Wondering how to pay for metro and bus rides in Cayman Islands - cash only, or do cards work too?
The bus system in Grand Cayman was actually a fun surprise. I hopped on a Route 1 minibus near Bodden Town, paid CI$3 in coins, and the driver chatted the whole way about local beaches. Everyone was friendly, and it was straightforward. No cards, no apps, just hand over cash. But that simplicity made it easy. Staying at a guesthouse near George Town, I found the buses way cheaper than taxis and far more authentic. Bring small bills - the drivers don’t carry change for CI$50 notes.
Public transport in the Cayman Islands is limited and not tourist-friendly. I was staying at Morritt’s in East End and had to wait nearly 40 minutes for a bus. When it came, it was cash only. The driver didn’t accept US cards or CI debit, just cash in Cayman dollars. I had to get change at a Foster’s supermarket because he wouldn’t break my big bill. Honestly, taxis or car rentals make more sense for visitors. The bus works if you’re on a budget, but expect only cash.
I stayed at Sunshine Suites on Seven Mile Beach and used minibuses daily to get to George Town. They were reliable but always cash only. It was CI$2.50 per ride, and the driver wanted exact change. Once I tried giving US$10 and he waved me off - they really prefer local dollars. No card option anywhere. Even at the main bus terminal near Heroes Square, the ticket guys just shook their heads when I asked about cards. Cash is the only way to ride buses here.
There’s no metro in Grand Cayman, but minibuses operate on fixed routes from George Town to West Bay, Bodden Town, and East End. Fares are usually CI$2-3, and it’s cash only. I caught them near the George Town Library and drivers collected coins directly. No card readers. Staying near Seven Mile Beach, it was convenient and cheap compared to taxis. ATMs from Butterfield and Cayman National Bank are nearby, so getting cash is easy. Don’t expect tap-to-pay on buses - it’s a simple cash-in-hand setup.