Renowned for beautiful beaches, excellent diving and offshore banking, the Cayman Islands are a group of three islands situated between Cuba and Jamaica, only a 90-minute flight from Miami. Grand Cayman is the largest and most developed of the islands and the location of the capital, George Town. It is hard to believe that among the buildings that line George Town's harbour are more than 500 banks making up the world's fifth largest offshore financial centre.

Discovered by Columbus in 1503 and explored by Sir Francis Drake in 1586, it was not until 1670 that the islands came under British rule. They remain a British territory, and the Queen's picture is still displayed proudly, but the US exerts the dominant influence over what it considers its backyard. For years the islands were a base for pirates who delighted in the remoteness of Grand Cayman. A bonus was the island's absolutely flat topography, which ensures that its profile is practically invisible against the horizon, making it the perfect hide-away for nefarious characters.

While some people are still looking for a place to hide their treasure, these days most visitors to the Cayman Islands are looking for a relaxing getaway. The Islands are a beach paradise with great swimming, snorkelling, scuba diving, fishing and water sports.

Little Cayman and Cayman Brac are 70 miles (113km) northeast of Grand Cayman and are much smaller and even more relaxed than the main island. Visitors don't come here in suits; the little business that goes on revolves around diving and catering for the world's best bone-fishing.

Seven Mile Beach

Address: Grand Cayman

Boatswain's Beach

Address: 825 Northwest Point Road, West Bay Grand Cayman

Admission: Park : US$45 (adults), US$25 (children); Turtle Farm Tour: US$30 (adults), US$20 (children 4-12). Monday to Thursday 8:30am to 4:30pm, Friday to Sunday 8:30am to 10pm

Telephone: (345) 949 3894

Pedro St James Castle

Address: Grand Cayman

Admission: CI$8 (adults), children 12 and under free with a parent. Daily 9am to 5pm

Telephone: (345) 947 3329

Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park

Address: Frank Sound Road Grand Cayman

Admission: CI$8 (adults); free for children under 12 with a parent. Open daily 9am to 5:30pm (October to March); 9am to 6:30pm (April to September). Closed 25 December and Good Friday.

Telephone: (345) 947 9462

Rum Point

Address: Grand Cayman

Stingray City and Sandbar

Address: Grand Cayman

Hell

Address: West Bay Grand Cayman

Diving

Sunset Cruises