Visitors Center at Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park, Grand Cayman, Cayman Island

Getty Images/Gallo Images

Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park

Grand Cayman


Come here to see a veritable treasure trove of the island’s native species. A series of walking trails traverses the lovely landscaped gardens, which include a rainbow-themed Color Garden, the historical Heritage Garden with a traditional Caymanian house as its centerpiece, an orchid garden (in bloom in late May and June) and the longer woodland trail. The park is also an excellent birding destination.

Along the woodland trail, Blue Iguana Safari shows visitors a recovery and breeding program that is protecting and promoting this critically endangered species.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Grand Cayman attractions

1. Crystal Caves

2.1 MILES

A relatively new attraction to Grand Cayman, this network of mysterious limestone caves is located deep in the island's interior. There are some 105 caves…

2. Wreck of the 10 Sail Monument

5.12 MILES

In 1794 a convoy of 10 British merchant ships wrecked on the reef off the East End. Local residents came to the aid of the convoy, rescuing all but eight…

3. Mission House

5.96 MILES

Two blocks west of Bodden Town’s compact center is one of the island’s oldest buildings, originally built in the 1800s. Destroyed by Hurricane Ivan, the…

4. Rum Point

7.71 MILES

Swinging in hammocks and snorkeling are the main activities at this quiet beach, although the Red Sail water-sports crew also has an outlet here. Take…

5. Starfish Point

7.95 MILES

Red-cushion sea stars dot this little patch of sand and sea, which can sometimes be crystal clear and sometimes murky and yellow, depending on what the…

6. Pedro St James

8.64 MILES

The island's oldest building, this Caribbean great house was built in 1780 by one of Cayman's founding families (with enslaved people doing the heavy…

7. National Gallery of the Cayman Islands

13.73 MILES

This small-but-delightful museum offers a wonderful break from the sand and sun. The ground floor houses rotating exhibits, while the 2nd floor shows off…

8. Barkers National Park

14.02 MILES

The first national park in the Caymans, Barkers combines low scrub, dense mangroves and long, sandy beaches. There are no amenities here, or even a sign…