Driving in Grand Cayman: 9 Things to Know Before You Arrive

Grand Cayman is a beautiful island with plenty of places to see and things to do. With so much choice on offer many visitors choose to rent a car. Driving is still the best way to get around and see everything the island has to offer – especially on your own timetable. But before you arrive on the island, there are the 9 things you need to know about driving in Grand Cayman:

Driving on the left side

Grand Cayman drives on the left side of the road. This can be confusing for visitors from countries where driving takes place on the right, so take some time to familiarize yourself with the layout of the roads before getting behind the wheel.

Speed limits

The speed limit on highways is 80 km/h (50 mph), while the speed limit in urban areas is 40–48 km/h (25–30 mph). When amber lights are flashing or there are signs or road markings, it means that the speed limit in school zones is 15 km/h (9 mph). Be extra careful when driving in these areas, as children may be crossing the road. To avoid getting a ticket, be sure to pay attention to the speed limit signs and drive within the posted limits.

Driving requirement

Non-residents are not required to get a visitor’s permit to drive in Grand Cayman. You can drive as long as you have a valid driver’s license and insurance. Visitors from a non-convention country with a valid driver’s license can drive on the island for 1 month. They can only drive a motor car, a truck that weighs less than 8,500 pounds, or a motorcycle with a 125cc engine or less. Visitors from a convention country with a valid driver’s license can drive in Grand Cayman for 6 months.

Road conditions

The roads are in excellent condition across the island. They are flat, easy to drive, well marked and paved, and well-lit at night. When you are driving in the smaller cities and towns, watch out for wildlife as they sometimes wander onto the roads.

Rush hour

Grand Cayman is a small island, but it can still get pretty congested during rush hour. The best way to avoid traffic is to plan your travels around the island accordingly. Rush hour typically runs from 7:30 am to 9:30 am on weekdays, and again from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm. If you’re planning on driving during these times, it’s best to stick to the main highways as the side streets and back roads can get backed up.

Parking

Grand Cayman offers plenty of free parking throughout the islands. You’ll never have to worry about finding a spot to park your car. However, keep in mind that street parking can be limited in some areas, so it’s always best to check for signs before leaving your vehicle.

Gas prices

The cost of gasoline in Grand Cayman is relatively high when compared to other countries in the region. However, this is to be expected given the island’s small size and lack of oil resources. A gallon of gas is now over CI$6.00 (USD$7.20), which is significantly higher than the price in neighboring Jamaica or Cuba.

Despite the high cost, gas is still an essential commodity for many people living on Grand Cayman. There is a limited amount of public transportation on the island, and most people rely on cars or motorcycles to get around.

General driving rules

Grand Cayman has a few general driving rules that are important to know. First, pedestrians always have the right of way at pedestrian crossings. Secondly, you are allowed to turn left at a red light after coming to a full stop. However, using your cell phone while driving is illegal unless it is hands-free. Finally, all passengers in a car must wear seatbelts, even those in the back.

Another thing to note is that using fog lights is illegal in Grand Cayman. And before overtaking, make sure there’s no double or solid single white or yellow line in the center of the road.

Where to drive

There are many scenic drives on Grand Cayman that are worth taking. Some of the most popular include:

The North Coast Road

This road takes you along the north coast of the island, offering stunning views of the sea and cliffs. It’s a great drive for anyone who wants to enjoy the natural beauty of the island.

The East End

The east end of the island is home to some of the most beautiful beaches on Grand Cayman. This drive will take you past all of them, so you can soak up the sun and enjoy the views.

The Rum Point Road

This road takes you to one of the most popular tourist destinations on Grand Cayman, Rum Point. Along the way, you’ll pass through some of the island’s most lush and tropical scenery.

The Bodden Town Road

This road takes you through the heart of Grand Cayman’s capital, Bodden Town. You’ll see many of the town’s historic buildings and landmarks along the way.

Conclusion

Overall, driving in Grand Cayman is a pleasant experience. The roads are well-maintained and offer scenic views of the island. However, it’s important to be aware of the island’s general driving rules and regulations before getting behind the wheel. With a little planning and preparation, you can enjoy a safe and enjoyable drive around this beautiful island. To learn more about Grand Cayman, be sure to visit the official Cayman Islands tourism board website.

If you haven’t booked your accommodation yet, check out our Grand Cayman vacation rentals page to find the one you love.

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