Grand Cayman is a small island, but its geographical features and the nature of its infrastructure dictates having some mode of transport to better navigate and explore the tropical paradise. Fortunately, the island offers a wide variety of options when it comes to transportation, including an abundance of rental car companies, scooter hiring companies, public bus service and taxis. For those who would prefer a greener mode of transport, bicycles are readily available and many resorts offer guests free use of their bikes as part of the deal.
how to get around
Public Bus Service
Minibuses run from the bus depot in central George Town ( Edward Street ) to and from most parts of the island. They’re white / silver and colour-coded and dispatched every day from 6 am to 11 pm and to 1 am on Friday. Bus stops are few and far between so make sure to flag down a bus as soon as it becomes visible along the route you are planning on heading down. *Insider tip: while at the depot, approach a friendly local bus driver to explain the different bus routes and Cayman bus etiquette to you.
Taxi Service
Though many amenities are within walking distance along Seven Mile Beach, most tourist attractions and island highlights are not. When intending to visit farther parts of the island or on nights when you are dining out somewhere other than along the Seven Mile strip, it may be a good option to phone a taxi service. For general rates and a list of taxi operators on island visit www.grandcaymanislandtaxi.com
Cycling in Cayman
Come to Cayman, take only pictures and deep breaths, leave only footprints and bicycle tracks. There's no mode of transport greener (environmentally as well as scenically) than that of the humble bicycle. There's much more to cycling in Cayman than simply getting from point A to point B. It's a wonderfully relaxing and enjoyable way of getting to know the lay of the (is)land. Reduce your carbon-footprint one island adventure at a time. We suggest starting with the West Bay Loop Cycle Route, the island's most popular land-based adventure activity. The informative three-hour cycle tour is a great initial introduction to the most beautiful parts of Grand Cayman. The route takes visitors through the shady palm-lined lanes of the National Park where secluded tropical beaches and wild secret spots lie waiting to be discovered. For more information about the West Bay Loop tour visit www.westbayloop.com
For more bicycle rental options or for a selection of informative and fun cycle tours that take you through Cayman's picturesque West Bay, charming Bodden Town, Cayman's North Side and even to the breathtaking Crystal Caves, you can visit www.ecoridescayman.ky
Vehicle Hire
Although Cayman is small, about 264,2 km² with a population of about 60,000, it has about twice as many vehicles. The traffic is nothing compared to that of large cities but main roads can still become quite congested in rush hour traffic. Vehicle hire is quick and convenient. Visitors no longer need to obtain a temporary driver’s license and simply need to present proof of a driver's license issued by their home country. You must be 21 or over to rent a car in the Cayman Islands and you'll be spoilt for choice when it comes to finding a car rental company. Rates are fair and competitive, they are, however, extremely seasonal. The highest rates charged are between mid-December and mid-April. In the off-season, prices are reduced by around 35%. Driving is on the left-hand side as per British tradition. If you are not comfortable with driving on the left side, consider taking the bus or taxis instead.
Car Rental Information
For more information on renting cars in Cayman, feel free to contact any of the below car rental companies.
Payless Car Rental
Located a quick 2-minute walk from the Owen Roberts International Airport and open from 8 am-5 pm, Monday to Friday, Saturday 9 am-5 pm. They offer a range of compact, budget-conscious, quality rental vehicles. For more information: www.paylesscayman.com
Avis Car Rental
Avis is located next to Owen Roberts International Airport, and are open 8 am-5 pm, Monday to Friday, Saturday 9 am-5 pm. They offer a wide selection of quality, premium rental vehicles at competitive rates. Visit aviscayman.com for more information.
Some general Road Rules and tips:
Driving is on the left-hand side of the road as per the British norm and as most parts of the planet, seat-belt use is mandatory. The speed limits are set island-low at about 25mph and the island critters such as chickens and the endangered iguanas have right of way, so please be extra aware of your surroundings while exploring the island on wheels.
For more information about renting cars in Cayman feel free to contact the Payless Car Rental Office which located a quick 2-minute walk from the
Owen Roberts International Airport. They are open from 7 am-5 pm, Monday to Sunday. Alternatively, visit their website for more: www.paylesscayman.com
