Choose from 812 Fun Things to Do in Himachal Pradesh & Uttarakhand
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Crashboat Beach
Once the site of a military port that rescued downed aircrews, Cashboat Beach has since become a favorite ocean-side destination for travelers to northwest Puerto Rico. Clear turquoise waters and calm surf make it an ideal spot for families with small children, but visitors say the picturesque shores of Crashboat are perfect for just about any traveler.
It’s easy to spend a day relaxing on the sands of this quiet beach, with rocky cliffs perfect for jumping into refreshing waters. But visitors agree it’s worth staying until sunset, when the bright red sun tucks behind the deep blue ocean and local vendors come out to prepare traditional food over open fires. Crashboat attracts plenty of out-of-towners on holiday, but it’s the perfect beach for visitors looking to interact with locals and get a taste of contemporary Puerto Rican life, too.
Practical Info
Crashboat Beach is located in northwestern Puerto Rico in the municipality of Aguadilla. Travelers can access the beach by taking PR-107 to PR-458.
Address: Aguadilla, Puerto Rico
From $ 180
Carnavalet Museum (Musee Carnavalet)
Visitors shouldn’t let the somewhat enigmatic name fool them into thinking this is a peculiar museum; the Carnavalet Museum is indeed one of Paris’ finest. Initially an idea of Baron Haussmann, who carried out extensive renovation works all around Paris in the late 1800s, the museum retraces Paris’ history all the way from the Lutèce Roman village it once was to the vibrant metropolis it has now become. Located in two 16th-century lavish townhouses – formerly known as Hôtel de Carnavalet (where an icon of French literature, the famous marquise de Sévigné, lived) and Hôtel d’Orgeval – in Le Marais, the architectural setting of the museum is just as captivating at the collection it houses.
Speaking of which, the museum’s collection totalizes 580,000 artefacts and comprises a magnificent sculpture of Louis XIV, as well as about 2,600 paintings, 20,000 drawings, 300,000 engravings and 150,000 photographs, 2,000 modern sculptures and 800 pieces of furniture, thousands of ceramics and several thousand other objects, including some of Marie-Antoinette’s personal effects. In fact, the Musée Carnavalet is just as much a history museum as it is an art museum, since the 100+ rooms retrace the history of Parisian interior design and artistic trends, as well as the significant moments of the city’s long, agitated history and its artistic innovations.
The compact but lavish gardens located between the two townhouses are also well worth a detour; they are home to 1,000 plant species and are decorated in the utmost French tradition of symmetry, geometry and order.
Practical Info
Musée Carnavalet is located on rue de Sévigné in the 3rd arrondissement in central Paris, near Place de la Bastille, Pompidou and Ile Saint-Louis. It is reachable by metro at stops Chemin Vert and Saint-Paul. The permanent collection is free to visit, but temporary exhibition and conferences cost €6.
Address: 16 rue des Francs-Bourgeois, Paris, France
Hours: Tuesday to Sunday 10am to 6pm
Admission: €6.
From $ 54
Baie Ternay Marine National Park
The Seychelles is a destination for lovers, and Baie Ternay is its hot spot for adventurers. That’s because this pristine beach is home to some of the island’s top snorkeling and diving, thanks to crystal-clear waters and incredible coral reefs right next to shore. This idyllic beach is an ideal place for relaxation and sunbathing, while also offering travelers picturesque views of Morne Seychellois peak, the island’s tallest mountain.
Those in the know say an excursion to Baie Ternay Marine National Park is an essential part of any Seychelles’ visit, and the turquoise waters, lush mangroves, and secluded stretches of sand offer up some of the best beaches in the area.
Practical Info
The park is located on the west coast of Maje in Port Glaud. The area is inaccessible by road, so travelers will have to use local boat charters or tours.
Address: Port Glaud, Seychelles
From $ 110
Barker's National Park
The Cayman Islands' first-ever national park was created around the northern end of West Bay, in an area called Barker’s National Park. Here you can find a long stretch of undeveloped beach alongside mangrove forests, where you can go for a hike or join a horseback-riding excursion. You can also see the park as part of a West Bay bike tour.
Whether you’re hiking, biking or riding the trails in the park, keep an eye out for wildlife like the brown pelicans and green iguanas that make their homes here. However, don’t expect to find much in the way of facilities, as the park is simply a preserve without any ranger station or bathrooms to visit while you’re there. Luckily, it’s located just a few minutes from the town of West Bay.
Practical Info
To reach Barker’s National Park, follow signs to Pappagallo Restaurant, which sits just outside the park boundary. If you’re visiting the park from George Town, the drive is about 25 minutes long. Visiting the park on your own is free, but you can pay for guided biking or horseback riding tours.
Address: West Bay, Cayman Islands
From $ 300
Gdansk Old Town
One of the largest historical centers in Europe, Gdansk’s Old Town will take you back to the Middle Ages. Due to significant damage during World War II, many buildings are reconstructions of their historic counterparts, but a good number of original structures do remain. Almost one third of the streets in the Old Town have had the same names for more than 500 years.
The Old Town doesn’t have a main square; instead, activity centers around the long pedestrian street known as Dlugi Targ, or Long Market. Standing in the middle of Dlugi Targ is the impressive Neptune Fountain, built in 1633. One highlight of any tour around the Old Town include the 14th century Gothic style city hall, which today is home to the Historical Museum of Gdansk. Another must-see is the House of Uphagen, an 18th century town house that offers a glimpse into how the wealthy burghers of that era lived. Also of note are the 12th century Green Gate, the Dlugie Ogrody (Long Gardens), the colorful and cobbled Mariacka Street, St. Mary’s Church and Targ Weglowy (Coal Square).
Practical Info
The Gdansk Old Town is easily walkable and joining a walking tour can be a great way to see the historic center. Flying into Gdansk Lech Walesa Airport, visitors can get to the center of the city by train or bus. Trains from elsewhere in Poland arrive at the main train station, just east of the city center. The main bus station is just behind the train station.
Address: Gdansk, Poland
From $ 93
Carlisle Bay
The ancient shipwrecks in this protected natural harbor make Carlisle Bay one of Barbados’ most popular snorkeling and scuba diving destinations. Six sunken vessels dot the ocean floor here and attract hundreds of varieties of tropical fish, stingrays, sea stars and turtles, not to mention curious travelers.
In addition to underwater adventures, the nearby Boatyard offers jet skiing, sea trampolines and the opportunity to jump into the ocean via rope swing. Even those who prefer to stay out of the water will love the calm shores and sandy beaches of Carlisle Bay, where countless chair and umbrella rentals make it easy to while away the day here.
Practical Info
Carlisle Bay is located in the southwest region of Barbados near Bridgetown. Early risers can head to nearby Pebble Beach to see local race horses being exercised along the shores.
Address: Barbados
From $ 20
Ballintoy Harbour
Located along the scenic Antrim coast, the harbor of the traditional fishing village of Ballintoy offers striking Atlantic views and insight into a rural way of a life. The village has remained virtually unchanged over the last few centuries, and as such was chosen as a filming location for Pyke’s harbor in Game of Thrones.
The Basics
Due to its recent fame as an Iron Island filming location, the harbor features on a number of Game of Thrones tours. Day tours typically offer round-trip transfer from Dublin or Belfast, and include other highlights such as the Giant’s Causeway, with some offering private service for a more personalized experience. For those with more time, multi-day tours offer a more relaxed pace, while thrillseekers may prefer the more immersive experience of a coasteering excursion.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Remember to pack a sweater and raincoat, as the north Atlantic can be stormy.
- This is a must-see for Games of Thrones enthusiasts or landscape photographers.
- The small village and harbor don’t take much time to explore, so make the most of your time by combining a visit with a wider itinerary.
How to Get There
Ballintoy is located between Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge and the Giant’s Causeway, both top attractions themselves. The village is easily accessible by road, so take advantage of round-trip transport provided by many sightseeing tours, or take a train to Coleraine then transfer to a bus to complete the journey.
When to Get There
The seasonal blooms of spring and summer along the Antrim coast are a sight to behold, though the harbor itself is famous for its winter views across a stormy Atlantic.
Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge
A half-hour coastal walk from Ballintoy is the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, erected by fishermen over 350 years ago and still worth a visit today. The island across the bridge is ideal for snapping pictures and wildlife watching; be aware, though, that the bridge is closed during turbulent weather.
Address: Belfast, Northern Ireland
From $ 38
Doolin
Located on the wave-beaten western edge of Ireland, this former fisherman’s village is known for its traditional Irish music scene. Every night, patrons squeeze into a trio of popular pubs to listen to fiddlers, singers, flutists, tin whistlers, and bodhrán (a traditional Irish drum) players take part in toe-tapping jam sessions.
The Basics
Doolin is a popular base for travelers who want to explore the natural beauty of north County Clare. Organized tours to the Cliffs of Moher often make a stop at Doolin (the town is just a 10-minute drive from the famous UNESCO-listed beauty spot), as well as at the Burren, a region known for its unusual karst topography. For those who want a different perspective on the Cliffs of Moher, cruises to the cliffs depart from Doolin Pier.
In Doolin itself, visitors can explore the town and admire the brightly painted fishermen’s cottages. The town’s biggest attraction is its trio of music pubs: Gus O’Connor’s, McDermott’s, and McGann’s. Visitors can enjoy a typical Irish lunch, such as fish-and-chips or beef-and-Guinness stew, or settle in for an evening of live music.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Doolin is a must for music-lovers and anyone who wants to experience Irish pub culture.
- Bring a good rain jacket and walking boots as Doolin is frequently hit with wind and rain.
- Some Cliffs of Moher cruises departing from Doolin are wheelchair-accessible.
How to Get There
Doolin is located along the Wild Atlantic Way in north County Clare in the west of Ireland. The village is about 1.5 hours from Galway by car. Bus Éireann route 350 runs from Galway city center to Doolin.
When to Get There
Doolin is at its liveliest during summer, when warmer, calmer weather allows boat cruises to run and other area tourist attractions are up and running. During the summer months, music sessions normally take place nightly. In winter, Doolin is much quieter, though live traditional music sessions still take place on weekend nights in its cozy pubs.
What Else to Do in Doolin
Though its music scene and the nearby Cliffs of Moher are Doolin’s biggest attractions, there are other activities in town well worth trying too. Follow the Doolin Cliff Walk, which offers views of the stunning and sheer Atlantic cliffs, or visit Doolin Cave, whose 24-foot-long (7.3-meter-long) stalactite is said to be the longest free-hanging stalactite in Europe.
Address: Ireland
From $ 35
Barbados Parliament Buildings
Historic Bridgetown has a Colonial feel reminiscent of a miniature England, and on a visit to the Barbados Parliament Buildings, travelers can learn what it means to be a part of the former British Commonwealth. The Barbados Parliament was established back in 1639—which makes it the Commonwealth’s third oldest, behind only Britain and Bermuda. The gorgeous, Neo-Gothic buildings were completed in 1874 and give the historic district the feel of Victorian England. Unlike some other Caribbean architecture that is decaying and in disrepair, the Barbados Parliament Buildings are exquisitely maintained to the point where you just might find yourself staring and gawking in the middle of the street.
Aside from the spectacular, external appearance, it’s inside the Museum of Parliament and National Heroes Gallery where visitors can learn the fascinating history of Barbados. Located inside the West Wing, the Museum of Parliament tells the island’s history through stunning photographs and videos, and shows visitors what life was like through various historical eras. You’ll also find info on influential figures who have helped to shape the nation. Visitors will leave with a deep, well-rounded knowledge of this historic Caribbean nation.
Practical Info
There is no photography, video, food or drink allowed inside the museum. Visitors must also be properly clothed, and no beachwear is allowed. The Parliament Buildings are closed to the public whenever Parliament is in session.
Did You Know? The famous clock tower, which can be seen from much of historic Bridgetown, was damaged in a 2010 tropical storm and was stuck on the time of 2:12 for years until it was fixed.
Address: Broad Street, Bridgetown, Barbados
Hours: The Museum of Parliament is open Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday from 10am-4pm, and on Saturday from 10am-3pm.
Admission: $10 for adults
From $ 25
Cas Abao Beach
Hit the beach at one of Curacao’s most idyllic sandy shores. Cas Abao Beach is a protected escape on the island’s west side, where you can enjoy the crystal-blue water and gleaming white sand among a convenient collection of amenities. The private beach has plenty of parking, and once you’ve paid the entry fee, you can rent whatever you need on-site, from beach chairs and umbrellas to paddle boats and snorkeling gear. At lunch time, you can get burgers, sandwiches and frozen drinks at the Beach Bar & Restaurant, and if you’re looking for even more relaxation, book a massage at the open-air hut on the beach. The beach also has bathrooms with showers and lifeguards to keep everyone safe as you swim or snorkel.
Practical Info
Cas Abao beach is about 35 minutes by car from Willemstad, and the entry fee costs about $6 per car on weekdays, about $7.25 on weekends. Weekends, especially Sundays, can be quite crowded, so if you prefer a more laid-back beach experience, come during the week.
Address: Curacao
Hours: Daily 8am-6pm
Admission: Weekdays $6, Sat & Sun $7.25
From $ 49
Casa de la Moneda
Aside from the thrill of “discovering” new lands, the Spanish conquistadores were endlessly driven by thoughts of discovering gold. Here at Bogota’s Casa de Moneda, walk amidst the spot where gold was first minted in Colombia, having stood in this spot since 1622 when the King of Spain ordered the production of gold coins in Bogota. Since money and power seem to go hand in hand, this museum that’s based around Colombian currency has many political undertones, where the type of currency that’s been minted through the years shows fascinating parallels between the political era and Colombia’s historical events. From the initial barter of ceramics and pots that was used by indigenous tribes, the currencies weave a chronological tale as viewed through production of money.
Practical Info
The Casa de Moneda is located inside the Banco de República complex in the heart of downtown Bogota. It’s in the same complex as the Botero Museum, and an easy visit on a small group sightseeing tour of discovering downtown Bogota.
Did You Know? In 1948, when vandals tried to rob the building in a time of political protests, chemicals used in the finishing of gold were used to asphyxiate and fend off thieves who tried to break through the doors.
Address: Calle 11 #493, Bogota, Colombia
Hours: 9am-7pm Monday-Saturday, 10am-5pm Sunday
From $ 25
Casa Gardeliana Museum
Medellin is the second world capital of tango (after Buenos Aires), and tango music can be heard throughout the city. This is due in large part to Carlos Gardel, a famous tango musician who died in 1935 in a tragic plane accident in Medellin while touring Colombia. Gardel’s death spurred a movement that lives on to this day. In fact, the International Tango Festival, held in Medellin every June, commemorates Gardel’s life with dancers, singers, musicians and faithful followers of this musical expression.
To celebrate the music of a man who changed Medellin, the Casa Gardeliana Museum opened in 1972. Dedicated to tango, this museum has projects, programs and services that are all about teaching tango dance, singing and music. They have collections that include photos, recordings and documentaries about how tango has influenced life in Medellin. There are guided tours and special day and evening performance programs. This is small, unique museum in Medellin for those who want to get a glimpse at Gardel’s life and influence on the world of tango.
Practical Info
The museum is located at Carrera 45 # 76–50, Medellin, and is open Tuesday through Saturday 10am to noon and 1:30 to 5pm.
Address: Carrera 45 # 76–50, Medellin, Colombia
From $ 59
Crazy Horse Cabaret
Held in an intimate underground venue, the Crazy Horse cabaret’s provocative yet sophisticated burlesque-style show celebrates femininity and specializes in the art of seduction, with a series of elaborately choreographed routines performed by highly trained dancers wearing custom-made red-soled Louboutins, bob wigs, bright red lipstick—and often little else. Avant-garde artist Alain Bernardin established the venerated Crazy Horse de Paris in 1951.
The Basics
During the cabaret’s 90-minute Totally Crazy show, audience members witness some of the troupe’s most classic routines, including the well-known Philippe Decouflé–choreographed Crazy Horse Guards, which sees the Crazy Girls donning bearskin hats and skimpy royal guard uniforms. The venue also hosts newer acts created by the likes of Dita von Teese and Ali Mahdavi. You can book show tickets in advance or upgrade your experience to include VIP extras such as Champagne and appetizers. You can also pair a visit here with a pre- or post-show dinner at the nearby art deco brasserie, Chez Francis.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Dress respectably. Ties and jackets are not required, but shorts, sneakers, and sportswear are not allowed.
- Performances contain partial nudity and may not be suitable for kids.
- For the ultimate indulgence, splurge on a private VIP booth to sip Champagne and snack on caviar during the show.
- Seats are not reservable; they are assigned and allocated on the night of the show.
- The Crazy Horse is wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
The Crazy Horse de Paris venue is on Avenue George V near the Champs-Elysees. Both the bus (lines 42, 63, 72, 80, and 92) and the Metro (line 9) connect to the nearby Alma–Marceau station. Alternatively, take the RER C line to Pont de l’Alma or the RER A line to Charles de Gaulle–Etoile.
When to Get There
Shows take place twice a night, at 8:30pm and 11pm, Sunday to Friday; on Saturdays there are three performances, at 7pm, 9:30pm, and midnight. Arrive early to catch the pre-show burlesque act, which begins 30 minutes before the main performance.
Which Paris Cabaret is Right for You?
Paris is home to several legendary cabaret venues, and choosing between the two most renowned—Moulin Rouge and Crazy Horse de Paris—can be difficult. If you want Las Vegas–style acts and fanfare—and to see the world-famous cancan—Moulin Rouge is the cabaret for you. Crazy Horse, meanwhile, offers artistic and slightly racier performances in a smaller, more intimate setting.
Address: 12 Avenue George V, Paris 75008, France
Admission: Check website for show prices
From $ 98
Carriacou
Carriacou provides a laid-back alternative to the larger neighboring island of Grenada, where many day trips to Carriacou begin. One of the Grenadine Islands, Carriacou is known as “the island surrounded by reefs." Its pristine beaches and clear waters offer ideal conditions for snorkeling and scuba diving.
The Basics
Located northeast of Grenada, Carriacou was settled by Arawak and Carib people from South America; their influence, along with that of the French and British, can still be seen in Hillsborough, the only town on the island. Gain insight into island culture by attending a music or dance performance, or visiting the small Carriacou Museum. Day trips from Grenada via ferry are available.
Things to Know Before You Go
- If you plan to celebrate Carnival in Carriacou, pack clothes that you won’t mind getting messy. The Carnival tradition of J’ouvert morning includes smearing paint, mud, or oil on participants’ bodies.
- Popular dive spots include Sharky’s Hideaway, where you can see nursing sharks. There’s also Sisters Rock for its black coral, and Whirlpool with volcanic bubbles.
- The uncrowded, sugar-white sand of Paradise Beach is a favorite place for relaxing.
How to Get There
Carriacou is 20 miles north of Grenada. Ferry service is available Monday through Saturday starting at 9am, and Sunday from 8am. Travel time from Grenada is 1.5 hours. Return ferries depart Carriacou daily starting at 3:30pm. Small aircraft can also land at the island’s Lauriston Airport. Minibuses run on the island from 7am to 5pm.
When to Get There
If you want to catch the Carriacou Maroon Music Festival, which celebrates the traditional Caribbean practice of a “maroon”—offering thanks for the last harvest and asking for good fortune for the next planting season—plan your trip for April. If you want to join in the celebration of Carnival, book your visit for some time in February or early March (depending when Easter falls).
Nearby Petite Martinique
Located 2.5 miles (4 kilometers) from Carriacou, Petite Martinique is a tiny island with a small population, most of whom make a living building boats, fishing, and seafaring. Tourists who visit Petite Martinique and Carriacou on the same day trip can climb Petite Martinique’s Piton volcano via a well-marked trail. From the top, catch views of the neighboring Grenadine Islands.
Address: Grenada
From $ 191
Cas en Bas Beach
On the northern tip of St. Lucia’s windward shore, Cas en Bas Beach is one of the best kitesurfing spots on the island, with regular tradewinds blowing onshore and a protected cove where the water stays calm and glassy. Kitesurfing St. Lucia offers lessons for all levels right off the beach. This somewhat secluded spot is the ideal destination for travelers who prefer a quiet place to swim and sunbathe away from the crowds and persistent vendors on the beaches closer to town—it’s also home to unique artifact, a spent rocket booster that washed ashore here after it was jettisoned by a spacecraft in flight. Join one of the horseback riding tours through the forests of the northern coast, and you’ll stop to relax and swim at Cas en Bas Beach before turning back on the trail. And hungry beachgoers can find food and drinks at Marjorie's Restaurant and Beach Bar, a casual, open-air eatery offering local favorites like fresh seafood and BBQ right on the sand.
Practical Info
Cas en Bas Beach sits 2 miles northeast of Rodney Bay at the north end of the island. To get there, take Cas en Bas Road off the Castries-Gros Inlet Highway, just north of Rodney Bay Marina.
Address: Rodney Bay, St Lucia
From $ 78
Barbizon
Known as the “Village of Painters,” Barbizon is a little town of around 1,500 people perched on the edge of the Fountainebleau Forest just outside Paris. Famous for the Barbizon art movement of French Revolution fame, Barbizon was the place where many artists headed at the time. Inspired by the rural paintings of English painter John Constable, the school of artists found the village’s fields and surrounding Fountainebleau Forest central to their work.
The area’s most famous painters, Théodore Rousseau and Jean-François Millet, made their homes, lived their lives and ultimately died in the village. Millet is especially famous for his paintings of peasant figures working the fields. He purposely hid the peasant’s faces and gave them bent figures to show their anonymity and the difficulty of their lives, a huge step away from the formal aristocrat portraits of the time.
The Barbizon movement of 1830-1870 also inspired the next generation of French artists; impressionists such as Monet, Renoir and Alfred Sisley all discovered the joys of painting in the Fontainebleau Forest.
In Barbizon village, it’s popular to take a stroll down the Grand Rue to see its stone houses and discover its restaurants. There are several museums and artists’ studios to visit in town, too.
Practical Info
Barbizon is located about 35 miles and 45 minutes southeast of Paris. If arriving by public transport, SNCF trains leave every 30 minutes from Paris’ Gare de Lyon to Fontainebleau-Avon. From there, a taxi can be taken to the village of Barbizon.
Address: Barbizon, Paris, France
Hours: Daily
From $ 139
Dominica Botanic Gardens
The Dominica Botanic Gardens are a beloved area of green space in the capital of Roseau. Established by the British in 1890, it was originally planted to maintain reserves of the various crops farmers grew on the island. Today the gardens comprise 40 acres along the south edge of the city, situated at the base of Morne Bruce. You can explore an oasis of tropical flora and fauna that is home to more than 50 types of native plants and imported trees. While here, keep your eyes open for the Sisserou Parrot, Dominica’s national bird. In 1979 Hurricane David did considerable damage to the gardens, and you can still see some of the carnage in the form of a bus that was crushed beneath a baobab tree.
Practical Info
The gardens are free and open to the public all day, every day. To get there, simply head east along Valley Rd. toward Windsor Park Stadium—the gate is on the right. If you’re interested in identifying the species you’ll see in the garden, stop by the Forestry, Wildlife & Parks Division just off Valley Road, where you can buy An Illustrated Guide to Dominica’s Botanic Gardens for about $5.
Address: Bath Rd, Roseau, Dominica
Hours: Open daily.
From $ 49
Casa de los Picos
On your journey from Segovia’s Roman aqueduct to its Plaza Mayor, you’ll no doubt pass by one of the city’s most intriguing buildings, the Casa de los Picos. One look at the façade and you’ll easily see how it earned its name, the (loosely translated) House of Sharp Points, as its front is covered top to bottom with over 600 granite, diamond-shaped reliefs.
It is believed that the 15th century noble home’s curious façade was created as a possible form of defense given the building’s rather exposed location. Legend has it, though, that the house was well known (famously or infamously) for its previous owners, so when new ones moved in, they chose to cover the façade. These days, the thick-walled structure is home to the Segovia Art School and serves as an exhibition hall, which is open to the public free of charge.
Practical Info
While opening hours are sparse, there isn’t much to see on the interior, so most will get their fill by viewing the exterior.
Address: Calle Juan Bravo, 33, Segovia, Castile-Leon 40001, Spain
Hours: April 1st-September 30th: Monday-Sunday, 12 a.m.-2 p.m.
and 7 p.m.-9 p.m. October 1st-March 31st: Monday through Sunday, 12 a.m.-2 p.m. and 6 p.m.-8 p.m.
From $ 92
George Town
Charming George Town is the Caymans Islands’ capital, situated on Grand Cayman in the British West Indies. As well as being a major offshore banking hub, George Town is a popular port for cruise ships, thanks to its laid-back and colorful Caribbean vibe—and the some of the Cayman Islands’ most glorious beaches.
The Basics
Resorts line stunning Seven Mile Beach, attracting families, honeymooners, and, especially, divers. The year-round warm water and great visibility combine with exciting wreck dives to create one of the top diving locations on the planet. Divers from around the world come here to dive the famous Stingray City site.
Plenty of city tours and shore excursions combine sights in George Town and around Grand Cayman. Highlights include the Grand Cayman Turtle Farm, where you’ll see turtles of all sizes; the tiny post office in the town of Hell, surrounded by otherworldly rock formations; and the local rum distillery, where you can taste spirits as well as one of the most famous local products, rum cake. Boat tours and submarine tours explore the coral gardens, the barrier reef, the Kittiwake shipwreck, and other offshore locations. Fishing charters are also readily available.
Know Before You Go
- George Town and Seven Mile Beach are idyllic for beachgoers and water sports enthusiasts.
- Food and drink are particularly pricey on Grand Cayman, so plan your budget accordingly.
- Grand Cayman is a hot spot for divers and snorkelers, so book any diving and snorkeling tours well in advance of your trip.
How to Get There
George Town is on Grand Cayman’s southwest coast. The island’s international airport is two miles (three kilometers) from town.
When to Get There
Grand Cayman is warm year-round, which means eternal beach weather. Summer is the rainiest season, and hurricane season lasts from June through November. Some experts recommend visiting between March and June, when hotel rates and flight prices tend to drop. Grand Cayman shore excursions are very popular, so brace for major George Town crowds Tuesday through Friday, when cruise ships typically dock here.
Visiting Stingray City
A series of shallow sandbars in the North Sound tend to harbor southern stingrays—and lots of tourists who want to see them. Stingray City is a top island attraction, and swimming, snorkeling, and diving among the rays are all popular activities. The creatures are docile and harmless while feasting on squid provided by the tour guides. Most scuba diving and snorkeling tours bound for Stingray City depart from Rum Point, on the north Grand Cayman shore.
Address: Harbor Street, George Town KY1, Cayman Islands
Admission: Free
From $ 29
Casa Ponce de León
Juan Ponce de Léon House Museum (Casa Museo Juan Ponce de Léon)
The former home of explorer and governor of Puerto Rico Juan Ponce de Léon, Casa Ponce de Léon is a simple stone building with an important place in history. Visitors come to travel over 500 years back in time to the days of great oceanic exploration and see an important landmark in the history of the Americas.
The Basics
Explorer and conquistador Juan Ponce de Léon first visited the Americas as part of Christopher Columbus’ second mission in 1493. He remained in Hispaniola (now the Dominican Republic and Haiti) and was named the first governor of Puerto Rico in 1509. From 1502 to 1508 he, his wife, and their three daughters lived in the simple, fortified stone house near San Rafael de Yuma designed with small doors and windows for additional safety against intruders. Today the Ponce de Léon House museum still contains some of the family’s possessions, including furniture, chests, and even his suit of armor.
You can visit the museum independently or as part of a guided tour from Punta Cana, some of which also explore nearby beaches and caves.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Ponce de Léon House is ideal for history buffs.
- Tours of the house are available in Spanish only.
- Nearby Boca de Yuma is a popular snorkeling spot.
How to Get There
Within driving distance of the resorts of Punta Cana and La Romana, the house is in a fairly isolated area near the town of Boca de Yuma. Most visitors drive to the house, take a taxi, or arrive with a guided tour that includes transportation.
When to Get There
The house is open from 10am to 1pm Tuesday through Sunday.
Enjoy the Bright Lights of Punta Cana
On the Dominican Republic’s southeast coast, the resort town of Punta Cana has it all—white-sand beaches, water that’s ideal for swimming, lively restaurants and resort bars, and a wide variety of water sports. It’s a very popular choice for vacationers looking for a sunny getaway, especially in winter.
Address: Highway 4, San Rafael de Yuma 23000, Dominican Republic
Admission: Varies
From $ 125