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Howdy, South Texans!

If you’re reading this now, it’s likely you’re hunkering down from the storm of a century, and we at Travel Off Path wish you nothing but safety navigating this unprecedented time, wherever you may be.

That said, there’s no better time to dream of paradise beach getaways, even as we know cities like Austin and nearby San Antonio are known for year-round sun.

As trendy as Austin has become, drawing crowds from Europe for F1 and luring residents from the “California exodus”, there are surprisingly few Caribbean flights from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS).

And who wants to drive up always-clogged I-35 to Dallas just to score better flights? Nope — not happening.

Well, an airline you’ve likely never heard of before is set to launch a game-changing flight this spring, giving Austinites and other nearby Texans nonstop access to one of the Caribbean’s most pristine islands.

Austin’s Only International Flight To A Caribbean Island

According to Flight Connections, there are only 3 routes out of AUS to the Caribbean — and one of them many don’t realize is actually considered Caribbean as it’s more known for engineering marvels and medical tourism.

Travelers can currently fly out of Austin to Panama City, Cancun, and (extension of America) San Juan, Puerto Rico, but not to international islands, such as Jamaica, for all-inclusive escapes.

Cayman Airways is set to change that.

Coming in May, South Texans can jet off to the gorgeous Cayman Islands, a trio of sun-soaked islands under-hyped in the shadow of more popular beach getaways.

Cayman Airways’ inaugural Austin flight is set to launch May 24, 2026, flying into Grand Cayman. This seasonal route will conclude near the end of summer, one of the best times to visit for a picture-perfect vacation, on August 16, 2026.

If the kids are in tow, this schedule should line up perfectly before they’re back in class.

Prepare to book a weeklong stay at one of the island’s numerous luxe resorts since this route will only operate weekly on Sundays.

Travelers can go ahead and scope out a blissful stay, but will have to wait until January 30th to purchase flights on the Cayman Airways official website or newly launched app.

3 Paradise Islands To Choose From

The Cayman Islands consist of 3 separate islands to choose from for an unforgettable vacay in this British Overseas Territory:

• Grand Cayman
• Cayman Brac
• Little Cayman

Let’s unpack each one, so you know what you’re signing up for.

Grand Cayman –

Grand Cayman is the most developed and most visited of the 3, home to iconic Seven Mile Beach, premier resorts, and Owen Roberts International Airport (GCM). It’s the island travelers envision when they picture the Caymans, blending crystal-clear water, ample snorkeling and diving excursions, an underrated food scene, and a beautiful townscape to explore.

Cayman Brac –

Cayman Brac is an even calmer, more rugged escape. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy nature over nightlife. Known for its dramatic limestone bluff (the “Brac”), this island paradise draws outdoor enthusiasts of all sorts, but especially divers looking for uncrowded reefs, caves, and a slower pace of life with a distinctly local feel.

Little Cayman –

Little Cayman is the most remote and least developed, but equally gorgeous despite the lack of attractions. With a tiny population and virtually no crowds, it’s a postcard destination for serious divers and those who are craving seclusion, laden with vibrant reefs, and unmatched ocean views — perfect for recharging and doing absolutely nothing. No shame in that, right?

What To Expect Flying With Cayman Airways

We get it — most travelers like to recognize the paint on the side of the plane.

Take it from me, who just returned from an epic solo trip from Peru, when I had to board a flight with Star Peru, which appeared to hire a toddler to scribble the fuselage.

That said, Cayman Airways is certified as a 3-star airline by SkyTrax, so you’re in good hands.

Despite mixed reviews for service on Airline Ratings, they score a near-perfect 6/7 for Safety.

Travelers can expect in-flight entertainment via Sir Turtle Entertainment, signature Rum Punch tasting, free seat assignments, tasty meals included with ticket, and what they claim is the ‘most generous checked bag allowance in the industry’.