When you think of Grand Cayman, the first image that often comes to mind is the iconic Stingray City. But just a short distance away, tucked into the tranquil waters of the North Sound, lies a hidden gem that’s just as spectacular: Starfish Point.
Here, numerous starfish lie on the golden sands, clearly visible through the crystalline waters. It’s a scene that has to be seen to be believed! As one of the island’s most magical locations, the team at Red Sail Sports loves to take visitors here as part of our Grand Cayman boat tours. To help you learn more about this natural treasure, we’ve created this visitor’s guide to Starfish Point, Grand Cayman, ensuring you can make the most of your trip here. Keep reading for our insider tips, and feel free to contact us if you have any questions about our tours.
How to Get to Starfish Point
Starfish Point is located on the northern shore of Grand Cayman, near the tip of Cayman Kai. Because it’s framed by shallow, sandy shallows and bordered by seagrass beds, it provides an ideal habitat for sea stars to thrive.
If you are already in the Rum Point area, Starfish Point is just a five-minute drive from Rum Point Beach. If you are on the west side of the island, where most accommodations are, the drive to Starfish Point can take approximately an hour, and there is plenty of free parking available.
Should you choose to drive here from West Bay, we recommend you make the most of your time on the North Side by combining your Starfish Point excursion with a visit to Rum Point Club, where you can enjoy drinks, dining, and beach activities like kayaking and snorkeling, using equipment provided by us!
For a quicker and more scenic trip, you can also take a boat tour to Starfish Point. On our Grand Cayman North Sound Eco-Safari, which departs from Camana Bay, we include a stop here alongside a visit to Stingray City and a nearby coral reef!
When Is the Best Time to Visit Starfish Point
Because the waters of the North Sound are generally calm, mid-morning to early afternoon tends to be ideal. By then, the sun is high enough to illuminate the water, making the starfish more visible in the shallows.
If you prefer fewer crowds, consider booking a weekday tour. Try to avoid times when large cruise ships dock nearby — fewer people means a more intimate experience! Our North Sound Eco-Safari runs from Monday through Saturday, with both morning and afternoon excursions, giving you plenty of options to choose from.
What Makes Starfish Point Special
At Starfish Point, the water is calm, shallow, and crystal clear, making it the perfect environment to appreciate the sea stars in their natural habitat. The species you’ll see here is the striking red-cushioned starfish, also known as the West Indian starfish.
You can wade into the shallows and closely observe the starfish from above. If you wish, you can also snorkel in deeper waters where even more starfish gather. It’s an experience that’s perfect for families with kids!
While it’s tempting to touch the starfish or pick them up, they are still living creatures. The Cayman Islands’ Department of Environment has created guidelines for handling the starfish at Starfish Point so you know how best to approach them. The starfish must never be removed from the water, as this can suffocate them. Generally, it’s safest to avoid touching or moving them at all.
Beyond the natural wonder, Starfish Point is also a relaxing spot to hang out. There are few amenities, which give it a rustic atmosphere. Bring a picnic and an umbrella to soak up the tranquil scene. Otherwise, continue the adventure at Rum Point Club, where you can enjoy beach activities like kayaking, snorkeling, and sailing. Learn more with our Guide to Rum Point!
Discover Starfish Point On Our North Sound Eco-Safari
If you want to go on an adventure exploring Grand Cayman’s most magical natural attractions, our North Sound Eco-Safari is the ultimate choice! You’ll visit Stingray City, Starfish Point, and a coral reef on a single boat ride, aboard our comfortable power catamaran.
Start the journey with a stop at Stingray City, where you’ll get to swim with the stingrays in the shallows. Then, you’ll go snorkeling at a nearby reef to encounter even more underwater beauty. Last but not least, we finish at Starfish Point for a one-of-a-kind experience! If you’re eager to learn more about the marine life you can see on the island, check out our guide to 10 Aquatic Animals You’ll Encounter in Grand Cayman.
Tips for Visiting Starfish Point
- Wear water shoes or reef-safe sandals for comfort when wading in the shallows.
- Bring a waterproof camera or GoPro to capture the incredible scenery.
- Use reef-safe sunscreen to help protect the marine environment.
- Listen carefully to the crew’s instructions on how to handle (or not handle) the starfish.
- If you’re not visiting with a tour, pack snorkel gear to explore beyond the shallows.
Explore Grand Cayman With Red Sail Sports
Whether you join our North Sound Eco-Safari or combine your Starfish Point visit with a day at the Rum Point Club, Red Sail Sports is here to make your trip unforgettable. And if you’re interested in discovering even more of Grand Cayman’s natural beauty, browse our range of Grand Cayman boat tours and scuba diving trips. If you have any questions about our tours, don’t hesitate to contact us!
