The Cayman Islands rightfully holds a reputation as one of the world’s best diving destinations.There are 365 dive sites spread across Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac, and Little Cayman, enough for a full year of diving!
At Red Sail Sports, we’ve had the pleasure of exploring Grand Cayman’s underwater paradise for decades now. We’ve used all our expertise to create a range of Grand Cayman scuba diving experiences that showcase our vibrant coral reefs, majestic marine life, and incredible underwater landscapes.
Any list of the best diving in Grand Cayman can only scratch the surface. As such, we’ve chosen just a handful of our favorites in Grand Cayman to share with you. Keep scrolling down to read our recommendations. If you have any questions for us in the meantime, please feel free to get in touch.
USS Kittiwake: A True Shipwreck Adventure
Calling all shipwreck enthusiasts! Prepare to be captivated by the USS Kittiwake, a legendary wreck that has become a haven for marine creatures and divers alike. Sunk intentionally in 2011, this former US Navy submarine rescue vessel now rests peacefully at the bottom of the ocean, waiting to be explored.
As you descend into the depths, you’ll come face to face with the ship’s impressive structure. And when you swim inside, you’ll encounter schools of colorful tropical fish weaving through its corridors.
The USS Kittiwake is a must-visit site for all underwater explorers. Does this sound like your kind of adventure? Check out our 2-Tank Kittiwake Wreck Dive to find out more about this one-of-a-kind experience.
Aquarium: Dive into a World of Colors
As you may have guessed from a site called Aquarium, this spot is home to a diverse range of marine life.
This is the perfect place to immerse yourself in a kaleidoscope of colors, be it that of the vibrant coral formations or the wealth of aquatic species As you glide through the crystal-clear waters, you’ll encounter a dazzling array of tropical creatures, from the graceful butterflyfish to the curious angelfish.
Don’t be surprised if a playful sea turtle or two joins you on your underwater adventure. With its incredible visibility and lively marine ecosystem, Aquarium is a site that every diver visiting Grand Cayman should check off their bucket list.
Much like the USS Kittiwake wreck, Aquarium is close to Seven Mile Beach on Grand Cayman’s west coast. If you’re interested in exploring Grand Cayman’s famous West Wall, consider our 2-Tank AM West Wall Dive.
Oro Verde Wreck and Paradise Reef: A Double Delight
Experience the best of both worlds with the Oro Verde wreck and Paradise Reef, a unique dive site that offers two distinct experiences in one unforgettable trip.
Begin your adventure by exploring the Oro Verde wreck, a sunken freighter sitting on the sandy ocean floor. Marvel at the encrusted coral and resident marine life that have made this former banana trading vessel their home.
Next, head over to Paradise Reef, where you’ll discover an underwater oasis brimming with vibrant coral gardens and an abundance of tropical fish. This two-for-one diving experience off Seven Mile Beach is sure to leave you in awe. Are you staying in the Seven Mile Beach area during your stay? Read our Visitor’s Guide to Grand Cayman’s Seven Mile Beach to learn more about your home away from home.
Bonnie’s Arch: A Gateway to Wonder
Do you want to swim through a stunning natural formation that resembles a gateway to a mystical underwater world? Look no further than Bonnie’s Arch. As you pass through this amazing structure, you’ll find yourself surrounded by a breathtaking array of marine life.
Keep your eyes peeled for graceful stingrays gliding by and majestic eagle rays soaring above. The arch also serves as a meeting point for all manner of fish, creating a spectacle of color and movement. Located in West Bay, Bonnie’s Arch is a true gem for divers seeking an extraordinary ocean adventure.
Trinity Caves: Dive into Mystery
Embark on an exhilarating journey into the depths of Trinity Caves, a labyrinth of submerged swim-throughs weaving in and out of a main reef. As you navigate through this network of underwater passages, you’ll encounter hidden nooks and crannies adorned with delicate corals and sponges.
Keep an eye out for elusive marine creatures that call these caves home, such as moray eels and colorful nudibranchs. The Trinity Caves offer an otherworldly diving experience that you will never forget.
This spectacular site also has the distinction of having appeared in the 1993 film The Firm, starring Tom Cruise and Gene Hackman.
Turtle Reef: Where Turtles Rule the Waves
Dive into the enchanting realm of Turtle Reef, where sea turtles reign supreme. This dive site is a haven for these gentle creatures, providing a rare opportunity to witness them in their natural habitat.
As you descend into the crystal-clear waters, you’ll be surrounded by a vibrant coral ecosystem that attracts an abundance of marine life. So, as well as friendly sea turtles swimming gracefully through the water, you’ll see colorful tropical fish darting between the coral formations.
Don’t forget your camera, as you’ll want to capture every magical moment! If you’re looking for more ways to explore the underwater landscapes off Grand Cayman’s west coast, read about our 1-Tank PM West Shallow Dive.
Northern Lights: An Underwater Symphony
Prepare to be mesmerized by the dazzling display of colors at the Northern Lights dive site. This spot is named after the incredible play of sunlight on the coral, a phenomenon that results in a remarkable range of hues that seem to dance beneath the surface.
Immerse yourself in this underwater symphony as you explore the coral gardens that teem with life.
Encounter schools of shimmering fish, such as parrotfish and butterflyfish, as they navigate their way through this fascinating environment. The Northern Lights is just one of the fantastic sites on our 2-Tank AM Wall Dive (East).
Anchor Point: Discovering History’s Secrets
Uncover the mysteries of the past as you dive into the historical depths of Anchor Point. This is a historical anchoring ground for old vessels that used to deliver cargo to the early settlers of the Cayman Islands.
As such, the site is home to an array of artifacts and remnants from bygone eras, including shipwrecks and anchors. At Anchor Point you will also encounter a diverse marine ecosystem that includes colorful coral formations and various species of tropical fish.
Look out for the odd-looking red sponge that has the affectionate name of ‘Pumpkin Face.’ Anchor Point is another destination on our incredible 2-Tank AM Wall Dive (East).
Babylon: An Underwater Wonderland
Venture into a diver’s paradise at the Babylon dive site, where a stunning array of coral formations await. The striking colors and intricate shapes of the corals create a dream-like underwater landscape. Explore the labyrinth of canyons and swim-throughs, revealing hidden alcoves and crevices brimming with life. Keep your eyes open for curious reef sharks and eagle rays gliding through the depths.
Babylon offers an extraordinary dive experience that will leave you bewitched by the wonders of nature.
Are you new to the world of diving? Take the all-important first steps you need to earn your license on our resort scuba course in Grand Cayman.
Make Unforgettable Memories with Our Grand Cayman Scuba Diving
We hope this introduction to the best scuba diving in the Cayman Islands has inspired you to start preparing for your adventure with us!
Browse our range of Grand Cayman scuba diving experiences to learn more about the fun and excitement waiting for you here. For more information about any of our diving options, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
