A common misconception is that the Cayman Islands are expensive. While it’s true that the Seven Mile Beach area attracts big spenders, the rest of the island is a relaxed and affordable destination.
Shop local designer fashion brands at duty-free prices in George Town and Camana Bay. You can also pick up local literature and art or grab a sweet treat at one of many cafes.
Shopping in George Town
Grand Cayman’s shops cater to all tastes, from exquisite jewelry and luxury cosmetics to upscale cigars and rum cakes. The best shopping in Grand Cayman makes buying luxurious items like designer clothing and jewelry more accessible than ever, and there are plenty of places for souvenirs.
The best place to stock up on gifts is the Cayman Craft Market, where artisan vendors sell a range of handmade knick-knacks, including decorated coconuts, Caribbean conch, and traditional woven thatch hats. It’s a great place to browse, but make sure you head here when cruise ships aren’t docking so you can beat the crowds.
Upmarket department store Kirk Freeport Plaza Ltd is a top destination for high-end shoppers looking for luxury items, including watches, crystal, china, and perfumes. The shop also carries the best island souvenirs, such as a wide selection of colorful rum cakes and locally made jellies and pickles.
Local art lovers will find many galleries in George Town clustered together near the port. Check out 3 Girls & A Kiln, located on the waterfront for cheerful ceramics, or pop up north on Church Street for street-side shops less crowded with the cruise ship crowds.
For beachwear, resort clothes, and swimwear, head to Bluewave, where you’ll find many brands, including RVCA, OluKai, Billabong, and Roxy. The shop also carries a variety of accessories, including sunglasses and snorkeling gear.
Shopping in Seven Mile Beach
For a casual retail experience within easy reach of your resort, head to the 7 Mile Shops. The convenient collection of outlets includes a pharmacy, vitamin store, wellness center, and dive shop (in case you forgot your gear). There’s also a hair salon, a gym, and the Bloom childcare center. A supermarket stocks a good selection of staple foods, and the XQ’S Pizza is popular with locals.
Luxury items benefit from the Cayman Islands’ no sales tax. Look out for imported designer goods, including fashion, jewelry, watches, and high-end skincare and cosmetics brands. There’s also a wide range of rum cakes, leather goods, and camera equipment.
Leather goods, trinkets made of coral, and original artwork are just souvenirs to buy. Many craft shops around the island offer a variety of objects, and a visit to the Cayman Craft Market near George Town is a must.
A trip to the Camana Bay Shopping Village is also well worth it. Located south of Seven Mile Beach, the swanky open-air shopping district’s sleek, modern buildings are slathered in vibrant hues and framed by tall swaying palms to exude Caribbean charm. There’s a solid choice of restaurants and cafes to refuel while you browse, plus an attractive Wednesday farmer’s market featuring locally grown produce.
Shopping in Camana Bay
A scenic spot south of resort-lined Seven Mile Beach, Camana Bay is one of the top places to shop in Grand Cayman. The swanky open-air retail district features waterfront views, sleek modern buildings slathered in island colors, and tall swaying palms. It’s an excellent place to browse boutiques selling upscale Caribbean fashion, jewelry, and global brands. A solid selection of restaurants and cafes provides a place to refuel between shopping expeditions. Take the chance to climb up the seriously impressive Observation Tower for sweeping views of Camana Bay.
Local artisanal products and souvenirs are also great to buy in Camana Bay. Artisans set up booths throughout the streets and at specialty fairs on Wednesdays and weekends, offering handmade pottery, paintings, sculptural items, and locally made beauty products such as pepper jelly.
Other popular items you can pick up at these markets include jewelry (including jewelry made from authentic treasure coins), leather goods, rum cakes, scented candles, and handmade soaps. You can also find a good selection of books, music, and toys at these shops.
While Camana Bay is a bit more expensive than the strip in George Town, seeing this upscale shopping destination is worth a visit. Here, you’ll find a mix of independently owned specialty boutiques and high-end international chains like POLO Ralph Lauren. In addition, the enticing Town Centre features a collection of modern Caribbean buildings with stunning fountains and landscaping.
Shopping in East End
The East End of Grand Cayman has a slight neighborhood feel and is dotted with boutiques and shops. Here, you’ll find a range of items to take home that will remind you of your island escape. Some of the best souvenirs include rum, designer jewelry, watches (including Rolex and Cartier), t-shirts and shorts, beach towels, fine china and glassware, handbags and luggage, perfume and cosmetics, and local artwork. You can even pick up Cuban cigars in some stores, but it’s essential to know that you won’t be able to bring them back into the United States.
Cayman is also famous for its duty-free shopping, saving you up to 30 percent on watches, perfumes, and fine jewelry crafted from authentic treasure coins. Luxury brands, including Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Armani, can also be purchased at a discount.
An excellent place to start is the Camana Bay Town Centre, a modern Caribbean shopping and entertainment destination. Here, you’ll find a collection of local and international boutiques selling fashion, skincare, beauty products, kitchen accessories, bestselling books, and high-tech gadgets. A great time to shop in Camana Bay is on the first Wednesday of each month when participating retailers stay open late and offer special promotions, discounts, and spot prizes. It’s a fun way to spend the evening and find fantastic souvenirs.
