George Town

George Town is the capital of the Cayman Islands and the main gateway to Grand Cayman, known for its cruise harbor, Seven Mile Beach, snorkeling sites and duty-free shopping.

Population40,957
Local time5:03 PM
Area29 km²
George Town, Hero
29°C
light rain
Feels like: 33°C

Best time to travel

George Town has warm tropical weather year round, with December to April being the best time to visit thanks to dry, sunny conditions and temperatures between 25 and 29 °C that are ideal for beach days, diving, snorkeling, and cruise excursions. May to November brings the rainy season with brief afternoon showers, lower prices, fewer crowds, and lush green scenery as mornings usually remain clear.

December to April is the driest time with 25 to 29 °C and great for beaches and diving.

Where to stay

George Town offers a wide range of accommodations, from beachfront resorts and luxury condos to harborfront hotels close to shopping and attractions. These are the three most popular areas to stay for travelers visiting Grand Cayman.

Seven Mile Beach (near George Town)

Seven Mile Beach is the most popular place to stay near George Town, known for its soft white sand, calm water, and top rated beachfront resorts. The area features well known properties such as the Grand Cayman Marriott, along with ocean view condos and private beachfront villas just steps from the beach.

Best for: Beach lovers, families, luxury seekers
Why stay here: Direct access to snorkeling, famous Seven Mile Beach sunsets and easy shuttle or taxi rides to George Town

Seven Mile Beach

Seven Mile Beach. Photo: SF Brit. CC.

Camana Bay

Camana Bay is a modern waterfront district offering upscale hotels, stylish apartments and boutique stays overlooking the marina. Popular with travelers who enjoy dining and shopping, this area blends resort comfort with a lively urban feel.

Best for: couples, shoppers, explorers
Why stay here: restaurants and Camana Bay shops, with quick taxi access to George Town and the cruise port

George Town (harbor area)

The George Town Harbor area is great for travelers who want to stay close to the cruise terminal, historic sites and local shopping. Accommodations include mid range hotels, guesthouses and cruise friendly inns near the waterfront.

Best for: cruise travelers, budget explorers, history buffs
Why stay here: short walks to duty free shops, the National Museum, local markets and harbor views

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Is George Town safe?

George Town is considered very safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a strong police presence in tourist areas such as the cruise port, Seven Mile Beach, and Camana Bay. Visitors generally feel comfortable walking around during the day and evening, and issues are usually limited to rare petty theft in busy areas, making basic precautions sufficient.

George Town is one of the safest destinations in the Caribbean, with low crime rates and a visible police presence

Top things to do

George Town is a blend of island charm, marine experiences and duty free shopping. These are the three top things to do in George Town that almost every visitor puts on their itinerary.

Snorkel or dive Stingray City

Stingray City is Grand Cayman’s world famous sandbar where southern stingrays glide through clear, shallow water. Visitors can swim with the rays on a 30 minute boat trip from the harbor, feed them by hand, and snorkel over the surrounding reef. Tours run daily and typically cost around $60 per person.

Stingray City

Stingray City. Photo: Kfulgham84. CC.

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Visit Seven Mile Beach

Seven Mile Beach is the island’s most iconic stretch of white sand and turquoise water, located just north of George Town. Walk the full 5.5 miles, snorkel directly from shore, or rent kayaks at public access points. Sunset drinks at beachfront bars are a highlight for many visitors.

Seven Mile Beach, Cayman Islands
1/2

Seven Mile Beach. Photo: Salvatore Freni. CC.

Seven Mile Beach, Cayman Islands
Seven Mile Beach, Cayman Islands
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Explore George Town harbor

George Town harbor is the heart of the capital, filled with cruise ships, duty free shops, and cultural landmarks. Walk the waterfront to the Cayman Islands National Museum, sample local conch dishes at nearby markets, and watch tropical fish from the pier. Free self guided walking maps are available at the visitor center.

Nightlife

Nightlife in George Town mixes beach bars, live music and rooftop cocktails. Parties stay relaxed and social, often ending with moonlit walks on the sand. These three areas keep the island vibe going longest.

  • West Bay Road, Seven Mile Beach - The main bar street with live bands at Calico Jack's and sunset happy hours at Royal Palms.
  • Lillies & O Bar, Seven Mile Beach - Two of the island’s main club venues. They feature DJs, dancing, and a busy crowd that comes out after dark.
  • Harbor Drive, Camana Bay - Upscale waterfront lounges with jazz nights and craft cocktails overlooking the marina.
  • Cardinal Avenue, George Town Waterfront - Harborside pubs like The Lobster Pot for karaoke and rum tastings with cruise crowds.

Where is George Town?

George Town is the capital of the Cayman Islands, located on the western shore of Grand Cayman in the northwestern Caribbean Sea. The Owen Roberts International Airport is just 4 km east. George Town lies about 240 km south of Cuba and 270 km northwest of Jamaica, making it an easy Caribbean hub for flights and cruises.

Fun facts

  • George Town is one of the world’s largest offshore financial centers, despite its small size.

  • There are no direct taxes in George Town, including no income, capital gains or property tax.

  • Seven Mile Beach is technically about 5.5 miles long, but the name stuck over time.

FAQ George Town

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