Cayman Brac is the second largest of the three Cayman Islands. It is home to some 1,500 residents and supports a thriving tourism market. The island is unique in the Caribbean and offers a great destination for those seeking something different. This article presents a unique look at the island, through the eyes of a local, and provides important information for those considering Cayman Brac for their next vacation.

Cayman Brac has evolved slowly over the past century. E-mail, fax, cell phones, and the latest technology can all be found here, but a laid back atmosphere ensures that both locals and visitors enjoy a peaceful and relaxing island. There are no shopping malls, fast food restaurants or large business districts. Instead, Cayman Brac offers natural beauty, friendliness and some of the best diving anywhere. Each year Cayman Brac welcomes eager tourists to its shores. They come in search of spectacular diving, relaxation and an exotic destination.

Residents of the islands enjoy a high standard of living with the noted benefit of no income taxes. Unemployment is practically unheard of and with the increase in construction, and the related population growth, jobs are plentiful. Economic growth in Cayman Brac has been pushed forward with the help of the Cayman Islands Government in an attempt to promote business and tourism on the island.

History and Background

Cayman Brac, commonly referred to simply as the Brac, has a total land area of 14 square miles (approximately 1 mile wide by 14 miles long) with a distinguishing cliff, or bluff ("Brac" is Gaelic for "Bluff") running through the center. This bluff starts at sea level on the west end of the island, and rises to about 140 feet at the eastern tip of the island. It was this prominent bluff that allowed Cayman Brac to be the first of the Cayman Islands sighted by Christopher Columbus in 1503. It was Columbus' fourth and final voyage to the Americas when he stumbled across the islands he named "Las Tortugas" (The Turtles). The ship's log stated that they were in sight of land surrounded by turtles, both on land and in the water, so-much-so that it was for that reason the islands were first named "Las Tortugas." For years afterwards the islands remained uninhabited, visited only by passing ships or pirates seeking to hide their treasure. Later, the mistaken identification of the large numbers of local iguanas for alligators, resulted in the islands being renamed the Cayman Islands (after the Caymanas alligator). The first settlers in the islands were deserters from the British navy, stationed in Jamaica. Up until the turn of the century, Cayman Brac and Little Cayman grew in population leaving their larger sister relatively undeveloped. The Cayman Islands produced some of the world's finest seamen. While the men were off at sea, the women essentially ran the islands. The strong role of women is still evident in the islands today. In the 20th century, Grand Cayman has grown up into a very popular hotel and banking center, Little Cayman has fallen back into its sleepy way of life, while Cayman Brac has developed a nice mix of both worlds.

Natural Beauty

Another attraction is the natural beauty of the island. The bluff, with its astounding selection of flora and fauna, is a must for nature enthusiasts. Cayman Brac is haven for many species of birds and has become a stopping point for many as they migrate back and forth. Caves, rumored to still contain pirate gold, dot the landscape and Caymanite, a stone found only in the Caymans, can be found in crevices in the limestone. Parrot trails and nature parks have been set up to help ensure that the natural environment of the island is well protected, while providing visitors and locals with a great opportunity to explore this unique facet of the island.

The People

Though Cayman Brac's natural appeal may seem to be sufficient, the people of the island have their own appeal. Not an obvious reason, but one that should be mentioned are the people of the island. The friendliness of the locals is one the first things mentioned by any visitor to the islands. Driving down a road you'll see that everyone waves to you, whether they know you or not. This is typical of their warmth and hospitality. Unlike other Caribbean islands there are no homeless or unemployed on the island. For a unique glimpse into the island visit the museum and just ask the curator for a tour. As many of the items in the museum came from the homes of the locals, they are especially proud and happy to show you around.

Entertainment & Activities

In addition to diving, Cayman Brac offers other forms of entertainment to visitors. A sport growing in popularity is rock climbing. Rock climbing enthusiasts have touted the bluff as a great platform for sheer vertical cliff climbing. Many climbs have already been mapped out with more being added each day. In addition to rock climbing, Cayman Brac offers some fantastic fishing opportunities. There are several local fishermen who offer half or full day fishing excursions (your hotel can make all the necessary arrangements for you). Day trips to Point 'o Sand on Little Cayman are available for those who want a day on the beach and a change of pace. Lunch is provided, as is a host who will ensure that you have a great time - be sure to bring or rent snorkeling gear and lots of sun block. Although there are scheduled tours available it is worth your while to look into renting a car and taking a trip to the end of the road on the South Side of the island. Here you'll see spectacular cliffs, caves, blowholes and Caymanite (to make your trip even more enjoyable bring your camera and a snack and drinks). The Public Beach is anything but what its name implies. If you've ever wanted a beach completely to yourself this is it. The facilities are well kept up and the beach is beautiful. Visiting the lighthouse is a unique experience. The lighthouse is situated on the east end of the island at its highest point. From this vantage point you can get a stunning view of the rest of the island and the Caribbean Sea. The island's hotels each sponsor their own entertainment for their guests, ranging from dances to contests and games.

Spending

Due to the fact that almost everything has to be imported, prices on the island are slightly on expensive side (although not as much as you'd expect). When you come, be sure to expect to pay more than you would in the US. An important note to keep in mind is that the Cayman Islands use the Cayman Islands' Dollar (CI$), which has a fixed exchange rate with the US Dollar (CI$1.00=US$1.25). However, be sure to shop at the various stores on the island and look for some great bargains.

Eating Out

Cayman Brac offers some great dining experiences. Listed below are some of your choices on the island.

• Aunt Sha's - Specializes in local and American dishes. Enjoy ocean front dining and a casual atmosphere.
• Captain's Table - Specializes in local and American dishes. Captain's Table, offers fine dining in a delightful atmosphere.
• Edd's Place - Specializes in local, American and Chinese dishes. This restaurant and bar has been an island favorite for many years and continues to be popular.
• G & M Diner - Specializes in everything. Casual atmosphere with good food and good company.
• La Esperanza - Specializes in local and American dishes. Established over 10 years and continues to offer fun and food for everyone.
• Sonia's Restaurant - Specializes in local and American. A clean and friendly place to eat.

It must be noted that in addition to these are restaurants operated by each of the two major hotels (Brac Reef Beach Resort and Divi Tiara Beach Resort) that rate extremely high on the list. Both of these restaurants are open to the public and reservations are recommended. In addition to these are several local snack type restaurants. "Angies" is easily the most popular among locals and visitors alike. "Seaview" (locally referred to as "Blackie's") has a drive-through, but its more closely related to a drive up, park, wait 10 minutes type of service (their food and locally made ice-cream (highly recommended) is usually worth the wait though). Dominoes Pizza opened in Cayman Brac in early 1997 and is quickly becoming an island favorite. Previous to this bold step by Dominoes Brac locals could easily be identified on Cayman Airways as the ones bringing home the pizza from Grand Cayman. One final note on food -- try patties. They are to the Caymanians, what hamburgers are to Americans. You can buy them at any of the local stores. One taste and you'll be hooked.

Quick Brac Facts

• Area: 12 miles long by 1½ miles wide
• Population: Approximately 1200
• Crime: Practically nonexistent
• Public Transportation: None, but several rental car agencies to choose from, as well as rental scooters and bikes.
• Schools: 3 grade schools, 1 Middle/High School.
• People: Harmony of white, black and mixed. Renowned for their friendliness
• Location: 90 miles east of Grand Cayman (15 minutes by jet), 5 miles east of Little Cayman
• Shopping: Variety of local stores and gift shops to chose from.
• Getting There: Daily flights available through Cayman Airways.

Don't forget to...

• Visit the lighthouse at sunrise and you won't be disappointed. Complement this visit with a view of the sunset from West End Point.
• Visit the museum. It's small, but it's full of interesting and unique facts and objects.
• Visit Little Cayman. Take a private charter to Point-o-sand for a day, considered by some to be the best beach in the islands. Trips usually include plenty of snorkeling and provided lunch.
• Visit the caves (on the south side of the island). Recommended caves are "Bat Cave" and "Great Cave"
• Visit the southeastern tip of the island ("End of the road, south-side" as labeled by locals). Spectacular scenery and blowing holes.
• Contact either Franklin Bodden (345-948-1428) or Shelby Scott (345-948-0538), both boat charter operators, and arrange for a trip to see Little Cayman Brac. If you go in the afternoon, make sure to look between Little Cayman Brac and the bluff from the east side and you'll see an Indian Chief appear. This natural rock formation has to be seen to be believed.

Accommodations: Villas, Condos & Vacation Rentals
Catering to divers, nature lovers and families is what Cayman Brac is all about. Here, you'll find a wide range of hotels, apartments, condominiums, villas, bed & breakfasts and spa services, tailored to fit every taste and budget.

Looking for companies in Cayman Brac?
Visit the Cayman Brac Business Directory.

Scuba Diving & Sport Fishing
The Brac's "off the beaten path" appeal extends below the surface as well. Divers and snorkelers will find towering coral heads, impressive walls and fascinating wrecks, including the m.v. Captain Keith Tibbetts, a Russian-built Cuban naval frigate which was deliberately sunk off the island's northwest coast in September 1996.  Cayman Brac's greatest attraction is its surrounding waters. Marine life of all shapes and sizes abound in these clear, warm waters of the Caribbean. As such, diving is perhaps the island's most famous attribute. With so many dives and dive sites to choose from on the island, divers find themselves amazed at the variety of diving available. With the recent sinking of the Russian Destroyer in fall of 1996, Cayman Brac has further increased its underwater appeal. The Russian Ship rests in about 55 ft. of water at its shallowest and 110 ft at its deepest. The ship rises to within about 15 ft of the surfaces ensuring that non-divers can get a good look at the vessel. Dive sites such as Greenhouse Reef or Radar reef are shallow reef dives (20-60 ft) and display spectacular coral rising to within feet of the surface. On the other hand, wall dives start quite deep on the island (about 70-100 ft) and provide quite a different dive experience. In addition to stunning corals and sponges divers can expect to see a variety of marine creatures ranging from turtles, squid, lobsters and rays (of all shapes and sizes) to the occasional shark or dolphin. For non-divers, the bottom can clearly be seen at over 150 feet, so the underwater treat is shared. Cayman Brac offers some of the best diving in the Caribbean. Along with its Sister Island of Little Cayman, it has been ranked in the top for wall diving and critters. Cayman Brac reefs and walls are just a few minutes boat ride from the resorts. With well over 70 sites between Cayman Brac and Little Cayman there is no end to scuba diving bliss. The sites run the gammit from large wrecks like the 330 foot Captain Keith Tibbetts, to stunning walls on Bloody Bay through unique animal encounters like Tarpon Reef. Come experience them for yourselves. Angling for more excitement? Hook up with a tuna off-shore or a bonefish on one of the salt-water flats.

Nature
Public footpaths and hiking trails criss-cross the island, with interpretive signs identifying a staggering variety of resident and non-resident bird species that call the Brac home. You'll also find scores of reptile habitats, flora and sites of scenic, geological and historic interest. Be sure to check out the impressive caves along the base of the Bluff. Maybe you'll be the one who finds the pirate treasure still rumored to be hidden inside! Visit www.naturecayman.com for more information.