Activities

Diving and Snorkeling

angel fish

Cayman Brac along with its sister island of Little Cayman are ranked as one of the top diving destinations in the Caribbean year after year. Not only is the visibility outstanding, but also the choice of dive sites is extensive, varied and lightly traveled. The Cayman Islands Government has also realized the importance of protecting the delicate reef environment and has designated many areas around both of the Sister Islands as Marine Park or Replenishment Zones. Fishing is heavily restricted in both of the zones and mooring balls provide easy, unobtrusive access to the majority of the dive sites.

Both islands have diving that will suit any skill level of diver. Currents are seldom strong, visibility typically exceeds 80 feet (24 m) and site depths can be as shallow as 15 feet (5 m). Becoming better known for their shore diving Cayman Brac and SITA have placed markers along the road ways to mark shore dive sites. They are red rocks with white lettering. Several of these shore dives have newly installed ladder systems to use for even easier access to the dive sites. You will need booties or reef shoes for many of the shore entries as the substrate is typically ironshore. These shallow sites are also excellent for snorkelers. Wall dives on both islands are best accessed by boat. A typical day of diving would include two dives in the morning followed by one dive in the afternoon. The morning dives begin with a wall dive to a maximum depth of 110 feet (34 m) followed by a reef dive to about 60 feet (18 m). The afternoon dive is once again a shallower reef dive. Dive sites are all only a short boat ride away; a key consideration for those who are susceptible to sea sickness. A small booklet can be purchased on island for more information about each of those sites.

Hiking and Bird Watching

Yellow-crowned Night Heron

If you enjoy hiking, Brac has many nature trails that will introduce you to the flora and fauna of the island. One of the most exciting hikes is along Brac’s eastern bluff. This trek will take you from the lighthouse, past nesting brown booby birds to Peter’s Cave high above the village of Spot Bay. Your return trip can be along the road past fields where you will more than likely meet up with some adventurous cows resting on the wrong side of the fence. If you’d rather stroll than hike, try the Bight Road Boardwalk. A 600-foot (183-m) wooden boardwalk has been created to allow even the most casual walker to experience the unusual and rugged Brac landscape.

Another must-do on Cayman Brac is a visit to one of the many caves. Access to these caves has been made easy with wooden steps and ladders. The caves have played an important part in the history of the island. During severe hurricanes they offered shelter to the residents.

The Sister Islands District Administration offers free guided nature tours with a local naturalist. To sign up for the island tour please contact the Carib Sands Management office.

Climbing

going up the ladder on the bluff

Rock climbers will also find adventure on Cayman Brac. There are many bolted sport routes along both sides of the island but there are no climbing shops on the island so you must come prepared with your own ropes and equipment. For more information on climbing on Cayman Brac, visit http://www.climbing.com/places/tropical-sport-climbing-on-cayman-brac

Calendar of Events

There is always lots going on on “The Brac”. Click here for the latest calendar of events.