The Cayman Islands beckons luxury travelers and adventure seekers.
From its famous Seven Mile Beach, upscale resorts, magnificent coral reefs, and old shipwrecks – there’s always something exciting to do when visiting here.
Honeymooners can hike on the romantic Mastic Trail while the kids and ocean lovers can head to Stingray City to watch these exquisite creatures.
If a trip to the Cayman Islands is on your bucket list, consider staying at two of the most coveted resorts in town! Check out this Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa vs. The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman comparison.
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Quick Glance: Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa vs. The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman
| Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa | The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman | |
| Location | Seven Mile Beach, Grand Cayman, The Cayman Islands |
Seven Mile Beach, Cayman Islands |
| Getting There | Guests can take a taxi or rental car from the airport to reach Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa in 15-20 minutes. | The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman is a 15-minute car ride from the nearest airport. It sits in the middle of the famous Seven Mile Beach with resorts, restaurants, and shopping nearby. |
| Room | 266 guestrooms and suites | 363 rooms and suites |
| Amenities | Beach access, fitness center, swimming pool, various activities, a spa, Camp Seafire (for kids), water sports, rental bikes | Gym, beach access, fitness center, kid’s club, swimming pool, golf course, tennis courts, basketball courts |
| Food and Dining | 2 restaurants, 1 grab & go | 6 restaurants and bar |
| Staff and Guest Services | Amazing staff. They are helpful, and friendly, and will cater to every task you ask. | Fantastic staff that are professional and consistently proactive. |
| Price | Cash bookings at Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa start at $761 to $2,684 per night (average of $1,520). | Regular rates are pricey, it starts at $859 per night to $2,570 per night (average $1,870). |
| Points Redemption | Yes, you can book this hotel using at least 70,000 IHG One Rewards points. | Yes, it’s possible to book The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman in points. Just exchange anywhere from 90,000 to 118,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night. |
The Details: Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa vs. The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman
Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa
Kimpton Seafire Resort & Spa. Image Credit: Kimpton Seafire Resort & Spa
Opening its doors on November 2016, Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa was considered one of the latest resorts to be built on the island in over a decade.
With fresh modern decor and a vibrant ambiance, the resort attracts a younger set of travelers and honeymooners compared to other high-end resorts like The Westin Seven Mile Beach Resort & Spa and The Riz-Carlton, Grand Cayman.
Location
Unlike other resorts along Seven Mile Beach, this top IHG resort is on the northern end of this famous sands. This means it’s a bit more secluded, without any immediate neighbors.
To reach the property, you can take a taxi or arrange for private transport to the hotel. It’s about 15 minutes from Owen Roberts International Airport (GCM). There are no Lyft or Uber in The Grand Caymans so guests are free to make their arrangements. While Kimpton Seafire can also organize airport pickup for you, it can cost upwards of $100 depending on how many guests.
Once at the hotel, you can explore different areas including shops and restaurants at Camana Bay – only a 5-minute drive. Stingray City is around a 30-minute boat ride while the Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park is about 40 minutes away.
Other areas like the Dolphin Discovery and Cayman Turtle Farm are both 9 minutes away.
Room
Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa – Interior. Image Credit: Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa
Although you can book a room on points, it’s worth noting there’s an $80 resort fee during your stay.
While some hotel brands waive these fees, IHG One Rewards never does. You do get a few perks including free dining for kids under 5 years old, daily fitness classes, use of snorkeling equipment, and morning coffee service at the lobby, among others.
Because it’s a newer property, the rooms at the Kimpton Seafire are more modern and stylish. Starter rooms like the Oceanfront Guestroom start at 480 square feet. Most rooms carry similar decor with either a king bed or 2 queen beds.
These rooms generally feature a neutral palette with white walls and wood-tone floors. Pops of fuchsia pink chairs, pillows, and even the inside cabinet drawers inject a lively touch to the space.
A cutout headboard design shows off the signature Kimpton Seafire emblem over the bed. In the middle is a stylish black and white nightstand with intricate decor and features a built-in USB outlet for devices. There’s also a wardrobe, desk, chair, lamps, and a balcony with full or partial ocean views.
The bathroom is separated from the room with a modern barn door and includes twin vanity sinks, extra towels, robes, a shower and tub combination, a private toilet, and elegant pink touches on the tissue holder and the wall.
Full-sized bottles of Atelier Bloc bath products are available in the room as well.
Amenities
The Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa has a host of amenities to keep guests busy. First, there’s the swimming pool. It has a small division where kids can frolic and enjoy the water as well. Another swimming pool is on the property but it’s exclusive for Seafire Residences.
All around the pool are loungers and umbrellas which you can claim as your spot if available. Attendants are on hand to give you towels or help you out with arranging umbrellas and chairs. Pool and beach cabanas are sometimes available free in some resorts but in Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa, it’s available for a fee.
Walk a bit further and you’ll find the beach. The waters are calm enough for swimming and snorkeling and loungers are available for your use as well. Little flags can be used to signal the staff you need something and they will immediately approach you.
Gym lovers will appreciate the fitness center with its slew of cardio machines and weights. A beautiful spa is onsite with extensive treatments starting at $80 to $240 per treatment.
If you’re bringing kids between 5 to 12 years old, Camp Seafire is a great place to keep them busy while you go to have some adult fun. A full day costs $120 per day while a half-day is $65.
In addition, there are free bikes, on-site water sports rental, and diving.
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Food and Dining
Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa – Dining. Image Credit: Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa
Food on the property is amazing! There are two restaurants here, including a grab-and-go spot where there are unlimited coffee, tea, and pastries during breakfast and lunch.
The main restaurant, Coccoloba, serves Mexican-inspired dishes and is an ideal place for lunch and dinner. The other restaurant, AVE, is a small, tapas restaurant with limited seating.
Finally, Seafire Pantry serves coffee, tea, and cold beverages alongside breakfast pastry and breakfast bowls in the morning. In the afternoon are a few lunch items including some salad.
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Staff and Guest Services
The service staff at the Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa is top-notch. It can be hit or miss at the concierge but everywhere else, it is nothing short of amazing. From the housekeeping to the various attendants all around the resort, they are ready to assist with a smile and with no complaint.
Price
You can book a paid stay at Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa for $761 to $2,684 per night (an average of $1,520).
Points Redemption
Yes, the Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa can be booked starting with 70,000 IHG One Rewards points per night.
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Who Is It For?
If you’re looking for a pet-friendly, kid-friendly resort with lots of amenities fit, then the Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa is a great option. The rooms are spacious, elegant, and quite fresh. You get premium service and facilities that will keep you entertained throughout your stay.
Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa Gallery
Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa – Lounger. Image Credit: Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa
Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa – Pool Area. Image Credit: Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa
Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa – Bathroom. Image Credit: Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa
The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman
The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman. Image Credit: The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman
Dubbed one of the best snorkeling resorts in the world, The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman is one of several grand resorts lining the famous Severn Mile Beach.
Location
The property is spread out into two parts. One part lies on West Bay Road while the other lies across the road, fronting Seven Mile Beach. Connecting the two is a covered pedestrian bridge so you can move from one spot of the resort to the beachfront.
Nearby, guests have access to shopping areas including restaurants and cafes. Guests are also less than an hour away from some of Grand Cayman’s attractions including the Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park and Stingray City.
To reach the resort, you can take a taxi or hire a private car. There are no ride-sharing options available at The Grand Caymans. If you want to, you can also arrange transport with the resort but prepare to spend a bit more compared to regular transportation.
Room
The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman. Image Credit: The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman
All the rooms feel elegant and stylish with a chic, modern flair. They carry a bright, airy feel with a neutral color palette and splashes of sky blue that echo the color of the ocean.
There’s a king bed wrapped in premium linens, a beautiful spindle wood headboard, thick comfortable pillows, as well as a plush duvet. A comfy chair and ottoman are nearby and comfy carpets are underfoot. Private balconies offer a garden or resort view and some even the ocean.
Modern touches like a flatscreen TV, Nespresso machine, alarm clock, safe, and a minibar. Inside the bathroom are twin sinks on granite, a spacious tub, a rainfall showerhead, and a water closet. There are also Asprey toiletries provided in each bath.
Amenities
The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman. Image Credit: The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman
The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman is among the top Caribbean beach resorts so it’s no surprise it’s packed with a multitude of amenities to keep everyone happy.
One highlight here is the Seven Mile Beach. The Ritz-Carlton supplies loungers and beach cabanas for guests so you can easily relax on the powdery white sand while admiring the water. If the beach isn’t your thing, head for any of the two swimming pools onsite.
The Ritz-Carlton Spa offers treatments from III Skin and ESPA while using the latest technologies for a soothing treatment each time.
Other amenities here include a full fitness area with a selection of equipment, a basketball court, 5 tennis courts, a kid’s club, and various water activities.
Pro and amateur golfers can also visit The Ritz-Carlton Golf Club for a good game of golf.
Food and Dining
The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman – Dining. Image Credit: The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman
Choose from a selection of 6 restaurants and bars onsite. Blue by Eric Ripert serves a seafood-inspired menu. It’s the only AAA Five-Diamond restaurant in The Grand Caymans so if you want to indulge your palate while here, book a table at this restaurant.
Love Afternoon Tea or just light bites? The best place to park yourself is Silver Palm. Sip on some delicious rum at night as you listen to live music.
Beachside restaurant, Saint June is a relaxed area where you can dine on delicious beverages and yummy food offerings. Seven is one of those places where sophistication and elegance combine. They have an array of exquisite meals including a fantastic selection of wines.
Other dining and drink spots here include Taikun for premium sushi and Andiamo for Italian food.
Staff and Guest Services
The staff at The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman is well-trained and professional. There are hits and misses on occasion. However, overall, they are accommodating – allowing guests to have a worry-free time during their stay.
Price
Those who want to pay in cash can expect a rate starting at $859 per night to $2,570 per night (an average of $1,870).
Points Redemption
You can book a free night at The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman. Exchange anywhere from 90,000 to 118,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.
Who Is It For?
Made for couples, families, and even solo business travelers – the resort is a splendid all-around resort to visit. It is more expensive compared to other hotels in the area but it’s worth the splurge.
The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman Gallery
The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman – Living Room. Image Credit: The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman
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
Best For: Which Resort Should You Go For?
| Winner | What Makes It Great | |
| Best for Food | The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman | The Ritz-Carlton Grand Cayman’s Blue by Eric Ripert is the only AAA Five-Diamond restaurant in the country, so you can bet it’s one of the best! |
| Best for Pools | Tie | Both resorts offer amazing swimming pools in case you don’t want to lounge by the beach. |
| Best for Spa | Tie | These two resorts have premium spa services offered at their respective spa centers. |
| Best for Beaches | Tie | They are both within walking distance of the famous Seven Mile Beach! |
| Best For Adults | Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa | This resort primarily attracts honeymooners and couples but offers space for groups and families. |
| Best for Families | The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman | Because of its extensive amenities, The Ritz-Carlton is better suited for families. |
| Best Location | Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa | Although both are on Seven Mile Beach, Kimpton Seafire is in a more secluded spot so you get a good chunk of beach with some solitude. |
| Best for a Calm Vacation | Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa | Because it’s in a quieter area of Seven Mile Beach, Kimpton Seafire is a lot calmer. |
| Best for Diving or Snorkeling | The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman | The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman is a top snorkeling destination in the Caribbean. |
| Best for Service | Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa | With such a friendly and attentive spa, Kimpton Seafire blows The Ritz-Carlton away. |
| Most Exclusive | The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman | The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman because it’s such an established brand and has a lot of exclusivity. |
Wrapping Up
Be prepared for a fantastic vacation at the Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa or The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman. These two resorts have everything you need whether you’re traveling on a honeymoon, as a couple, or as a large family.
The Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa is found on the edge of Seven Mile Beach so it’s more peaceful and gives guests a chance to relax while still having fun. Although the number of food options is limited on-site, it is impressive. Plus, the staff goes above and beyond, making guests feel absolutely special.
On the other hand, The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman holds the distinction of being one of the best resorts here. From high-end restaurants like award-winning Blue by Eric Ripert to an endless supply of amenities to spoil you – The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman is a welcome haven to visit.
A trip to the Grand Cayman is a genuinely fantastic country ripe and ready for you to explore.
Safe travels!