If you’re looking for a little refuge from the busy touristy hotspots on Grand Cayman in the Cayman Islands, look no further. Take a boat trip across the turquoise waters of the North Sound from Safehaven Marina or a coastal one-hour drive from the iconic Seven Mile Beach to Rum Point. Some of our own Grand Cayman boat excursions head to Rum Point, so be sure to browse our range when you have finished here.
Located on the north side of the island, Rum Point is a hidden gem that boasts some legendary history, unspoiled beaches, great local vibes, and of course, cocktails to die for! To ensure you get the most out of your visit, we’ve provided some local tips and recommendations for the best things to do in Rum Point below.
If you have any questions for the Red Sail Sports team at any point, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
What is Rum Point Known for? Having Something for Everyone!
Taking a trip doesn’t always involve hectic and exciting activities like mountain biking, surfing, rock climbing, or watersports. Some of us just want to relax and enjoy the moment. Rum Point offers that and more, with a little something for everyone.
For families or people who prefer to simply sit in the water and enjoy the gentle ebb and flow, relax in the pristine, placid waters which are more like a natural swimming pool for over a mile from shore.
If you’re just looking to read a book in peace, bask in the sunshine or drift with the refreshing breeze, there are ample hammocks, picnic tables, lounge chairs, and other facilities available to make your experience as enjoyable and comfortable as possible.
For those with a more adventurous streak, the Rum Point snorkelling scene consistently attracts water junkies from all over the world. The barrier reefs are not too far out from the beach and the year-round visibility of the water and perfect temperatures make it a prime spot for scuba divers and snorkelers to take in the stunning coral gardens and their many residents.
Prepare to be blown away as these waters are not just breathtakingly beautiful, but also teeming with all forms of sea life, from starfish and turtles to stingrays! The stingrays at Stingray City in particular — one of our picks for the best places to snorkel in the Cayman Islands — are so docile that you can even give them a smooch.
And while the Rum Point snorkelling is breathtaking, the diving is extraordinary! For experienced divers, it is a must as a whole other world awaits you. Tempted? We think you’ll love our 2-Tank AM North Wall Dive in Grand Cayman.
Where does the Name Rum Point Come From?
Legend has it Rum Point opened its arms to an unexpected gift: hundreds of rum barrels. Years ago, a ship was wrecked off the coast of the island, sending its cargo adrift on the currents which eventually washed up on the shore. Probably due to this event, rum, and alcohol seem to run deep in this little town’s veins.
The spot is known for its charming local bars. Back in the 1970s and 80s, a creative bartender made a boozy and decadent concoction that took the world by storm. Thanks to the genius of bartender Byron Tibor, the mudslide has become a global phenomenon with several variations, all equally delicious.
As a result, Rum Point’s local haunt, called Wreck Bar, has become a pilgrimage site for mixologists and happy hour folk alike! If you want to get even more local flavours, feel free to complement your cocktail with fresh fish from the coast, delectable curries, or epic jerk chicken.
Another popular establishment is the Rum Point Beach Club, which has recently made a comeback after refurbishing from 2022-2023. Catering to both local and foreign patrons, the restaurant continues to impress with its diverse and highly flavourful menus in its upscale dining facilities.
Catch the Sunset and Experience the Evening Magic at Rum Point
As the sun gets lower and night begins to fall, Rum Point continues to give you more. Sunsets cannot get any better than this. The iconic jetty stretches out from the shore, allowing you a moment of privacy and stillness to enjoy the sky at golden hour to the moment the sun dips beyond the horizon. You can level up this experience on our Grand Cayman Sunset Cruise from Rum Point! Watch the gorgeous sunset unfold from the comfort of a catamaran bobbing on the Caribbean Sea.
For the animal lovers out there, Rum Point also serves as an access point to other popular locations, such as Stingray City and Starfish Point. You can either drive or take a catamaran to visit these places nearby.
Stingray City and Starfish Point are self-explanatory. You can get up close and personal with these wild but tame creatures. As always, treat with caution and care. There is also the absolute must-see of Bioluminescent Bay which has been dominating many a traveller’s Instagram post recently. When night finally comes and if you’re lucky, you might get the privilege of seeing phytoplankton glowing a bright blue, creating an otherworldly scene along the shoreline.
While you can find these wonders on the surface, don’t be afraid to venture underground in the Cayman Crystal Caves, just a 10-minute drive from Rum Point. Tucked within a forest, the limestone caves give you a glimpse of Grand Cayman’s geological history as well as its breathtaking beauty. Every Monday and Friday from 5:30 to 8:30 PM, large bat populations make an appearance in an awesome display of nature. Check out our blog 5 Must-Know Things for visiting Cayman’s Crystal Caves to find out more about this incredible place.
So, is Rum Point Worth a Visit?
All signs point to yes! Rum Point is the type of place where you can tailor your experience to your liking. What makes this little town off the beaten track so enticing is that it is not a one-size-fits-all. Rather, it strikes a rare balance between relaxation and adventure, natural beauty and touristy delights. From the outstanding Rum Point snorkelling and world-famous Grand Cayman diving trips to exceptional dining and blissful beach days, this corner of our island has it all.
We hope you’ve found this list of the top things to do in Rum Point inspiring! You can find even more local tips and insights about this special place in our Guide to Rum Point, Cayman Islands. And remember you can always contact us for more information about any of our excursions and experiences.
