This dive site, Owen Island, is a deserted islet nestled within the pristine South Hole Sound off the southwest coast of Little Cayman. Renowned for its gin-clear turquoise waters and extremely shallow depths, it primarily serves as a premier snorkeling destination. Access is conveniently made by kayak from the Southern Cross Club, offering an easy exploration of its submerged sandy flats and scattered coral patches, with navigation being straightforward due to the exceptional visibility and limited depth.
Within Owen Island's very shallow waters, snorkelers and waders are frequently delighted by sightings of graceful stingrays gliding over the sandy bottom. Abundant reef fish schools can be observed among the sparse coral formations, alongside numerous queen conch navigating the seagrass beds and sandy areas. The healthy marine ecosystem here showcases typical Caribbean shallow-water inhabitants and vibrant, if not vast, coral life suited to the calm environment.
The best time to visit Owen Island is generally year-round, given the consistently warm and clear waters of the Cayman Islands. Its main highlight is the unparalleled snorkeling experience in exceptionally shallow, calm conditions, making it ideal for families and beginner snorkelers. For freedivers, it offers a relaxing environment for surface dives and exploring the shallow bottom, though depth is very limited. Divers (scuba) will find the site too shallow for traditional diving but it's a perfect post-dive cool-down or a dedicated snorkeling excursion.
