Villas of the Galleon

Villas of the Galleon has a starkly different ambience than its corporate, crowded neighbors, the Ritz-Carlton and the Westin Grand Cayman. The stellar beachfront here is relaxing, spacious, and secluded, with plenty of lounge chairs and umbrellas.

The buildings are situated close together and are surrounded by lush tropical greenery and palm trees. The property has a tranquil, cozy feeling and is very inviting. With the exception of the beach, the property lacks common areas, and there is no on-site restaurant or bar. Most guests hang out in their villas at night; it’s certainly not a rowdy or party atmosphere. There is a small front office where guests can check in and get information.

The villas are ideal for groups or families looking for more space and privacy than can usually be found in a typical hotel setting. Folks coming for an extended stay (more than a few days) will likely appreciate the fully equipped kitchens and home-style living.

Villas of the Galleon has a superb location on the best area of Grand Cayman’s famous Seven Mile Beach. The beach is not rocky, with white sand and calm blue water. Located between the Ritz-Carlton and the Westin, the villas are a welcome change from the corporate chains that dot the area.

There are restaurants, bars, and a liquor store in the shopping center right across the street, while a grocery store, spa, water sports providers, and other amenities are within walking distance. The villas are a 12-minute drive from the airport.

Villas of the Galleon offers 59 one-, two-, and three-bedroom rental villas. The villas are individually owned but have similar layouts and decor. The decor is cozy and home-like, but dated in some of the bedrooms; the bright, patterned tropical bedspreads are particularly due for an upgrade. Plantana Condominiums, a nearby condo property, offers more updated decor in their bedrooms. The bedrooms in the one-bedroom villas are on the small side, and the king-size beds and furniture makes them feel even more cramped. Each bedroom has its own bathroom.

The decor in the living rooms is typically more contemporary, with colorful, quirky touches, such as a fish vase or seashell napkin holder. All villas have a private porch or balcony with enough room for a table and chairs and most have beautiful views of the ocean.

Villa 68, a three-bedroom, three-bathroom unit, was especially spacious and updated, with large bedrooms and bathrooms, contemporary furnishings throughout, and a spectacular open kitchen with white cabinets, stainless steel appliances, and a colorful backsplash. The villas’ website has pictures of each unit so guests can see the decor and setup before booking.

The villas have fully equipped kitchens with plates, cups, and utensils, as well as pots, pans, and cooking tools. They all have full-size refrigerators, microwaves, stoves, and ovens. Some units have washer/dryers and there is a guest laundry facility on-site.

The beach is the main selling point here. On the best part of the Seven Mile coast, there are clear turquoise water, clean white sand, and calm waves. Casuarina trees dot the property, providing shade and a scenic view. There are a few groups of lounge chairs here and there, and the beach feels more spacious and private than at the neighboring Ritz-Carlton and Westin. The sunsets over the beach are spectacular.

There is no pool, which is unusual for the area. Other nearby condo properties, such as Plantana Condominiums, Beachcomber, and Grandview Condos all have pools.

There are charcoal grills on the property that are available for free for guests. There is a very small workout room with three cardio machines and a few free weights, as well as a washer and dryer for guests who do not have those facilities in their units. Free Wi-Fi is available in each villa.

Villas of the Galleon hosts weddings on-site, with the ceremony on the beach. The property can accommodate small groups (six to 12 people) or larger events (120 people). The property can recommend photographers, flowers, catering, limos, and wedding planners. It also provides special group rates for wedding parties or other special occasion groups.