The first time Christopher Columbus landed on The Cayman Islands in 1503, he called it “Las Tortugas” for its abundance of green sea turtles.
However, The Cayman Islands have so much more than sea turtles to offer. It also has beautiful beaches, a fantastic local culture, and most importantly, the most extravagant resorts in the Caribbean.
Don’t miss this The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman vs. The Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort & Spa comparison.
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- Quick Glance: The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman vs. The Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort & Spa
- The Details: The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman vs. The Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort & Spa
- The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman
- The Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort & Spa
- Best For: Which Resort Should You Go For?
- Wrapping Up
- FAQs
Quick Glance: The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman vs. The Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort & Spa
| The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman | The Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort & Spa | |
| Location | Seven Mile Beach, Cayman Islands | Seven Mile Beach, Cayman Islands |
| Getting There | Once you arrive at the airport, you can take a 15-minute taxi or private car ride to reach the resort. It’s in the middle of Seven Mile Beach and easily accessible. | To reach the resort, you can take a taxi or private car from the airport. It will take about 15 minutes and the fare is around $30 to $40. You can also arrange for private transport from the hotel but these are more expensive. |
| Room | 363 guest rooms and suites | 343 rooms and suites |
| Amenities | Beach area, fitness center, golf course, tennis court, basketball court, kid’s club, swimming pool gym, spa | Gym, swimming pool, beach access, kid’s club, spa, water activities, and more |
| Food and Dining | 6 restaurants and bar | 7 restaurants and bar |
| Staff and Guest Services | Great staff that consistently delivers above-average service to the guests. | The staff is great for the most part but there are inconsistencies, especially at the restaurants. |
| Price | Cash rates are around $920 per night to $2,550 per night (average $1,850). | To book a room in cash, the prices start at $694 per night to $2,182 per night (average $945). |
| Points Redemption | Yes, points redemption can be done when you exchange 90,000 to 118,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night. | Yes, book a free room here by using 70,000 to 106,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night |
The Details: The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman vs. The Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort & Spa
The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman
The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman – Dining. Image Credit: The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman
The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman is a favorite spot for indulgent vacationers. It’s thought to be one of the best snorkeling resorts in the world – with pristine waters and great sea life to check out.
Location
Unlike other resorts, The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman is divided into two parts. One part of the resort is on the side of West Bay Road. But the other half is found directly on the strip of Seven Mile Beach. These two halves are connected by a covered pedestrian bridge that you can traverse if you want to hang out by the beach.
Some guests might find this division of the property cumbersome. So it’s important to consider this fact to ensure you’re staying at the right property for you.
To reach this beach hotel, there are taxis at the airport but you can also rent a private car. It’ll take about 15-20 minutes from the airport. Private transport is available from the hotel as well.
Some of the nearby areas you can explore from the resort include Stingray City as well as Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park, among many others.
Room
The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman. Image Credit: The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman
The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman is known for chicness, this is showcased in the room. Each one is bright and airy with an inviting king bed, luxe sheets, and a selection of pillows to keep you cozy.
Entry-level rooms are ample with wood floors, neutral walls, and modern furniture. Touches of turquoise and blues are everywhere – in the pillows, vase, and even the chairs.
Private balconies give you a chance to appreciate the outdoors from the comfort of your room or suite. These can have a resort view or a view of the ocean.
In-room additions include a Nespresso machine, a minibar, an alarm clock, a safe, and a flat-screen TV. The bathroom is magnificent too, with twin vanity sinks, granite counters, a walk-in shower with a rainfall showerhead, a tub, and a water closet.
Asprey bath products complete the roundup as well as comfy robes.
Amenities
The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman. Image Credit: The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman
From golf enthusiasts to avid beach lovers, The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman is a solid Caribbean resort worth visiting.
First, there’s the impressive Seven Mile Beach. Anyone visiting The Grand Cayman knows this beach as a premier destination. It has powdery white sand and is perfect for swimming as well as snorkeling. Hotel guests can use the beach loungers for free too. Plus, the staff are all attentive and helpful.
If the beach isn’t your thing, the two swimming pools here are a great alternative. You can also relish in The Ritz-Carlton Spa with its ESPA and III Skin treatments, the fitness center, or the multitude of tennis and basketball courts.
If traveling with kids, the kid’s club is perfect for keeping them busy while you go on adult excursions. Finally, there’s a Greg Norman golf course in the area you can use to practice your swings.
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Food and Dining
Dining is available in 6 restaurants and bars. The signature restaurant, Blue by Eric Ripert, is a popular dining establishment in the country. It’s the only one given the AAA Five-Diamond award – a true honor for any restaurant.
Other onsite restaurants include the Silver Palm, which is great for Afternoon Tea and live music. Meanwhile, Saint June is a beachside enclave perfect for lunch or private dinners. Yummy cocktails and light lunch bites are here too.
Another great place is Seven. This casual restaurant has an impressive choice of wines to go with your meals. If you’re craving Italian dishes, Andamiano is a top choice but if Japanese sushi is more your thing, Taikun has you covered.
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Staff and Guest Services
Although there are hits and misses (as expected of any large resort), the service and staff at The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman make an effort to be on-point and professional. The staff serves guests with a smile, attending to their every need without prompting.
Price
Paying in cash for a standard room here starts at $859 per night to $2,570 per night (an average of $1,870).
Points Redemption
Yes, booking a free night on points is possible. You can use anywhere from 90,000 to 118,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.
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Who Is It For?
The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman is ideal for families and couples who want a beachfront resort with all the luxuries to make their stay memorable. This resort is right on Seven Mile Beach so those wanting the ultimate beach vacation will love it here.
The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman Gallery
The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman – Pool. Image Credit: The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman
The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman – Living Room. Image Credit: The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman
The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman. Image Credit: The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman
The Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort & Spa
The Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort. Image Credit: The Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort
As one of the best beach hotels around, The Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort is one of a series of high-end accommodations dotting the famous Seven Mile Beach.
Location
Renovated in 2017, this upscale hotel sits on a choice stretch of land with the famous The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman within a short walking distance.
To reach The Westin, guests arriving at the Owen Roberts International Airport (CGM) can take a taxi or rent a private vehicle to the hotel. It will take about 10 – 20 minutes.
Other attractions you can reach within a short drive from the resort include Stingray City (a 7-minute drive), The Cayman Islands National Museum (10 minutes), and The National Gallery of the Cayman Islands (5 minutes).
Guests can walk the length of the public beach where they can also find restaurants and shopping areas, even a movie theater near the marina.
Room
Thanks to recent renovations, the rooms echo a fresh and current appeal with their king-sized bed, deep blue carpets, and stylish artwork. Upholstered headboards frame the bed while shiny white desks also double as entertainment tables.
There’s a convenient sofa, lamps, and Caribbean chic decor. Some rooms include a balcony with resort or sea views. In addition, you’ll find a flat-screen TV, a minibar, coffee, and tea facilities, Wi-Fi as well as a safe.
Finally, carefully designed bathrooms carry a sleek shower or shower and tub combinations, vanity area, toilet, and bath products.
Amenities
Aside from the fantastic Seven Mile Beach, there are also two swimming pools onsite. These are connected by a swim-through bridge. While it doesn’t have a specific kid’s pool, the pools are only 3 to 5 feet deep so children can easily swim on it.
The Westin allows families to bring their inflatables and toys in the water so you can bring those to keep the kiddos amused.
Guests can also partake in various water sports including banana boats, beach bikes, kayaks, catamarans, parasailing, and more. There are also diving lessons by Red Sail Sports.
If you’re bringing the family, you can park the kids at the Westin Kid’s Club where they can join supervised activities as the adults enjoy themselves.
For those who crave pampering, the onsite Hibiscus Spa has 12 treatment rooms with an array of soothing, restorative therapies you can spoil yourself with.
Food and Dining
The Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort – Dining. Image Credit: The Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort
There are 7 restaurants and bars at the resort, making dining convenient.
Dine at Fernando’s, this alfresco restaurant is an all-day resto serving breakfast and local comfort food.
For fresh seafood, the Beach House is the ideal spot. It also has a fantastic set of wines and drinks. Meanwhile, Tortuga Beach Grill & Bar is best for fish tacos and burgers along with delicious cocktails to match.
Other places where you can grab light bites or drinks include the Cayman Coffee Exchange, Catboat Bar, Toes in the Sand by Beach House, and Woto.
Staff and Guest Services
Service at The Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort is generally good. But there are occasions when lapses happen and the staff, especially at certain restaurants aren’t as professional.
Price
A standard room at The Westin Grand Cayman starts at $694 per night to $2,182 per night (average $945).
Points Redemption
You can book a free reward stay here by exchanging 70,000 to 106,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.
Who Is It For?
Those who want a resort in a prime spot like Seven Mile Beach would benefit from staying at The Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort. This is highly recommended for big families and groups because of its abundant amenities and family-friendly options.
The Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort & Spa Gallery
The Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort – Beach. Image Credit: The Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort
The Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort – Outdoors. Image Credit: The Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort
The Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort – Spa. Image Credit:
Best For: Which Resort Should You Go For?
| Winner | What Makes It Great | |
| Best for Food | The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman | With amazing restaurants in their roster, The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman offers a more solid lineup. |
| Best for Pools | Tie | These two have fantastic swimming pools for guests. |
| Best for Spa | The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman | The Ritz-Carlton Spa has a more extensive spa. Be warned, it is expensive though. |
| Best for Beaches | Tie | Both resorts sit on the famous Seven Mile Beach. |
| Best For Adults | The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman | Although The Westin is also great for adults, there’s a more adult-oriented vibe at The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman. |
| Best for Families | The Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach | The resort has a variety of family-friendly options that will entertain every family member, even kiddos. |
| Best Location | Tie | These two are on the same strip and within walking distance of each other! |
| Best for a Calm Vacation | The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman | The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman is calmer to stay in. |
| Best for Diving or Snorkeling | Tie | These two sit on the Seven Mile Beach which is known for excellent snorkeling and swimming. |
| Best for Service | The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman | Staff at The Ritz-Carlton staff is known for impeccable service. |
| Most Exclusive | The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman | No doubt, The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman wins this one. |
Wrapping Up
Get ready to have a splendid time when you visit The Cayman Islands! Of course, one of the key components of a wonderful trip is to find the right hotel for you.
The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman lives up to its classy label. Each room is stylish, modern, and refined with large windows, an immense patio or balcony, and all the in-room touches you need. Food is served in world-class restaurants and the service is exemplary from the moment you arrive until you leave.
Meanwhile, The Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort also sits on the same strip of beach as The Ritz-Carlton, but it entices families and groups better than the former. With over 300+ rooms and suites, it’s great for traveling with the entire brood! It’s also pet friendly so you can even bring your furry friend.
Make the Cayman Islands your next travel destination and have a fantastic time.
Safe travels!