Barker's National Park — Attraction in West Bay

The first time we tried to go to Barkers we used Google maps and couldn't get there because the route leads one through The Shores Gated Community, which is closed to the public. Instead, head to Ristorante Pappagallo and keep going. Barkers is a gem! But it's the most neglected National Park I've experienced. There's trash on the ground, but no trash cans. There are no public bathrooms. It looks like people often sleep there. We did not encounter any staff. There is no official signage to indicate you have arrived at Barkers. There's no nature center, no information about the park anywhere. While we were exploring in the water, we found a large fishing hook attached to a long spool of wire. What can we do? This is a majestic natural environment, and a little bit of care on the part of the government would go a long way. I'm grateful the land has been preserved, but there's so much more that would help to educate and provide guidance about where to swim in the ocean or walk in the mangroves. It looks like a makeshift trail had been started, but abandoned. I do not understand how development is happening all over the island, bringing in so much money, and nothing is being done (at least that we could see) to create an National Park environment in one of the last remaining undeveloped spaces on the island. According to the Department of Environment website, less than 5% of land on Cayman is protected. It stands to reason that the last 5% should be shown immense care and reverence. I am very grateful the land is being preserved, and wondering why more isn't being done and what I can do to help?

Update: An official with the Department of Environment responded to an email I sent with this information: Thanks for writing us. We’re glad you find Barkers as majestic and suitable for being a National Park site as we do. Unfortunately, despite its name, Barkers is not actually a National Park. This is why there are no management, amenities or facilities as you might reasonably expect in an actual National Park. It was dedicated as a National Park after public and landowner consultation with the intention by the Government of purchasing the land for that purpose and the concept still has strong community support. However most of the land is now in private corporate ownership who do not have quite the same vision, or interest in the land being purchased for a National Park. So the project has been stalled as you discovered. Until such time as the owners of the land in Barkers (or other key nature tourism locations) are willing to sell (and the Government can agree a fair price with them) we unfortunately remain at this undesirable impasse with a lack of public management of private areas of public recreation and national aesthetic and environmental importance.

The Department of Environment has been in contact over the years with the primary remaining landowner in Barkers. The land ownership is a matter of public record and can be obtained from Lands & Survey and then the companies registry. The primary owner is Dart Realty (Cayman) Ltd. (P.O. Box 31363, KY1-1206, Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands.)

While the Department is still interested in purchasing the land for Barkers National Park the process is not opportunistic. In this case we would need an indication from the landowner that they were open to considering selling, then the Cabinet, perhaps even Finance Committee, would need to approve the potential purchase amount. (Many years Government approves a budget for conservation land purchases in advance, but that would not be anywhere near enough in this case.) Then Government and the landowner negotiate the final purchase price, there is a public consultation regarding the purchase, then Cabinet approve...

Barker’s National Park in Grand Cayman is a hidden treasure for those craving solitude and natural beauty. Tucked away on the island’s quieter western side, this remote spot feels like a world apart. We made the trip during daylight hours en route to Ristorante Pappagallo nearby, and it was absolutely worth it. Be warned—the road in is rough, with potholes that test your patience (and your tires). But once you arrive, the reward is undeniable.

The beaches here are pristine and secluded, stretching along the coast with soft sand and turquoise water that begs for a dip. Unlike busier tourist spots, Barker’s offers peace and uninterrupted views—perfect for unwinding or a romantic stroll. The park’s untouched vibe, with mangroves and coastal scrub framing the shoreline, makes it feel wild yet inviting. We didn’t spot much wildlife beyond birds, but the landscape alone was captivating.

It’s not a place for amenities—bring your own water, snacks, and shade—but that’s part of its charm. The rugged access keeps crowds away, leaving you with a slice of paradise to yourself. Pairing the visit with a meal at Ristorante Pappagallo (just a short drive away) makes for a perfect day—nature followed by fine dining. If you’re up for dodging a few holes and value serene beaches over convenience, Barker’s is a must-see. It’s raw, remote, and unforgettable—Grand Cayman...

If you're looking for an adventurous afternoon walk, this may be the place for you! The best way to get into the National Park is to route to the Cayman ATV business on the north side; if Google routes you to enter from the South you cannot enter without going through a gated community. There are also no signs stating this is a National Park. Most importantly these roads are not paved or up-kept so be wary when driving though! There are holes, rough terrain, and lots of mud if it has been raining. We drove all the way over to the point where the Kite Surfing business is on the map and it did not disappoint! Choose a spot to pull off into the trees and walk down to the beach. Very windy area for kite surfing or for a secluded breezy walk. We stopped at a few spots and walked out pretty far into the water and around the outskirts of the beach. Very...