< Previous1 WEL COME LOCALE | TRADING SPACES2 WEL COME60 WEL COME SISTER ISLANDS Getting there CAYMAN AIRWAYS OPERATES SEVERAL DAILY FLIGHTS FROM Grand Cayman to the Sister Islands via around 35 to 40 minutes. There are also direct 62 WEL COME Cayman Brac RUGGED AND CHARMING, CAYMAN BRAC is an ideal get away for nature lovers and adventurers. The most striking feature of this 12-mile-long isle is a limestone bluff that runs through the middle of the island, rising dramatically to some 150-feet above sea level at the eastern tip. What to see and do A not-to-be-missed excursion is hiking the bluff which offers spectacular panoramic views. The brown booby bird nests in the crevices and ledges along the cliffs and it’s easy to observe these curious seabirds up close. The bluff is honeycombed with caves and its walls are a big draw for rock climbers. Caving is a must-do adventure as Cayman Brac is home to hundreds of limestone caverns and chambers that have been naturally carved over millions of years. Several have access, such as the Bat Cave, Half-Way Ground Cave and Rebecca’s Cave. The Brac’s caves were – and still are – used as hurricane shelters. There are many nature trails across the island, including one that meanders through the Brac Parrot Reserve. You can spot these colourful birds while strolling along a 600-foot wooden boardwalk that winds its way through an ancient dry-wood forest. Long Beach on the northeastern edge is a spectacular hike at the bluff’s rocky base that is blanketed with sea grape trees. Fishing is a big lure to the island, with deep-sea excursions available through charter companies. For a taste of local heritage and history, visit Heritage House and the Cayman Brac Museum. SISTER ISLANDS63 WEL COME TIP When exploring caves or hiking the bluff, be sure to wear sturdy shoes as the terrain can be rocky and uneven. Bring plenty of water to stay hydrated. Clockwise: Natural beauty abounds on Cayman Brac; Public Beach on the south coast; ladder leading to the Great Cave; unwind with a spa treatment; sunset at Cayman Brac Beach Resort; beautiful bougainvillea; the limestone bluff is honeycombed with caves; sample local fare on-island.64 WEL COME Little Cayman LITTLE CAYMAN IS KNOWN FOR ITS TRANQUILITY, and laid-back island lifestyle. The pace here is decidedly slower – even the speed limit is just 25 miles per hour. While the island is tiny – 10 miles long and one mile wide – it’s big on natural charm. What to see and do Be sure to visit Point of Sand on the eastern tip of the island – where it’s rare to see another soul in sight. Rent a kayak and paddle over to Owen Island, a tiny, uninhabited oasis where visitors can swim and chill out on their very own deserted island. Other attractions include the Little Cayman Museum and the Gladys B. Howard Little Cayman National Trust Visitors Centre, which features exhibits on the island’s natural history and heritage. It overlooks the Booby Pond Nature Reserve, where visitors can observe the red-footed booby colony, swooping frigate birds and many other species. There are several nature trails to explore, including Salt Rock Nature Trail, home to an array of tropical plants, Another way to explore this sleepy isle is to hop on a bike and meander the uncrowded roadways. activity, with the protected shallows of South Hole Sound an ideal spot for beginners. found in abundance. A popular spot is Tarpon Lake, a winding wooden boardwalk. SISTER ISLANDS65 WEL COME TIP Rock iguanas can be found roaming freely around the island, so keep an eye out while driving. Note that these local lizards have the right-of-way on the roads – as signs will attest. Clockwise: Southern Cross Club on Little Cayman; an isolated beach; Iguanas have the right-of-way on the roads; rustic signs; a stunning sunset; an observation point overlooking a pond filled with bird life; Little Cayman rock iguana; kayaking to Owen Island.66 WEL COME Best Beaches SISTER ISLANDS The tranquil shores of the Sister Islands are ideal for some soothing sand time. Here are some inviting spots to check out: LIT TLE CAYM AN Point of Sand Beautiful clear blue sea and a wide stretch of white sand, you can even see Cayman Brac on the horizon. Snorkelling can be good here, but the current can be strong.67 WEL COME LIT TLE CAYMAN Head O’ Bay Near South Hole Sound, Head O’ Bay is the perfect launch pad for dives to Bloody Bay Wall. CAYMAN BR AC Brac Reef Resort The beach at the Cayman Brac Reef Resort offers cabanas, boardwalks, and hammocks, and is another great starting point for diving and snorkelling. LIT TLE CAYMAN Owen Island Arrive by kayak or boat and set up a picnic. This uninhabited island is serene and offers rock pools and a sandy point. CAYMAN BR AC Public Beach, South Side A nice beach with gentle waves coming in from the reef. There is also a mobi mat here. IMA G E: : J os h M ille rNext >