For divers

CAYMAN ISLANDS

They say: Steve Broadbelt, co-owner, Ocean Frontiers Dive Shop says, the Cayman Islands are perched on the pinnacles of an incredibly deep trench. ‘The vast drop-offs into the abyss are often easily accessible – in some cases no more than a few minutes’ boat ride out from shore. People think exploring our famous walls is not for inexperienced divers. But the tops of the walls can start at just 35ft, and you don’t have to venture too deep to enjoy them,’ he says.

We say: The waters around the three Cayman Islands provide the best diving in the Caribbean. Other factors that make the diving so special include the vast number of dive sites, clear visibility, the abundance of healthy coral, rays, turtles and sharks, and first-rate diving schools. As well as visiting walls – topping the list is Bloody Bay Wall, a 6,000ft vertical cliff off Little Cayman – you can explore sunken wrecks such as the USS Kittiwake.

See for yourself

White-sand Seven Mile Beach on Grand Cayman is one of the Caribbean’s pin-up strands.

At Stingray City, you can engage with marine life simply standing on a sandbar.

A breeding programme for Grand Cayman’s blue iguanas has rescued the species from the brink of extinction.

Where to stay: For a beach/dive holiday, base yourself on Seven Mile Beach. If your focus is wholly diving, stay on sleepy Little Cayman or at Grand Cayman's tranquil East End, which are near many of the best dive sites.