Islands destinationCayman Brac islandCayman islands | Caribbean sea

Last updated on 08/04/2025 at 11:11 PM
Cayman Brac island is one of the three islands that make up the Cayman Islands archipelago, located in the Caribbean Sea. This island is known for its picturesque landscapes, impressive cliffs and peaceful atmosphere.
The island of Cayman Brac with its impressive limestone cliffs
The island of Cayman Brac with its impressive limestone cliffs © | Dreamstime.com
The name of the island, « Brac », comes from Scottish Gaelic and means « cliff », referring to the island's towering limestone cliffs on its eastern coast that rise out of the Caribbean sea.
These cliffs can reach up to 141 feet high, offering spectacular views of the Caribbean sea. The rugged terrain of Cayman Brac contrasts with the flat landscape of the other two Cayman islands.
A maritime past
Historically, Cayman Brac island served as a refuge for sailors and pirates. Today, the local population mainly consists of descendants of sailors and fishermen. The island's culture is deeply rooted in its maritime heritage with annual festivals celebrating the sea and local traditions.
The economy of Cayman Brac island relies primarily on tourism, fishing and some agricultural activities. Unlike the Grand Cayman island, which is more urbanized and developed, Cayman Brac maintains a more authentic and rural atmosphere, unlike the hustle and bustle of larger cities.
Discovering the island
Cayman Brac island offers beautiful hiking trails, including those that lead to its many caves such as Peter's Cave and the popular Bat Cave.
Hiking across the island is also an opportunity to explore and observe the island's unique flora and fauna, especially the birds, with both endemic and migratory species passing through. Among the most notable birds are the peregrine falcon and several species of boobies that can be observed nesting in the cliffs.
Where to dive ?
Cayman Brac island is a paradise for scuba diving enthusiasts. The island is home to many renowned dive sites with healthy coral reefs and abundant marine life.
The wreck of the destroyer MV Captain Keith Tibbetts, sunk in 1996 at a depth of 80 feet to serve as an artificial reef
The wreck of the destroyer MV Captain Keith Tibbetts, sunk in 1996 at a depth of 80 feet to serve as an artificial reef © | Dreamstime.com
MV Captain Keith Tibbetts wreck
The wreck of the MV Captain Keith Tibbetts, a Soviet ship sunk in 1996 off the island's northern coast to serve as an artificial reef, is an iconic dive site on Cayman Brac. This 328-foot long destroyer rests at a depth of 79 feet.
Wilderness Wall
Wilderness Wall is an ideal spot for experienced divers looking for dramatic underwater terrain, vibrant corals and pelagic species.
Books
Le guide de voyage en anglais sur les îles Caymans
Cayman islands
Grand Cayman island
Grand Cayman island
Little Cayman island
Little Cayman island
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