Seaview Hotel & Dive Resort

December 20 2007: On my first trip to Grand Cayman I was determined to stay at this hotel. The reason was because I’d heard it was the oldest on the island, originally opening in 1953 I think, and had a reputation of catering to divers. In fact, it sits right on the water and offers great shore diving, plus there’s a dive shop right there.

But I couldn’t tell for sure what it was like, so decided not to commit to staying there until I could see for myself. So I spent the first week of that trip at the Treasure Island Resort. But after getting a chance to check out Seaview, I liked what I saw and booked a room there for another week.

This place sits only about a five-minute walk south of Georgetown, but the area is totally laid back, and completely different from the bustle of the Seven-Mile Beach area. The hotel is inexpensive with a sort of quaint feeling. It’s rather small, having only 15 rooms, but mine was quite comfortable with all the basics.

There’s a large pool that overlooks the ocean, and lots of patio to lounge on while enjoying the ocean view. The coast at this part of the island is rocky, actually being what’s called ironshore, which is mostly the remains of ancient coral formation and rock.

Divers can enter the water with an easy giant stride off the end of an outcrop along a deep mini-lagoon. Seaview has conveniently added a ladder near that same location for getting back out.

There’s a restaurant on site called the Naked Fish, which is superb. That fact is attested to by the locals who gather there at days end for drinks at the bar and/or dinner.

This hotel really does cater to divers, but anyone can enjoy a stay. It’s quiet and relaxed, but with no frills. If you want something fancy, you should consider another of the vast assortment of accommodations on Cayman. Personally I’ve enjoyed each of my stays here and would certainly come again.

As an update, Grand Cayman got trashed pretty bad by hurricane Ivan in late 2004. I know of properties that ended up closing their doors for good in 2005. The last I heard was that the Seaview would not reopen for awhile. I don’t know its current status, but will check the next time I visit the island. If anyone has updated info, please let me know. I sincerely hope the owners choose to re-open as it’s one of my favorites.

Date of stay: January 2003
Purpose of stay: Leisure