Those looking to experience something just a little bit off the beaten path won't want to miss out on one of Cayman Brac's unique adventures - cave hunting.

The Brac is home to hundreds of cave systems and chambers that have been naturally carved over millions of years in the limestone bluff. Most aren't easily accessible - and hundreds more remain inaccessible or undiscovered - but there are a number of caves that are popular stops for visitors. Steps, handrails, ladders and platforms are in place for ease of access, with picnic and parking areas nearby.

The Bat Cave, one of the more dramatic formations, is not only a refuge for bats - it's their favourite breeding and roosting habitat - but served (and still does) as a hurricane shelter for locals.

The Bat Cave looks like a movie set straight out of Indiana Jones - jutting stalactites, plunging sinkholes, deep, dark chambers and overhanging roots and vines. And, of course, bats. Plenty of bats. Hundreds of the winged creatures hide out in the crevices and ledges in this impressive grotto located on the island's south side, near the public beach.

One of the more famous is Rebecca's Cave that was used as a shelter during the devastating 1932 hurricane, which claimed 109 lives. Rebecca Bodden was among them. The tiny toddler died from exposure as her family - and others - struggled through storm surges and howling winds to cross the bluff on the adjacent Salt Water Pond path to seek shelter in the cave. Her grave is inside the cave.

Peter's Cave on the eastern end of the island, is also used as a refuge from hurricanes because of its high location on the bluff. While the cave is impressive, the view from on top of the bluff overlooking Spot Bay - called Peter's Outlook - is simply stunning. With lush, overhanging vegetation, it looks like you're peering out of a rainforest.

Easily accessible, Half-Way Ground Cave on the north coast is also worth a visit. It's commonly known as Skull Cave because the entrance has a skull-like shape. There are steps leading into the mouth of the cave, which has two main chambers and vaulted ceilings.

There are more challenging caves, such as Orange Cave and Neptune's Lair, but these are for serious climbers rather than the casual hiker.

A newly-discovered cave was found recently while a new road was being built. Dubbed the Nani Cave, it features hundreds of stalactites that resemble rows of dangling chandeliers. While it's not yet open to the public, plans are in the works to make it safe for visitors to explore.

The island's caves are tied to the heyday of piracy when buccaneers used Cayman Brac as a refuge and a place to replenish supplies. Legend has it they used the caves to hide their ill-gotten treasures.

Exploring the Brac's caves is a great way to spend the day. Just grab a guide book, don some sturdy hiking shoes, stock up on water and begin your adventure.