Introducing, the East End: Grand Cayman's Hidden Gem
The East End of Grand Cayman is a paradise for those seeking the quintessential Caribbean experience. This less developed and remote part of the island is a haven for divers, with its 55 unique dive sites that reveal a vibrant and dynamic underwater world in every dive.
The East End Advantage
One of the significant advantages of the East End is its remote location, away from the busy tourist-centric Georgetown and West Bay on the west side of the island. This means lesser development, diver activity, and as a result - a better diving experience. These factors have helped preserve the health and dynamism of the dive sites here, making them some of the best in Grand Cayman.
A Rich Tapestry of Dive Sites
The East End presents a plethora of dive sites, each with its own distinct personality and marine life. "The Maze" is a must-visit. With its dramatic topography, abundant coral, and teeming marine life, it promises an unforgettable experience. "Frank Sound Gardens" offers a different flavor. Being a shallower site, it is ideal for those looking to spend more time exploring the marine world at a leisurely pace. "Playing Fields" is another gem that is located right offshore from the village of East End. Each of these sites provides a different perspective of the underwater world, ensuring that every dive is a unique experience.
Evan Verreault, boat captain and general manager of Ocean Frontiers + Compass Point, puts it best - "There's something about the dramatic nature of the sites in the East end that just brings it to a different level, really. You're out on the wall and you're looking down and you are literally looking down at nothing. It's blue, and it is continuously blue for thousands upon thousands of feet.”
A Memorable Journey
Traveling to the East End of Grand Cayman makes for a memorable dive vacation. The region boasts of short boat rides to the best diving spots on the island, and a historical track record of diving 363 days a year. It provides a much-needed escape from the bustling crowds of Seven Mile Beach and offers a chance to immerse oneself in the serene beauty of the East End.
Ocean Frontiers Operations Manager Andy Wilson agrees, saying “The East End is a desirable place to come diving because it gets you away from all the crowds on Seven Mile Beach, which is a good thing - but that by itself wouldn't be enough. The real kind of draw here is the deep walls the amazing swim throughs, the marine life the quality of the reefs. It's just the best place."
The Essence of the Caribbean
In its quietness and remoteness, Cayman's East End epitomizes the true Caribbean spirit. It is less commercial, more local, and offers a tranquil ambience that is hard to find elsewhere. The dive sites are stunning, both in their natural beauty and the diversity of marine life they host. The experience of diving in the East End is unparalleled and one that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
About Compass Point Dive Resort
Nestled in the pristine East End of Grand Cayman, Compass Point Dive Resort epitomizes the ultimate in boutique dive resort experiences. Established in 1996 with a vision to offer a unique, personalized diving experience, the resort has since set a benchmark in the industry. It is renowned for its exceptional customer service, delivered by a team of passionate, experienced staff who go the extra mile to ensure every guest's stay is memorable.
This year (2024), Compass Point Dive Resort has been recognized as the top dive resort in the Caribbean in the SCUBA Diving Magazine Readers Choice Awards, securing 1st place awards in 7 categories.
Compass Point Dive Resort is more than just a dive resort; it's your gateway to the East End, offering the finest diving experience in Grand Cayman.