Family Spring Break at The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman: A Luxurious and Kid-Friendly Getaway
Spring break is the perfect time to escape with the family for a mix of relaxation, adventure, and a little bit of luxury. This year, we headed to The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman—a destination that lives up to its reputation as the First and Only Triple Five-Star Property in the Caribbean, according to Forbes Travel Guide's 2024 Star Awards. Known for being incredibly kid-friendly while offering top-notch service and amenities, it was the ideal spot for our family spring break trip. Here's a rundown of our stay, with plenty of tips for planning your own unforgettable getaway.
Day 1: A Warm Welcome
We started our journey with a flight from Tampa to Grand Cayman via Cayman Airways. The flight was quick and comfortable, and before we knew it, we were stepping off the plane into the warm Caribbean air. Upon arriving at The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman, we were immediately struck by the resort's welcoming atmosphere and impeccable service!
Our room was perfect for the kids, especially with access to the Club Lounge. The lounge was stocked with snacks, drinks, and plenty of kid-friendly offerings, making it a hit from the start. After settling in, we kicked off our vacation with dinner at Seven, the a great restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating. The steak was cooked to perfection, the curry was very flavorful, and the soufflé was the ideal sweet ending. It was a great way to start our stay, setting the tone for a week of luxury and relaxation.
Day 2: Exploring the Island by Yacht
Day two was all about adventure. We chartered a yacht through Luxury Cayman Charters and spent the day cruising around the island. Our first stop was the famous Stingray City, where the kids were thrilled (but a little scared) to interact with the friendly stingrays. Next, we headed to Starfish Point, where we waded in the shallow waters and admired the bright orange-red starfish.
After our day on the water, we returned to the hotel, and the kids couldn’t wait to splash around at the resort’s fun-filled splash park called Starfish Cay. As the day wound down, we enjoyed a relaxed dinner at Saint June. The kids played on the beach while we sipped on cocktails and savored some amazing ceviche. Watching the sunset with our toes in the sand was the perfect way to end the day.
Day 3: Pool and Beach Day
Day three was all about soaking up the sun and enjoying the beautiful surroundings. We spent the entire day lounging in a cabana by the pool, alternating between dips in the pool and walks along the beach. The water in the Cayman Islands is some of the bluest we’ve ever seen—truly mesmerizing. The kids were thrilled with the cotton candy served by the pool, which added a fun twist to the day.
Dinner that evening was at the famous Tillie’s, a restaurant that is as beautiful as its food is delicious. We were lucky to get a table right on the beach, where the kids could play in the sand while we enjoyed our meal. The fish was a standout dish, and the sunset views were simply breathtaking. We wrapped up the night back at the hotel lounge with chocolate martinis for the adults and the famous Ritz chocolate chip cookies for the kids—both were absolute hits!
Day 4: Sea Turtles and Spa Time
The next day, the kids were up early and ready for their adventure at the Cayman Turtle Centre. They had a blast interacting with the sea turtles and learning all about these incredible creatures. Meanwhile, I indulged in some relaxation at the hotel’s luxurious spa.
The afternoon was all about fun at the Ritz Kids Club, where the kids enjoyed games and activities while the adults enjoyed some quiet time. We started our evening with cocktails at the Silver Palm Bar, a lovely spot to unwind before heading to dinner at Blue by Eric Ripert. This dining experience was a highlight of the trip—the tasting menu with the wine pairing was simply fantastic. While we enjoyed our gourmet dinner, the kids had their own adventure with a nighttime scavenger hunt, which they absolutely loved.
Day 5: Final Day of Fun
Our last full day was spent making the most of the pool and beach. It was the perfect way to wrap up our vacation, with everyone soaking in the last bit of sunshine and Caribbean vibes. Dinner that evening was at Andiamo, where we enjoyed Neapolitan-style pizza that was out of this world. If you know me, you know I love anything pistachio, so I of course ordered the giant pistachio gelato dessert. The evening was made even more special with an outdoor movie night for the kids.
The next day, we packed up and headed home, filled with amazing memories from our epic family spring break trip to The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman.
If you’re dreaming of your own luxurious and kid-friendly getaway, now’s the time to start planning your spring break trip. As a travel advisor specializing in tropical escapes, I can help you craft the perfect itinerary for your family. Whether you’re drawn to the crystal-clear waters of Grand Cayman or another tropical destination, reach out today to start planning. Let’s make your next vacation truly unforgettable!