Worth a visit is the Cayman Islands National Museum in George Town. It's located in the Old Courts Building, which has survived hurricanes and storms and has served many purposes through its existence, including town jail, courthouse, Sunday worship meeting hall and as a spot to hold local dances. Inside, you'll find exhibits on the cultural history of the Cayman Islands, and the Natural History exhibit, whose wonderful three-dimensional map of the Cayman Islands shows the island from above and below the sea. Walk through displays of natural habitats you'll find on the islands and see the laser presentation of the underwater world. Don't forget the museum shop (have a look at the local jewelry) and you can pick up a cool drink at the cafe before moving on.

While you're in George Town, stop by the General Post Office to see the colored light decorations and the private mailboxes (there are lots, since mail isn't delivered). The Elizabethan Square is just behind the post office and is a place to shop. There's also a clock tower which might make for an interesting photo or two depending on the time of day you're there.

In West Bay, take a picture of the Old Homestead (the West Bay Pink House). The home was built in 1912 and you can take a tour of the cottage with a local guide. Not far away is a most picturesque spot--the village of Hell--which boasts a post office where you can send a card home postmarked from Hell. The rock formations are definitely worth a look and you can take your own photos by the Hell sign.

Probably one of the most visited attractions on Grand Cayman is the Cayman Island Turtle Farm. Learn all about the turtles, and see them from infancy to old age at the farm. Every year, a number of turtles are released back to the sea in an ongoing conservation program. Children really enjoy the turtle farm, and kids under 6 are free. Adult admission is just $6 US, and older children are $3 US. If it doesn't bother you after seeing the live turtles, you can stop in at the cafe and have turtle soup or other refreshments.

The Bodden Town (Grand Cayman's first capital) cemetery has graves that supposedly contain the remains of pirates. Nearby are the Pirate's Caves, some natural formations only partly underground. Or you can learn about the native plants at the Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park. Open every day except Christmas, you can enjoy the Woodland Preserve and its 0.8 mile nature trail, the Visitor's Centre (a West-Indian style building) exhibits, the Heritage Garden, the Floral Colour Garden, and the Lake, which is a refuge for waterfowl, including the rare West Indian Whistling Duck. There are also regional collections of plants, natural seasonal displays of native flora, and conservation programs.

For hikers, there is a guided hike in the Mastic Reserve and Trail, an area of old growth woodlands with thick mangroves, unused farm land and dry woodlands. The guided tour takes 2 to 3 hours and costs $45 US. Since it's a long walk, be prepared and don't go if you can't walk for extended periods.

One of the most outstanding sights on the East End is the Blow Holes, where the surf pounds on the coral beach and bursts up through holes in the rock like fountains or geysers. You can get some great pictures if you're patient and sit a while with your camera at the ready. Not to be missed is Pedro St. James Historic Site, an old stone building built in 1780 (formerly known as Pedro St. James Castle) which has been renovated and now houses a multi-media theatre, resource center with library, cafe and gift shop. It's the oldest stone building in the Cayman Islands and is considered to be the birthplace of Cayman Islands democracy. The islands' first government was formed there in 1831.

Back in George Town, get a real treat from the Tortuga Rum Company. Their rum cakes can't be beat and they're great to take home to friends. And if you just can't stay away from the water, you can take an underwater tour while staying dry on the Nautilus semi-submarine. Or go all the way underwater on the Atlantis submarine for a truly exciting experience. Whether you're in the water or on the land, Grand Cayman is a great destination. If possible, include it in your itinerary the next time you visit the Caribbean.

By: Gocaribbean