For a break from the hustle and bustle of Grand Cayman, take a trip to the island oasis of Cayman Brac. The second largest of Cayman’s three islands, the Brac, as it is known among locals, is just 14 square miles but has enough caves, coastline, trails and attractions to interest visitors.

With a population of fewer than 2000, the Brac is a friendly, laidback destination where peace and quiet are the order of the day. Explore one of the glorious dive sites, spend hours watching the animated wildlife, or simply while away your days in a hammock as you watch the sun set over the island.

Those who are feeling adventurous can discover the Brac’s rich and varied landscapes, both on land and under the water. Brac is a Gaelic word for bluff, and the island is named after its 152-foot high bluff – the highest elevation in the Cayman Islands. There are numerous hiking trails and walks along the Bluff, with views that stretch to the horizon. The District Administration Office can organise free, tailor-made tours for visitors.

Parrot Reserve, a 350-acre sanctuary that houses almost 400 birds, is an ideal for nature enthusiasts.
The Brac has an array of fascinating caves that are easily accessible, such as Rebecca’s Cave, named after a little girl, Rebecca Bodden, whose family fled to the cave during a devastating 1932 hurricane. She died in the cave and her grave and its marker remain there to this day.

Brackers have traditionally sought shelter in the island’s caves during storms and well-maintained paths and steps lead to several of these sanctuaries.

Water lovers will delight in the many glorious dive sites, including a renowned ship wreck, the MV Capt Keith Tibbetts, on the north shore of the island. This site is the only dive wreck of a Russian warship in the Western Hemisphere and is teeming with marine life.

For those who prefer to take things slow, the Brac offers relaxation and education. The Cayman Brac Museum, the oldest museum in the Cayman Islands, is a fascinating glimpse into the islands’ colourful past. Discover the rich history of the Brac and the characters who played major roles in developing the island. Or stop in at Heritage House in Spot Bay, where a guide will happily take you to the island’s 35 heritage sites. Be sure to take in the Parrot Reserve, a 350-acre sanctuary that close to 400 birds call home.
And, of course, the Brac would not be a tropical paradise without beaches. The Brac’s coastline varies from fine, white sand to rugged, rocky shores – perfect for relaxing or long walks.

Christopher Columbus spotted Cayman Brac and Little Cayman on one of his voyages and the explorer is remembered at two points on the Brac: one at Columbus Point, where the Great Cave is located, and the other on the Bluff, where a relief of Columbus has been erected in the Christopher Columbus Gardens.

For relaxation, romance and adventure, in stunning surrounds, discover the beauty of the Brac.

Getting there
Cayman Airways runs a daily jet service to both Sister Islands and Cayman Airways Express flies four times daily from Grand Cayman. Cayman Airways also runs a direct flight from Miami to Cayman Brac once a week.