I set a goal for myself: Find the most relaxing family trip possible. With that objective in mind, my research quickly honed in on the Kimpton Seafire Resort & Spa in Grand Cayman. It ticked all of my boxes. Nestled in the heart of the Cayman Islands, this destination offers an unparalleled blend of luxury, relaxation, and family-friendly fun. Here’s a detailed look at what made our stay unforgettable.
Getting There
Traveling from the West Coast typically requires an overnight stop in Miami, which adds a bit of extra adventure to the journey. From Miami, certain carriers like American Airlines will take you on a short flight to Grand Cayman. The Cayman Islands are part of the British West Indies, so passports are required, but the transitions are fairly seamless. English is the primary language, and they accept U.S. dollars everywhere, making it a straightforward and enjoyable out-of-country experience. This is international travel on easy mode.
Arrival and Transportation
After breezing through passport control, we opted to rent a car for the sake of flexibility, although we found it wasn’t really necessary. Most activities, including our two main excursions, had shuttle services directly from the hotel. Driving was an adventure itself, as they drive on the left side of the road, and the island is dotted with roundabouts. A side note on car rentals: I confidently thought my rental car status would ensure me an upgrade from the compact (and cheapest) car that was available. It did NOT and, let’s just say, it was a tight squeeze with car seats and luggage. If you want a bigger car, rent it from the start. It’s a small island, they have a preference for small cars.
One crucial tip: remember to download directions from the airport to the hotel in advance, as regular cell phone plans often don’t work here. However, navigating the island is fairly straightforward, and the journey to Kimpton Seafire is scenic and pleasant.
The Beach and Resort Experience
Seven Mile Beach, where Kimpton Seafire is located, is sunny, stunning, and perfect for families. The resort itself is the epitome of kid-friendly luxury. From the moment we arrived, the kids were greeted with welcome gifts and drinks, setting the tone for a fun-filled stay. Each evening, the hotel hosts a happy hour that includes snacks for kids, which our girls looked forward to daily.
The dining experiences at Kimpton Seafire are equally thoughtful. Kids under five eat free, and there are plenty of dinner options with coloring activities to keep them entertained. The staff is attentive and incredibly friendly, making every meal a pleasure.
But the real highlight for the kids was the splash pad, along with the small shallow pool specifically designed for younger children. The resort also offers a variety of activities, including sandcastle-building classes, crafts, fire show and seasonal events like an Easter egg hunt. Although we didn’t take advantage of them, the resort also offers a kids club, babysitting services, and cabana rentals.
For the adults, there are plenty of ways to unwind as well. I managed to read three books during our stay—a luxury I rarely get to indulge in! The spa looked dreamy (in retrospect I should have booked that massage) and the gym area is state-of-the-art. My husband even got in a couple runs (ahem, overachiever).
Must-Do Activities
While the resort itself offers plenty to do, we ventured out for two key experiences: a Stingray City cruise and a visit to the Cayman Turtle Centre. The Stingray City cruise was an absolute highlight, offering a close encounter with these gentle creatures—a once-in-a-lifetime experience for both kids and adults. The Turtle Centre was equally fun and educational, adding a touch of local culture and wildlife to our trip. how
We also explored the main shopping area in Georgetown. While it’s largely a cruise port filled with trinket shops and the occasional chain restaurant like Hard Rock Café, it’s worth a quick visit.
Tips for Future Travelers
- Book early: The Kimpton Seafire is becoming a popular destination, so securing your spot ahead of time is crucial.
- Ocean-view rooms: While all the rooms are wonderful, the ocean-view rooms are particularly breathtaking.
- Restaurant reservations: Make sure to reserve a table at the hotel’s main restaurants. Keep in mind that the beachfront restaurant can be quite warm in the evenings as the sun sets, with limited shade available.
Final Thoughts
Would I return? Absolutely, 100%. The people of Grand Cayman are welcoming, the weather is consistently fantastic, and the food is delicious. Kimpton Seafire Resort & Spa is a dream destination for families, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Our girls still talk about it as the best vacation they’ve ever had, and I couldn’t agree more.
This trip was everything we hoped for and more—truly a slice of paradise.
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