Comfort Suites is very well the best affordable option in the expensive Seven Mile Beach area of Grand Cayman. A mid-level chain, it has all the expected basic amenities -- clean and modern rooms, business and fitness centers, free hot breakfast, and free Wi-Fi. Other draws include an attractive pool area, a small but beautiful beachfront, an on-site restaurant and bar (decently priced, and actually quite good), and a dive shop. It's hard to do better for your money in this area: Comfort Suites' rooms are cheaper and nicer than the ones at Sunshine Suites, our runner-up. Just be aware Comfort Suites isn't directly on the sand -- it's about a minute's walk down a private path -- and its section of beach is a bit small.

Though its dated and dark rooms can't hold a candle to the ones at Comfort Suites, the mid-range Sunshine Suites Resort is still one of the top value options in pricey Seven Mile Beach. The rates here are actually a little higher than at Comfort Suites', but they're still reasonable for the area and are made even more attractive by freebies such as continental breakfast, Wi-Fi, and gym access (to an off-site facility). The hotel's restaurant serves tasty and cheap American and Caribbean cuisine and overlooks the lively pool area. Sunshine Suites guests must cross a street and go around another large hotel to get to the beach, but once they're there, they'll find one of the nicest stretches of Seven Mile Beach, with white sand, clear turquoise water, and calm waves.

Aqua Bay Club is a three-pearl hotel located on a peaceful stretch of famous Seven Mile Beach. The property consists of 21 individually decorated condo units, all of which offer bright living areas and kitchens along with furnished patios or balconies. Guests have direct access to an uncrowded stretch of sand, and the hotel has an appealing outdoor pool and hot tub area overlooking the coast. Like many other condominiums on the island, on-site amenities are otherwise limited -- no poolside restaurants with surprisingly good food, like at Comfort Suites and Sunshine Suites.

7 Mile Beach Resort and Club is a small, intimate property located on the southern end of Grand Cayman’s famous Seven Mile Beach. This time-share resort offers two-bedroom, two-bathroom units, rented out when there is availability. The pool area is lively yet relaxing, with two waterfalls, a hot tub, and a kiddy pool. The resort employs a full-time activities director and offers numerous festivities throughout the week. The tropical decor in the units is dated but the kitchens are convenient. Something to note is that 7 Mile Beach Resort and Club is not directly on the beach, but a short walk (two minutes) down a private path. Travelers wanting direct access will prefer Aqua Bay Club, which is right on a stunning strip of Seven Mile Beach.