Diving Directory: Dive and Snorkel Sites in the Cayman Islands
A British Overseas Territory of the Cayman Islands is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life, sunny weather and exceptional dive and snorkel sites. Whether you’re headed out on dive boats, private vessels or big game fishing charter boat excursions, the Cayman Islands are a great destination to check out colorful coral reefs, intricate sponges and tropical fish.
The Cayman Islands include Grand Cayman, Little Cayman and Cayman Brac. Here are some of the best locations to explore from a marina or a private boat slip for rent.
Stingray City (Grand Cayman)
One of the most famous snorkeling sites in the world, Stingray City is a shallow sandbar (the water is only about three to five feet deep) where visitors can interact with gentle Southern stingrays. The warm, waist-deep water makes it accessible for beginners. Tours are generally available from experienced operators who will share safety information and instructions.
Highlights:
- Up-close encounters with stingrays
- Perfect for snorkeling and wading
Devil’s Grotto and Eden Rock (Grand Cayman)
Located just offshore near George Town, Devil’s Grotto and Eden Rock feature a network of underwater caves and tunnels. Both sport shallow and deep water, so they’re ideal for snorkeling and diving adventures from marinas and private boat dock rentals. Float among coral formations and tropical fish like wrasses, angelfish, blue tangs and butterflyfish
Highlights:
- Swim-throughs - like caves, crevices and coral reefs - filled with tarpon, angelfish and parrotfish
- Accessible directly from the shore
The Wreck of the Kittiwake (Grand Cayman)
The deliberately sunk 251-foot Wreck of the Kittiwake, a submarine rescue ship, has become a thriving artificial reef. It’s ideal for divers and snorkelers to check out diverse marine life and interesting structures. Sunk in 2011, its deck sits around 50 feet deep, and the bottom is about 64 feet deep. The hull is approximately 252 feet long, and some sections are visible above the waterline.
Highlights:
- Explore the ship's five decks, including the wheelhouse, the bridge, the crew’s quarters and the engine room
- Encounter marine life like groupers and barracudas
Coral Gardens (Grand Cayman)
Close to Stingray City, Coral Gardens is a shallow reef system that’s perfect for experienced and beginner snorkelers and families to visit from private boat lifts for rent, marinas and docks. The water is between 10 and 15 feet deep and features crystal-clear visibility.
Highlights:
- Rich coral formations
- Frequent sightings of rays, eels, sea turtles and tropical fish
Bloody Bay Wall (Little Cayman)
Bloody Bay Wall is a dramatic underwater wall that plunges thousands of feet and is considered one of the best wall dives in the world. Part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, it's a favorite among divers for its vibrant coral reefs and incredible visibility. The wall begins at around 30 feet and goes down more than 6,000 feet for a thrilling diving experience.
Highlights:
- Stunning drop-offs covered in colorful corals
- Frequent sightings of turtles, reef sharks and schools of fish
Jackson’s Bight (Little Cayman)
An excellent spot to visit from private boat dock rentals, Jackson’s Bight is known for its pristine coral formations and abundant marine species. The site offers a mix of shallow snorkeling spots and deeper dive opportunities.
Highlights:
- Coral gardens teeming with tropical fish
- Relaxed currents make it accessible for all levels
Point of Sand (Little Cayman)
For a quieter snorkeling experience, Point of Sand offers calm turquoise waters with easy access to coral reefs. It’s on the eastern tip of Little Cayman and offers beautiful views of Cayman Brac. Visibility is often at 100 feet, making it perfect for checking out colorful coral gardens, parrotfish, angelfish and blue tangs. You may even catch sight of sea turtles, rays and nurse sharks.
Highlights:
- Serene atmosphere away from crowds
- Great for spotting rays and small reef sharks
