The Unusually Interesting Grand Cayman Destination With A Menacing Name
Travelers who have a passion for places that are rich in sunshine, sand, and surf will find exactly what they're longing for when they make time for a trip to the Cayman Islands. This collection of three distinct islands includes Little Cayman, Cayman Brac, and Grand Cayman, all of which are loved for their stunning beaches, luxurious dining options, and gorgeous natural landmarks. While the Cayman Islands provide travelers with opportunities to enjoy a little piece of paradise for themselves no matter when they arrive, those who head to Grand Cayman also have the option to make a quick stopover in Hell.
This destination with an undeniably menacing name is an intriguing attraction to add to an itinerary before you even know what it might exactly be about. If you can put visions of eternal punishment aside, you'll find this spot earned its name as a result of the many black limestone rock formations that cover the landscape. It's estimated these formed over the course of 24 million years, making Hell an incredibly historic geological wonder to experience on the island — not to mention a fun photo opportunity and a terrific conversation starter when you get back home.
An unexpectedly fascinating Grand Cayman location
Making time to enjoy a sun-soaked afternoon on a breathtaking beach is always an option when you visit Grand Cayman. When you're hoping to pair that world-class beach hopping with something wonderfully unexpected, Hell is it. Many visitors quickly realize it's a place that doesn't live up to its terrible name. Instead, the collection of limestone rocks is far more whimsical than daunting, and the strangeness of it all is fun and fascinating.
There's no cost involved in visiting Hell, which makes this one-of-a-kind experience on Grand Cayman budget-friendly too. Operating hours run from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. daily and there's plenty of parking available on-site if you're arriving on your own and not with a tour group or on a cruise excursion. Getting here is a refreshingly simple task because Hell is located right on Hell Road in the heart of West Bay. It's just about a 20-minute drive from George Town, which makes it an easy addition to other activities you might have on your agenda for the day.
The best way to tour Hell is to make sure you check out both of the overlook platforms on-site. These are prime places to take fun photos beyond the "Welcome to Hell" signs that are sure to delight friends and family back home. Visitors are free to stroll the grounds around the overlook platforms in Hell, but it's good to be aware that there aren't any designated pathways or trails in place.
Lookout for devils along the way
Grand Cayman's Hell is a small, but intriguing, place to visit. This is especially true when you realize there are sculptures and works of art scattered throughout the area that play on the Hell-inspired theme perfectly. From the decorative devil on the overlook platform to the Little Rock devil situated within the midst of the black limestone, the search is on for the creative details starting the moment you arrive.
Once you've taken time to snap pictures in front of all of the sculptures you can find, you can check out all three gift shops on-site too. Each is set up for even more Hell-focused photo opportunities and provides fun places to pick up themed souvenirs for yourself and loved ones. If you really want to surprise someone back home, purchase a postcard in the gift store and then head over to the Hell Post Office. From here you can send your postcard off knowing it will arrive postmarked directly from Hell. Many visitors who head to Hell for a quick visit choose to pair this activity with time at nearby attractions. Hell is a mere four minutes away from the Cayman Turtle Centre by car, and no more than an eight-minute drive from Barker's National Park.