gave me a completely different take on this Caribbean gem. One leaned quirky and relaxed. The other, wild, splashy, and full of adrenaline.

In 2024, I joined a local bus tour that took us to Hell, yes, that’s the real name of a tiny town on the island. The name comes from its jagged black limestone formations that rise up like scorched coral. It’s bizarre and kind of hilarious, with gift shops and devil-themed signs fully embracing the pun. After wandering through the rocks and snapping some photos, we made our way to Governor’s Beach for a much more serene experience. The sand was soft, the water that perfect shade of Caribbean blue, and the entire afternoon was pure calm.

My 2025 visit was a totally different vibe. This time I traveled with friends and we booked a stingray encounter out on a shallow sandbar. The boat ride alone was beautiful, but once we hopped into the water, we were surrounded by stingrays gliding around like underwater puppies. You feed them raw fish, just be careful not to put your hands back in the water right after. The scent lingers, and they’ll come straight for you. It was equal parts chaotic and incredible.

Grand Cayman’s cruise port is located in George Town, the island’s main hub for shopping, dining, and excursions. While the island is famously associated with offshore finance, it’s tourism that really takes the spotlight, especially when it comes to nature, beaches, and memorable experiences just a short ride from the pier.

Getting to experience both the laid-back and adventurous sides of Grand Cayman was what made these visits so memorable. It’s the kind of place that knows how to keep you guessing.