The Best Of Cayman Brac

PHOTO: The amazin’ Cayman Islands. (photo via Cayman Islands Department of Tourism) If you’re looking for a great vacation destination for diving and exploring, as well as a great place to sit back and take it easy, look no further than the tiny island of Cayman Brac.It is the easternmost island of the Cayman Islands in the Caribbean, is 12 miles long and only a mile wide, but don’t let its diminutive size fool you.This little islet packs a punch when it comes to things to see and do.Cayman Brac is the perfect destination for even the most novice of spelunkers to explore. Check out the view of Spot Bay from Peter’s Cave, see the bats hanging from the roof inside Bat’s Cave and Skull Cave, and learn the tragic story behind Rebecca’s Cave. There are so many caves to discover and learn how residents protected themselves during hurricanes or maybe even find some leftover loot from the days when pirates stashed their treasure chests there.Once you’re out of the caves, go into and below the waters to explore and you’ll find the MV Captain Keith Tibbetts, a 330-foot Russian frigate that was sunk in September 1996.There are more than 50 dive sites on Cayman Brac and 11 that are reachable by shore so there is plenty of below-sea gems that divers can enjoy.The island is known for its scuba diving, but there’s also kayaking, deep sea fishing, diving and snorkeling where you can take in the views of sea turtles, fish, reefs, and other beautiful ocean creatures.Cayman Brac is also home to 200 bird species and too-many-to-count iguanas on the island. Spot them on your walk or bike ride.Cayman Brac is also home to a magnificent Parrot Reserve, a 180-acre protected destination where you can see the Brac Parrot, brown boobies, and peregrine. On the way to the Reserve, enjoy the gorgeous views of the water from the Cayman Brac Lighthouse.There is only one road that travels throughout the island and, since "brac" means bluff in Gaelic, take it to see The Bluff, a limestone cliff that runs the entire length of the island. Rock climbers will love to scale the jagged cliffs because the view at the top of the climb is well worth it.By the way, don’t look for a bus on that one road – you either need a car or a bike to explore this petite island. Want to go off-the-beaten path? Hike or bike any one of the Cayman Brac’s 35 marked nature trails.READ MORE: Placate Your Palate In The CaymansIf you’re looking to learn about the history and culture of Cayman Brac, take a tour of the Heritage House, where you’ll see island resources, artwork and more. The Heritage House also offers several classes and hosts events so check their schedule.There are several options for your accommodations, including the Cayman Brac Beach Resort, a family owned and operated property on four-and-a-half acres of beautiful private beach. There’s also Le Soleil d'Or, accommodations on a 20-acre organic farm that is described as a farm-to-table wellness destination.