Best Quiet Beaches for Children in South Sound
Smith’s Cove
At Smith’s Cove, shallow waters invite toddlers and first-time snorkelers to explore safely. Parking is free in the adjacent public car park, and the beach is open from dawn to dusk. Limestone rock formations create this tranquil cove area that has several picnic tables positioned under overhanging trees that provide a decent amount of shade. The small, sandy beach area is perfect for lounging and building sandcastles. After enjoying the salty waters, rinse off all those beach toys and bathing suits in the shower and get everyone into dry clothing in the changing area.
Consuelo’s Beach
Formerly known as South Sound Beach, Consuelo’s Beach is a quiet and lesser-traveled spot. The small beach has a single picnic table under shaded trees and is located just behind an easily accessible parking lot. The waters are a delight for little ones during low tide where they can splash around. Be sure to pack reef-safe sunscreen and sturdy water shoes if you want to explore the more rocky areas.
Consuelo’s Beach is named in memory of the Cayman icon Anna Consuelo Ebanks, who was a South Sound community activist, author, environmentalist, actress, businesswoman and mother. She spent her life enhancing, protecting and conserving all things Caymanian and helped establish this once overgrown plot into the beloved beach area it is today.
Parks and Playgrounds in South Sound
Dart Family Park
Right along South Sound Road, this children’s park is shaded by mature trees and overlooks a quiet stretch of ocean. The playground’s well-maintained equipment and nearby picnic benches make it an ideal spot for a leisurely afternoon. Over the summer months, free family-friendly activities in the park’s amphitheater include singalongs and interactive story times. The park welcomes visitors daily without any entry fee.
Pickleball Cayman
This brand-new pickleball facility claims to be the largest in the world! It is located on the outskirts of South Sound, just a short drive away. On weekends, families gather for open play on any of the 24 courts offered by Pickleball Cayman. A whimsical adventure playground keeps little ones busy while the family dines at the onsite restaurant, and it’s always busy with cheerful kiddos from after-school, holiday and summer camp pickleball programs.
Nature Encounters
Pony Park at the Equestrian Centre
Just off Linford Pierson Highway, the Equestrian Centre hosts its Pony Park every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. For CI$5 per child, youngsters can enjoy pony rides, meet donkeys and miniature horses, and visit the interactive barnyard. Note: Reservations are required for school outings and birthday party packages.
Bel Air Pond
Just a short stroll from the main road, Bel Air Pond in the Bel Air Park residential area offers a peaceful birdwatching escape. West Indian Whistling Ducks gather here at dawn and dusk, and paths wind around the pond, making it easy for families to enjoy a gentle nature walk together.
Pirate Cove Park
Located along South Sound Road, this park is a community seascape created by restoring an eroded beach ridge along the southern shore of South Sound in Grand Cayman. Walking paths, small benches and a small sandy beach area lead out to the beautiful waters here.
Pirate Cove Park is sustainable space developed through a Darwin Plus grant scheme to support shoreline, mangrove and native plant installations and to encourage native butterflies, birds and wildlife.
Swim with Turtles
A 15-minute drive from South Sound, Spotts Beach in Prospect is a natural gem for marine wildlife spotting. Frequent green turtle sightings and healthy coral nurseries lie just offshore. There are no facilities here other than one covered pavilion, so bring chairs, umbrellas and snacks, and plan to arrive before 10 a.m. when the waters are calmest. For safety, consider wearing fins and reef boots if you plan to swim beyond the shoreline. Keep an eye on small children as currents can strengthen later in the day and can be tough even for adults.
Cultural and Educational Adventures
Mind’s Eye
At 7 South Sound Road, art springs to life in the former home of Caymanian artist Gladwyn “Miss Lassie” Bush. Vibrant murals cover the walls and windows, weaving stories of island life. Paid tours are by appointment and plan to wear comfortable shoes to navigate the home’s uneven floors.
Cayman Islands National Museum
In the heart of George Town, adjacent to South Sound, is the Cayman Islands National Museum. It showcases interactive exhibits on shipwrecks, prehistoric fossils and Caymanian heritage. Be sure to pick up the complimentary scavenger hunt sheet so your little explorers enjoy the guided discovery through the galleries. As a bonus, Cayman residents with ID get in free every Saturday.
George Town Public Library
Also in central George Town, the public library offers more than just books. Weekly story times, craft workshops and seasonal festivals take place in the library’s historic courtyard. The facility welcomes visitors Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Saturdays until 1 p.m. Accessible ramps and quiet reading rooms make it a comfortable retreat for families.
Make Your Own Fun
South Sound Community Center is open to the community to book for a variety of occasions from celebrations to public meetings. The hall is often filled with children’s birthday party favorites from the island’s party planners and DIYers, all setting the scene for an afternoon of laughter and lots of play. You can reserve the space via the Cayman Islands Government for a small fee.
