There are a lot of essential tips before visiting Grand Cayman to keep in mind, but ones involving how, where, and when you can buy and enjoy your favorite beverages are some of the most important. The Cayman Islands may feel laid-back, but there are some key rules and customs that every traveler should understand before they pop that first bottle. Here are a few from the friendly experts with Jacques Scott Wines and Spirits.
Where to Buy Alcohol on the Island
Let’s start with the basics: Grand Cayman has a solid selection of liquor stores throughout the island, and they’re easy to find once you know where to look. You won’t see alcohol in grocery stores or gas stations here.
Instead, dedicated retailers like Jacques Scott Wines and Spirits handle all beer, wine and spirits sales. That means your best bet is heading straight to one of our well-stocked liquor stores, which carry everything from internationally recognized labels to regional favorites you might not find back home.
Age Requirements and Drinking Laws
The legal drinking age in the Cayman Islands is 18, and enforcement is consistent. Whether you’re at a beachfront bar or picking up a few bottles to go, expect to be asked for ID if you look anywhere close to the age limit. Caymanian law takes alcohol regulation seriously, so it’s best not to test your luck.
That said, the culture around drinking is generally relaxed. You’ll find plenty of places to enjoy a drink responsibly – beach bars, rooftop lounges, restaurant patios – but don’t confuse casual with careless. Open containers are allowed in some outdoor areas, like the beach, but drinking in public parking lots or while walking through town isn’t the norm. Keep it respectful and you’ll fit right in.
Enjoying Your Drinks Island-Style
One of the joys of visiting Grand Cayman is how easy it is to incorporate a drink into your day without turning it into a spectacle. Picture a cold beer at Rum Point, a freshly blended daiquiri at a seaside café in West Bay, or a glass of wine with your conch fritters as the sun dips below the horizon. Alcohol is part of the island’s rhythm – but in a way that enhances the vibe, not overshadows it.
Many visitors also enjoy having a well-stocked fridge in their vacation rental. Whether you’re staying in a luxury villa or a beachfront condo, picking up a variety of local and imported drinks lets you enjoy happy hour on your own schedule. It’s worth exploring local rum brands, craft beers, or even a few bottles of wine from Jacques Scott Wines and Spirits.
One Final Tip Before You Go
Grand Cayman makes it easy to enjoy a drink the right way: slowly, with good company and in the kind of setting that makes everything taste better. But knowing the basics before you arrive – like where to buy alcohol, what the rules are and how to enjoy it like a local – can make all the difference. Once you’ve got that first cold drink in your hand and the ocean in front of you, you’ll understand why so many people fall in love with this island.
Just remember to plan ahead, follow the local customs, and treat every sip as part of the adventure. Grand Cayman isn’t just a place to relax – it’s a place to enjoy. And when you do it right, that enjoyment can be as smooth and satisfying as the drink itself. Learn more by calling Jacques Scott Wines and Spirits at +1 (345) 949-0277 or contacting us online.
