Grand Cayman: Stingray City, Starfish Point & Coral Garden Tour

Summary

Swim with stingrays snorkel coral gardens and hold starfish on a relaxed Grand Cayman day trip

You’ll find yourself laughing with wild stingrays at Stingray City, drifting over colorful coral reefs with all gear provided, and learning how to handle starfish gently at Starfish Point—all with a local guide who makes it feel easy and welcoming. Expect salty air on your skin, plenty of time in the water, and moments you’ll replay in your head long after you’ve left Grand Cayman.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect to laugh so much with a stingray pressed up against me, but there we were—just off Grand Cayman, at Stingray City, knee-deep in clear water while our guide (I think his name was Marcus?) handed us bits of squid. He called the stingrays “sea pancakes”—which made everyone grin—and they really did feel soft and cool sliding past my legs. The first time one brushed my ankle I squeaked out loud, which got a few chuckles from the group. There’s this moment when you look down and realize these wild animals are just… hanging out with you. Not trained or anything. They come and go as they please.

The boat ride over was quick but salty—the wind whipped around us and there was that sharp tang of sea air that sticks to your skin. After the stingrays (and yes, I kissed one for good luck, though I’m not sure if it worked yet), we headed to Coral Garden. The water here looked almost fake—so blue it hurt my eyes—and Marcus tossed us snorkel gear in every size imaginable. I’m not the strongest swimmer but he had floaties ready without making a big deal of it. Underwater, everything felt muffled except for the occasional scrape of my flippers against coral (oops). Bright fish darted everywhere; someone pointed out a lobster hiding in a crevice and I totally missed it because I was too busy staring at a conch shell.

Starfish Point was quieter—less chatter, more sunbaked sand between my toes. The starfish moved so slowly it felt like time stretched out around them. Our guide showed us how to gently hold one underwater—never lift them into the air—and explained why they’re so important for the bay’s ecosystem. A little girl next to me whispered something about wishing she could take one home; her dad just shook his head and smiled. Honestly, by then I’d stopped checking my watch altogether.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit Stingray City, Coral Garden, Starfish Point

• Arrive at Stingray City sandbar
• Feed and interact with stingrays
• Snorkel at Coral Garden
• Relax and explore Starfish Point beach

Top questions

How long is the Grand Cayman Stingray City & Coral Garden tour?

The tour includes three stops: Stingray City Sandbar, Coral Garden snorkeling, and Starfish Point Beach. Exact duration may vary based on group size and conditions.

Is hotel or cruise port pickup included?

Yes, free courtesy pickup is included from Royal Watler Cruise Terminal or listed local resorts.

Do I need to bring my own snorkel gear?

No, snorkel gear and life jackets in all sizes are provided as part of the tour.

Can children join this day trip?

Yes, children can join but must be accompanied by an adult during the tour.

What should I bring for this Grand Cayman day trip?

You should bring towels, sunscreen (cream), hat, sunglasses, and snacks.

Are pregnant travelers allowed on this tour?

No, the tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health.

Is lunch included in the tour?

No lunch is included; only bottled water and sodas are provided. Bring your own snacks if needed.

Will I get to feed the stingrays at Stingray City?

Yes, guests can feed wild stingrays using squid provided by the crew at Stingray City Sandbar.

What’s included

Your day includes free pickup from either your hotel or Royal Watler Cruise Terminal (if you’re coming off a ship), bottled water and sodas to keep you refreshed under that Caribbean sun, all snorkel gear plus life jackets for every size—even floaties if you want them—squid for feeding those curious stingrays at Stingray City Sandbar, and a friendly local crew guiding you through each stop before dropping you back where you started.