The Cayman Islands, a shimmering trio in the Western Caribbean, offer much more than just the world-renowned Seven Mile Beach. While the capital, George Town, provides a bustling hub of commerce and tourism, the true soul of the islands lies in the rugged cliffs of Cayman Brac, the untouched serenity of Little Cayman, and the quiet, pastel-hued villages of Grand Cayman’s East End.
To fully experience these destinations, the most practical solution is to rent a car in the Cayman Islands. Having your own vehicle allows you to bypass the constraints of limited public transport and the high costs of private taxis, enabling you to discover hidden snorkelling coves, local jerk stands, and botanical gardens on your own schedule. This guide aims to help you navigate the rental process smoothly, so you can focus on your adventure.
Before you get behind the wheel, you need to secure all the requirements. Tourists are permitted to drive in the Cayman Islands for up to six months using a valid license from their home country, provided the document is in English. If your license is in another language, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is required.
Aside from your license, you also need a Visitor’s Driving Permit, which serves as your legal authorisation to navigate the island's roads. This is government-mandated and costs approximately $16 CI or roughly $20 USD. The permit is typically issued directly at the rental counter and is valid for one year.
Additionally, most rental firms require the primary driver to be at least 21 years old, and those under 25 may be subject to a Young Driver Surcharge. This is a daily fee that is added to the base rate. Drivers over the age of 70 may also face additional charges or be required to submit a recent medical clearance.
It is very important to thoroughly read and understand your rental agreement. First thing to look at is the mileage policy. In the Cayman Islands, most reputable agencies provide unlimited mileage, which is ideal since you will likely find yourself crisscrossing the island several times.
You should also pay close attention to the fuel policy; the most common is "full-to-full", meaning you receive the vehicle with a full tank and must return it the same way to avoid inflated refuelling charges. You can fill the tank near the airport or anywhere close to your drop-off location.
It is also standard practice to conduct a joint inspection of the vehicle with the rental agent. Take high-resolution videos and photos of the car’s interior, exterior, and equipment as evidence. Ensure every damage is noted by the agent on the agreement to protect yourself from liability upon return.
Insurance in the Cayman Islands can be categorised into two main types. First, the Third-Party Liability insurance (TPL), which is legally mandated and covers damage or injury to other people and property. Second, the Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), which covers the rental vehicle itself in the event of an accident or theft, often with an excess or deductible.
It is a common misconception that premium credit cards automatically provide full coverage here. While many providers do cover the CDW portion, they rarely provide third-party liability coverage. Always confirm with your card issuer beforehand, or consider the peace of mind that comes with purchasing the rental agency's comprehensive local coverage.
The most important thing for tourists to remember is that driving is on the left-hand side of the road, a legacy of British influence. Another significant rule is that you are permitted to turn left on a red light after coming to a complete stop, provided the way is clear, and no signs prohibit it.
Speed limits are posted in miles per hour and range from 15 mph to 50 mph. Seatbelts are mandatory for every passenger, and drunk driving laws are strictly enforced with heavy penalties. The islands also have a zero-tolerance policy regarding mobile phone use while driving; all calls must be made via a hands-free system.
The roads on Grand Cayman are generally in excellent condition, with modern paving and clear signage. However, the island's layout features many roundabouts, which can be intimidating for tourists. The rule is simple: always yield to traffic already in the roundabout coming from your right.
On the Sister Islands, Cayman Brac and Little Cayman, roads are much more rustic and narrow. They are generally safe, but drivers should watch out for potential debris and crossing wildlife, such as iguanas and turtles. You can enjoy less traffic; however, still be prepared for slow travel because of the low speed limit.
Throughout the islands, be mindful of "sleeping policemen", the local term for speed bumps, which are frequently used in residential areas to manage traffic speed. You should also stay vigilant and slow down when it rains. The tropical downpours lead to extremely slick roads, reduced visibility, and deep, hidden potholes.
The time of year you visit will significantly impact your rental experience. During the peak season from December to April, demand for vehicles is exceptionally high. Not only do prices rise, but the availability of specific car classes, like minivans or SUVs, can vanish entirely.
If you are travelling during the hurricane season from June to November, the prices are lower, and there are more available cars. However, be prepared for sudden tropical downpours that can cause temporary localised flooding. During these months, it is wise to choose a vehicle with slightly higher ground clearance if you plan on exploring more rural, unpaved paths.
Your travel itinerary should also dictate your rental strategy. If you are staying on Seven Mile Beach but plan to visit the Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park or Rum Point, a car is non-negotiable, as these trips can take 45 to 60 minutes one way. It is best to group your itinerary to save fuel and mileage.
One of the greatest benefits of a rental car in the Cayman Islands is the abundance of free parking. Almost every public beach, restaurant, and shopping plaza offers ample parking at no cost, making a car the most convenient way to transition from a morning of diving to an evening of fine dining.
When choosing your vehicle, consider the local geography and your planned itinerary. For those staying primarily in George Town, a compact car is ideal for navigating tighter streets and smaller parking spaces. For families or groups with heavy dive gear, an SUV provides the necessary space and comfort.
Interestingly, rental fleets in the Cayman Islands include both right-hand and left-hand drive vehicles. While it may feel more natural to drive a car you are accustomed to, many visitors find that a right-hand drive vehicle actually makes it easier to stay centred on the left side of the road.
Spontaneity is a wonderful part of any holiday, but not when it comes to car rentals. Booking your vehicle in advance ensures you secure a competitive rate and the specific model you need. If you are travelling during the high season, you need to secure a vehicle 3-6 months before your trip. During the low season, 1-2 months is enough.
Most major international and local rental brands are situated at the airport rental plaza, just a short walk across from the arrivals terminal. Pre-booking enables a seamless transition from the plane to the pavement, avoiding the disappointment of "sold out" signs that frequently appear during busy holiday weeks.
Safety should always be a priority. In the event of an accident or a mechanical failure, your first point of contact should be the rental agency's 24-hour roadside assistance, which is usually found on the rental agreement or a sticker inside the glove box. Make sure to also save this number on your phone.
It is also worth noting that many rental packages include basic services for issues like flat tyres or lockouts, which can be a lifesaver on the more secluded stretches of the East End. Do not attempt to fix the vehicle on your own. Call the rental agency immediately and wait for the rescue.
For serious emergencies requiring police, fire, or ambulance services, the hotline to dial is 911. If possible, immediately pull over to the left side of the road, activate the hazards lights, and contact the authorities. Take photos and videos of any damage and exchange information with the other parties involved.
Renting a car in the Cayman Islands is the best way to immerse yourself in the authentic beauty of the archipelago and find hidden gems at your own pace. With a rental car, you gain the independence to reach every corner of this Caribbean gem. From the sophisticated streets of Seven Mile Beach to the wild, windswept shores of the North Side, the road is yours to discover.
Do not settle for the limited view from a tour bus or a taxi ride. Rent a car in the Cayman Islands today and experience the archipelago with the freedom and flexibility you deserve. Final Rentals makes booking easy. You can secure your preferred car via our website or our mobile app, which can be downloaded on Google Play or the App Store.
