Renting a car and driving around the Island

[LTS1960]

We have 3 kids, 15, 9 and 7 and are on the Carnival Triumph on 31 March trip. I know I am leaving it late but we really want to just do our own thing when in Grand Cayman. Is there only the one car rental (Avis)?? Which route is the best to take to drive around and what are the best non busy beaches? Any good snorkeling also? I heard about Rum Point, is that the best beach?

Any great info and tips would be appreciated.

[fatcat04]

We reserved a car with Budget. They are picking us up at the Hard Rock Cafe and taking us to their facility at the airport. Our car is a full size with kid's booster seat, insurance, island driver's fee, taxes, and gas for $85 for the whole day. And since we have the RapidRez card we might get a free upgrade if available. We too just want to explore and go where we want to go and since it is an English speaking country, though they drive to the left, we think it is a great opportunity for adventure.

[drew sailbum]

There are a multitude of car rental companies, both franchises of major international brands and others which are wholy locally owned and operated. Avis, Budget, Coconut, Marshalls, and many, many more. For what its worth, Avis has the best map!

 

You can do your own thing. Usually you pick up the car near the airport. That leaves two basic directios to travel - either back to Georgetown and up Seven Mile Beach to West Bay, or to the eastern districts of Bodden Town, North Side, and East End.

 

The west side including Georgwtown up to West Bay is where most of the tourism is centered. Attractions include shopping in George Town, realxing or enjoying water activities along Seven Mile Beach, and a tour of Hell or the Turtle Farm. It can be quite busy on a major cruise ship day.

 

The eastern districts are less travelled though there are several attractions. Pedro St James is a historic site and the original home of democracy in Cayman. There are the Pirate Caves in Bodden Town, or the Botanic Park in North Side. Rum Point is a beautiful beach with tourist amenities in North Side, or there are public beaches with simple restroom facilities in East End or Cayman Kai (both of which will likely be deserted).

[leahsdad]

we rented from avis---they had a shuttle that picked us up at a local store==

dropped us back at the pier---we did rum point---specatcular place---driving on the left was not an issue---just follow the other drivers

 

we were able to see more and stay longer than the cruise tours--

 

Paul

[suekay]

Are the cars right hand drive? We hope so because we live in England:)

[twinkletoes4445]

Are the cars right hand drive? We hope so because we live in England:)

 

We rented our car from Andy's and we had a choice...either left hand or right hand...we chose the left, since that's what we're used to.

 

Renting a car is the BEST way to see the island. When we were there, we drove all over the island. We actually enjoying the East End area the best.