Cayman Turtle Centre: Island Wildlife Encounter

Cayman Turtle Centre: Island Wildlife Encounter is 8 mi. (13 km) n. via Seven Mile Beach Rd. to 786 North West Point Rd. in West Bay. Green sea turtles once were a mainstay of the Cayman economy, but their numbers in the wild dwindled toward extinction. This 23-acre adventure marine park is home to some 7,000 turtles including primarily green sea turtles and also a small number of Hawksbill and Kemp's Ridley turtles. The site is an actual working farm, both educational and entertaining, and turtles are available for guests to hold for photographs. Feedings are conducted throughout the day.

The Exploration Tour includes an interactive turtle touch tank area and wading pool offering interaction with yearling turtles, while the crocodile enclosure houses the 9-foot Smiley, a hybrid Caiman crocodile. The park's educational and hatchery facility focuses on the conservation of green sea turtles.

On the Adventure Tour, visitors have access to everything on the Exploration Tour plus the opportunity to swim and snorkel with fish and other marine life in the 1.3-million-gallon saltwater lagoon. They can also enjoy a refreshing dip and ride the waterslide in the Breaker's freshwater tidal lagoon, or see sharks and eels close-up in the predator tank. Additional choices include wandering through a free-flight bird aviary or strolling down a historic Caymanian street showcasing traditional architecture. A nature trail allows guests to experience Cayman's rich natural history in a fun and safe environment, while providing opportunities to observe and interact with native flora and fauna.

Visitors should be aware that sea turtle products purchased in the Cayman Islands cannot be taken home; U.S. customs officials will confiscate any items brought into the country.

Food is available. Time: Allow 2 hours minimum.