Grand Cayman Getaway from Houston

There’s something about Seven Mile Beach that makes you want to book a flight, stat. Maybe because it is regularly ranked as one of the most beautiful beaches in all of the Caribbean.

The water has a kind of blue that most beaches could only dream of after about 25 photo-editing filters, but this beach, situated on Grand Cayman Island is the stuff dreams (and glorious Instagram accounts) were made of. (Also, did we mention that the average winter water temperate is 80 degrees?)

Another thing that makes Grand Cayman such a unique travel destination is the genuine authenticity and culture that can be seen and felt in every crevice of the island. The island has a population of about 55,000 and more than half are from Caymanian descent, which helps create the authentic culture adding to the overall experience.

What to do in Grand Cayman

Grand Cayman is one of the most sought-after diving destinations, no matter what skill level you are.

The nightlife in Grand Cayman is a tad tamer than your typical Cancun Spring Break, so plan to go all out during the day, taking advantage of the beautiful water and white sandy beaches, and opt for a more low-key night. The accessible and shallow reefs make this a great spot to take in an afternoon of snorkeling at Stingray City, so be sure to check out the Waverunner Snorkel Safari so you can get fast adventures and a snorkeler’s paradise in the translucent waters all in one day.

Camana Bay is also a great option for entertainment while on the island complete with shopping, dining, adventures, a movie theater and even a wine barwith state-of-the-art Napa Technology WineStations. Pretty much all of the hotels in the area offer a free shuttle to Camana Bay, so it’s easy to get to.

You should also make a point to stop by Calico Jacks Bar and Grill for happy hour and hang out with a sun-kissed mix of tourists and locals.

Travel pro tip for carry-on items: The TSA folks at Owen Roberts International

Photo courtesy of Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort & Spa

Airport (GCM) are painfully tough. They are major sticklers on one small Ziploc bag and you will be stopped, so pack cautiously. Even if you got into the country with it in your carry-on, odds are you won’t be able to leave with it.

A $50 million panoramic view

The newly renovated Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort & Spa is the biggest and most expansive beachfront hotel, with a $50 million panoramic view from the new lobby and the largest fresh water pool in Grand Cayman, with an energized swim up bar to keep the vacation vibes going. Check out the resort’s fresh new look and indulge yourself in the island’s culture in a beach side cabana, a waverunner adventure, snorkeling expedition, a diving tour or something more.

Crystal clear waters aside, it also offers great dining at The Beach House, a AAA Four Diamond restaurant, as well as classic and unique cocktails at the resort’s Catboat lobby bar, perfectly setup with a beachfront view. While you’re at the resort, don’t miss the Beach Side BBQ on Friday nights. It’s an intimate yet casual dining experience – you guessed it – on the beach. No need for shoes, but you will need reservations.

The bartenders are about as friendly and inventive as one could hope for, and make the perfect resource for all things related to the island, whether you are on the hunt for nightlife entertainment (like at Camana Bay), diving tips or other beach activities.

This article originally ran in the travel section of CultureMap Houston.