Grand Cayman Island

George Town Harbour on Grand Cayman is a tender port where ships anchor offshore and small boats shuttle you to the waterfront. The town itself is compact, with duty-free shops and restaurants within walking distance of the landing. Seven Mile Beach, the island's main stretch of white sand, is a short taxi ride north. The big draw is Stingray City, a shallow sandbar in the North Sound where southern stingrays gather. Tour boats take you out to wade with them. On land, the Crystal Caves offer a walk through underground limestone formations, and Pedro St. James Castle is the island's oldest stone building, dating to 1780. Camana Bay has more upscale shops and waterfront restaurants if you want a break from the cruise port area. Conch fritters and rum cake are the local things to try. The island is small enough that a taxi can get you most places in under 20 minutes.