Disclaimer: This is a sponsored post by the Cayman Islands Department of Tourism. The thoughts and opinions expressed here are entirely our own.
There are certain spots that rouse a romantic spirit; perhaps it is an idyllic azure ocean, an unforgettable escapade, or a serene seaside setting. When it comes to romantic rendezvous, destinations need to meet a few “Roamantic” requirements to pass our paramour parameters: an eye-catching island, endless adventures, and gourmet goodness. That’s why we jetted down to the Cayman Islands, located in the Caribbean Sea, south of Cuba and west of Jamaica, for a weekend of unrivaled romance.
1. Long walks on Seven Mile Beach
Not all beaches are created equal. The Caribbean is home to some of the world’s most famous beaches, but Seven Mile Beach in the Cayman Islands tops them all. Located on the western shores of Grand Cayman, Seven Mile Beach has pristine white sand that makes for serene sunset walks on the beach.
2. Dive in 365 Different Dive Sites
Adventurous couples will love the variety of dive sites located in the Cayman Islands. Sprinkled around the three islands of Grand Cayman, Little Cayman, and Cayman Brac, couples can swim into a new dive site every day of the year. Plus, the warm Caribbean waters mean that divers can swim without wetsuits! The Kittiwake wreck dive, an old shipwreck, is a favorite of Cayman Islands divers and a must if you’re a certified diver. We dove with Epic Divers.
3. Swim with Stingrays
The Cayman Islands is home to Stingray City, a swimming area that is home to dozens of friendly stingrays. Couples can hold the stingrays, swim with stingrays, and even kiss them (don’t worry, honey – it meant nothing!) – all while enjoying the beautiful blue waters. After a swim with the stingrays, couples can visit nearby Starfish Point for photos with starfish. Some may ask, “is this a tourist trap?” Well, yes and no. There are lots of tourists who come to swim with the stingrays but it’s worth dealing with the crowds to see these gentle giants up close. We adventured to the stingrays with Red Sail Sports.
4. Ride horses in the Caribbean Sea
There are plenty of places to horseback ride, but few are as serene as the waters of the Cayman Islands. Book a trip with Spirit of the West and head up to the tranquil West Bay area of Grand Cayman for a serene sunset horseback ride. If you’re more of a water lover, book a ride that allows you to swim with horses. Just be sure you bring bug spray!
5. Get Married In Just One Day
Move over Vegas, there’s a new marriage mecca in town. Many lovers dream of getting married on an island paradise, but a multitude of international islands have strict laws that prohibit spontaneous nuptials (some require a 30 day waiting period and a blood test, OUCH!). For those wanting to have a seamless destination wedding, couples can marry on the same day that they arrive in the Cayman Islands. Plus, with direct flights from New York, London, Toronto, Miami, Dallas, Atlanta, Houston, and other U.S. gateway cities, lovers can fly to the Cayman Islands in just a few hours.
6. Float for Days
We’ve visited dozens of islands around the world and no water can compare to the crystal clear cerulean waters of the Cayman Islands. The ocean is very calm with little to no waves, making it the perfect place grab a piña colada (or two) and marinate with your mate. If you’re staying at the Ritz Carlton like we did, make sure to relax on one of the many ocean loungers or bask in the sun on one of their many floating hammocks.
7. Heavenly Hotels
All romantic getaways can be taken to the next level with a fantastic thread count, an amazing ocean view, and 5-star service. The Cayman Islands is home to a multitude of top-notch hotels, but the pinnacle of romance is a starry-eyed stay at the Ritz Carlton Grand Cayman. With ocean front suites, lavish dining options, and opulent amenities, The Ritz Carlton is the best hotel for couples in the Cayman Islands.
8. Fine Dining
Caymanians take their dining experiences very seriously, making the Cayman Islands an idyllic ecstasy for epicureans. First and foremost, there’s Blue, the Ritz Carlton’s fine dining restaurant from 3-Michelin Starred executive Chef Eric Ripert. Other gourmet restaurants include Ristorante Pappagallo (authentic italian), The Wharf (where you can feed the tarpons at night), Taikun (sushi, yes!), Seven, and the Grand Old House. The Cayman Islands is also home to the Cayman Cookout, a large foodie festival that occurs in January.
I have a completely positive feeling after seeing such a beautiful island. One of my friends has recommended to me about this place for our planning of destination wedding.