Grand Cayman What Is Known For

BEACHES

If you're staying at one of the many hotels lining the white sands of Seven Mile Beach, you may not want to bother going any- where else. But if you decide a little more space between the beach towels is in order, head south of George Town to Smith's Cove, which has a beautiful pocket of sand, plus coral heads and tropical fish just offshore.

DIVING

Shallow reefs, steep walls, wrecks — take your pick. A good place to start is The Maze, a coral landscape of caves, deep canyons, and chimneys at the southeastern end of the island. The terrain is dramatic, and the fish, including Nassau groupers, blue tangs, and occasional reef sharks, don't mind visitors. Snorkelers — provided they pay attention to the currents — can swim about 100 yards off the north end of Seven Mile Beach to Cemetery Beach Reef, a shallow-water summer camp for tropical fish.

SHOPPING

This is duty-free shopping at its best, with British china and crystal, French scents and liqueurs, Swiss watches, and plenty more. For a special souvenir of the island, look for jewelry made of caymanite; the multihued semiprecious stone is found only in these islands and is a favorite of local craftsmen.