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Kidz Eye View of Grand Cayman Island

There are three magical islands in the western Caribbean, just south of Cuba and northwest of Jamaica, called Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac and Little Cayman. I explored "the big island" recently, and with a kid's-eye view in mind, I've picked 10 highlights of my trip for your family's edification.

I should mention that we stayed at the Treasure Island Resort, a parrot's throw from the beach, with a huge, kid-friendly pool where you can actually sit on stools at an outdoor restaurant—while still in the pool. Rates from $155 to $190 in summer; $220 to $260 in winter.

Champ and John Wood: a horse and his boy

Nicki's Beach Rides. My first adventure out of the chute was perfect — a leisurely, 1 1/2-hour horseback ride along the beach. My horse's name was Champ. He was ideal for me — old and slow. I learned a lot about the history of the islands: how the pirates buried gold here, and how the early settlers were a mixture of folks from Scotland, England, Wales and West Africa. Ages 8 and up, $62.50. Call (345) 945-5839.

Atlantis Submarine. You get up close and personal with the denizens of the deep (OK, 100 feet down) as you watch through the portholes while scuba divers feed rainbow-hued fishes. $72 and up. Call (800) 887-8571.

The Jolly Roger. Way cool! The only authentic replica of a 17th-century Spanish galleon in the Caribbean offers a variety of two-hour cruises. Kids, I went on the Pirate Cruise because they set the sails, fire the cannon, walk the plank, sword-fight — and you get to stop for a swim. $29 adults, $19 children. Call (345) 949-8534.

Stingrays, and some people-legs in the background

The Glass-Bottom Boat to Stingray City Sand Bar. The view through the glass bottom of the boat is subject to the whims of the ocean, but the stingrays are like puppies and very friendly around people. You get to hold them in the water and feed them. Ooh, velvet! About $50 per person for the day. Check the Web site listed below for various charters.

Cardinal D's Park. This small animal park was built by a grieving father for his son, who was killed in a plane crash on the island. Lots of barnyard animals and exotic birds. My favorite pair consisted of a duck and a Shetland pony named Confucius and Roots who are inseparable. $5 adults, $2.50 children. Call (345) 949-8855.

The Turtle Farm. More than 14,000 sea turtles in all sizes live here, some for petting, some for releasing back to the sea and yes, a lot destined for eating. $6 adults, $3 ages 6 to 12. Call (345) 949-3893.

SNUBA. This is a cross between snorkeling and scuba diving. You're tethered to an inflatable raft that holds your oxygen tank. No certification required. A 2-1/2-hour blast! Ages 8 and up, $55. Call (345) 949-8100.

The Pedro St. James Historic Site. The islands' first national historic landmark features a visitor center and a 24-minute video reviewing 200 years of local history complete with live special effects. $8 adults, $4 children. Call (345) 947-3329.

The National Museum. A 14-foot traditional handmade catboat, old coins, rare documents, tons of pictures, stuffed birds and short films keep things moving along. $5 adults, $3 children. Call (345) 949-8368.

Snorkeling! I took some small cereal bags, swam a little distance out and did my underwater impression of feeding the pigeons in the park. Cost: a few boxes of cereal.

A typical beach in the Caymans

Contact the Cayman Islands Resource Center, phone (800) 346-3313; or see the Department of Tourism Web site, www.caymanislands.ky.

— John Wood

NOTE: The prices listed above were accurate as of posting; we suggest you call for current rates before your trip.

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