St Thomas v Grand Cayman

Planning a trip for the end of March with DH and DD, who will be almost 20 mos.

Any recommendations on choosing between these islands? We are trying to use hotel points so we will be limited to the Marriotts on both islands. Is there more to do on one island, or is one more kid-friendly? Thanks.

Re: St Thomas v Grand Cayman

I've been to both during my late teens so I can't say how kid-friendly they are, but I'll offer what I do know.

Grand Cayman was more built up like an Aruba sort of island. Lots of great shopping and dining, felt very safe to walk around and explore. Excellent scuba and snorkeling if you're into that. It was pretty expensive to eat and drink there but well worth it.

St. Thomas had the nicest beach I've ever been to. The water and the coastline were just phenomenal. We were there on a cruise so we didn't eat at the restaurants, but I can say the locals were super nice and laid back. It has a true "island" feel.

ETA: I think there's lots to do on both islands. I recall on GC they had Sting Ray City, the snuba tour, there's the rum cake factory, Margaretaville, etc. On St. Thomas there was catamaran sail and snorkels, several great beaches to visit, shopping, there's an underwater observatory, dolphin swimming, etc.

Of the two I personally loved St. Thomas more and would go back in a heart beat. It's a beautiful island! But you can't go wrong with either of them - they're both great choices.

Message edited 9/16/2014 12:45:39 PM.

St Thomas v Grand Cayman

You can use Marriot points at Ritz Carelton so if you have enough, I recommend the Ritz in St Thomas. We loved it! We went to St. John for the day. Lots of great restaurants on St Thomas. Good shopping. I've never been to Grand Cayman but my husband has (stayed at the marriot) and likes st Thomas better. One of these days we will try the grand cayman ritz but food/drinks are so expensive there.

Re: St Thomas v Grand Cayman

Love st Thomas and would return in a second! We stayed at the Marriott, with another couple....we rented a jeep and explored the island and the various beaches, found amazing restaurants, took a day trip to St. John's. I also prior, booked excursions for us to see virgin Gorda & the baths, jost van dyke, a sailing trip with snorkeling.

We still talk about when we will return again!!!!

Re: St Thomas v Grand Cayman

Thanks everyone for the replies. It seems you all really loved St Thomas. I think we may be somewhat limited in the activities we will be able to do, such as excursions, because DD is still so young. I just want there to be enough to do with her too since it's a family vacation.

Re: St Thomas v Grand Cayman

St Thomas v Grand Cayman

Definitely St. Thomas, and I also recommend the Ritz Carlton or the Westin in St John. If I could go anywhere today, that's where I'd go. Great bang for your buck, relatively safe, it's a USVI, so our currency and language Are the same. It's also easy to get to, and March is really nice weather there.

Re: St Thomas v Grand Cayman

I think unless you dive Grand Cayman is kind of boring.