Royal Palms or Sea Grape Beach?

[Mommyof1]

Based on the reviews, I've narrowed it down to either Royal Palms or Sea Grape Beach. Which one is the best and why? Also looking for somewhere to grab some lunch that's not too expensive.

[MamaParrotHead]

I wasn't thrilled with Royal Palms. Especially "The Reef Grill". Granted, it's GC and EVERYTHING is pricey, but we had 2 fish sandwiches, 2 hot dogs, 2 sodas, 1 beer and 1 drink and the tab was $70+ tip. The beach itself wasn't anything special, no snorkeling at all in this particular spot. The one fun thing about it is that my kids enjoyed jumping the little waves as they came on to the beach.

[bookbabe]

Unfortunately, that's Cayman. Stuff is expensive. Sea Grape is going to have the same prices. You're in the heart of the tourist area, as well, so figure on "tourist" prices rather than "home in a small town" prices...and then add the conversion rate for the currency. Also remember that for that price, you're also getting access to all of their facilities, like showers and restrooms.

 

Actually, for a family of 4, $70 US is pretty good. My DH and I have dropped that at Royal Palms for just the two of us before, by ordering a fancier meal (ie. not a sandwich) or higher end mixed drinks.

 

Yes, there are cheaper islands/ports of call. However, I don't find them nearly as clean or safe. In Cayman, you can drink the tap water, travel around on your own, enjoy a clean beach without being pestered by vendors or drug dealers, etc. I'm willing to pay that premium for those advantages... :D

 

Edit...I forgot to mention the beach. Good snorkelling spots usually don't have good beach, and vice versa. Save your snorkelling for someplace like Eden Rock, and just enjoy the beach along Seven Mile.

[Mommyof1]

We're not looking to snorkel, so that's not a problem. We just want somewhere to relax and enjoy the ocean. An umbrella is a must for my DH, so I don't mind having to pay extra for chairs and umbrellas. My DS just loves to play in the water. After about 2 hrs, my DH would be ready to leave the beach anyway.