After a day of duty-free shopping, digging your toes in the sand and dining at a fine restaurant, there’s no better place to unwind than one of Grand Cayman’s many nightclubs, bars and lounges. Whether you’re looking to imbibe a handcrafted cocktail or dance the night away – or both – make sure to do it at one of these island hot spots.

Mix and Mingle
There’s always something going on after hours at The Wharf. In addition to happy hour specials complemented by stunning sunset views, The Wharf hosts exciting theme nights that make it a top place to be almost every night of the week. Salsa Tuesday’s are a big hit with locals and visitors alike, and beginners love the free dance lessons. Hips start

swaying at 9 p.m. There’s also fun “Boogie Nights” on the last Friday of the month, when guests can relive the best music and dances from the ’70s and ’80s. And don’t forget the live entertainment! A popular local musician — and staple of the Cayman Islands music scene — Barefoot Man with Sea N’B performs every Saturday at 8 p.m. His laid-back island vibes are the perfect match for The Wharf’s beautiful location. For entertainment on the more tranquil side, check out “Harpist Extraordinaire” Eugenio Leon every Friday at 6 p.m.Barolo quickly made a name for itself among party-goers looking for a good time. An extension to the Italian restaurant Edoardo’s, Barolo is a unique Friday night venue with both indoor and outdoor lounge settings. The party gets started fairly quickly inside, with the resident DJ spinning top hits, while the lush and ambient exterior is a relaxed space for lounging and catching up with friends.

There is always something new happening at Karma, where you can enjoy a late-night happy hour and DJ-spun beats on Monday evenings, or $5 martinis and live music on Wednesday evenings. On Fridays, the island’s top DJs gather for Ultra Happy Hour, and the restaurant and lounge is transformed into a hopping nightclub. [Editor’s note: Karma closed its doors permanently in late 2015]Rich red carpeting, exotic wall art and plush seating make Lillie’s a nightclub and lounge unlike any other on the island. Lillie’s is only open on Fridays, but with a roster of the finest Djs playing a range of musical genres, this place always guarantees a good time.

With special events on any given day of the week, it’s no wonder Obar is a crowd-pleaser. Mondays are hailed as service industry night and feature local guest bartenders. Tuesdays are notorious for their late night closing hours. A New York-based DJ sets the mood on Thursday nights, while on Friday, happy hour drink specials start at 10 p.m.

Kickback Bars
Bar Crudo is celebrated for their raw seafood dishes and it’s no wonder — the bar is an expansion of the restaurant owned by famed angler and artist, Guy Harvey. Enjoy half-priced cocktails or locally brewed beer, plus the live sounds of reggae, blues and jazz at the bar. The unbeatable view of the sunset over the George Town Harbour is a bonus.

Enjoy the cool sea breezes from the North Sound, crisp cocktails and sophisticated small plates at KARoo. Its close proximity to The Crescent at Camana Bay makes KARoo an ideal weekend bar for parents with young children (the 30-foot sprays from the water fountain are impressive). It also overlooks The Harbour at Camana Bay, making for an easy departure if arriving by boat.

Located at The Strand, just off of West Bay Road, Whiskey Mist is one of the newest additions to the Cayman Islands nightlife scene. This eclectic Irish pub is filled with interesting and charming bits and bobs of décor – from moose heads and Guinness barrels to chandeliers and vintage artwork. On any given night of the week Whiskey Mist is buzzing with a diverse crowd. Tip: Go on a Monday for their free credit tabs, which means up to 50 percent off your total bill at the end of the night.Shorts and Flip-Flops
If you enjoy deep house music and an infectious energy, then Calico Jack’s Bar & Grill is right up your alley. Known as one of the best beach bars on Seven Mile Beach, this casual spot hosts different parties every night of the week — the monthly Full Moon party is one of the most popular.

Located in central George Town, Cayman Cabana is a great choice for mingling with locals and enjoying Cayman-inspired foods and locally made beers and spirits, such as CayBrew and Seven Fathoms Rum. This oceanside bar is best known for Soca Session Saturdays, when soca, calypso and reggae enthusiasts gather in masses for a night of pure, unadulterated fun.

The Royal Palms Bach Club is a go-to beach bar for both residents and visitors alike. On Wednesday nights, the beach is turned into a club for Industry Chill, a party where several DJs gather on the beach. On Friday nights, live bands and local DJs set the scene, while it’s all about Latin-infused music on Saturday nights.Out of the Ordinary
Escape to a winter wonderland at Minus5, the only ice bar in the Cayman Islands. Here, the beverages are served in glasses made entirely of ice and photos with the varying ice sculptures are almost obligatory. Getting warm and cosy is no challenge at this chilly bar, however, as fur coats and gloves are available for rent. [Editor’s note: Minus5 closed its doors permanently in early 2016]

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Published: Skies Magazine, March 2015