Cayman Brac is a 12 mile long island that is part of the Cayman Islands, located in the Caribbean Sea about 90 miles or 145 kilometers northeast of Grand Cayman and five miles or eight kilometers east of Little Cayman. The island is made up of a large central limestone outcrop that makes a steady rise to about 140 feet or 43 meters about sea level and gets its name from these distinct features, as ‘brac’ is a Gaelic name for a bluff.
During the height of piracy, pirates would commonly use Cayman Brac as a place to hide out, as well as a place to restock their supplies since there are several fresh water wells on the island, along with many other sources of food.
Cayman Brac Scuba Diving & Snorkeling
As testament to its superb diving and snorkeling opportunities, Cayman Brac offers 57 dive sites, serviced by half a dozen dive shops and fishing/snorkeling charters. One of the most popular dive spots is a Russian Koni class frigate that was purchased by the Caymanian government and sunk back in 1996. With its easy diving location, this sunken treasure dive site is perfect for both experienced and non-wreck certified divers.
Cayman Brac Caves
If you want to keep your head above the sea in Cayman Brac, there are many beautiful caves on the island that you could explore. One cave in particular is a Cayman National Heritage Site called Rebecca’s Cave which contains the grave of a young girl lost in the fierce hurricane of 1932.
To get around the island, there are four scooter and car rental facilities. While traveling around the island, you can view nearly 200 species of birds on the cliffs and wetland ponds and at the National Trust Parrot Preserve. You can hike over a dozen nature trails of varying lengths and intensity, stroll the magnificent cliff walks or marvel at the panoramic view from the Lighthouse on the Eastern Bluff.
Whatever you decide to do on this beautiful escape in the Caribbean, Cayman Brac will be a once in a lifetime experience. You can either be specific about what you see and do here or let island time take over your trip here and let things happen naturally.