With so many young families living here, Cayman is a child-friendly island and there is no shortage of activities for kids. Outdoor and water-based pursuits are always popular in this climate, but just in case of bad weather, Key to Cayman also lists some recommended activities for rainy days.

On land

Parks
The most popular of Grand Cayman’s public parks are the well-landscaped Dart Parks. There’s one in each of Grand Cayman’s districts and all have play equipment, restrooms, shaded areas and more. Play a game of giant chess, walk a butterfly trail or throw a Frisbee. Check out Dart Family Park, South Sound; Scholar’s Park, West Bay; Jarold Smith Park, North Side; and Captain George Nixon Park, East End.

National Gallery of the Cayman Islands
Located in Harbour Place, across from George Town waterfront, the National Gallery of the Cayman Islands has exciting exhibitions that are sure to delight budding art critics. The venue offers a great introduction to local art with the option of guided or self-guided tours.
T: 945 8111          W: nationalgallery.org.ky

National Museum
The Cayman Islands National Museum reopened in 2009 after it was severely damaged in Hurricane Ivan. The new exhibits are child friendly with lots of interactive displays and virtual experiences, including a simulated submarine dive. Exhibits cover natural and cultural history and there is also a children’s gallery designed for hands-on learning.
T: 949 8368          W: museum.ky   
   
Black Pearl Skate and Surf
Tear it up at one of the world’s largest outdoor skate parks, located in Grand Harbour. Mandatory helmets are for hire, pads are optional and free to rent. Admission is CI$16. Or hang ten riding one of the world’s largest free-standing wave.
T: 947 4161          W: blackpearl.ky

Ambassadors of the Environment
Fledgling eco-warriors will love Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ambassadors of the Environment programme at The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman. The programme introduces children to the natural wonders and culture of Cayman. Activities include supervised Mangrove Kayak Adventures, Traditional Cayman Crafts and Eco-Chefs.
T: 943 9000          W: ritzcarlton.com

Rainy Days
Hollywood Theatres
When it’s wet outside and the kids need to be entertained, take in a movie at Hollywood Theatres. The six-screen facility, located in Camana Bay, offers plenty of movies for the family, including 3D films.
T: 640 3456          W: gohollywood.com

Pottery fun
Be creative at All Fired Up!, Cayman’s only commercial pottery studio, located on Seven Mile Beach. With hundreds of ceramic items your children can paint a holiday-inspired creation to take home or try their hand at making a mosaic masterpiece.
Open: Tuesday through Thursday from 10am to 9pm; Friday and Saturday from 10am to 6pm
T: 947 8517

On the water
Snorkelling
Snorkelling is an ideal way for young swimmers to learn more about the islands’ stunning marine life. With a parent by their side, most children will be happy to explore the colourful schools of fish, crustaceans and, if they’re lucky, sea turtles that inhabit the crystal clear waters. Snorkel gear can be rented from most water sports operators.

Atlantis Submarine
Dive 100 feet below the surface in the fully air-conditioned Atlantis Submarine. The 48-passenger craft offers 90-minute tours. The 40-passenger Seaworld Observatory’s one-hour tours are ideal if your little ones prefer to stay only five feet below the surface.
T: 949 7700 (reservations preferred)

WOW Balls
Inflatable, clear plastic balls provide a burst of fun for kids aged five and over.  Get inside the plastic bubble and try to stand, walk or run on water. It’s harder than it looks and causes lots of laughs as people slip, slide and fall.
T: 323 0606          W: wowballs.ky

Get dive certified
Eight- and nine-year-olds can take a half-day course of pool diving, ocean snorkelling, and equipment and technique training. With a certificate, they complete a shallow ocean dive with an instructor. Those aged 10 and older can become junior open water divers and qualify for the full open-water course. Depth restrictions apply depending on age. Children must dive with adults until they are 15 years old.