Written By Morritt's
Top Cayman Christmas Activities
There really is nothing quite like a Cayman Christmas. What we lack in snow, we make up for with plenty of holiday spirit! Each year we look forward to that Christmas breeze and coming together with family and some good home cooking.
If you’re spending Christmas in the sand this year and you’re wondering what to do, we’ve got you covered. Here are our favourite Christmas activities right here in paradise.
Go on a light tour
Credit: Wayan Balitender
Drive around Cayman any December night, and you’ll see that we take Christmas very seriously! This time of year, nearly every inch of the island is covered in festive, multi-coloured lights. Roundabouts, stores, houses, palm trees…all are decorated, and all are a sight to behold! It’s a tradition for many locals to take a night and “see the lights”. If you go, be sure to stop at some of the main crowd-pleasers:
- Crighton family home (Shamrock Road)
- Bodden sisters home (South Church Street)
- Camana Bay
Buy local gifts at Pure Art
Credit: This is Cayman
Pure Art has made an appearance on quite a few of our “Top 10” lists, just because it truly is a unique gem on Grand Cayman. But if there is any time of year that you absolutely must see Pure Art at its finest, that would be Christmas. The store turns into a holiday treasure trove full of unique and exciting Christmas-themed gifts. Seashell ornaments, local jams, hand-painted mugs, scented candles, handcrafted jewellery…we could go on. Stop by and you won’t be disappointed!
Go on a George Town shopping spree
Credit: Jasmine Dreams
There’s nothing like spending a breezy December afternoon doing some last-minute Christmas shopping. George Town offers plenty of duty-free stores selling jewellery, perfume, cosmetics, and much more. And when you need a break from your spree, there are plenty of cafes, bars and restaurants for you to relax and enjoy the views of George Town Harbour.
Stop by the Pink Ladies Christmas Bazaar
The annual Pink Ladies Christmas Bazaar has become a ‘must-attend’ tradition here in Cayman. Throughout the year, the charity’s volunteers are busy creating beautiful handmade crafts and decorations to sell at the event. A traditional British tea is also served, with delicate sandwiches and cakes. But that’s not all – the event hosts a number of stalls selling books, games, plants, and so much more. Tickets for the event are typically just $5 with all proceeds going towards local charities on the island.
Say hello to Santa
Cayman has a special place in Santa’s heart. Where else can he get a tan and have a few cold ones in peace? Actually, here at Morritt’s, this Christmas VIP is known for stopping by the resort on Christmas Day. Come to our Christmas Brunch and you are bound to run into him.
And while Santa told us he prefers Morritt’s, he does also make some appearances elsewhere on the island, including Camana Bay and Bayshore Mall.
Peruse the Christmas Market
Credit: Jasmine Dreams
Every year Camana Bay does a fantastic job at turning itself into a Christmas wonderland, and its annual Christmas Market is just one example of this. If you’re looking for a festive evening where you can take in the lights, sights and sounds – this one is for you. The Christmas Market is always packed with beautiful artisan Christmas gifts and stocking stuffers. It’s also a perfect spot for families to hang out and enjoy taking in all the splendour.
Watch the NYE fireworks on Seven Mile Beach
Credit: RM Vlogs Cayman
Perhaps not so much a Christmas activity, but if you’re looking for fireworks, there’s no better occasion than New Year’s Eve. Many locals make their way down to Seven Mile Beach, bringing their own food and drinks with them. After a few hours of celebrating in the sand, the countdown begins and multiple firework displays can be seen across the entire stretch of the island. If you want to avoid the crowds of Seven Mile Beach, come to Morritt’s – we host our own New Year’s Eve party with dancing and fireworks on the beach!
Listen to traditional kitchen band music
Credit: Swanky Kitchen Band – Topic
Before there were dazzling light displays, and busy Christmas Markets, there was the humble kitchen band. In days gone by, impromptu dances and celebrations were struck up in Caymanian kitchens, instigated by a lively band led by a fiddler. The end result is a blend of European sounds, African rhythms, and a party to remember!
In fact, Christmas in Cayman used to look a lot different to what we covered in our list. It is good to look back and remember the old traditions. If you’d like to learn more about our Christmases of yesteryear, the National Trust has some great information on this.
And don’t forget, Morritt’s has plenty of on-site Christmas activities, brunches, and more! If you’re looking for a warm and festive holiday to spend with your family this year, talk to us.
Recommended Reading.
Book an Island Tour and Have an Adventure!
There is nothing quite like a good adventure. Whether you are outdoorsy, or more of an ‘indoor adventure’ person, Cayman offers fun and exciting tours for all interests! Here are a few of our favourites – are there any here you’ve already tried?
Stingray City Tours by Red Sail Sports
No Cayman trip is complete without stopping to say hello to the friendly rays at Stingray City. Set sail on a luxurious 65’ catamaran, where your crew will show you the sights of Stingray City, a nearby coral reef, and finally a leisurely sail to Rum Point! (Psst – want to snag a free Stingray City tour, on us? Click here!)
Safari Tours by Cayman Safari Adventures
For an adventure-packed land excursion, your safari Land Rover awaits! Hop aboard this multi-sensory experience to Cayman’s rugged outer districts where you will hear, see, feel and taste every heart-pounding moment! On this tour you will learn all about Cayman’s culture, history and geography – from the historic Pedro St James to the mesmerising Crystal Caves, this is one tour you do not want to miss!
Rum Tasting Distillery Tour by Cayman Spirits
Not all tours have to take place outside – in fact, not all tours have to take place sober! For a slightly boozier experience, visit Cayman’s first and largest rum distillery. Your distiller guide will take you behind-the-scenes where all of the rum-making magic happens. This will be followed by a sample of several fresh batches of rum and vodka, and the seasonal “Distiller’s Special”, a rare creation only available at the Cayman Spirits Distillery!
Waverunner Snorkle Safari by Red Sail Sports
The ocean is calling! With Red Sail Sports, you can explore a different side of Cayman on your very own waverunner. Depending on the tour you book, this thrilling ride will take you to colourful coral reefs, through ancient mangrove forests, and even to some ship wrecks! There is also plenty of wildlife to be seen, from parrot fish to birds and much more. If being on the water is your thing, you won’t want to miss this one.
Motorcycle Tour by Cayman Motorcycle Tours
You haven’t lived until you’ve ridden a Harley. If you’re a thrill-seeker, this is your chance to experience amazing views with the wind in your face. This half-day tour will take you cruising along to some of Cayman’s most iconic attractions and includes a lunch stop.
Farm Tour by Beacon Farms
This is a tour you can feel good about. Beacon Farms is a non-profit organisation, assisting Caymanians in recovery from substance abuse in re-entering the workforce. The farm is the first of its kind to broaden the scope of crop production in Cayman. Stroll through tobacco fields, visit plant nurseries, and learn how coconut oil and flour is traditionally produced. Fun fact – the tobacco grown on this farm is used for wrapping and binding the local cigars made at The Cayman Cigar Company in Bodden Town!
Culinary Tour by Prime Food Tours
Hungry? Local Chef Dylan Benoit will take you on a mouth-watering journey to local flavours like authentic jerk, fresh fish and other Caribbean classics! Customisable tours are also available. They say to live a full life, you have to fill your stomach first and we wholeheartedly agree! Pass the jerk sauce, please.
Bioluminescence Tours
Kids and adults alike will delight at this glowing natural wonder in the Bio Bay. Night tours are available via kayak or boat where you will be able to view the natural splendour of glowing dinoflagellate plankton that twinkle like stars at the slightest movements in the water. The tour companies go out only when the moon phases are favourable and some provide gear for you to swim in the water to see the magic up close.
And when your adventure is over, we will be waiting for you with a mudslide by the pool. After all, the best part of an adventure is coming home!
July 19
Grand Cayman Hidden Gems
Whether you’re a long-time Cayman visitor or someone thinking about spending more time here, there are so many things to do beyond the great places to eat, swim, sunbathe and relax. Here, we’ve gathered a few of our favourites that you may or may not know.
Starfish Point
You’ll find this curious and isolated beach on the north side of Grand Cayman at the western extremity of Rum Point. The sea here is wonderfully clear and great for snorkeling, but the real attractions are the many red cushion sea stars that feed in the shallows. With ample parking, it’s an ideal place for a picnic and to watch the sunset but there’s little else there. Don’t expect bars or cafes. (If sea-life is your thing, you might also consider the more popular Stingray City, a series of shallow sandbars near George Town where you can swim with and pet stingrays.)
Bioluminescent Bay
See the swirling otherworldly colours as you move your hands through the water and imagine yourself in a science-fiction alternate reality. The magical bioluminescence at Rum Point is best seen when snorkeling at night as part of a boat or kayak tour that can also involve an astronomy element and an introduction to the starfish. We have several companies that depart from Kaibo, Starfish point or Rum point – and our local team can help you plan your bioluminescent adventure!
Cayman Farmer’s Market
The Hamlin Stephenson farmers’ market at the Cricket Square in George Town (Mon-Sat) is known for its fresh fruit and vegetables, arts and crafts, pastries, juices, sauces, preserves and other goods from Cayman’s farmers and craftspeople. Visit to discover freshly made lemonade, cassava cakes, coconut bread, scented candles, peppermint foot scrub, towels, hand-made jewellery, smoothies and houseplants among many other treats. Perfect for sourcing local ingredients or buying presents and souvenirs. See a list of vendors here.
The Mission House
Built in the 1700s, this historic structure is one of Cayman’s oldest buildings and once housed Presbyterian missionaries. You can take a tour to walk in the footsteps of early settlers, see a collection of interesting artifacts and learn how the building’s residents lived in the 1800s. The gift shop on-site offers the opportunity to buy souvenirs (all proceeds to the National Trust) and you should also look out for the traditional cooking and craft classes held here twice monthly. HOURS: Monday-Friday: 9am-5pm; Saturday: 11am-4pm. ADDRESS: Gun Square Road, Bodden Town. TEL: +1 345-945-3769
The 1981 Brewery and Tap Room
1981 may have been a year known for the emergence of electronic pop music, but that has nothing to do with the brewery named for the nautical co-ordinates of the Cayman Islands and famous for its craft beers: Cayman Blonde, Island Session and Tropical IPA. You can take a tour of the brewery and visit the tap room to sample some of the brews straight from the source. HOURS: Tuesday-Thursday: 3pm-7pm; Friday: 3pm-8pm; Saturday: 12pm-5pm; Sunday: Closed. ADDRESS: 273 Dorcy Drive, George Town, Grand Cayman. TEL: +1 345-945-0440
Cayman Cigar Company
Created to revive the art of handcrafting premium cigars, the company uses only the finest hand-selected boutique tobaccos sourced from passionate growers using organic, sustainable farming practices. Master Roller Barbara Garcia oversees the creation of premium smokes. Unusually, this is a non-profit organisation, with 100% of net profits going back into the island through charitable donations. To book a private cigar rolling event, schedule a tour of Beacon Farms or ask questions about how to roll or store fine cigars, contact the company directly: info@caymancigars.com. TEL: +1 345-946-2447
The Mastic Trail
Fancy a walk? The Mastic Trail is a 7.4km (4.6-mile) round-trip trail near Bodden Town and should take 2-3 hours. Expect to see beautiful wildflowers, small lizards, butterflies, crabs, snakes (non-venomous), parrots and woodpeckers, as well as a variety of trees, including a fine mastic tree after which the track is named. The route may not be suitable for the elderly or very young, and you’ll need solid shoes to negotiate the odd root or craggy volcanic rock. Guided tours are scheduled Tuesday and Thursday mornings by reservation via the National Trust website.
Pure Art Gallery
A centre of local art and island-style gifts for almost thirty years, this Cayman cottage just south of George Town offers Caymanian paintings, prints, jewellery, handmade crafts, gifts and more. Great for presents or just to treat yourself because, well, you deserve it! You’ll also find housewares and tempting treats such as pepper jelly, jams, hot sauces, spices, Cayman sea salt, Tortuga rum cake and Cayman coffee. HOURS: Monday and Tuesday 9am-4pm; Wednesday: closed; Thursday, Friday and Saturday 9am-5pm; Sunday: closed. ADDRESS: South Church Street, South Sound, Grand Cayman. TEL: 345-949-9133
Pony Park
What do kids love more than ingesting vast quantities of sugar? Petting cute animals! In the Pony Park, children can meet Lulu the donkey, Pebbles the miniature horse, bunny rabbits and goats – all of which love to be petted. You can also book the park for birthday parties. Entry fee: $5 per child (including pony ride). HOURS: Saturday mornings 9:00am to 10:30am. ADDRESS: Halfway Pond, just off the Linford Pierson Highway. TEL: 345-516-1751
Was there anything there that that you’ve not experienced? If so, let us know your recommendations to get the best of Cayman. We’re always looking for insider tips!
April 1