By Francesca Gardner
Growing up on an island surrounded by beautiful beaches, it’s easy to assume that the sun, sand and sea are the first places to introduce children to nature. While I love taking my kids swimming, I also want them to connect with the flora and fauna of the island, to understand the environment beyond the shoreline.
Recently, we embarked on two nature-filled adventures that allowed our children to experience the wild beauty of Grand Cayman up close: A visit to the Cayman Parrot Sanctuary in East End and a day at the Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park.
The Cayman Parrot Sanctuary
Our first adventure was to the Cayman Parrot Sanctuary. This privately run attraction, founded by Ron Hargrave, works closely with the Cayman Islands government and the Department of Environment to protect and rehabilitate the islands’ national bird – the Cayman parrot.
The sanctuary is more than just a home for parrots: It is also a haven for a variety of other native species. During our visit, we encountered agouti, iguanas, turtles and even snakes, and my kids loved interacting with the animals.
One of the sanctuary’s highlights was a talkative white cockatoo named Coco, who entertained my children with her dancing and speaking skills. My kids were fascinated by Coco’s charm, but we were also cautioned not to let them put their fingers in the cages as Coco has a habit of nipping. Look, talk and interact, but don’t touch!
As a bonus, the sanctuary had a play area that the kids thoroughly enjoyed. With slides, swings, a sand pit and a zip line, it was the perfect way for the kids to blow off steam after their animal encounters.
Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park
Our second adventure took us to the Botanic Park off Frank Sound Road. Spanning 65 acres, the park is a botanical paradise, with seven distinct attractions to explore.
The moment we drove into the parking lot, we were greeted by the heady aroma of local florals and the sight of lush greenery that surrounded us.
Our first stop in the park was the Orchid Boardwalk. This short, pleasant walk was a fun game of ‘seek and find’ as the kids looked for orchids nestled in the forest. These beautiful, local orchids were a real treat for the eyes, and it was clear the kids were captivated by the vibrant colours.
From there, we headed to the Children’s Garden, which was an absolute hit with the kids. The moment we entered, they were drawn to three tunnels covered in greenery, making them feel like they were part of a secret garden. They spent time running in and out of the tunnels, playing hide-and-seek, all while being surrounded by the sights and sounds of nature. The area also has a small pavilion, ideal for cultural performances, educational seminars and even birthday parties.
Beyond the tunnels was the Discovery Pond, in which koi fish swim idly around, adding a touch of tranquility to the garden. The children loved watching them glide through the water, and it was a peaceful moment amid all the play. The garden also boasts an observation tower, where we found comfy porch swings on every level. The kids had a blast climbing up and racing down the slides, while we enjoyed the view of the lush landscape around us. Two small rock-climbing walls provided a fun challenge for the little ones with a bell to ring once they reached the top. There was also a small tunnel and a maze to keep them entertained.
We couldn’t miss the splash pad in the same area, which was a perfect way for the kids to cool off after exploring the garden on a hot day. The splash pad was surrounded by a lawn with tables and chairs, providing a great spot for us to take a break and enjoy a snack while the kids played in the water. There were two changing rooms nearby, which made it easy to change out of wet clothes.
While we were at the Children’s Garden, we also encountered two blue iguanas – one large and one smaller, which appeared to be her baby. These magnificent creatures are a symbol of the island and the park’s conservation efforts, and it was truly special for the kids to see them up close.
Though we didn’t spend much time at the Rankine Heritage House, we did take the opportunity to learn a little about Caymanian history. The house, which is more than 100 years old, is a restored traditional home that gave us a glimpse into how people once lived on the island without electricity and plumbing. The kids had plenty of questions, especially when I explained that their great-great-grandparents had lived in homes like this in the past, using an outhouse for a bathroom.
Perhaps the most magical experience was the Colour Garden, which felt like stepping into a world of wonder. Walking through the garden was like being transported to another realm, full of vibrant flowers and plants. Each plant seemed to have its own unique scent and colour, which fascinated the children.
We were especially taken with the silk floss tree, a majestic sight known to grow up to 60 feet tall, with blossoms that are as delicate as they are beautiful.
As we continued our walk, we were delighted to come across a jade vine in full bloom. This rare tropical vine, native to the Philippines, produces clusters of twisting turquoise flowers that seemed whimsical and magical.
Throughout the park, we encountered wildlife at every turn. We spotted a hopping agouti trying to hide from us, and not far off, a less shy blue iguana. The park also features a blue iguana conservation facility, where we learned about the ongoing efforts to save this unique Caymanian reptile from extinction.
New nursery facilities
The nursery at the Botanic Park hosts plant sales throughout the year through its on-site nursery. On 28 Feb., the park hosted a free open-house event to showcase the progress made so far on its new native plant nursery.
The open house morning featured a guided tour of the trails and new nursery facilities and included a seed propagation demonstration. Attendees had the opportunity to learn about the unique native flora of the Cayman Islands.
Our family’s nature-filled time at the Cayman Parrot Sanctuary and Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park was a thoroughly enjoyable experience. We connected with nature in ways I hadn’t anticipated, and it was a joy to see my kids so engaged with the island’s rich environment. You will leave these attractions with a greater appreciation for Cayman’s natural wonders, and your kids will have a lasting impression and memories.
Francesca Gardner is a freelance journalist who has written for publications in the Cayman Islands since 2018.
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We love both the Parrot Sanctuary & QEII Botanical Park. I have a soft spot for the Blue Iguanas and love visiting them when we go. Both are wonderful stops that show off what so many maybe miss when visiting Cayman.