Looking for a quiet beach escape in Grand Cayman where older kids and teens can experience some of the island’s natural underwater beauty? Cemetery Beach is a local favorite—and a hidden gem—on the famous Seven Mile Beach that offers surprisingly good snorkeling, fewer crowds, and a peaceful, laid-back vibe.
Although it’s not ideal for very young children or first-time snorkelers, families with older kids who are strong swimmers will appreciate the calm waters, colorful coral, and wide variety of fish just offshore.
Before we dive in, here are related articles on Cayman Islands, including ranked lists, activities and beach reviews.
Family fun in Cayman Islands
Beaches: Beautiful Grand Cayman Islands – here are the best beaches in Grand Cayman
Best Family Resorts in Grand Cayman with Kid Friendly Beaches and Activities
Rum Point in Grand Cayman is a Family-Friendly Beach Day Worth the Drive
Where Is Cemetery Beach?
Cemetery Beach is located on the northern end of Seven Mile Beach on the west coast of Grand Cayman. It gets its name from the small, historic cemetery that sits just inland behind a line of shady trees. This stretch of beach feels more secluded than other parts of Seven Mile, offering a peaceful spot for families looking to avoid large crowds.
Getting there is easy—if you’re driving, there’s free parking available across the street on a grassy lot. If you don’t have a rental car, hop on a public mini-bus running along West Bay Road and let the driver know you’re heading to Cemetery Beach. It’s affordable and reliable, even with kids in tow.
Is Cemetery Beach Good for Snorkeling?
Yes—especially compared to other parts of Seven Mile Beach. Cemetery Beach is known for having more coral and marine life than other nearby areas. Expect to see colorful fish, soft corals, and maybe even a sea turtle if you’re lucky.
That said, the best snorkeling is about 60 yards offshore. This means it’s not ideal for small children or anyone new to snorkeling. However, for confident swimmers and teens with some snorkeling experience, it’s a great spot to explore from the shore without needing a boat.
What Parents Should Know Before Snorkeling at Cemetery Beach
While Cemetery Beach offers good snorkeling, it’s important to be prepared:
- It’s not shallow all the way out: The first few yards are only 3–4 feet deep, but the coral-rich area is in about 20 feet of water.
- Distance from shore: The swim out to the best snorkeling area is about 60 yards. It’s recommended to use a brightly colored swim buoy for visibility and safety.
- No lifeguards: As with most beaches in the Cayman Islands, there are no lifeguards, so make sure your kids are strong swimmers and that everyone stays together in the water.
- Snorkel with a buddy: Always snorkel in pairs or as a group, especially with kids. It’s a good rule for safety and peace of mind.
Families with paddleboards or kayaks may find it easier to reach the snorkel area, and it adds another layer of fun for older kids who enjoy exploring on the water.
Is Cemetery Beach Beginner-Friendly?
Cemetery Beach is not the best choice for first-time snorkelers or younger children due to the distance to the reef and water depth. However, if your family includes teens who are comfortable in open water, it’s a rewarding and memorable place to snorkel.
For beginners or younger kids, consider starting with more accessible beaches like Governor’s Beach or taking a guided snorkel trip to a shallow reef. Cemetery Beach can always be added later in the trip as confidence builds.
Other Perks for Families
Even if snorkeling isn’t on your itinerary, Cemetery Beach is still worth a visit. The beach itself is quiet and beautiful, shaded by casuarina trees and perfect for a picnic or beach day. The calm waters make it great for wading and swimming, and it’s a nice break from the busier hotel-lined sections of Seven Mile Beach.
There’s no entrance fee, and beach access is free and legal across the entire shoreline in the Cayman Islands. You’ll also find a dedicated public access path from the road to the beach.
Final Thoughts
Cemetery Beach is a great off-the-beaten-path option for families traveling with older kids or teens who enjoy snorkeling and are strong swimmers. With its coral-rich waters and peaceful setting, it’s the kind of place where your family can unplug, explore, and appreciate the natural beauty of Grand Cayman—without the crowds.
For families staying near Seven Mile Beach, it’s an easy half-day adventure that’s well worth the effort. Just bring your gear, swim safely, and enjoy one of the island’s best-kept secrets.
Have you seen our ranked lists for beaches and activities in the Cayman Islands?
Family fun in Cayman islands
Beaches: Beautiful Grand Cayman Islands – here are the best beaches in Grand Cayman
Best Family Resorts in Grand Cayman with Kid Friendly Beaches and Activities
For detailed visitor info, check out the Wikivoyage page on Cayman.
