In many photos of Grand Cayman, the water gleams in tones of sapphire, teal and turquoise, almost unbelievably blue and perfectly translucent. Impossible as it may seem, the real-life ocean water lapping this Caribbean Island proves even more spectacular in person—and Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa offers the ideal location to soak up the beauty of the tropics.
This luxury resort, which debuted in 2016, can be found along the coast of the world-famous Seven Mile Beach where visitors can rest in cabanas, swim in the bathtub-warm water or try stand-up paddleboarding. Even after sunset, the ocean remains a fixture of the property. Nearly every guest room offers a view of the water where the sounds of waves float gently up to each balcony.
For a break from swimming or sunning, Seafire’s casual beachside bar called Coccoloba serves fish tacos, ceviche, salads and the creamiest, most decadent piña colada I’ve ever tasted. An orange cat named Garfield saunters around the restaurant, coexisting peacefully with the island’s many roosters. For more upscale dining, Ave turns up the romance with coastal Mediterranean recipes, including plenty of fresh seafood. Guests can choose to sit inside or outside on the terrace where fans keep the humidity at bay.
Other amenities at the property include two ocean-view pools, yoga classes, botanical gardens and a state-of-the-art spa where you must treat yourself to a massage. The hotel’s filled with 400 pieces of art, all by Caymanian or Caribbean artists.
Well-appointed guest rooms with maroon, black and white accents feel modern and elegant, instead of the typical beach hotel with trite nautical blue hues. Despite the focus on the beach, housekeeping staff make sure the sand doesn’t stand a chance in guestrooms. They even developed a special mop (basically a massive lint roller) to keep the hotel’s floors sand-free. The housekeeping services shine with a full cleaning in the morning, plus another freshening-up during turndown service.
From the front desk team to the bartenders to the pool attendants, the staff’s attention to detail and their concern for each guest’s happiness elevate this hotel to the next level. There’s a phrase on the island called “Caymankind,” which speaks to the warm and welcoming nature of its citizens. You’ll feel that inviting ethos from the moment you step inside Kimpton Seafire.
Neighborhood
The neighborhood here is all about the beach—Seven Mile Beach to be precise. It regularly wins accolades as one of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean; with its pillowy sand and pristine waters, it’s no wonder why. Guests can walk along the shore, stopping at restaurants and beach bars along the way.
Nearby
- Stingray City. Book a boat tour to hang out with stingrays in the ocean.
- Rum Point. Head to this part of the island for dining—and drinking rum, of course.
- Camana Bay. The island’s ultimate shopping destination where you can score duty-free jewelry and lots more.
Time Out tip
Even if you’re not a “spa person,” The Spa at Seafire is worth your time for some holistic healing. The spa services menu includes Cayman coconut rituals, including a massage with local unrefined organic coconut oils and a coconut facial.
