Summer is the season when Cayman truly comes alive: families return home to celebrate heritage, the calendar fills with cultural festivals and culinary events, and the crystal-clear waters are at their warmest and calmest – ideal for diving, snorkeling, and relaxing by the sea.
EXPERT POV: WHY CAYMAN IS THE “IT” DESTINATION THIS SUMMER
“At times when economic uncertainty is as prevalent as today, it’s not that summer vacation is cancelled but rather travelers have a heightened demand for quality experiences. The Cayman Islands is the ‘it’ destination of summer as our three district islands deliver everything under the sun – from bespoke stays for optimal relaxation, cultural fusion and diversity to live entertainment. We anticipate a lively upcoming season with world-class events that complete any itinerary.” – Director Rosa Harris
WHAT AWAITS IN THE CAYMAN ISLANDS
Summer in the Cayman Islands is a season of contrast: vibrant energy meets tranquil escape. While other Caribbean destinations wind down during the warmer months, Cayman turns up the volume with homegrown festivals, water-based adventure, and authentic island culture. The Cayman Islands offer a choose-your-own-adventure destination. The archipelago consists of three distinct destinations: Grand Cayman for lively entertainment, Cayman Brac for adventurers and nature lovers, and Little Cayman for those seeking a remote escape.
- It’s Turtle Time: Now through November, visitors have the opportunity to enjoy the stunning turtle nesting season spectacle. The season started with loggerhead turtles arriving in April followed by green sea turtles in June. Cayman Turtle Centre offers safe and sustainable turtle viewings and releases, including centre tours.
- Dive into Marine Life Paradise: The Cayman Islands offer year-round diving; however, now through June are prime time for fish activity on the reefs. Bloody Bay Wall, located on Little Cayman, is renowned as one of the world’s best diving destinations, captivating underwater enthusiasts with its breathtaking coral formations and diverse marine life. Situated along the north shore of Little Cayman, the drop off plunges to staggering depths, reaching over 1,000 meters. With warm seas, calm currents, and high underwater visibility, summer is ideal for exploring Cayman’s 365+ dive sites – including famous walls, shipwrecks, and the playful stingrays at Stingray City.
- After-Dark Magic: Cayman’s Glowing Waters: Summer marks the peak season for witnessing one of Cayman’s most magical natural wonders – Bioluminescent Bay. Located in the tranquil waters of Rum Point on the north side of the island, this rare bay comes alive after dark with a captivating glow created by microscopic organisms called dinoflagellates. The warmer, calmer waters of summer create the ideal conditions for kayaking or paddleboarding tours, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in this once-in-a-lifetime spectacle under a star-filled Caribbean sky. Tours are guided and environmentally conscious, offering insight into the science behind the glow while preserving the bay’s delicate ecosystem including:
-
- George’s Watersports: Offers boat tours with the option to snorkel in the bioluminescent waters, enhancing the viewing experience.
-
- White Sand Water Sports: Conducts leisurely cruises with informative eco-tours, culminating in the bioluminescent experience.
-
- Cayman Kayaks: Offers eco-conscious bioluminescent tours by kayak or electric-powered boat departing from Rum Point.
ON-ISLAND EVENTS
The Cayman Islands offer a vibrant lineup of events for every type of traveler this season, including:
- Cayman Art Week (May 20 – May 25, 2025): An annual week-long curated program of gallery tours and open studios around the Cayman Islands, Cayman Art Week is designed to connect collectors and art lovers with creators and to facilitate the sale of art.
- Out of This World Music Festival (May 31, 2025): This live entertainment experience immerses attendees in Caribbean urbanism and pop culture nostalgia. The festival offers various ticket options, including Courtyard entry at $100, Premium Access at $200, and Ultra Lounge packages at $375. Attendees can enjoy a diverse array of local and international cuisine from various food vendors, including vegetarian options. The festival is open to individuals aged 18 and up, while children aged 12 to 17 are permitted with a guardian.
- Flowers Sea Swim (June 14, 2025): The 33rd Annual Flowers One Mile Sea Swim returns to Seven Mile Beach – one of the world’s most scenic open-water races! Open to all skill levels, from first-timers to Olympians, the event offers warm Caribbean waters, amazing vibes, and over $100,000 in prizes, including airline tickets. With only 700 spots available, early registration is recommended. Proceeds support the Swim Free Program.
- CayMAS Carnival (June 28 – July 5, 2025): Expect feathers, Soca beats, and pure joy at this high-energy weekend event celebrating Caribbean culture and community. Highlights include J’Ouvert (a sunrise paint party), street parades, and themed after-parties at local hotspots.
- Constitution Day (July 7, 2025): A national holiday celebrating Cayman’s first constitution, with heritage-themed festivities, boat races, and food fairs taking place around the island.
- Moonlight & Movies at Camana Bay (Tuesdays in July and August): A family favorite! Set up a blanket under the stars for free outdoor movie nights featuring recent releases and classic favorites, all along the picturesque waterfront. Popcorn and ice cream shops are just steps away.
- Cayman Islands Margarita Festival (July 26, 2025): Spice up your summer at the Cayman Islands Margarita Festival on Saturday, July 26th starting at 6 PM! Set against the stunning backdrop of the legendary Seven Mile Beach, this vibrant celebration brings together the island’s top taquerias, master mixologists, and live entertainers for an unforgettable evening of flavor and fun. Savor a variety of mouthwatering dishes, sip on expertly crafted margaritas, and groove to live performances.
- Cayman Islands Rum Festival (August 16, 2025): The Cayman Islands Rum Festival is a premier celebration of culture and craftsmanship, inviting rum lovers to explore a curated selection of the world’s finest spirits. Set against the stunning Caribbean backdrop, the festival pairs rich, nuanced tastings with vibrant music and island hospitality, offering an immersive experience for both seasoned connoisseurs and curious newcomers alike.
2025 SUMMER DEAL CAMPAIGN: “CAUTION: BOOK RESPONSIBLY.”
This summer, the Cayman Islands invites travelers to slow down and settle in with the launch of its 2025 Summer Campaign: “Caution: Book Responsibly.” With the sun-soaked promise of a “7th Night Free” across participating accommodations, visitors are encouraged to extend their stay and immerse themselves more deeply in the islands’ irresistible allure. Stay seven nights and only pay for
six at participating properties including:
- Breezy Bay: Stay seven nights for the price of six.
- Grand Cayman Marriott Resort: Stay seven nights for the price of six with promotion code LTS
- during check-out.
- Hampton by Hilton Grand Cayman: Stay seven nights for the price of six.
- Turquoise Haze: Stay seven nights for the price of six.
Find even more opportunities to save at VisitCaymanIsland.com. The “7th Night Free” promotion is valid for stays through August 31, 2025, and must be booked by August 17, 2025.
