The Cayman Islands Celebrates Top Rankings On Two Esteemed ‘Best Of’ Lists

The Cayman Islands proudly started 2024 with two impressive honors: topping Forbes Travel Guide’s list of Top 24 Destinations for 2024 and being recognized as the #8 Nature Destination in the world according to Tripadvisor’s esteemed Best of the Best 2024 Travelers’ Choice Awards, the highest ranking Caribbean destination amongst the 25 countries listed.

Known as the Culinary Capital of the Caribbean, Forbes highlighted Grand Cayman as a “foodie’s paradise” with nods to the Ritz-Carlton’s Blue by Eric Ripert, the only Five Diamond restaurant in the Caribbean, and the novel Library by the Sea bar at Kimpton Seafire. Tripadvisor’s Best of the Best is the greatest honor bestowed by Tripadvisor, reflecting the authentic experiences and opinions of global travelers who have immersed themselves in the breathtaking landscapes of the Cayman Islands.

Boasting a vibrant culinary and bar scene, phenomenal cultural attractions, and sophisticated vibes, the three islands also offer a plethora of natural wonders on both land and sea, promising an extraordinary experience for visitors. Grand Cayman, the largest of the islands, entices with its pristine beaches from the famous Seven Mile Beach and Rum Point, and warm, crystal-clear waters. Cayman Brac features magnificent views from its majestic Bluff and offers outdoor adventures from rock climbing to spelunking. Little Cayman enchants with its unspoiled charm and diverse marine life, making it a haven for diving enthusiasts.

“I can’t think of a better way to kick off the New Year than with two extraordinary honours. To be recognized as the top destination for 2024 in Forbes Travel Guide and to be named in Tripadvisor’s Best of the Best 2024 Travelers’ Choice Awards is a testament to the natural beauty and diverse experiences that the Cayman Islands offer,” said Rosa Harris, Director of Tourism. “It gives us great pride that the opinions of travellers who have explored the wonders of the Cayman Islands has led to this honour. We invite everyone to discover the captivating treasures that make our islands a truly special destination.”

Discover stunning natural experiences in the Cayman Islands

Explore the Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park, featuring the Orchid Garden, Heritage Garden, Children’s Garden, and Woodland Trail. The park is also home to the Blue Iguana Conservation Facility, a captive breeding site for the endangered Blue Iguana found only on the island of Grand Cayman.

Grand Cayman features one of the world’s few bioluminescent bays, where microorganisms create a mesmerizing glow that is best viewed on the darkest nights of the month.

Delve into the underground wonders of Cayman Crystal Caves, showcasing stalactite and stalagmite formations in awe-inspiring chambers formed over millions of years.

With 365 individual dive sites, the Cayman Islands offers an unparalleled underwater paradise for divers of all levels. Each site presents a unique marine ecosystem, from vibrant coral gardens to dramatic drop-offs and underwater caves. Dive into Bloody Bay Wall, one of the world’s top-rated dive sites known for vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life and discover the rich biodiversity that makes the Cayman Islands a sought-after destination for divers.

Little Cayman is home to the Central Caribbean Marine Institute (CCMI), a world-renowned facility dedicated to innovative scientific research on coral reefs and marine life. CCMI is committed to understanding, conserving, and restoring marine ecosystems in the Cayman Islands and beyond. They offer educational programs, workshops, and courses to promote marine conservation awareness.

Witness the unique, black jagged limestone formations at Hell, an otherworldly landscape, and send a postcard stamped from Hell at the neighboring post office.

Go for a hike along the historic Mastic Trail and take in a glimpse into Grand Cayman’s native forest full of rare flora and fauna.

Birdwatchers will delight in the Booby Pond Nature Reserve, home to the largest breeding colony of Red-footed Boobies in the Caribbean.

Adventure awaits on the Cayman Brac Bluff, an ancient limestone rock formation perfect for hikers and rock climbers of all experience levels.

Encounter the naturally occurring East End Blow Holes in Grand Cayman, where seawater shoots through openings in the ironshore along the coast, creating impressive geysers.

A visit to Stingray City completes the perfect itinerary in the Cayman Islands. Accessible by a short boat ride to the North Sound, Stingray City allows visitors to stand comfortably in the ocean while stingrays glide gracefully in their natural habitat.