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Few scams

Caribbean

Tourist scams in Cayman Islands

The Cayman Islands have relatively low crime, though crime has been rising on Grand Cayman. The main concerns described are robbery on dark roads at night and theft of valuable belongings at the beach. No specific organised tourist scam is described, but visitors should check whether prices are in Caymanian or US dollars.
  1. 1 TheftOccasionalRobbery on dark roads at nightPeople walking or cycling along dark roads at night can be targeted for robbery or assault. No specific setup or distraction trick is described.George Town 2Read
  2. 2 TheftOccasionalTheft of valuable beach belongingsThieves may take valuable or flashy items that they can resell. Ordinary beach belongings are described as less attractive targets, but that does not guarantee they are safe.Beaches; no particular beach is named 2Read

Where to stay alert

  • Courts Road, George TownSpecifically linked to the risk of assault or robbery when walking or cycling on dark roads at night.
  • Rock Hole, George TownAn area visitors are advised to avoid for personal safety. No particular scam is described.
  • Swamp, George TownAn area visitors are advised to avoid for personal safety. No particular scam is described.
  • Jamaica Town/Windsor Park, George TownAn area visitors are advised to avoid for personal safety. No particular scam is described.
  • Eastern Avenue, George TownAn area visitors are advised to avoid for personal safety. No particular scam is described.

Habits that keep you safe

Money

  • Before paying, ask whether the price is in CI$ or US$. Both currencies are accepted.
  • Check the currency on the bill and count your change.
  • Confirm the total before agreeing to a purchase. A dollar sign alone may leave the currency unclear.

Your belongings

  • Take only what you need to the beach.
  • Keep valuable or flashy items out of sight.
  • Do not leave valuables unattended while swimming.

Nights out

  • Plan your journey home before going out.
  • Avoid dark, isolated roads on foot or by bicycle.
  • Carry a phone that can call 911.
  • If travelling alone, be especially careful at night. Call the police if you feel followed or threatened.

Where you stay

  • Lock doors and windows when possible.
  • Use secure storage for valuables you do not need to carry.

What travellers say about Cayman Islands

Discussions on other sites, summarised in our words. Open a link to read the full thread.

Questions

Are tourist scams common in the Cayman Islands?

Crime is relatively low, and no specific organised tourist scam is described. Robbery and theft remain possible, especially on dark roads at night or when valuables are left unattended.

How do I avoid confusion between CI$ and US$?

Ask which currency the price uses before you agree to pay. Check the bill and your change. Currency confusion alone does not prove a scam.

Is George Town safe to walk around at night?

George Town is generally safe, but its centre can be very quiet at night. Avoid dark, isolated roads and arrange a ride when needed.

Which areas should visitors avoid?

The areas named are Rock Hole, Swamp, Jamaica Town/Windsor Park, Courts Road and Eastern Avenue. Courts Road is specifically linked to nighttime assault and robbery risk.

Can I leave my belongings on the beach?

Ordinary beach items are described as less attractive to thieves. Valuable or flashy items can still be taken. Keep valuables with you or have someone watch them.

Are expensive drinks a sign of overcharging?

Not necessarily. Alcohol is expensive on the islands. Typical bar and club drinks are listed at CI$4–7. Check the menu price and currency before ordering.

What should I do if someone follows me?

Move towards a safe place with other people and call the police immediately. Use 911 if you feel threatened or need urgent help.

What precautions should solo women take?

Be especially careful at night, avoid isolated routes and carry a phone that can call 911. Sexual assaults do occasionally occur. Report threatening behaviour promptly.

How can I reduce the risk of theft from my accommodation?

Lock doors and windows when possible. Keep valuables in secure storage and carry only what you need.

Who should I contact after a theft?

Report it to the Royal Cayman Islands Police Service. Contact your bank if cards were taken, your insurer if you have cover, and your embassy or consulate if your passport was stolen.

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