Getting Around Grand Cayman: Your Guide to Grand Cayman Transportation
Planning your trip to Grand Cayman? Booking certain services, such as car rentals and airport transfers, in advance can ensure availability and a stress-free travel experience. Getting around Grand Cayman is a breeze thanks to the variety of transportation options available, making it easy for visitors to explore the island.
You can pick up a free island map at the airport, hotels, and visitor centers, where information about transportation options can also be found, or download one from Cayman Islands Department of Tourism’s website. Between crystal-clear waters, world-famous attractions like Stingray City, and some of the Caribbean’s best dining, there’s so much to see and do.
Grand Cayman's transportation options suit different budgets and preferences, offering convenient ways to travel to the island’s top attractions. Before you dive in, here’s how to pick your Grand Cayman transportation — with local tips and trusted companies to make your island time effortless.
Taxis
Taxis are the first thing many visitors encounter at Owen Roberts International Airport or the George Town cruise terminal. They’re convenient and easy to find, especially for short hops to Seven Mile Beach resorts. Drivers are happy to assist with luggage and offer local tips to make your journey smoother. They are reliable but can be pricey. Taxi companies also ensure passenger safety and comfort through high service standards.
- How fares work: Taxis here follow a zone-based fare system (not meters). Ask for the price before you set off. Note that prices may change depending on the time of day or season, so it's wise to confirm current rates.
- Where to find them: Taxi stands at the airport, cruise terminal, and major resorts like The Ritz-Carlton, Westin, and Kimpton Seafire.
- Companies to know: Ace, Blue Iguana Taxi, Charlie’s Super Cab & Tours.
- Helpful app: The CI:GO fare calculator app provides up-to-date information on fares and taxi availability.
You can schedule a taxi in advance for airport pickups or during busy times to ensure availability and a smooth transfer.
Traffic tip: Weekday rush hours (about 7–9 a.m. and 4–6:30 p.m.) can be busy into and out of George Town, especially from the Eastern districts (Savannah, Bodden Town, East End). If you’re taxiing during those times, allow extra time.
Grand Cayman Car Rental
Want maximum freedom? Renting a car is one of the most popular Grand Cayman transportation options for exploring the East End, North Side, or doing beach-hopping beyond Seven Mile Beach. Book your rental car in advance to ensure the vehicle you want is available, especially during busy travel seasons.
- Drive on the left: Cayman follows British rules. Roundabouts are common — yield to traffic already in the circle.
- Parking: Generally easy at beaches, attractions, and restaurants.
- Companies to consider: Andy’s Rent-A-Car, Avis, Hertz, Budget. Compare prices and vehicle types (child seats, accessibility, etc.).
Local intel: If your plans include driving during peak hours, consider an early start for East End or a leisurely breakfast return to avoid the evening rush.
Public Buses
Grand Cayman’s public minibuses are budget-friendly and give you a slice of local life. To catch a bus, wait at designated bus stops or along main routes, and wave one down as it approaches. Before boarding, check the bus’s heading and confirm with the driver that it is going in the direction of your desired location. This ensures you are on the right route for your destination.
Buses serve popular destinations such as West Bay and other key locations around the island. Information about bus routes and schedules is available online and at major locations like the airport and resorts. Just tell the driver your stop and pay on exit. They’re an essential part of Grand Cayman transport for budget travelers.
- Fares: Typically CI$2–$3 depending on distance.
- Schedules: Frequent on main corridors, but not strict timetables — great for flexible plans.
- Route map: View the official Public Bus Route Map
Good to know: Buses are best when traveling light and unhurried. For luggage or time-sensitive plans, choose taxis or private transfers.
Private Transportation & Shuttles
Prefer a pre-arranged pickup with help for your bags? Private transfers and shuttles are a stress-free choice for families, groups, or late arrivals. You can schedule your shuttle or private transfer in advance to match your arrival or departure times.
- Majestic Tours — Airport transfers, luxury vehicles, and group transport.
- CayTours — Accessible vehicles and transfers to all districts.
- Many villa companies can arrange private drivers on request — ask when booking.
Be sure to confirm your departure time with your shuttle or private transfer provider for a smooth experience.
What to See in Grand Cayman by Rental Car or Tour Guide in One Day
If you only have a day to explore by car or with a local guide, you can see plenty. Start on Seven Mile Beach, then head east to Bodden Town for a taste of history. Continue to East End for blowholes and quiet beaches, then swing up to North Side for Rum Point or Starfish Point. If time allows, stop at the Mastic Trail for a short hike or explore Pedro St. James for heritage and sweeping views. A knowledgeable guide can help maximize your time while you sit back and enjoy the ride.
Land Tour Guides
For stories, heritage, and hidden gems, go with a local guide. You’ll see more and stress less. Many visitors consider guided experiences an enriching part of their visit to Grand Cayman.
- Cayman Routes — Award-winning private tours focused on culture, history, nature, and neighborhoods.
- Guides can also handle the driving for East End, North Side, and Mastic Trail days — perfect during peak traffic windows.
Walking, Biking & Scooters
On and around Seven Mile Beach, many hotels, condos, and restaurants sit within easy walking or biking distance. It’s a great way to slow down and soak up the island vibe.
- Bikes: Complimentary bikes at some resorts and rentals from Cycle Cayman.
- Scooters: Another fun, flexible way to get around, especially along Seven Mile Beach and George Town. Several local shops offer daily and weekly rates.
- Advantage: Great for short trips and exploring local areas while enjoying the scenery.
- Best areas: Seven Mile Beach, Camana Bay, and nearby dining/shopping.
- Sun safety: Cayman sun is strong — pack water, sunscreen, and a hat.
Ferries and Water Taxis
Skip the roads and glide across the North Sound instead. The Camana Bay ↔ Kaibo Ferry is a scenic 20–30 minute ride — perfect for dinner at Kaibo or a day at Rum Point without the drive. You can book via Cayman Ferries, or see Camana Bay’s ferry page for updates and pricing.
Bonus: The ferry doubles as an unforgettable sunset experience — bring a camera!
By Sea: Private Boat Charters
One of the best ways to explore Grand Cayman isn’t by road at all — it’s by sea. With Crazy Crab Private Boat Charters, you’re not just getting transportation — you’re getting an adventure tailored to you.
- Visit Stingray City and swim with friendly wild stingrays.
- Snorkel vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life.
- Relax at Starfish Point and wade over sandy, turquoise shallows.
- Explore hidden mangroves and sandbars most visitors never see.
- Enjoy a sunset dockside dining experience and feast on fresh local flavors.
- Drift through Bioluminescent Bay after dark and watch the glowing plankton light up every stroke and splash.
Why it works: Private charters are flexible — you set the pace, the stops, and the vibe.
Ready to plan your adventure? Book your private charter with Crazy Crab today and let us show you the magic of Grand Cayman from the sea.
Hop Over to the Sister Islands
If you’d like to see more beyond Grand Cayman, hop over to the Sister Islands for a day with Cayman Airways. Cayman Brac and Little Cayman each offer a quieter, slower pace with stunning nature, caves, diving, and beaches. Flights are short, affordable, and give you a whole new side of Cayman to explore.
Wrapping It Up
From taxis and buses to ferries and private charters, Grand Cayman transportation methods offer something for every traveler. Choose what fits your day: taxis for convenience, rental cars for freedom, buses for budget-friendly pockets, private transfers for comfort and insights, walking and biking for sunshine and spontaneity, ferries for scenic shortcuts, and — when you’re ready for something unforgettable — Crazy Crab Private Boat Charters for the best of Cayman by sea.