Cemetery Beach is one of Grand Cayman's best-kept secrets for snorkeling, and it happens to be just a short walk from BeachLane. Unlike the busier stretches of Seven Mile Beach, Cemetery Beach offers a quieter, more intimate experience with some of the island's most accessible coral reef.
Why Cemetery Beach?
The reef at Cemetery Beach starts remarkably close to shore — often just 20 to 30 feet from the waterline. This makes it perfect for snorkelers of all experience levels, including families with children. The water is calm, clear, and shallow enough to stand in most areas near the beach.
What sets Cemetery Beach apart is the quality of the reef. The coral formations here are healthy and diverse, creating a habitat for an incredible variety of marine life.
What You'll See
On a typical snorkeling session, expect to encounter:
- Parrotfish — their brilliant blues and greens are impossible to miss
- Sergeant Majors — the black-and-yellow-striped fish that seem to be everywhere
- Yellowtail Snappers — curious and often swimming in schools
- Sea Fans and Soft Corals — swaying gently in the current
- Starfish — scattered across the sandy patches between coral heads
- Sea Turtles — if you're lucky, you'll spot one grazing on sea grass
Best Time to Go
Early morning is ideal — the water is calmest, the light is best for visibility, and you'll have the reef largely to yourself. Aim for 7:00 to 9:00 AM before the afternoon winds pick up.
Avoid going after heavy rain, as runoff can reduce visibility temporarily.
Gear Tips
You don't need much:
- Mask and snorkel — a good seal on the mask is essential
- Fins — optional but helpful for covering more reef
- Reef-safe sunscreen — regular sunscreen damages coral, so please use reef-safe formulas
- Rash guard or swim shirt — protects from sun without the need for excessive sunscreen
We keep basic snorkeling gear at BeachLane for our guests. Just grab a set from the storage closet and you're good to go!
Getting There from BeachLane
Cemetery Beach is a 5-minute drive or a pleasant 15-minute walk north along the coast. There's free parking at the small lot by the beach entrance. Look for the low stone wall — that's your landmark.
Respect the Reef
Please remember: look but don't touch. Standing on coral damages it, and it takes decades to regrow. Keep your fins above the reef, and never chase or grab marine life.
Cemetery Beach is a treasure right on our doorstep. Whether it's your first time snorkeling or your hundredth, the reef here never disappoints.