The smaller Cayman Islands of Little Cayman and Cayman Brac are a diver’s dream. Separated from Grand Cayman by around 100 kilometers, they offer a different Caribbean experience and a wealth of magnificent dive sites. The smallest of the three islands, Little Cayman, boasts 60 dive sites. Highlights include Bloody Bay Wall Marine Park, stunning colors and steep drop-offs, and Jackson’s Bight, where you can explore the chutes, tunnels, and crevices.
The Reefs Are Healthy
The pristine reefs of Little Cayman offer some of the best snorkeling and diving in the Caribbean. Divers will find coral swim-throughs with aquarium-like views through the “portholes” and tunnels, tons of fish, lobsters, and stingrays poking their heads out from hiding places, and a variety of more giant animals including Caribbean reef sharks, barracuda, and colossal lionfish.
The healthy reefs result from existing government protection, minimal harmful human impacts, and relatively stable water quality. Reefs on Little Cayman are still home to abundant important herbivores (parrotfish and surgeonfish) and important predators (groupers, snappers, and jacks) in more significant numbers than seen in many other Caribbean locations.
Although there have been declines in important framework corals such as the elkhorn and staghorn species, overall reef condition on Little Cayman is much better than in many other Caribbean locations. It is mainly because dive operations are focused on providing the best Little Cayman diving experience and avoiding any impact on the reefs. Thanks to these efforts, most of the reefs on the island’s northern part in the Bloody Bay Marine Park are teeming with life.
The Walls Are Breathtaking
Touted by Cousteau as one of the top three diving destinations in the world, Little Cayman remains a hidden gem. Its steep walls and shallow reefs are unspoiled by overcrowding. Its north side, home to Bloody Bay Marine Park, features Cayman’s most dramatic wall dives. The stunning Bloody Bay Wall plunges almost 1,000 feet and is crammed with corals, sponges, and sea fans. Look for nudibranchs, southern stingrays, and garden eels on the wall in the shallows, sharks, turtles, and groupers.
Jackson’s Bight features a different seascape of chutes, tunnels, and crevices that are ideal for exploring in the company of spotted rays and Caribbean reef fish. At night, when lobsters and reef squid come out to play, Three Fathom Wall is a popular dive site. It is also known as a spot to see eagle rays. The pristine waters are warm, calm, and perfect for underwater photography. It makes it a great destination year-round. The best times to visit are November through April, when the water temperature is 78-82 degrees.
The Critters Are Abundant
Thanks to conservation efforts, little Cayman is teeming with marine life and is home to one of the Caribbean’s last remaining grouper spawning sites. With a massive north wall and vibrant coral plateaus, this stunning area will take your breath away. The incredible Bloody Bay wall, a submerged mountain range that drops down more than 2000 meters into the depths, is undoubtedly the star of this area, and it is here that you will see spectacular marine life, including spotted eagle rays, sea turtles, and countless species of fish soaring through the clear waters. The more observant divers can also find an abundance of critters like sailfin blennies, arrow crabs, and nudibranchs hiding in the numerous nooks and crevices.
Other highlights include the North Reef, a mini-wall that offers divers the chance to swim amongst forests of sea sponges and giant fan coral in a rich and diverse environment. As you explore Little Cayman’s unique underwater landscape, remember to practice good buoyancy and avoid touching or damaging the coral, as it is delicate.
The Dive Operations Are Experienced
The dive operators on Little Cayman are seasoned pros and know what it takes to provide world-class diving. The locals are also kind and will make you feel at home. They are dedicated to preserving the reefs and ensuring that future generations can enjoy them. Adam is originally from Knysna, South Africa, and started diving 14 years ago. He loves the peace and tranquility he experiences underwater and feels like he has found his paradise in Little Cayman.
The island is small and intimate, with resorts on miles of unspoiled beaches where rock iguanas outnumber humans. It is the ultimate escape, where you can relax and turn off your phone for a few days. Just be sure to bring your scuba gear!
The Locals Are Friendly
The island moves at a relaxed pace, and the locals are welcoming to visiting guests. The typical stresses of life are hard to find on Little Cayman, which is one reason why many travelers make it a repeat destination year after year. Little Cayman’s top attraction is the Bloody Bay Marine Park, featuring two spectacular wall systems with reefs ranging in depth from shallow to more than 6,500 feet. This marine park is world-renowned for its beauty and variety. It’s the perfect place for both skilled and beginning scuba divers. Here, you can see stingrays and turtles in their natural habitat. And there are plenty of corals, sponges, and sea fans to admire.
Other top dive sites include Eagle Ray Roundup, an excellent spot for eagle rays; Jackson Reef and Wall, famous for its pristine drop-offs; and the North Side Cascades, where you’ll find a variety of marine critters. Many of these sites are current-free, ideal for underwater photographers waiting patiently for the right shot. You’ll also find moored dive locations protecting the reefs from anchor damage.
