How Do I Get to Stingray City, Grand Cayman?

If you’re dreaming of standing in clear turquoise water surrounded by gentle stingrays, you’re thinking of Grand Cayman’s famous Stingray City. But where exactly is it, and how do you get there? Can you reach it from shore, or do you need a boat?

Stingray City lies out in the North Sound lagoon, so the only way to visit is by boat. Most visitors join a group tour or, better yet, a private charter where you can explore at your own pace with local guides. The trip takes around 20–40 minutes across protected waters, and every minute of that journey is part of the magic.

Where Is Stingray City Located?

Stingray City isn’t a “city” at all; it’s a shallow sandbar inside Grand Cayman’s North Sound lagoon where wild southern stingrays naturally gather. The water is crystal-clear and only a few feet deep, perfect for standing or snorkeling as the rays glide gently around you.

Because it sits offshore, you can’t reach Stingray City from land. The only way to get there is by boat: either on a larger group tour or a smaller private charter.

• Group tours run on fixed schedules with many passengers. They’re fun but often crowded and can feel a bit rushed.
• Private charters, like ours at Crazy Crab, give you flexibility and privacy. You choose your own pace, decide which stops to include, and enjoy a more personal connection with your guides and the rays.

Most charters — including Crazy Crab — depart from Camana Bay (just ten minutes from the cruise terminal) or the Cayman Islands Yacht Club, both located in the Seven Mile Beach area. For guests staying on the north side, departure from Kaibo Marina or Rum Point is also an option.

Once you’re aboard, you’ll glide across the calm waters of the North Sound. The journey takes you through mangrove channels and across mirror-smooth seas before reaching the sandbar, where your crew will anchor in waist-deep water. The rays will appear almost instantly, curious and calm, circling the boat and brushing gently against your legs.

How Far From Land Is Stingray City?

Stingray City is located about two miles (three kilometres) from the nearest point of land inside the protected North Sound lagoon — so it’s usually calm and sheltered from ocean swells.

From Camana Bay or Seven Mile Beach, the boat ride takes roughly 25-35 minutes, depending on conditions. If you’re leaving from Kaibo or Rum Point on the north side, you’ll reach the sandbar in just 15-20 minutes.

While the North Sound is generally smooth, strong winds can sometimes make the water a little choppy. Responsible, professional operators — like Crazy Crab — only head out in safe, comfortable conditions. If you’re riding with us, you can count on your trip being both safe and adventurous, as we always plan around the weather, tides, and your comfort.

Along the way, it’s common to spot sea turtles, eagle rays, and even the rare dolphin gliding across the Sound. The water is only three to four feet deep at the sandbar, so most guests can stand easily while the rays circle gently around them.

Visit Stingray City With Crazy Crab Private Charters

Our Crazy Crab private charters are the most relaxed, family-friendly way to experience Stingray City. You’ll have your own boat, your own crew, and your own schedule! No crowds, no rush, just pure Cayman adventure.

A typical 4-hour charter can include Stingray City, Starfish Point, and guided snorkeling at Coral Gardens or the Barrier Reef. You can even extend your trip to explore Rum Point or the glowing Bioluminescent Bay after sunset.

We provide everything you need: snorkel gear, squid for the rays, water, towels, and two local guides who know the area and love sharing Cayman’s stories. It’s an easy, personal, unforgettable way to experience one of the world’s most remarkable natural encounters.

Ready to plan your adventure? Book your private charter here or use our Adventure Planner to design your perfect day on the water.

Quick Answers to Common Questions about Stingray City

Are the stingrays wild or trained?

The stingrays are completely wild. They freely swim in and out of the North Sound lagoon. Over decades of gentle human interaction, they’ve learned to associate boat engines with an easy snack of squid — but they remain wild animals living in their natural habitat.

Is Stingray City safe?

Yes — very safe when you follow your crew’s guidance. The southern stingrays are gentle and accustomed to people. We teach you how to move slowly, stay calm, and interact respectfully for both your safety and theirs.

Is Stingray City good for kids?

Absolutely. The calm, shallow water — usually around three to four feet deep — makes it perfect for children, and our crew ensures every child feels comfortable and confident. We provide life jackets and snorkel gear for all ages.

What’s nearby Stingray City?

Within minutes you can visit Starfish Point, a calm, sandy beach dotted with sea stars. Rum Point and Kaibo Beach Bar are also close, perfect for lunch or cocktails before heading back across the Sound.

Join us on the water and meet Grand Cayman’s most famous locals — the stingrays — in their natural home. We’ll get you there, the Crazy Crab way.