bermuda travel blog

How to Spend a Long Weekend in Bermuda: 4 Days in Bermuda Itinerary

Posted on Published: November 1, 2019  - Last updated: March 17, 2024

Categories Bermuda , Blog , Caribbean , Travel Guides

Justin and I spent four wonderful days on the gorgeous island of Bermuda. To say that we fell in love with Bermuda is an understatement. From the sights to the people to the food, we had an incredible getaway. For those in the eastern parts of Canada and the USA, definitely put a weekend in Bermuda on your vacation radar. Located east of the South Carolina in the Atlantic Ocean, Bermuda is a quick flight , especially for those living in Toronto or New York City. A weekend in Bermuda will give you a great taste for the country, but extending your stay to 3 or 4 days is ideal.

Here’s our Bermuda 4 day itinerary, which you can condense into 2 or 3 days by choosing the highlights that interest you most. Justin and I visited Bermuda in October, although you can use this itinerary for many months throughout the year. April through October is the best time of year to visit Bermuda. Once you reach the winter months, it does tend to get a little cooler there. However, this can mean less crowds and cheaper prices. I thought that Bermuda in October was a great mix of both: the weather wasn’t as hot as in the summer, but there were less crowds and we could still enjoy the beach.

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Table of Contents

Bermuda Itinerary Day 1: Arriving and Exploring

We flew in to Bermuda with Air Canada from Toronto Pearson Airport. From there, we took an airport taxi to our hotel, the Hamilton Princess & Beach Club . Justin and I were pretty tired from waking up so early for the flight. We primarily spent this first day relaxing by the pool and exploring our immediate surroundings. Plus, we ate food. Eating is important!

Where to Stay: Hamilton Princess & Beach Club

One of the best places to stay in Bermuda is the luxurious Hamilton Princess and Beach Club in Hamilton, Bermuda. It’s formerly known as the Fairmont Hamilton Princess, though it’s still currently managed by Fairmont Hotels. We absolutely adored staying at this five star property. The staff go above and beyond, there are fantastic restaurants on site, and the infinity pool is simply fabulous. Every suite has a beautiful balcony with spectacular views.

If hotel location is important to you, consider staying at the Hamilton Princess and Beach Club. It’s located along the Hamilton Harbor, meaning that you can easily walk into the downtown area of Hamilton with many shops and restaurants. You can also easily take public transportation from Hamilton all over the island.

Book your stay at the Hamilton Princess and Beach Club with free cancellation and no prepayment necessary. Check out more reviews by fellow travelers who have experienced this hotel.

Stop for Lunch at Cafe Eden at ABC Natural Foods

Cafe Eden is a smoothie bar and cafe nestled inside a small health food store called ABC Natural Foods . They serve breakfast and lunch, and conveniently update their menu daily on their Facebook page. We ate veggie burgers and tasted some of the most delicious tropical fruit smoothies.

It is an all-vegetarian cafe so if you’re vegan, vegetarian, or love healthy foods, this is the place for you. ABC Natural Foods has lots of prepared vegan meals and snacks, ideal for residents and visitors alike. If your accommodation has a kitchenette or cooking space, stock up on delicious ingredients and meals from ABC Natural Foods. You can discover all of the vegan and vegetarian options in Bermuda at our Vegan Guide to Be rmuda .

What to See in Bermuda: Front Street in Hamilton

After settling in to your hotel, venture out to explore the city of Hamilton, Bermuda. Front Street is the place to be. It’s the main road in Hamilton that runs right along the harbor. There are many brightly colored buildings, boutiques, and restaurants on Front Street. A weekend in Bermuda would not be complete if you didn’t spend at least a small amount of time wandering around Front Street and Hamilton, by day or night. Check out more details and photos of Front Street here.

Dinner at 1609 Restaurant and Bar

The 1609 Restaurant is right on site at the Hamilton Princess & Beach Club Hotel. It’s a convenient and delicious choice for anyone staying at the hotel. Of course, visitors from outside the hotel are welcome to dine there, too. Smart casual attire is recommended, and I also suggest that you call the hotel for dining reservations.

Back when we visited, it was easy to enjoy a yummy vegan meal that was specially prepared for us by the chef. Back in 2014, we had to mostly request vegan meals, which was absolutely no problem. The chef can cater to any dietary restrictions. However, upon viewing their current menu, there are several vegetarian and vegan offerings. There are vegan tacos, Beyond Burgers, and even a Beyond Meat kebab.

It’s refreshing to see that half of the menu is vegan or vegetarian. 1609 ranks as one of the top hotel restaurants in Bermuda by Fodor’s Travel. Definitely dine at 1609 Restaurant if you have the opportunity during your weekend in Bermuda.

Weekend in Bermuda Day 2: Island Eco-Tour

We embarked on a full day tour of Bermuda with Ashley of Hidden Gems Bermuda. It’s an island tour exploring the lesser known gems of the country, and we can’t say enough good things about our experience. Ashley has lived in Bermuda for her entire life and knows all of the best spots. She took us around to places we wouldn’t have known about on our own.

It’s an all-inclusive, fully interactive, island eco-tour that’s kind to the environment and supports local businesses. Some of the places we visited:  Tom Moore’s Jungle, the Blue Lagoon, Subway Cave, Walsingham Cave, the Black Horse Tavern for lunch, St. David’s Lighthouse, Cooper’s Island Nature Reserve, Long Beach, and Admiralty House Park.

If you don’t want to invest an entire day in a tour and you’re looking for other things to do in Bermuda, here are some great tour ideas for you that are a few hours in length:

• Bermuda Catamaran Experience : A half day tour with sailing, swimming, snorkeling, paddle boarding, kayaking, and the famous Bermuda drink, Rum Swizzles!
• Half Day Sightseeing Tour of Bermuda : Stops at pink sand beaches and the dockyard with historical facts from your guide
• Kayaking Eco-Tour : A 3.5 hour kayaking tour around Bermuda’s pristine coastline with a break on a secluded beach
• City Tour of St. George : A guided tour of this UNESCO World Heritage Site with trips to historical landmarks
• Bermuda Sunset Cocktail Cruise : Embark on a 90 minute sunset cruise aboard a 50 foot catamaran with Rum Swizzles and tropical juice

Dinner at Marcus (Hamilton Princess & Beach Club)

When we dined at the Hamilton Princess & Beach Club, we went to Intermission Restaurant inside the hotel. Nowadays, Marcus is open (by world class chef, Marcus Samuelsson) so we recommend that you dine there. While the menu is always changing, the vegan options on the menu include a BBQ Butternut Squash Bowl, the Beyond Burger, and a few salad options.

Bermuda Itinerary Day 3: Take a Beach Day

You can’t visit a place like Bermuda without enjoying the beaches. While in Bermuda, we tried a brand new sport for us…surfing! We had so much fun surfing in Bermuda, that we’ve since tried it in a few other countries around the world, too. If surfing isn’t your thing, you can try stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking, jet skiing, or snorkeling. There are so many water activities to try in Bermuda. There’s always the option of simply relaxing on the beach and enjoying the sunshine. Visit one of the numerous beaches in Bermuda .

Lunch at the Jasmine Lounge (Fairmont Southampton)

We enjoyed a light lunch at the Jasmine Lounge inside the Fairmont Southampton Hotel . From the Hamilton Princess , we took a complimentary ferry ride across to the Fairmont Southampton right near Horseshoe Bay Beach. Then after lunch, we took a complimentary shuttle from the hotel to the beach. The restaurants at the Fairmont hotels are some of the best places to eat in Bermuda for fine dining.

Surfing with Isolated Surfboards at Horseshoe Bay Beach

Justin and I had a total blast going surfing in Bermuda . Our instructor was with the local company, Isolated Surfboards . We met up at Horseshoe Bay Beach, which is one of the most beautiful beaches that I’ve ever seen. It was the perfect place to try surfing for the first time as there were varying sizes of waves crashing to shore. If you’re looking for a different water sport to try during your weekend in Bermuda, give surfing a shot. Though I did plenty of falling on my face, it was a lot of fun to try a new sport. Justin ended up being quite good at it!

Snacks at the Frog & Onion Pub (Royal Naval Dockyard)

We worked up quite the appetite after surfing and had lunch at the Frog & Onion Pub after a taxi ride to the Royal Naval Dockyard. The veggie burgers, fries, and onion rings really hit the spot. Take a stroll around the Royal Naval Dockyard while you’re there, too.

Bermuda Fun Golf

Our main reason for visiting the Royal Naval Dockyard area was to play mini putt at Bermuda Fun Golf . It’s one of the greatest mini golf courses we’d ever experienced. The holes were modeled after professional golf course holes. It takes the idea of mini putt to the next level. If you’re into fun and games (who isn’t?), be sure to add Bermuda Fun Golf to your Bermuda itinerary plans.

Dinner at The Terrace on Front Street

When we visited Bermuda, we dined at Red Steakhouse and Bar. It was quite funny that two vegans ended up dining at a steakhouse, but the chef prepared such delicious meals for us. As it turns out, Red Steakhouse no longer exists and the owner has transformed the establishment into a spot called The Terrace .

I checked out their menu and they’ve got a few vegan offerings: Jay’s Curry (veggies and chickpeas with a coconut curry sauce), vegetable risotto, beet salad, garden salad, and pizza. The vegan items are clearly marked on the menu.

Bermuda Weekend Trip Day 4: Crystal Caves, Scooters, and More

Alright, so you might decide to spend 3 days in Bermuda, but I hope you’re able to extend your stay to a fourth day. We ended up leaving on the fourth day, but our flight was later at night. That way, we were able to explore the island for one more day before traveling back home. Whether you’re using this blog post to plan your Bermuda 3 day itinerary, a long weekend in Bermuda, or four full days of fun, I’m sure you can take advantage of these following activities, too.

If it isn’t windy or raining outside and you’re comfortable with riding a scooter, I highly recommend that you rent one and ride it around the island. Tourists aren’t able to rent cars, but you can easily get around with a scooter and a map. If you aren’t comfortable with renting one and don’t want to spend a small fortune on taxis, there are many public transportation options in Bermuda that are easy to use.

Crystal Caves

It’s possible to reach the Crystal Caves easily by public bus. The public transportation system in Bermuda is excellent. You can also travel there by scooter, if you wish. At Crystal Caves, there are actually two caves at this site: the Crystal Cave and the Fantasy Cave. It’s possible to buy tickets to either caves right on site when you arrive without any reservations. However, if you like to plan in advance, you can book a tour to Crystal Cave and Fantasy Cave that comes with transportation (a great option of if you’re visiting Bermuda from a cruise ship).

Unfortunately, we didn’t have enough time to visit both caves, but you should check them both out if you get the chance. It’s one of the best Bermuda attractions and it’s one of the best caves I’ve ever seen. Definitely check out Crystal Caves if you love taking a peek underground to witness magical scenery.

Renting Scooters in Bermuda

There are many scooter rental places in Bermuda. We used the one located right next to our hotel – Smatts Cycle Livery. You can rent them by the day. We only used ours for a couple of hours, but we could see how this was the best option for exploring Bermuda on our own. Even though we only rode around on scooters for a short while, it was a highlight from our Bermuda itinerary.

Want to see more Bermuda photos?

View all of our photos in one place at our Bermuda travel photo album. Click the “buy” button by any picture for purchasing options.

Bermuda Travel Map: Where to Eat, Play, Sleep

Here’s a visual representation of everywhere we visited in Bermuda. On this Bermuda travel map, you’ll find where we stayed, ate, and the Bermuda attractions we checked out.

Whether you’re spending a weekend in Bermuda, a longer weekend or 3 days in Bermuda, 4 days or a week (or even longer!), there are so many things to do in Bermuda. It’s such a gorgeous little island and we completely fell in love with it. I’m sure you will, too! Please let us know if you visit Bermuda and what you loved the most.

Have you taken your Bermuda weekend trip yet?

Lauren is the full-time travel blogger and content creator behind Justin Plus Lauren. She started Justin Plus Lauren in 2013 and has travelled to 50+ countries around the world. Lauren is an expert on vegan travel as one of the very first vegan travel bloggers. She also focuses on outdoor adventure travel, eco and sustainable travel, and creating amazing travel itineraries for cities and small towns.

Marjorie cirreia

Tuesday 22nd of May 2018

The photo on day two looks like church bay in Southampton

Sunday 19th of June 2016

Hello! Thanks for the tips as we plan our trip! Where was the photo under Day 2 taken?

Thursday 19th of May 2016

Oh man! this looks like heaven on earth! Your travels are giving me some serious wanderlust and I am already on an adventure of my own! Namaste xx Kimberley

Friday 16th of January 2015

Amazing guide! will definitely look back on it when i visit bermuda :)

Hitch-Hikers Handbook

Monday 12th of January 2015

Looks like a great place to visit! Thanks for this awesome itinerary! :)

The Ultimate Bermuda Itinerary & Travel Guide |

Planning a trip to Bermuda soon and looking for a solid travel itinerary? Well, look no further, because I’ve got the ultimate Bermuda travel guide for one week (written by a local)! This will go over lots of helpful information like  where to stay, when to go, how to get around, best things to do, and hidden gems! Trust me, this Bermuda itinerary will answer all your questions!

Bermuda is probably best known for its association with the mysterious disappearances and strange storms that created the still-existing no-flyover zone! While the jury ’ s still out on the truth behind all this, what I do know about this tiny archipelago in the middle of the Atlantic is that it is unlike any other in terms of its beauty, people, and culture.

Whether you ’ ve got all seven days or just three to spend, this Bermuda itinerary has everything you need to make your trip the best it can possibly be. 

Getting to Bermuda 

If you ’ re flying from the east coast of the United States and Canada, you ’ re in serious luck: flights to Bermuda are cheap and fast with Jetblue, American, United, Delta, and Air Canada; I ’ m talking under 100 dollar flights, round trip! Not to mention, direct flights from New York and Boston are a little less than one and a half hours. If you ’ re coming from somewhere else, it can really add up if you don ’ t book a bit far in advance, so be sure to watch out for deals.

My recommendation for finding cheap flights is to try to be flexible, and use sights like Skyscanner and Google Flights to find the best dates for you! You could also sign-up for a free email newsletter on site like Scott’s Cheap Flights  or Airfare Watch Dog

How to get around Bermuda

Bermuda is small, which means everything is quite close to each other, but it also means there aren ’ t many options in the way of public transport. The bus and a ferry that are very easy to use, but it ’ s really special to see the island on your own time with personal transportation like mopeds or twizys.

• Taxi : though this can be expensive, taxi drivers are the friendliest in the world and make incredible tour guides. Often, if you ’ d like to do an entire day tour with your driver, all you ’ d need to do is ask as soon as you get in, and they ’ ll clear their schedule for you.
• Bus : If you ’ re looking to make local friends who will point you to their favorite spots on the island to visit, the bus might be for you. Busses take coins or bus tokens which you can purchase at the Ferry terminal on Front Street. One fare costs $3.50, whereas a day pass will cost you $19. Plus, bus tokens are the same as ferry tokens, so it might be a good idea to spring for the day pass if you ’ re planning to use both!
• Ferry : the ride is gorgeous but it does mean you are less mobile, as the ferry only goes to certain well-trafficked areas of the island. I do recommend combining bus and ferry routes to see as much of the island as possible.
• Rental Car:  You could definitely rent a car for your week in Bermuda, but it really just depends on what you plan on doing during that week. Financially, it might make more sense to only rent cars on specific days, since you really don’t need a car the whole week. 

Where to Stay in Bermuda | Best Hotels & Resorts

There are so many options for places to stay in Bermuda, and at many different price points. Here ’ s a comprehensive list of my favorites: 

Airbnb in Bermuda :   This is (as always) a solid option if you ’ re going to get personal transport . This is also the cheapest option on the list: prices start as low as $85/night!

There are tons of incredible apartments, villas, and vacation homes you can rent out for a few days, and know it would be a fantastic way to experience the local island life of Bermuda! Plus, if you register a new Airbnb account , you can save up to $40 off your first night, which is always a nice little travel hack to save some money!

Rosedon Hotel

If you ’ re in the mood for a more classical Bermudian experience, look no further than Rosedon Hotel. With amenities like afternoon tea and evening live steel-drum performances, this boutique hotel knows how to preserve the heart of Bermuda ’ s history and culture in a way that feels authentic and even modern. Rosedon is a great option if you are looking to stay in the center of the island within its only municipal city. It can get a little expensive but check their specials page for deals like 30% off all rooms when you book for two or more nights in August, and free rides to and from the airport. 

Rooms start at $390/night. 

Guest review : “I loved this hotel staff was five star with hospitality and so friendly. The room was spotless and the beds was so comfortable. The hotel is a beautiful place for photos and the food is amazing and tasty. Great place to relax for family trips or if your traveling alone or for business.” – Rebecca, U.S.A

Read Reviews & Check Availability

Cambridge Beaches (LUXURY) – AMAZING VIEWS

Cambridge Beaches may be a bit expensive, but if you ’ re coming to Bermuda to experience the best of what it has to offer, I highly recommend at least one night ’ s stay. If you ’ d rather save your money for food or adventures, at least make sure you book one dinner reservation at Cambridge Beaches ’ beach-front restaurant ‘ Breezes ’ . 

Prices for this resort start at $449/night. 

Guest review: “ Relaxation at its finest. W e were in the ocean view room-Long Bay. Such a beautiful spot. Staff were extremely nice and helpful. The room was very clean and the food was excellent. Location is pretty convenient. Easy walk to grocery store/liquor store. Free shuttle to the dockyard for trips to Hamilton.” – Dan, U.S.A

Bermuda Itinerary Day 1: Go to the Beach

You ’ ve arrived in Bermuda, finally, and the first thing you want to see is … the beach, of course! Bermuda is famous for its cerulean blue waters and unusually pink beaches. The only problem is, in the summer, some of Bermuda ’ s best beaches can be a bit over-crowded. If you want to skip the crowds of sun-burnt Americans, no fear: there is more than enough beach to go around. 

Things to do for the ultimate beach day: 

• Take a long walk along Horseshoe Bay
• Have a picnic in Jobson ’ s Cove
• Relax on Warwick Long Bay
• See the entire island from Gibb ’ s Hill Lighthouse
• Have dinner at the Dining Room 

Warwick Long Bay

Horseshoe Bay

If you ’ re looking for a top beach in the world as chosen by Conde Nast, look no further than Horseshoe Bay. If you head here too late in the day, though, prepare for hoards of tourists. This beach is on almost every westward bus line, so it ’ s the easy to get to for anyone without personal transport. I recommend taking the bus early in the morning to get there before crowds and walking all the way down the beach until you find a small path. This will lead you to a maze of lesser-known smaller beaches and cliff-top views of the ocean. If you go early enough, you might even get an entire beach to yourself. 

Johnson’s Cove

Jobson ’ s Cove is a rather famous one, and is the perfect place to set yourself up for the day if you ’ ve brought your own picnic. If you ’ re staying in a hotel, have them prepare a little picnic for your trip; if you ’ re in an Airbnb, be sure to stop at the nearest grocery store, Supermart, for supplies before making your way to the beach. 

Go Cliff Jumping and Exploring

In the summer, you ’ ll typically find locals climbing all over the unusual rocks that punctuate the shoreline here. Follow them if you ’ re feeling a little crazy and want to go cliff jumping. Once you ’ ve had your fill, take a walk through the sandy paths toward Warwick Long Bay, an often-forgotten stretch of beach arguably even more beautiful than Conde Nast ’ s preferred spot. 

Gibb ’ s Hill

By the end of the day, you ’ ll no doubt be feeling a little sun-tired. End the day by watching the sun go down at the top of Bermuda ’ s first and oldest lighthouse, Gibb ’ s Hill, just a stone ’ s throw away from Horseshoe Bay. Climb its 185 steps for the best panoramic view of Bermuda and then eat dinner just below in its adjoining restaurant, The Dining Room. 

Bermuda Itinerary Day 2: A Journey to the Past

To get the full experience this unique little archipelago provides, it ’ s important to make time for its still-existing first-ever town, St. George ’ s. This small town is known as the oldest continuously occupied settlement in the Western Hemisphere. Its history, churches, cobblestoned streets and quaint cottages make St. George a must-do for all visitors.

Things to do:

• Watch a historical reenactment in the town square
• Visit local art galleries and museums
• Go shopping
• Have lunch at the celebrated White Horse Tavern
• Take a walk up to the unfinished church
• Make your way to Fort St. Catherine ’ s and Tobacco Bay

If you ’ re staying outside the eastern part of the island, the best way to get here is by ferry. Take the fast ferry from Hamilton in the morning and arrive right in the middle of town, in King ’ s square, in time for the famous historical reenactment that takes place at noon sharp every day. From there, wind your way through tiny alleyways and around UNESCO world heritage sights like St. Peter ’ s church, the oldest in the Western hemisphere. It ’ s best to get a little lost on these roads by yourself. You never know what you might come across.

White Horse Tavern

When you ’ re tired of walking, stop in to White Horse Tavern for lunch. Right on the water, this old English-style pub is something of an institution in Bermuda. If you ’ re feeling hungry, try the Bermuda Island burger; it features some of the best local flavors this little island has to offer. 

Tobacco Bay

Now that you ’ ve explored the town, it ’ s time to get to the beach. Tobacco bay is just about a ten minute walk from the unfinished church, and a stone ’ s throw from impressive historic attractions and fortresses such as the landing site of Bermuda ’ s first settlers, Fort St. Catherine. Even if you ’ re not much of a history buff, this museum and fort is worth the visit, if only for the uninterrupted ocean views. Once you ’ ve finished it is also home to one of the most beautiful coves for snorkeling and paddle boarding, and happens to be a favourite among locals for its summer-time evening bonfire and happy hour specials. Don ’ t worry about bringing anything, either; kiosks on the beach provide everything you need, like standup paddleboards, kayaks and tons of snorkeling gear.

Bermuda Itinerary Day 3: Adventure Time 

You can ’ t go to Bermuda without taking a snorkeling or scuba diving tour. Bermuda ’ s intricate reef system has not only protected its shores for thousands of years from eroding away entirely but has also managed to capture many ships – between 250 and 400, to be specific – in its jaws. This makes for some truly amazing snorkeling and scuba diving. 

KS Watersports offers snorkeling tours that pick up from Hamilton Princess marina at 10am, or from Fairmont Southampton dock at 10:15am. The snorkel tour stops at two different sights, one shipwreck and one of our famous coral reefs. See reviews here

Price : $89 per person for 2.5 – 3 hours. 

Once you ’ ve been safely returned to shore, hop on the bus or the ferry and make your way to Dockyard. If you ’ re on the bus, make sure you ask the driver to drop you off near sea glass beach. This little hideaway is famous on the island for being covered in – you guessed it – sea glass. It ’ s the perfect spot for little souvenirs, but it ’ s notoriously hard to find. Luckily, Bermudians are incredibly friendly, and will even walk you to the beach if you ’ re having a hard time locating it. 

Head to Dockyard 

Go by foot or by bus once you ’ ve collected all the sea glass you can carry. This historic maritime village is home to a major cruise ship port and serves as a hub for sightseeing, shopping, dining, entertainment and plenty of other great experiences. I recommend stopping into the Clocktower Mall to shop trinkets and have some Haagen Dasz ice cream. From there, wander over to attractions like Bermuda Glassblowers, where you ’ ll be able to witness artisans crafting amazing artworks in real time.

End the day on a high note: Dockyard ’ s best attraction, in my opinion, is the boozy mini-golf course, Fun Golf . Enjoy panoramic ocean views while the sun sets right in front of your eyes, and sip on island favorites like the Dark n ’ Stormy and Rum Swizzle while you swing and putt. It ’ s one of the best ways to end a great day on the island, especially if you ’ re traveling with a group. 

Open daily from 10am until Midnight.  

Prices: $15 per adult, $12 per child. Reservations not required. 

Reviews here

Bermuda Itinerary Day 4: Boating in Cambridge Beaches

If you ’ re on the western side of the island, I recommend renting a boat from Somerset Bridge Watersports . This is easiest to reach by bus or personal transport. See reviews here

Prices: 4 pp 6pp

• 2 Hours $95 $105
• 4 Hours $145 $165
• 6 Hours $200 $230
• 8 Hours $260 $280

Now that you ’ ve got your own boat to explore the island with, make it your mission to visit the caves that surround Cambridge Beaches Resort. This is one of the calmest, clearest stretches of water you ’ ll find on the island, and there are plenty of tiny beaches you can claim for yourself for the day. Keep an eye out for turtles; this area is well known for its healthy sea turtle population. 

Lunch by Boat: Breezes

One of the best things to do when you have your own boat in Bermuda is have lunch at Breezes restaurant. This restaurant is on the back side of Cambridge Beaches resort, in a wide bay that is usually filled with locals on their boats laughing and enjoying the calm, blue waters. When you get hungry, just walk right up to the restaurant from the water: you ’ ll be seated immediately. If you ’ d rather go for dinner, just make a reservation and come back once you ’ ve returned your boat. It ’ s a sublime spot to watch the sunset: you can watch the sun literally dip into the ocean as you sip your cocktail.

See a Shipwreck

Once you ’ re ready to return to the water, jet westward toward the open ocean to see one of Bermuda ’ s only out-of-water ship wrecks, the Vixen. This boat serves as a sanctuary for fish today, but originally was purposefully sunk to protect Dockyard from any possible military attacks during the Revolutionary War. 

Bermuda Itinerary Day 5: Shopping in the City

By day five, no doubt you ’ ll be a bit tired of beaches and hot sun, so why not spend the day in Bermuda ’ s only city? Shop for gifts, explore local businesses, have some tea, or just drink and chill out in one of the many bars and restaurants along Front Street. Hamilton is easily accessible by all forms of transportation and has all the entertainment you need. Make sure you stop into Bermuda ’ s tourism hub and bar on Front Street for some other great adventure ideas and reasonable cocktails. 

Bird Cage is new and boasts fantastic views of the Hamilton harbor. Drinks are reasonably priced and the crowd is always positive. 

Harbor Nights

On Wednesdays in the summer, Front Street is shut down to cars and turned into one big block party called Harbor Nights. I highly recommend this if your trip coincides; it ’ s a peak behind the curtain of Bermuda ’ s vibrant culture and community. Watch Bermuda gombeys dance in the street while you snack on warm donuts; try a flight of Bermuda rum.

Gombeys are a huge fixture in Bermudian culture: when there were still slave owners, slaves were not allowed to dance unless they were instructed to do so in these costumes for the entertainment of their masters. It slowly became more about protesting than falling in line, though, and today the tradition stands as a reminder and celebration of the strength of Bermuda ’ s black population. 

Teatime and Happy Hour

Take a walk to the end of Front Street until you find yourself on Pitts Bay Road and see a sign for the Rosedon Hotel. Walk up the hill to the front porch just before 4.00pm to arrive in time for tea. Rosedon has been around since 1901 and has been serving tea almost as long. Its new restaurant and gardens have recently brought Rosedon into the modern age, though, so expect modern taste with a classic twist. 

Finish the evening just across the street at Hamilton Princess in their luxury over-water bar,1609. While the drinks are quite expensive, the views and ocean breeze make this a can ’ t-miss experience. 

Bermuda Itinerary Day 6: Go on an Adventure

You’re nearing the end of your trip! It’s the perfect time to go all out. Get wild on a jetski, drive the entire island in a day, or simply put your feet up and let someone take care of you on a luxury Catamaran cruise.

Jet Ski Tours – Somerset Bridge Watersports 

If you ’ re looking for a great adventure and love a good thrill, look no further than Somerset Bridge Watersports ’ jetski and snorkeling tours. It ’ s a little expensive, but worth every penny. You ’ ll spend two hours weaving through coral reef formations and then diving down into them, feeding fish at the shipwreck-turned-nature reserve The Vixen, anchoring and swimming at the famous Pompano Beach sand bar. See the best of Bermuda in the most fun way possible. Plus, if you don ’ t have your own transportation and take the ferry into Dockyard, Somerset Bridge tours pays for your taxi to their location. 

Price: $200

Duration: 2 hours 

Rent a Twizy – drive the entire island in a day

Twizys are tiny electric cars for two people. They are not only good for the environment and much safer than a moped, but also incredibly fun to drive and easy to maneauver. They also happen to be one of the cheaper options for transportation if you ’ ve only got a few days and want to see as much as you can. 

Current Vehicles Bermuda  

Price: $99 per day 

If you ’ re planning on making a day of your own with a Twizy (which I highly recommend), you should make time to visit Admiralty House. This strange landmark is made up of jagged cliffs that have become famous across the island for their adrenaline-inducing powers. It ’ s a rite of passage among locals and, if nothing else, one of the most beautiful look-out points on the island. 

Explore Bermuda on a Catamaran

This is one of the best ways to get the most out of your vacation in Bermuda if you’re only visiting for a short time. The catamaran company will take care of absolutely everything for you, from meals and cocktails to all the water sports and activities you could possibly want. Just meet the cruise at the dock in Dockyard at your chosen time. They’ll drop you off back in Dockyard, where you can then head back into Hamilton by ferry for drinks or stay in the area and try out one of the more local bars. 

Restless Native

Prices: 74.99 per person for 3.5 hours 

Bermuda Itinerary Day 7: High Notes

There ’ s so much to do in Bermuda, and this itinerary barely scratches the surface. You ’ ll see everything that makes this island so special if you follow this itinerary, but there are plenty of things to do that I didn ’ t cover, too. Take a look at 50 things to do in Bermuda for a more comprehensive list. 

Cooper’s Island Nature Reserve

Cooper ’ s Island is one of the lesser-known and most beautiful natural sights in Bermuda. Until 1995, Cooper ’ s was a restricted base for the U.S Military and then later NASA. Today, you can wander among its pristine beauty in complete solitude; in less touristy months of the year, you might find yourself to be the only one on Cooper ’ s Island at all. I recommend taking a picnic and a great book or two and setting yourself up for the entire day. 

Getting there: Cooper’s Island is hard to reach without your own transportation. It’s completely isolated and you will not be able to get a taxi or bus once you are over there. I recommend doing this on a day when you rent your own transportation.

Crystal Caves

If you ’ re still in the mood to explore, make your way back to civilisation from Cooper ’ s Island westward toward Hamilton. Just across the causeway, you ’ ll find two of Bermuda ’ s biggest attractions: Swizzle Inn and Crystal Caves. 

I recommend checking out Crystal Caves first. This unique spot was actually found by accident by two teenagers. These hidden caves are host to intricate million-year-old formations called stalactites and stalagmites that take thousands of years to build and look exactly like icicles of crystal. The walk through is a truly ethereal experience.  

Crystal Caves are open from 9-5pm every day. 

Price: $22 per person.

Afterward, walk over to Swizzle Inn to have a taste of Bermuda ’ s original Rum Swizzle recipe. Grab yourself a pitcher and a plate of nachos. Top it off with Bailey ’ s ice cream from the parlour across the street; their flavors are all made in house weekly with Bermuda cow ’ s milk. 

Bermuda Aquarium and Zoo  

If there’s only one other thing you do while you’re in Bermuda, make it the aquarium and zoo. This isn ’ t just for kids; Bermuda ’ s only zoo has two open air exhibits where you can walk among free-roaming monkeys, birds, and lizards. The zoo is seriously worth the visit. Finish the day with a walk over to Flatt ’ s Village on the other side of the bay, where you can find fresh food like poke bowls or flatbreads from the restaurant Village Pantry. 

Bermuda Aquarium and Zoo  

Prices: $10 per adult

$5 per child 

The Aquarium and Zoo is easily reachable by bus, predominantly, or by personal transportation. 

Am I Missing Anything from this Bermuda Itinerary?

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15 Things to Know Before Visiting Bermuda (Bermuda Travel Tips)

Are you planning on visiting Bermuda? Or maybe you’re flirting with the idea of booking an unforgettable Bermuda trip? Whether you’re in the planning or inspiration phase of your travel in Bermuda, we’ve got you covered with the most important Bermuda information you need to know and travel tips to make your trip a success.

From important Bermuda information like the local currency, customs, and getting around to other fun historical facts, cultural sites, and important Bermuda information that’s helpful to know before your big Bermuda trip!

So sit back and relax, we’ve prepared a lot of great Bermuda tips for you along with supplementary guides to help you plan your dream Bermuda vacation! Be sure to also check out our guide for where to stay in Bermuda too to help you plan your trip!

Be sure to stay up to date on their current guidelines before your Bermuda trip to ensure you have everything.

Tips to Know Before Your Bermuda Trip

Don’t be scared of the bermuda triangle.

I don’t know about you, but before ever dreaming of visiting Bermuda as a kid I remember several tv shows and stories around the mysterious ‘Bermuda Triangle’ disappearances. So much in fact, that my first ever trip as a teenager was a cruise and  I was nervous because we were going to be close to the Bermuda Triangle zone.

While most people, including myself, have realized that those stories are nothing more than urban legends, anyone who hasn’t heard much about Bermuda since or tend to be a bit superstitious might actually believe those rumors of the mysterious Bermuda Triangle and the ‘victims’ of the triangle over the years.

Let me do the TL;DR version. The ships and planes that are said to have mysteriously disappeared without a trace within the Bermuda Triangle limits are no more than any other well-traveled areas of the ocean in the world.

There are actually several natural explanations for the Bermuda Triangle activity including the Gulf Stream currents which are unique to the area and can carry away planes trying to make a water landing or move boats along the current, tropical storms and hurricanes frequent the area, and a large presence of methane hydrates (natural gas) that forms on the continental shelves of the ocean which could cause a loss of buoyancy for ships meaning they could sink quickly without much warning.

Although, it must be noted that according to USGS, no large releases of methane hydrates have been believed to occur in the past 15,000 years in the area meaning that even this is unlikely.

One other explanation that some argue could be the cause of some of the occurrences that took place in this area are the possibility of compass problems and weird anomalies in magnetic fields in the area. Studies have been conducted and it should be noted that no magnetic anomalies have been found in the Bermuda Triangle.

Combine any single one of those possible natural occurrences with one human error and you’ve got yourself a maritime disaster that could happen anywhere.

So why did everyone hop on the Bermuda Triangle mania? That’s largely due to articles published during the mid 20th century focusing on ship and plane wrecks in the area which led to public interest and speculation of supernatural forces at work which became even more popularized in more stories and novels.

In addition, it wasn’t too difficult for people’s imaginations to go supernatural when the nickname of Bermuda was the “Isle of Devils” even back to colonization days centuries before. The Spanish and Portuguese explorers who rode along the Gulf Stream from the Caribbean to Europe were terrified of the area because the coral reefs surrounding Bermuda were treacherous for ships. 

Not to mention, it’s noted that there were terrifying howling winds and screeching birds, which were all terrible signs for superstitious sailors of that time. 

Save yourself the worry and know that you’re not at any more risk than anywhere else that’s frequently traveled to. So enjoy visiting Bermuda with your mind at peace knowing this is not more than a conspiracy theory made popular by a series of articles written about it through the 1950s and 1960s.

Bermuda Has British Influences

When visiting Bermuda you might notice a few of the British influences from colonization. As a matter of fact, Bermuda was discovered first in the 1500s by the Spanish, by the explorer Juan de Bermúdez. Upon his arrival, there was no indigenous population on the island and the same goes nearly a century later when the English Virginia Company colonized and settled in Bermuda in St. George’s.

Bermuda is considered Britain’s oldest colony and you can still see many influences to this day even though it’s an independent country, it’s still a part of the British Overseas Territory and Britain’s oldest overseas territory.

You’ll notice people drive on the left-hand side of the road, if you were to see a judge in Hamilton they’d be wearing a powdered wig, cricket is a huge sport here, and even the famous ‘Bermuda shorts’ are an influence from the British military uniforms.

You’ll also spot those famous bright red telephone booths around the island (and even sometimes in other fun colors like pink at the Hamilton Princess), 17th and 18th-century architecture in the town of St. George’s and the Royal Naval Dockyard both have strong influences from the various houses, buildings, and even churches, and of course, you’ll notice English pubs with items on the menu like fish and chips, Sheppard’s pie, and bangers and mash.

Bermuda’s Time Zone 

Before visiting Bermuda be sure to know what time it will be when you’re there! Bermuda is on the Greenwich Mean Time minus four hours (GMT -4 hrs). 

If you’re visiting from the United States East Coast like we were (it’s just under a two-hour flight from NYC by the way!!), you’ll be one hour ahead of time EST in the United States or two hours ahead of Chicago, and four hours ahead of Los Angeles and PST.

If you’re coming from the UK, you’ll be four hours behind London and five hours behind Munich and Rome.

Bermuda’s Currency

Do you need to take out a special currency before visiting Bermuda? It depends! The official currency of Bermuda is the Bermudian dollar. The Bermudian dollar is equivalent to one US Dollar. 

Even though there are so many influences in Bermuda from Britain, Bermuda actually accepts USD everywhere, but not the Great Britain Pound. 

Alternatively, you can use an ATM to pull out the local currency or if you have USD on you, that works too.

We never needed to pull out cash while visiting Bermuda, we actually had some US cash on us that we used and we’d get the Bermudian dollar in change.

You’ll want to always have some cash on you as you’ll find out later in this guide to important Bermuda information to know before you visit, taxis are cash only (unless you use the taxi app) and they are also not very cheap. 

Debit and credit cards, except for Discover cards, are accepted at almost all restaurants, shops, and hotels with the exception of a few local eateries.

One of our best travel tips of ALL time no matter where you’re traveling to is to have or open an account with Charles Schwab, you will get a debit card that allows you to take out cash from any ATM in the world without fees. They reimburse you for all ATM fees so you no longer have to worry about those adding up on your travels!

We only use this card specifically for this reason and it’s a serious travel hack whether you’re at home and can’t be bothered to find your bank ATM or across the world needing to pull out cash.

Bermuda is not in the Caribbean!

One common misconception about visiting Bermuda is that you’re heading off to a gorgeous, Caribbean destination. But what many people don’t realize, even though Bermuda shares a similar beauty to Caribbean destinations like the insanely clear, blue water and gorgeous sandy beaches – Bermuda is NOT in the Caribbean!

Bermuda also often gets associated with the West Indies too, but even though there are influences of the West Indies here from the slave trade route that took place here.

Bermuda is actually an isolated archipelago in the North Atlantic Ocean, and the only atoll in the Atlantic Ocean! The nearest mainland is 651 miles to Cape Hatteras, North Carolina, and is actually 900 miles north of the Caribbean. (774 miles from NYC for us!)

Transportation in Bermuda is Different

As mentioned earlier in this important Bermuda information to know, you DRIVE on the left here! Which really doesn’t affect you at all if you don’t plan on driving yourself, which brings us to our next point and important information before visiting Bermuda.

Visitors can’t actually rent a car. Yep. Even locals who live on the island only have one car per household. While Bermuda isn’t large in size at just over 20 square miles, it’s also not walkable. So transportation and getting around and exploring all the best things to do in Bermuda looks a little different here and requires a little planning.

While you can’t rent a full-size car, there are small electric cars that you can rent along with motorbikes and classic pedal bicycles. So if you do use one of these rental options, you need to be ready and remind yourself to drive on the left hand side of the road if you’re not used to doing this.

If you’re traveling with a family, it might be a bit tricky to rent something as the small electric cars are only two-seaters and won’t fit your luggage, they are meant for exploring the island attractions, not moving all of your luggage around the island. 

But don’t worry, there are options that are family-friendly as well as an option for those who don’t want to drive themselves whether it be a budget issue or a fear of driving on the left hand side of the road. There are public buses and ferries that you can use to get around and explore the island.

For the ferry, you can buy single tickets which are very reasonable for adults at $5 a ticket ($2.75 for children) and day pass options if you find yourself riding the ferry a few times throughout the day to save some money. There are a few different ferry options, it’s best to check their official schedule and have it handy, They take you to some of Bermuda’s most famous attractions from Hamilton, Royal Naval Dockyard, to St. Georges.

Another option is to take the local bus which connects visitors (and locals) to just about anywhere you want to go on the island. There are 11 different bus routes perfect for anything you want to do on the island, which is also a convenient and affordable option.

Last but not least, it’s easy to travel in Bermuda via taxi cabs. Most hotels have taxis available and they are easy to come by in Hamilton . If you hail a cab or get in one at a hotel, keep in mind that you need to pay in cash. They accept USD or the local Bermudian dollar. 

Alternatively, you can download the local taxi app, Hitch , which you can order a cab and pay using the card you have on file when you set up your account so you don’t have to worry about carrying cash on you, especially since taxi rides aren’t exactly inexpensive, they are similar to taxi prices in New York City for a comparison. Getting from the west end of the island to the east end was around $75.

We have an easy-to-follow guide about how to get around Bermuda breaking down all of these options in more depth to help you plan your visit!

Keep in mind if you plan on renting an electric vehicle to book or secure your reservation in advance! These are limited and some rentals require at least 36 hours notice in advance to arrange your rental.

Plan Your Budget Ahead

Something to be aware of before visiting Bermuda and while planning your trip is that this isn’t exactly a budget-friendly destination and it can by quite expensive if you’re not prepared. It’s understandable as to why prices are a bit higher here as the physical location of the island is isolated in the Atlantic Ocean and everything needs to be imported on the island.

Transportation can be costly and add up. If you’re renting a motorbike/scooter or electric car, keep in mind that you get a discount if you book multiple days vs single-day rentals.

There are a few affordable eateries on the island, but we found the meals to be comparable to NYC prices if not a bit higher, it wasn’t uncommon to easily spend $100-$150 on a meal with two mains and two drinks. 

We don’t want that to be a deterrent to visiting, but more of a thing to plan for so there are no surprises on your trip and you’re able to budget accordingly and enjoy and unforgettable Bermuda trip without worry.

To budget dining out expenses, this website gives the average cost of meals and other things that might be helpful for you to plan your trip. 

Tips are Included at Restaurants

Speaking of budget when visiting Bermuda, something to keep in mind is that almost every single restaurant already includes a 17% gratuity on your final bill unless otherwise stated. 

If you had exceptional service, it’s welcome to add more to your tip. Tips are not already included when you use a taxi for example and local customary practice is around a 10-15% tip for taxi drivers (closer to the latter) based on multiple resources I found online.

The only restaurant during our Bermuda trip that didn’t already include a tip was The Swizzle Inn, which is a very popular and delicious restaurant on the island. They had it clearly highlighted that they did not add the tip already, be sure to pay attention to this so you don’t overtip at other restaurants or not leave a tip at all at the few restaurants who don’t already automatically include the tip.

There are Portuguese Man-O-War

This Bermuda information and tip isn’t meant to scare but to make you aware. Bermuda’s shores are no strangers to the Portuguese Man-O-War which is commonly mistaken as a jellyfish but is actually a siphonophore, a group of animals that are closely related to jellyfish.

These marine creatures float on the surface of the ocean and are just pushed where the wind blows them or the ocean takes them. Their tentacles are venomous and contain microscopic capsules loaded with coiled, barbed tubes that deliver venom capable of paralyzing and killing small fish. 

Their tentacles are also long, so sometimes people are stung by them which causes extremely painful welts without realizing there was one nearby. While the stings are not lethal to humans (or rarely so), it can be a bit of a vacation ruiner if you are stung by one as they are said to be very painful and the welts they create are nasty.

Also, if you see one on the shore do not touch it or step on it as they can still sting!

These are typically spotted on windy days and usually in the spring months. The wind blows them towards shore, we visited in mid-March and during our beach hopping day on the south side of the island we saw quite a few as it was a windy day washed up on the shore, we didn’t really see any others the rest of our trip. We were told it was because of the wind.

Again, don’t let this deter you, just watch out for them, especially on windy days typically in spring and early summer. We enjoyed several other swimming days and beaches during our Bermuda trip.

Know the Dress Code

Another bit of important Bermuda information would be to know the local dress code so that you’re being a respectful visitor. 

Have you ever heard of Bermuda shorts? These are the local attire and shorts that usually have a length about one inch above the knee. This was an adaptation of British influence and appropriate dress attire for warm weather climate accompanied usually by tall socks. 

You’ll spot men wearing this around Bermuda, it’s considered appropriate business attire on the island.

In addition to the Bermuda shorts, the island nation does observe a more conservative dress code. While actual rules have been relaxed over the years, it is still considered inappropriate to wear bathing suits or bikinis if you’re not at the beach or pool. That means, no walking around with your shirt off or in your ‘bathing attire’ if you’re not at it.

It’s also inappropriate to not wear shoes, even if you’re near the beach. To be honest, the only place we’ve ever seen people just walk around and inside stores barefoot are at laid-back Southern California surf towns, but since Scott hails from one of those towns, we thought it was worth mentioning.

Keep in mind that wearing crop tops and more revealing clothing is also frowned upon and considered disrespectful to the local culture and dress code. 

We were even told that the police have stopped tourists who don’t adhere to the conservative dress code and ask them to cover up more.

Basically, have a cover-up for anywhere that’s not around the pool, make sure to wear clothing on the bus even if you’re taking it to the beach, and be aware that popular styles like crop tops might cause a bit of a stir.

The Electricity

On our way to our Bermuda trip, I had a quick panic because I realized we left the house and I didn’t even check what outlet Bermuda uses. Normally, I wouldn’t think much but knowing that there is a huge British influence here I wasn’t sure if they used the UK outlet or if our US electronics would work.

Bermuda uses 110 volts, 60Hz AC, which is the voltage supported by the United States and Canada. If you’re coming from somewhere else, you will need an adapter since two-prong plugs are what the island uses. I didn’t have a problem plugging in my computer either which has three prongs.

While we’re talking electricity. Well, sort of related! Being isolated in the Atlantic Ocean has its perks, there’s little light pollution (from electricity – haha), so the star viewing is INSANELY good. We really enjoyed stargazing and it was pretty incredible to see how many stars were visible even with a full moon like we had during our visit!

Before visiting Bermuda you might wonder if you can drink the water. The answer varies depending on where you look online. 

Bermuda has no source of freshwater from springs, streams, rivers, or lakes. They actually have to collect rainwater and the design of the buildings in Bermuda, those cute layered stepped white roofs on the houses actually serve a very important purpose!

The way the roofs are designed are meant to slow down the heavy rainfall to collect the water and store it in a tank attached to the underside of the house, a method that has been pioneered and used for over four centuries!

Bermuda gets an annual average of rainfall of around 60 inches a year and is consistent year-round, so this method has provided the island with water consistently throughout the year. The white color of the roof also serves a purpose too, the color reflects UV light which helps purify the water as it’s being collected.

All buildings actually have to be built this way since water is such a precious resource and essential to life. Not to mention, this is a super sustainable way to collect water!

Another way that Bermuda also provides clean water, especially to support tourism, is through reverse osmosis plants on the island that desalinate water.

So that leaves us to our final bit of Bermuda information that you need to know, is the water safe to drink when visiting Bermuda?

Generally, yes. You’re safe in hotels or resorts and restaurants. We drank tap water the entire trip. If you’re worried, buy your water or invest in a SteriPen or a LifeStraw portable water filter. These are great gifts for travelers too by the way and are really easy to pack without taking up space.

There are Pink Sand Beaches!

Maybe this is already one of the reasons you’re visiting Bermuda in the first place, but did you know that Bermuda has naturally pink sand beaches?!

That’s right, there are PINK sand beaches in Bermuda you can visit including the most famous beach here, Horseshoe Bay Beach . But, that’s not all though! Along the south side of Bermuda there are several pink sand beaches including many small beaches connected by the sand dunes at Horseshoe Bay Beach as well also Warwick Long Bay and Jobson’s Cove.

Now, most photos you’ll see online where the sand is hot pink or a much brighter pink than you will actually see in person. These people took a few creative liberties we must say, but there is a really pretty pink hue to the sand and if the light hits it right it’s very obvious with the naked eye.

It was so bright the day we were visiting that it was actually hard to see the pink sand unless you were hitting it at the right angle, but when you looked close you could see the pink and even when we got back to the hotel later you could see the pink hue in the photos we took.

How does Bermuda have pink sand you might wonder? The pink sand is due to the red foram, or red foraminifera, which are an invertebrate. Their shells get on the ocean floor and mixed in with the sand when the tiny particles wash up to shore leaving a rosy hue in the sand!

Be sure to read our full guide to the best beaches in Bermuda including the best pink sand beaches!

There’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Looking to visit historic and cultural sites during your Bermuda trip? You’re in luck! Bermuda has its very own UNESCO World Heritage Site(s) . The Town of St. Geroge and its surrounding fortifications have been culturally landmarked by UNESCO since 2000.

Not only is St. George’s a great place to explore during your travels in Bermuda, but it’s also an area steeped in history as it’s the oldest continuously inhabited town of English settlement in the ‘New World’ that was settled in 1612 and the first capital of Bermuda.

If you want to split hairs, St. George’s is considered the third permanent British settlement in the Americas behind Jamestown in Virginia which was settled in 1607, and Cupids, Newfoundland which was settled in 1610. But because the other two settlements weren’t permanent, St. George’s Bermuda gets the title of ‘continuously inhabited.’

There are also several fortifications nearby that are associated within the UNESCO status that are a great example of 17th through 20th century English military development.

Located on the East End of the island, you’ll surely want to visit the town of St. George on your Bermuda trip not only for its historical and cultural value, but also because it’s beautiful both naturally and architecturally, there’s great food (try the catch of the day at Wahoo’s Bistro & Patio, if you have a choice of Rockfish try it!), and you can visit more beautiful beaches nearby plus cool sites like the Unfinished Church.

The Shipwrecks of Bermuda

Okay, so briefly revisiting Bermuda information I provided earlier in this guide but not for the reason you think! Bermuda is known for its shipwrecks, as a matter of fact, there are over 300 known shipwrecks around Bermuda making it the destination with the most shipwrecks per square mile. But, don’t get all superstitious on us this far into this post!

These shipwrecks are due to the treacherous coral reefs that surround the island which caused ships to sink when they crashed into these reefs surrounding Bermuda. Because the water is so clear, you can actually even see some shipwrecks from shore. Heck, our final days of our Bermuda trip we stayed at Grotto Bay Beach Resort which has a shipwreck you can see from their beach and restaurant and snorkel around!

The reason we bring this up is not to scare you – with today’s technology and Bermuda information ships know how to navigate and avoid crashing into these reefs. The reason we bring it up is that one of the most popular thing for visitors to do when they travel to Bermuda is to dive or snorkel the shipwrecks of Bermuda dating back all the way to the 1600s to 1997 worth of sunken treasures!

And if you don’t find yourself wanting to visit a shipwreck, they can be hauntingly beautiful but eerie to visit, you can also visit over 100 of Bermuda’s shipwrecks virtually  instead.

If you’re up for an adventure you can join a 3-hour shipwreck snorkel tour that visits the Constellation and the Montana shipwrecks with an expert guide. Or if you’re a scuba diver you can j oin a certified scuba dive adventure around the shipwrecks.

We hope you found this Bermuda information and guide full of Bermuda travel tips helpful for planning your dream vacation! Consider bookmarking for later or share the love below on Pinterest below! Happy travels visiting Bermuda!

I try to pet and meow at every cat I meet along our travels, I am an e book and podcast junkie on the road (motion sickness struggles are real), and I could eat pizza & tacos and drink wine every day of my life without getting bored.

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Bermuda: The Impossible Budget Destination? Maybe Not!

When I was 12, my father took my sister and me to Bermuda to surprise my mom, who was there on a cruise with my grandmother. We spent four days sweltering in the heat, swimming at the beach, and eating at Henry VIII, a medieval-themed restaurant. I’m sure it wasn’t a cheap trip, even back in the 1990s.

And now, older (and not that much wiser), I wondered: could the land of rich people, celebrities, bankers, and tax-avoiding corporations really be enjoyed on a budget? Bermuda isn’t known as a cheap destination. Being the frugal traveler I am , I didn’t want to spend much money, but what’s the absolute minimum one needs while there?

As it turns out, a lot.

Way more than the $50 a day I suggest .

Is it possible to travel around Bermuda on a budget? The answer is a stark no. I can tell you that it’s nearly impossible to visit Bermuda on a budget. Realistically, you need at least $175 USD per day.

Why do you need so much money? There are two main reasons:

First, accommodation is stupidly expensive (there are no hostels on the island). The cheapest accommodation costs around 100 BMD for apartment rentals found via Airbnb , Vrbo , or Bermuda Rentals . If you book at least a month in advance or in the low season, or know someone, you might be able to find a room for as little as 80 BMD a night. (I booked last-minute, so ended up paying 125 BMD per night.)

Secondly, transportation around the island is difficult. The bus system, while cheap, is infrequent, and many routes stop around 7pm. If you aren’t staying in a central location, this can be problematic. Additionally, taxis are expensive: prices start at 7.90 BMD, and each subsequent mile costs 2.75 BMD (and there’s also a surcharge on Sundays). And if you’re visiting far-off beaches and attractions or coming back late at night, you’ll definitely need a taxi. You’re guaranteed to take at least one taxi ride a day.  

How to Visit Bermuda for Less

Book early – If you want cheap accommodation, you’ll need to book rooms at least a month in advance. Avoid hotels and resorts and instead, stay at a bed and breakfast or home rental property. If you’re staying with a group, definitely rent a large apartment, as it’s far less per person than a hotel room.

Couchsurf – There are only 46 Couchsurfing hosts in Bermuda. Many of them have private rooms available, but again, if you want to succeed in reserving one, make sure you inquire really early in order to maximize your chances of success.

Rent a motorbike – Motorbikes are the most convenient and economical transportation on the island. Since buses are infrequent and taxis are expensive, having a motorcycle will give you more freedom to travel at a lower cost. Rentals begin at around $50 a day but get cheaper the longer you rent them. Two popular rental companies are Elbow Beach Cycles and Oleander Cycles . Mopeds are easy to rent; you can expect to pay around 50 BMD per day.

Stay central – While Hamilton is not set on a beautiful, pink-sand beach, it’s the center for all the buses and ferries leaving the city. If you rent an apartment and aren’t careful, you can end up somewhere far from a bus stop (which means more taxis). Staying in or near Hamilton will ensure you’re near all the bus lines and can avoid spending too much money on taxis.

Skip the fancy food – There’s good food on Bermuda, but it’s expensive. Avoid all the big, fancy restaurants and go for smaller stalls and local restaurants where prices, though still high, are more economical. My favorite place was Specialty Inn . Additionally, the café at Cambridge Resorts is reasonably priced despite being at a resort. Most meals cost 10–20 BMD. If you want a mid-range meal with drinks and dessert, you’re looking at closer to 75 BMD.

Cook – If you skipped the hotel and rented an apartment, you’ll have a kitchen. There’s an ever-growing local and organic foodie scene on the island. You can find a lot of cheap fruits, vegetables, and meats at markets and shops, which will help lower your costs dramatically.

Visit during the low season – Peak season in Bermuda is from May to October. The weather is perfect but prices are high. To save money, visit between March-April instead. Temperatures are pleasant, there are fewer crowds at all the attractions, and accommodation is cheaper.

But those are pretty much your only options. If you find a Couchsurfing host, you can probably do Bermuda for around 70–80 BMD per day. Otherwise, you’re looking at around 125-175 BMD per day — or more. There’s really no way around it.

Despite the drain on my wallet, my trip to Bermuda was amazing. As you can tell from the photos, everything you’ve ever heard about the island is true. This is truly a paradise, with warm, clear water lapping pink-sand beaches.

And Bermudians were always helpful, friendly, and welcoming. Everywhere I went, people were talkative and sincere. The woman in charge of our rented room fed us dinner and breakfast while her family described life in Bermuda (apparently, it’s not just for the newly rich or nearly dead anymore!). We met a nice guy at the bus stop who randomly ended up giving us a ride into Hamilton, and then there was the waiter who kept telling us to have a “Bermudaful day.” (Plus, countless other little things that made me fall in love with the place.)

So visit Bermuda and know, that while it won’t be cheap to visit, it will be beautiful, relaxing, and fun!

Book Your Trip to Bermuda: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner . It is my favorite search engine because it searches websites and airlines around the globe, so you always know no stone is being left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as it has the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com , as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancelations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything unexpected goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it, as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (for everyone below 70)
• Insure My Trip (for those 70 and over)
• Medjet (for additional repatriation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money too.

Want More Information on Bermuda? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Bermuda  for even more planning tips!

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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Musings of a Rover

One Week On the Pink Sands: A Bermuda Itinerary

Bermuda was so much more than I expected. Pink sands, crystal clear water, amazing food, and friendly locals. I’m already planning to go back.

Aruba, Jamaica, oh I want to take ya to Bermuda , Bahama, come on pretty mama.

For like a month before our trip, those words swirled through my head. We were finally going to Bermuda. Land of the pink beaches, turquoise clear water, rum swizzles, friendly locals, delicious seafood, and amazing scuba diving. And if that list feels long, it should. Because there is lots to do, and we only had 1 week. This was our Bermuda itinerary.

Now Bermuda has reputation for being expensive. Because, well, it is. So we traveled on a budget and my itinerary reflects that.

But I think my guide can still show you what the island has to offer. So feel free to use this step-by-step or simply as your starting point.

Our Bermuda itinerary starts with a few nights in Hamilton and then moves to the east coast. I loved splitting up our trip this way as it allowed us to have more time in St. George. But if you just want to stay in Hamilton, you definitely can.

Read Next: Bermuda on a Budget: Find Out How Much a Trip to Bermuda Costs

Table of contents, day 1: arrive & explore hamilton, day 2: beach day & the dockyard, day 3: snorkeling & rent a scooter, day 4: scuba diving, day 5: explore st. george’s island, day 6: st. george’s town & st. david’s beaches, day 7: go home, where to stay, where to eat, how to get around bermuda.

Bermuda’s airport is located on the eastern part of the island. And your options to get from the airport to your accommodation are limited.

The island does have an amazing bus system which I’ll get to later, but you can’t take suitcases on the bus so most people won’t be able to use it from the airport.

Uber (or any uber-like alternatives) don’t exist either. And tourists can’t rent cars (only mopeds and electric cars which aren’t going to help you here). Which basically leaves one option.

Taxis. Which are hella expensive, but are a necessary evil for at least this part of the trip. During our week in Bermuda we took just two taxis. And the trip from the airport to our Airbnb was one of them.

Expect to pay like $40-$50 for a taxi across the island. If you’re going even further west (past Hamilton), this could be even more.

After arriving in the Hamilton area, spend some time shopping and exploring the city. It’s not overly large but I enjoyed strolling the streets near the harbor, grabbing a drink, and taking it in.

There are two exciting things to do in Hamilton though in my opinion.

The first is Bermuda Harbor Nights. It’s weekly on Wednesdays from about May to September. All the action can be found on Front Street from about 7pm-10pm.

Think of this as a street festival. There are food vendors (with both Bermudian and international bites), local artists and craftsmen selling their art, and then of course the music and Gombey dancers .

The second (and my favorite) is Marina Nights at the Hamilton Princess. Every Friday night from (I think) May to September, you can find one of the best happy hour spots at the Hamilton Princess.

Below their 1609 restaurant, the area comes alive with live music and a full bar. And, very surprisingly, some of the most reasonable priced cocktails we had in Bermuda. (You know Bermuda’s expensive when $10 per rum swizzle is a “reasonably” priced cocktail.)

And it’s free to go for everyone, not just guests of the hotel. But the fun shouldn’t stop there because Hamilton actually has a pretty good nightlife on Friday night. If you’re up for a few drinks, definitely start at the Hamilton and then make your way towards Front Street.

Our lucky find was at Coconut Rock. This Asian restaurant was a bit hard to find (enter via Reid Street), but the bartenders were super friendly. And everyone there was a local.

I love beaches. Like a lot . Enough so that I usually plan at least one full beach day into any trip we take near a beach. So for me, this whole day was spent by the beaches.

Bermuda has several amazing, beautiful beaches. Some of the best ones are located along the south shore and are relatively close to each other.

One of the best things we did was start at Warwick Long Bay and beach hop down to the famous Horseshoe Bay. Since the whole area in between these two beaches is a park (South Shore Park ), there are trails that link them.

And the best part? There are several beaches along these trails with no one on them!

We took bus #7 to Warwick Long Bay first and walked down the hill to the beach. (More info on the buses can be found near the bottom of this article, but I just asked the bus driver to drop us off at that stop and he did!)

The beach was beautiful, we got a huge slice of sand to ourselves, and the water (though a bit cold) was wonderful.

Right next door is Jobson’s Cove. And though it had a bit more people due to the sheltered beach and shallower water, it was still beautiful.

Be sure to go up on the rocks between the two to get one hell of a view!

After that head along the sandy paths. There will be lots of little beaches to check out along the way. We did go up and over a brief rise, but it wasn’t too bad. I wouldn’t want to do the walk with chairs, but with two backpacks it was fine.

My favorite beach was after this rise and called Angle beach on Google. Though the park has a few different names for the beaches near it (Chaplin Bay and Stonehole).

We also skipped a bunch of beaches since we were getting hungry and wanted to get to to Horseshoe Bay. But anytime we saw a break in the trees, I just knew a little, beautiful beach lay right there.

The closer you get to Horseshoe Bay though, the more crowded the beaches get. So if you’re looking for solitude, you’ll definitely find it more towards Warwick.

And then there’s Horseshoe Bay.

This is probably the most famous beach on the island. The sand looked the pinkest here (though it’s not really pink, more like a blush). The water was super clear, blue, and calm. There’s so much sand to a lay out on.

Oh and it’s crowded. If being around people stress you out, you may want to find another beach. I didn’t find it that bad, especially during the week. (It was significantly more crowded on the weekend.)

Plus it has beach rentals and a beach bar so you can refuel with some cheeseburgers and rum swizzles.

After getting plenty of sun at Horseshoe Bay, we headed out as it’s located at the end of South Shore Park and the next public beaches aren’t super close by.

There’s a bus stop along South Road right by Horseshoe Bay so if you’re bussing it, just head up the hill and you’ll see it to the right.

Read Next: 11 Beaches to Visit On Your Trip to Bermuda

Now what if beaches aren’t your thing? Or if you beach hopped just in the morning and wanted to do something else in the afternoon?

The Dockyard is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Bermuda. I didn’t love it but that’s also because the main thing I wanted to see, the National Museum of Bermuda, was closed when I went. (Friendly reminder to always look at opening and closing times, because sometimes places close at like 4pm.)

But the Royal Naval Dockyard is famous for a reason. There’s the museum I mentioned above I wanted to go to, Dolphin Quest, Snorkel Park, and several shopping areas and markets if you’re looking for some quality souvenirs (though they close early so be careful).

I also got the famous rum cake at the Bermuda Rum Cake Company , grabbed a drink at Bermuda’s only brewery (available at the Frog and Onion Pub), and got some artisan, made-in-Bermuda ice cream at Alex + Pete’s.

Now confession, we actually went to the Dockyard on our first day since we got to Hamilton quite early, so you could go then. But I wanted to include it here for all those people who aren’t extremely obsessed with the beach.

(Like seriously, Ryan gets so bored at the beach he just takes naps while I practice being a mermaid.)

Bermuda’s Tourism Authority also has some very good information on things to do at the dockyard so I wanted to include a link to it as well since I know my information may not be all inclusive.

So you can’t rent a car in Bermuda. Well at least not in the traditional sense. Instead you have two options: scooters/mopeds or electric cars.

We went the scooter route because 1) I have experience driving one, and 2) I love it. It was one of my favorite things I did in Southeast Asia and I knew I needed to do it again in Bermuda.

If you don’t have experience with a scooter, then you can rent an electric car. Though they are like twice the cost of the scooter and you have to plug them in at night. And they aren’t like a real car. They’re more like a tiny smart car where the two passengers have to sit one in front of the other.

Also if you aren’t experienced driving a scooter, be really careful doubling up. Most accidents happen with two people on the bike (because the balance is all weird). We rented two because I don’t trust myself enough to drive with someone behind me.

So with all of that out of the way, we rented two scooters from Oleander Cycles for two days. It’s expensive (like $70 per bike per day). But it did allow us to explore a lot of the island and forgo like all taxi rides. And did I mention I love it?

Okay onto snorkeling! The west side of the island has (in my opinion) the best from-the-beach snorkeling on the island. Enter Church Bay.

Church Bay is located along the South Road. It’s also along a bus route (#7) if you decide against scooters.

It has a small parking lot and bathrooms, and then a long path down to the beach. I read that there are sometimes people there renting snorkel equipment, but there weren’t any on the day we went. But luckily we brought our own.

The beach itself is very small. So we basically just grabbed a spot of sand to spread our towel and then headed into the water. There were several families here snorkeling when we were there, but they were mostly sticking to the coral right by the beach.

Within just 5 minutes or so, we had left most of the others behind. Why? Because the coral at Church Bay like fills the bay.

We started by going up the left hand side of the bay and then turning inwards towards the big rock in the center of the bay following the coral spreading out below us.

And the sea life was incredible! Tons of parrot fish, angel fish, and more. I’m not a good fish identifier or else I’d provide more details, but there wasn’t a section that didn’t have something nearby.

And the water? Beautifully clear. Like I may have mentioned above, this is the best snorkeling I’ve encountered in the Atlantic Ocean.

When you’re done with snorkeling you have several options on how to spend the rest of your day with your scooter.

Here’s what we did:

• Headed further west to check out the more far flung beaches like Somerset Long Bay & Daniel’s Head Beach Park.
• Grabbed lunch at a wonderful little local restaurant called Woodys .
• Spread out a towel at Elbow Beach for a few hours (this was Ryan’s favorite beach)
• Grabbed dinner at another local little restaurant that two people recommended to us, the Seaside Grill . Then we headed to Flatts Village and ate at a picnic table by the marina.

Read Next: 5 Awesome Things to Do in Bermuda

Bermuda is like shipwreck capital of the world. Okay maybe not, but come on, everyone’s heard of the Bermuda Triangle.

Long story short, there are a lot of shipwrecks here. And when you pair that with the clear water and amazing coral, there’s no reason not to go scuba diving.

We did a 2 dive morning tour with Blue Water Divers and we loved it. Blue Water was a small outfit located on the western side of the island.

They were quick to respond to my questions before booking and eased any fears I had.

The dives themselves were incredible. The first dive site was at the Lartington site where a ship of the same name hit the reef and sank in 1879.

Now the second site actually had two shipwrecks at it. Yes, you read that right. One dive site had two wrecks. That just gives you an idea of how many shipwrecks there are scattered about the island.

This one was also interesting since one of the boats was made out of steel and parts of it could be seen. While the other was made from wood and had completely decomposed but left behind its cargo. Things like tea cups and bottles.

If you want the full details, definitely check out my full review of Blue Water Divers for details and more pictures.

After you finish up scuba diving, you’ll still have a lot of the day to explore Bermuda. And there are two things in particular I think should definitely be checked off your Bermuda list before you head east.

The first is Gibbs Hill Lighthouse. This 1800s lighthouse is located near Horseshoe Bay at the top of the hill. (Having that scooter can be real handy.)

And while the history part of it may not do it for you, my god the views will . They are incredibleI

Definitely climb to the top. Just be sure to hold on to your sunglasses. (The wind is fierce!)

The second is catching the sunset at West Whale Bay. This beach is tucked away on the southwest part of the island. It’s not directly on a bus route so you’ll probably want a scooter. And the best part?

We were the only tourists at sunset.

We first headed down to the beach to swim in the water. (I’ve also read the snorkeling can be quite good too here if the water’s calm.)

The beach is small but super photogenic, and we only shared it with a few families.

As sunset neared, we headed back up the hill and took a seat to watch the show.

Read Next: Diving with Blue Water Divers in Bermuda

What if you want to go with a snorkeling tour instead of going scuba diving? Since we didn’t do this, I don’t have a company to recommend. But I found this article about boat excursions.

Spend your last morning in Hamilton doing whatever makes you happy. For me? That was grabbing coffee at Rock Island Coffee and doing some window shopping along Front Street and Reid Street.

We then checked out, grabbed a taxi, and headed over to our Airbnb on the eastern part of the island.

Now our Airbnb host was spectacular. Like, the best host we ever had. The apartment was nice too, but the hosts were incredible.

The next two days will quickly show you why. But you could still do the following via buses as well which is why I’ve included them in this itinerary.

Okay so after checking in, head into the Town of St. George. It’s quite small (cozy maybe). But I loved it. And for our first day, we headed north of town towards the three main attractions on the northeast part of the island.

First up is Fort St. Catherine. This huge fort dominates the northeast corner of the island. It sits perched on a small cliff guarding one of the only “safe passages” through the coral to Bermuda.

Our new Airbnb hosts graciously offered to give us a lift to Fort St. Catherine, but you can walk there from the main bus stop in town in about 20 minutes.

The fort was originally built in the 1600s and has been built up over the years through the 1800s. It’s got loads of history, canons, and views off the gun decks.

Plus we had the fort like all to ourselves which was super sweet.

After that we grabbed a slice of sand at St. Catherine’s Beach which literally sits below the fort. Plus the beach was a lot calmer than Tobacco Bay (coming up) so if you want more peace and quiet, head here.

(Though this peace may be disturbed since they were in the process of building a hotel on the beach when we were there.)

Lastly, stroll on over to Tobacco Bay. This is the second best beach snorkeling to be found in Bermuda. It’s a lot smaller but that may make it more family friendly.

Plus it has a beach bar, chair rentals, and snorkel equipment for rent. So if you haven’t come prepared, Tobacco Bay has you covered.

After you’ve had your fill of forts and beaches it’s time to head into town for dinner and some evening strolls.

St. George is beautiful and we did some brief strolling through town in both the evening and the next morning. And I’d suggest to do both.

We were able to check out the unfinished church in the falling light as well as get a photo of St. Peter’s with no one else around.

Plus the sunsets from the marina aren’t too shabby either.

Finally we grabbed the best dinner of the entire trip at Wahoo’s and ate on their patio looking out over the water.

Most people don’t stay in or near St. George. They come for a day trip only. But I loved staying near the town. It allowed me to see it at times when there weren’t a bunch of tourists around (evenings and mornings). And it felt calmer, more peaceful.

Read Next: 4 Amazing Things to Do in St. George

Spend your morning in St. George checking out anything you weren’t able to see the evening before.

For us this meant popping into a few places that were closed during our evening stroll.

First up was breakfast at Mama Angie’s . A little breakfast shop recommended by our Airbnb hosts. The offerings were basic but delicious. If you’re looking for a no frills breakfast kind of place, then Mama Angie’s is your spot in St. George.

We then strolled through the park across the street and then headed down the many small lanes surrounding it.

The town seemed calm that morning (most likely because the ferry from the cruise ship terminal hadn’t arrived yet), but I loved the Caribbean meet English countryside feel.

After wandering, I made my way towards Lili Bermuda Perfumery . They do tours here (11am and 3pm except Sundays and holidays) if you’d like to know about the history, but I came to shop.

When I take a big trip, I get some “standard” souvenirs. Ornaments, magnets, etc. But I also try to spend a bit more money on something nice. And in Bermuda I knew I wanted to get some perfume.

Okay so these perfumes are not cheap. Like they are expensive. I got a couple of soaps and a sampler with like 10 perfumes in it and spent over $50. A small bottle of perfume probably would be about the same.

But every time I use the soap or perfume, I’m always transported back to Bermuda. And that feeling is definitely worth it. (Plus they smell great too!)

Next up it was time to go inside St. Peter’s church. The church closes early so we weren’t able to check out the day before. The inside is definitely old and small. A few of the beams, pews, and one cedar alter were carved in 1615.

The church itself dates back to 1620 and is the oldest continuously operating Anglican church in the Western Hemisphere. However only parts of the existing church date back to that time period.

There’s a small donation of like $1-2 to get inside. You’ll also get a pamphlet detailing the history of the church as well.

After the church it was closing in on noon and that meant one thing – the ducking stool reenactment.

Now this may be a bit touristy, but who cares. This historical reenactment of a punishment from the town’s history is hilarious and informative.

Now what is a ducking stool? Well it’s a chair that’s pushed out over the water where then the victim gets dunked repeatedly into the harbor.

This reenactment involves a man, the town crier (dressed in historical garb) who entices the crowd by letting them know they’d be punishing a woman for being a gossip and a nag (real offenses back then).

He also gets several audience members to assist with the dunking as well (so definitely volunteer if that sounds like your jam).

Then once everything and ready, the woman comes out. Now the town crier and the gossip-y/nag-y woman are pretty great together. Their act is good. And as you can guess, she gets into the chair, it’s wheeled out of the water and  she’s dunked in the harbor. A lot.

Anyway, I think it’s just something you got to see if you’re in St. George. So head to King’s Square at noon (except Fridays and Sundays I think) to watch this 30 minute show.

Now the rest of the afternoon is yours. I’ll explain what we did as well as a few other possibilities we considered.

First up, our Airbnb hosts were fantastic and took us on a little tour of St. David’s island (island south of St. George, you know, the one with the airport). It’s less touristed and felt much more local.

We snorkeled at Clearwater Beach and Turtle Bay where we saw several sea turtles (which always makes my day).

Then we strolled into Cooper’s Island Nature Reserve where there are several long, sandy beaches with hardly anyone on them.

It was a cloudy and windy day for us (so not the best beach day), but I definitely enjoyed feeling worlds away from the busier beaches on the other side of Bermuda.

If you’d like to head to these beaches, you can take bus #6 from St. George’s (though the routes alternate so be sure to get on the Clearwater one).

However if you’ve had enough beach time, there are a few other things you can do on the eastern side of Bermuda.

The Crystal Caves is a very popular tourist attraction. And I’ve seen pictures, it’s beautiful. We were saving it for a rainy day but really lucked out and didn’t have one.

Nearby the Crystal Caves is the original Swizzle Inn (only stop I was sad we missed) and Bailey’s Bay Ice Cream Parlor.

You could definitely spend the afternoon checking out all three.

Plus Tom Moore’s Jungle and Blue Hole Park is also close. I didn’t go to these two but I’ve heard about them from others and they could be fun to check out.

Alas it’s finally time to head home. Make sure to arrange your transportation the day before if you’re not actually in St. George where you can grab a cab. Our Airbnb hosts were fantastic and offered to give us a lift to the airport.

For this trip, I rented an Airbnb. Though lately I’ve started to feel a bit weird about it and I’ve tried to be more conscious of 1) if it’s legal, and 2) if it’s taking away an apartment option from the locals.

So I tend to now rent places that are a part of someone’s home (instead of standalone apartments). This is just my preference based on what I’ve read.

So for my trip to Bermuda, Ryan and I stayed in an extra bedroom in a guy’s apartment in Hamilton and a basement suite in a couple’s home outside of St. George’s. The apartment only had one bathroom and the bedroom was a bit small, but we made it work.

The St. George’s suite was amazing. The couple was fantastic in that they gave us a little tour around St. David’s island, dropped us off at Fort St. Catherine, and gave us a lift to the airport the morning we left.

It was my best Airbnb experience to date.

What about non-Airbnb options?

The island can be expensive so be aware of that. But it has some really fantastic resorts. Be sure to check if they’re on the water if that’s important to you. And definitely think about where you’d like to be stationed on the island since getting around can be kind of tricky.

Here were a few options I saw that seemed fantastic:

• Hamilton Princess
• Grotto Bay Beach Resort
• Fairmont Southampton
• Aunt Nea’s Inn

We definitely went to Bermuda on a budget . And still spent a good bit of money. But one of the places we cut down the most was on our food. (Because it’s really freaking expensive there.)

Like two drinks and sandwiches at a takeout only roadside spot? Easily $40. With that being the case, we only ate out at two places where we had like an actual waitress. The rest were takeout spots.

So if you’re looking for fancy, you may want to think of these as lunch options.

• Jamaican Grill  – amazing Caribbean food; we got it to go and took it to the harbor.
• City Cafe  – opposite the bus station; good picnic breakfast/lunch.
• Rock Island Coffee – great local coffee shop in downtown Hamilton.
• The Pickled Onion – we didn’t love this restaurant, but it was still very good. I would eat there again for the view alone. We got to sit right out on the balcony overlooking Front Street. (Our first “sit-down” meal in Bermuda.)

St. George’s

• Mama Angie’s  – basic but very good breakfast in St. George’s.
• Wahoo’s Bistro & Patio  – great view; best sit-down meal we had. Plus we got to sit out on the deck on the water.
• Seaside Grill  – great takeout for fish sandwiches. Our taxi driver recommended this spot, and it did not disappoint. Located on the north shore.
• Woodys  – amazing seaside bar for sandwiches. Located on the western coast. Someone in St. George’s told us to go here (luckily we had already been) for the best fish sandwiches on the island. She lived on the other side of the island and would still go here sometimes. It was that good.
• Frog & Onion Pub & Restaurant – a bit touristy since it’s in the Dockyard. But it has the only brewery on the island (which is why we went).
• Alex + Pete’s Artisan Ice Cream – again a bit touristy (Dockyard); but if you’re there and want some fancy ice cream, this place was good.
• Rum Bum Beach Bar – this is super touristy as it’s the beach bar at Horseshoe Bay. But sometimes you just really need a rum swizzle and some wahoo nuggets.

Buses & Ferries

Bermuda has an amazing public transportation system. It may not be cheap but it’s a hell of a lot cheaper than renting a scooter or taking a taxi. And it’s pretty easy to navigate once you get the hang of it.

Once you get to Bermuda, definitely try to grab one of the bus schedule pamphlets as it will have all of the latest information on rates, routes, and more. I’ll try to summarize a bit below.

The buses run on set schedules between set times (important since they don’t run 24/7). But there are stops all over the island. There are 11 bus routes and 14 bus zones (important for fares).

The routes all run the same way though. Buses are either leaving Hamilton or coming back to Hamilton (the main bus station is located there).

And the bus stops coordinate with this. Bus stops on the inbound route have a pink pole next to them and bus stops on the outbound route have a blue pole. These poles are very obvious.

Sometimes the bus stops will have a little stand, but sometimes it’ll just be a pole.

The buses themselves all look the same (pink with blue stripes) and will have their destination and route number on the front.

In terms of fares, you have two zone options: 3 zone and 14 zone. The 3 zone means that fare is good for traveling up to 3 zones, and the 14 zone covers everywhere on the island.

You can buy your fare with cash (this was the most expensive option and exact change in coin is required), tokens, and booklet of tickets (15 in a book).

We used tokens to take the ferry to the dockyard and back. And the best option for the buses was the booklet of tickets. We went for a 3 zone booklet since it would cover all the trips we wanted to do.

The last option is a transportation pass. You buy this by the day and it’s good for all buses and ferries on that day for anywhere on the island. But they are expensive. We did this once and did not think it was worth it for our itinerary. If it makes sense for you though, go for it!

Check out the  Bus Schedule online  too for more information. And here’s a  helpful article  with information on how to get around.

Taxis are very expensive. However since you can’t take luggage onto the buses, you may have to use them for some of your trip. We took one taxi from the airport to Hamilton (over $40) and one taxi from Hamilton back to St. George’s (over $40).

For reference on price, a taxi from Hamilton to our Scuba Dive Center was over $50. Luckily we’d rented scooters that day and therefore didn’t need a taxi.

But definitely think about taking the buses if you can since your taxi fares could definitely start to stack up.

Scooter / Electric Cars

Tourists can’t rent a car in Bermuda, but they can rent a scooter or an electric car. These are definitely expensive to rent and it’s priced more like an excursion than a rental.

We decided to go for the scooter (cheaper option) and rented them for two days. I love driving a scooter and it was perfect in Bermuda. It allowed us to go to some more local takeout spots, visit some remote beaches, and save money on taxi fare.

However you’ll have to drive on the left, navigate small roads, make your way through roundabouts, and avoid getting run over by the locals who will fly past you. If this is your first time driving a scooter…definitely think about it before you go for it.

In terms of pricing, we paid $68 per scooter per day. You can see the updated pricing at  Oleander Cycles , which is where we rented from.

That’s it!

And that’s our itinerary for Bermuda! We spent a week on this island and immediately talked about going back. The people, the food, the beaches…it was all wonderful. And it just felt different than the other Caribbean places I’d been. (I know it’s not in the Caribbean but you hopefully get my gist.)

See you in Bermuda!

Planning a trip to Bermuda?

Itineraries and guides:.

• Bermuda Budget: Find Out How Much It Costs to Travel to Bermuda
• One Week on the Pink Sands: A Bermuda Itinerary

Things to Do:

• 11 Beaches to Visit During Your Trip
• 5 Awesome Things to do in Bermuda
• Scuba Diving in Bermuda
• 4 Amazing Things to Do in St. George’s, Bermuda

Where to Stay:

Bermuda is expensive. And so most hotels and resorts are pricey as well. May people think the Hamilton Princess is marvelous. But it was out of our price range. Instead we went with Airbnb . We stayed in Hamilton for 4 nights and outside St. George’s for 2. And spent only about $100/night.

Where to Eat:

We didn’t eat fancy so if that’s what you’re after, you may want to look elsewhere.

• Seaside Grill  – great takeout for fish sandwiches
• Woodys  – amazing seaside bar for sandwiches
• Jamaican Grill  – amazing food; takeout
• City Cafe  – opposite the bus station; good takeout
• Rock Island Coffee
• Mama Angie’s – breakfast in St. George’s
• Wahoo’s Bistro & Patio – great view; best sit-down meal we had

Related Posts

11 Beautiful Beaches to Visit On Your Trip to Bermuda

5 Awesome Things to Do in Bermuda

4 Amazing Things To Do in St. George Bermuda

2 thoughts on “ one week on the pink sands: a bermuda itinerary ”.

What time of year did you guys go? I love your itinerary!

We went to Bermuda in July! We used the 4th holiday to get some extra mileage out of our vacation days.

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The Complete Bermuda Travel Guide 🇧🇲

When I told people I had booked a trip to Bermuda, I was a bit surprised that every single time the reaction was a question about getting lost in the Bermuda Triangle! I don’t recall ever being scared of it as a kid, I must have missed the TV shows that showcased the supposed mysterious disappearances in the ocean span between Bermuda, Puerto Rico, and

I was just excited to go on a trip, cross another destination off my list, and sneak in some scuba diving before summer was over.

Before You Go to Bermuda

These were the requirements as of August 2022, be sure to check the official Bermuda Tourism website for updates related to travel and COVID-19.

Step 1: Apply for a Bermuda Travel Authorization . It costs $40 and you can apply up to one month before your departure.

Step 2: Present a Negative COVID Test no more than 72 hours before your arrival.

Step 3: Print and save these documents to have on hand for once you arrive, and save your plane ticket as they asked me which seat I was in and thankfully I remembered but it caused some bottlenecks in the line.

Things to Know Before You Go

Bermuda is expensive. It is not a place to go if you’re hoping to rough it or backpack on a budget. I think trying to do it on the cheap would not be worth it, so if you’re low on travel funds, I’d save Bermuda for a later date when you can afford to splurge on yourself a bit.

People are incredibly friendly! Truly I had the best time as a solo traveler. When I was lost, lovely locals helped guide me to get me where I needed to be. Everyone was very nice and proud to chat about Bermuda’s history, culture, and what it was like to live there.

Bermuda Accommodation

Due to the high prices of hotels, and the solo traveler reality of having to foot the entire bill, I opted for a guesthouse on Airbnb for accommodation. It was really nice! I had my own space with a bed, full bathroom, and kitchenette, and pool access. It was about $80/night which is very cheap for Bermuda. The family was extremely friendly and helpful – they drove me to the rental place to pick up my scooter and gave me a lot of interesting insider recommendations and information about Bermuda.

Getting Around Bermuda

Tourists and visitors cannot rent cars in Bermuda, which is truly a good thing because the traffic would be unbearable. Anyone driving a car is a local resident, but there are several transportation options available to tourists who don’t want to pay for a taxi each time they want to go somewhere.

Bermuda’s Bus System

For being an island, Bermuda has a pretty great bus system. A lot of islands struggle when it comes to public transport (I’ve found, in my limited exploration of them) but Bermuda has a system of buses that run often and are very cheap. You must have the exact change for the fare, or purchase a bus card to pre-load it with credit before you go. For the bus stops, you’ll see they either have a blue pole or a pink pole – this indicates the direction the bus is going from that stop. Blue means you’re going away from Hamilton, while pink means you’re heading toward Hamilton.

Scooter Rental

I rented a scooter through Oleander Cycles and I couldn’t recommend it enough. Scootering around an island is such an excellent way to see more sights, it’s faster and more efficient than the bus, and gives you a lot more freedom than you would have otherwise. Plus it’s a lot cheaper than ordering a taxi each time you need to get anywhere. The team at Oleander were very friendly and helped me get everything I needed.

When riding your scooter in Bermuda, remember:

• Drive on the left! Thankfully my scooter had a little reminder sticker and an arrow which was helpful. Always look both ways thoroughly before making any turns or pulling out into an intersection.
• ALWAYS WEAR YOUR HELMET. Not only because duh, but I do think this must be the legal requirement, as I never saw anyone not wearing one while on their scooter.
• Be mindful of people who want to pass you. It’s likely that locals will want to scoot past at a faster pace than you as you enjoy the sights of Bermuda by scooter.

Things To See and Do in Bermuda

Scuba diving in bermuda.

The primary reason I wanted to visit Bermuda was to go diving. It had been a long time since my last scuba diving adventure and the crystal clear, warm waters of Bermuda seemed like the perfect place for my first tropical dive since 2019. I booked a two-tank morning dive with Blue Water Divers and had an amazing experience from start to finish. The captain and crew were very professional and kind, and made sure I had everything I needed for a great experience. We visited two dive sites, both were technically wreck dives but the wrecks were on incredible reefs. One was an b-29 airplane that had crashed in the 1960’s, which was eerie but very cool to explore underwater. Blue Water Divers is located at Somerset Bridge in the Robinson Marina.

Crystal Cave Tour

Located on the northeast side of the island in Hamilton Parish, the Crystal and Fantasy Caves of Bermuda are 100% worth a visit if you’re vacationing on the island. I got very lucky – there was only 3 other people in my tour group, making the whole experience a lot more pleasant like we had a private tour. The caves had been discovered by accident by two young boys who had lost their cricket ball and fell into the cave while searching for it. Now it’s a great site to visit to see clear pools of water with stalagmites and stalactites growing from the ground and the ceiling. It’s a relatively quick tour, about 30 minutes, and the caves also are a nice cool atmosphere, a shelter from the hot sun if you’re visiting in the summer. Definitely make your reservations in advance, I got very lucky and snagged the last spot on the tour! The tour cost $24 and I would say it’s well worth it.

Blue Hole Park

After touring the caves, I scootered over to Blue Hole Park, which is only about 3 minutes away. It’s a free park with a swimming hole, with only one other group swimming there when I visited. It was pretty but I think there is nicer water spots to swim in at the beaches – but I would definitely recommend coming here for a nature walk. It’s right next to Tom Moore’s Jungle, which has a lovely walk through dense jungle plants.

Bermuda Botanical Gardens

A great free place to visit in Bermuda are the Botanical Gardens . Located in Paget Parish which was right by my Airbnb, they were a lovely place to scooter over to and enjoy a walk to see amazing plants and flowers blooming. I wouldn’t say this is a “must-do” unless you’re a botany or plant nerd, but it was a beautiful place to take a walk and would be a great thing to do if you had a longer vacation on Bermuda and wanted to see more beyond the beaches.

Harbour Nights in Hamilton

Taking place on Front Street on Wednesday nights in the summer, from 7-10pm, this outdoor festival showcases live music, food vendors, and shopping vendors. It’s a fun atmosphere, buzzing with locals and tourists alike and a great place to get fun gifts and souvenirs. It was very crowded, however, so expect to wait in line for the food favorites. I got a drink at Dockyard Brewing and enjoyed people watching and listening to the music at the main stage.

Best Beaches to See in Bermuda

Tobacco Bay

This was my favorite beach experience in Bermuda. I think I got lucky and visited at a time where it just wasn’t busy – this place was gorgeous and I had a whole cove to myself. Tobacco Bay is located near the town of St. George and it offers beach lounge chairs (to rent, not cheap) and a beachfront bar with gorgeous views of the sandy beach and a rocky cove.

Horseshoe Beach

Horseshoe Beach is recognized as the most beautiful in Bermuda, and it’s easy to understand why upon seeing it, especially from above if you’re scootering down the cliff from the northern side of the island. Due to its beauty and popularity, however, it is a very busy beach, with locals enjoying everything from picnics to volleyball tournaments. Park your scooter and wander through the trees on the path to the beach. I liked Horseshoe Beach but I did not swim here, it was very busy the night I visited. My photos do not do it justice, definitely Google this beach to look at the amazing photos – or book a trip to Bermuda to see for yourself!

Elbow Beach

Elbow Beach was very close to my Airbnb which made it a great place to sneak off to catch the sunset. It’s a much less crowded and still stunning beach with blue waters on the south side of Bermuda. It’s a free, public beach that is easy to access in Paget Parish.

Restaurants & Bars in Bermuda

Swizzle inn.

The Swizzle Inn is noted on many travel blogs and in official articles as being an essential Bermuda Restaurant to visit, so of course I added it to my list. It’s located close to the Crystal Caves so I ventured here for lunch after my morning tour. I indulged in a Rum Swizzle and a Wahoo Sandwich, and both were delicious. It’s a cool establishment, with a tropical-yet-pub vibe and friendly service. The food and drinks were excellent, just be careful as the rum packed a sneaky punch.

Bailey’s Bay Ice Cream Parlour

Need ice cream after your meal at the Swizzle Inn? Bailey’s Bay Ice Cream Parlour is right across the street and is a delicious spot to get a cold treat for dessert. There were tons of flavors to choose from, I went with a salted caramel.

Bring cash as they do not accept cards for payment.

This Irish Pub in Hamilton is a decent stop for a drink and a meal. I had the wahoo fish served “Bermuda Style” which was with a grilled banana, a cream sauce and almonds. It was weird but good! The fish was slightly overcooked but the flavor profile was great. The bartender at Flanagan’s was also very fun and I could see this being a great spot to visit if you lived in Bermuda, there is an “Outback Sports Bar” attached to the main bar and restaurant too.

This dinner had the best view and the food was good too! Coconuts is located in the Reefs Resort, it overlooks a beautiful beach with stunning water. I had wine and fish tacos and the service was great. It’s a great little dinner spot, definitely pricy but I would say it’s worth a visit once for the ambiance.

This hidden lunch spot is a fantastic place to visit for a bite. It’s located in the Azura Bermuda hotel and guest apartments, right in the pool area. The sweeping views of the blue water are unreal, and while the pool and facilities are private for guests only, anyone can enjoy a meal and drink at the restaurant. My server was super friendly and the whole experience was great for lunch. I had their tropical chicken sandwich, which was tasty and a good way to break up the routine of eating a lot of fried fish.

The Hog Penny

I ate here my last night in Bermuda and it was delicious! To break off from the fried fish, I ordered their sizzling shrimp and sausage jambalaya bowl, which was spicy and delicious. This place doesn’t have the best view, as it’s tucked away on a side street off Front Street, but you can still see the harbor and the service was great.

Lost in the Triangle

This place is a gem in Paget Parish, an area of Bermuda that does not have much else going on food and drink-wise. It overlooks south road and is where I indulged in a fried fish sandwich, a Bermudian staple, on raisin bread. This sounds weird but try it – it’s the classic local way to eat it, and it is delicious!

While it’s definitely catered towards couples on romantic vacations, Bermuda was a beautiful destination for a solo trip. I had a great time scuba diving on a reef for the first time since 2019, I met a lot of lovely people, and enjoyed delicious seafood and plenty of sunshine. It’s a great spot for a short getaway, since you can see so much in just a few days. I’d love to go back to Bermuda some day and explore even more, finding hidden beaches and local spots to check out.

If you’ve been to Bermuda and have some recommendations of places I didn’t mention in this post, please comment below so I can add to my future list!

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If you’ve ever wondered about the best things to do in Bermuda or are planning a trip to this little island, you may be pleasantly surprised at how much this island has to offer. Bermuda is a little island in the middle of the North Atlantic

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First Timer’s Guide to Bermuda

By: Author Leslie Harvey

Posted on Published: December 27, 2022

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The island of Bermuda blends a tropical island vibe and a dapper British style. The result is a pretty unique vacation destination. Since Americans need at least a passport and a plane flight or cruise booking to visit, a trip to Bermuda definitely requires some planning. Luckily, the logistics on the ground are pretty easy for first timers if you’ve done even a bit of preparation.

My husband and I have had Bermuda on our bucket list ever since we were searching for where to go on our honeymoon. We finally were able to spending a glorious full week there this August. As we were celebrating both our 15th wedding anniversary and my 40th birthday this summer, we decided it was time for a rare child-free trip. After dropping the kids off in Charlotte, NC with grandma and grandpa (thanks mom and dad!), we jetted off for a week in a tropical paradise.

We explored a lot of the tiny island in the 7 nights we were there. Naturally, we made a few mistakes along the way, but also picked up a lot of tips and tricks, both for couples travelers like us as well as for families. I decided that a first time travelers guide might be helpful to others venturing to this destination for the first time too. Here is what other newbies to Bermuda – families as well as travelers without kids – need to know.

(Trips With Tykes uses affiliate links which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through links in this post. See our full disclosure policy linked in the menu at the bottom of this site.)

Where is Bermuda?

As a child of the 1980s, the first thing that pops into my head when I think of Bermuda is the Beach Boys’ 1988 hit Kokomo. You know you know it… “Bermuda, Bahama, come on pretty mama.” For many Americans, that song forever geographically misplaced Bermuda (and the Bahamas!) in our brains. Because it was named along with so many Caribbean destinations, many Americans erroneously assume Bermuda is somewhere in the Caribbean. 

But Bermuda is very much not in the Caribbean. It’s situated solidly in the Atlantic Ocean, roughly due east of Savannah, Georgia. The closest US landmass is actually around Cape Hatteras, North Carolina. The geography is important because it definitely affects the climate and when you should be considering Bermuda as a vacation destination (more on that below!).

A lot of people are also confused as to what Bermuda is – country, protectorate, territory, etc.? Bermuda is actually one of a few British Overseas Territories, along with Anguilla, the British Virgin Islands, the Falkland Islands and Turks & Caicos. It has some self-governing rights and elects its own parliament, but it recognizes the crown and is overseen by a crown-appointed governor.

Sub-Regions, Neighborhoods, & Layout of Bermuda

What many new visitors to Bermuda also don’t understand is just how tiny of an island Bermuda is. To drive it tip to stern takes only about an hour. It’s long and skinny, so there are places where you can easily walk the width of the island. The entire island is only 21 square miles, making it less than half the size of the already pretty small city of San Francisco.

The country is divided into 9 parishes, but most visitors will likely refer to three different regions. Those include:

St. George’s (East End) : Located near the eastern end of the island by the airport is the town of St. George’s, the original settlement of Bermuda. Full of historic buildings and churches, it’s a worthy cultural destination. Also on this end of the island are some amazing cave formations as well as the famous Tobacco Bay Beach.

City of Hamilton & Central Bermuda : The center of the island is where Bermuda’s one “big” city is located. Hamilton is home to the government and major commerce centers (Bermuda has a thriving reinsurance industry that contributes to the wealth there).

Royal Naval Dockyard (West End) : At the far western tip is the cruise terminal, located at the Royal Naval Dockyard. Between Central Bermuda and the west end are a ton of gorgeous beaches and the village of Somerset.

Bermuda is small enough that you can pick a single home base and use it to tour the entire island. Some visitors, however, may prefer to split their stay between either end of the island to reduce transportation time and cost.

What is the Best Airport for Flying to Bermuda?

Given its tiny size, it’s probably unsurprising that Bermuda has only a single airport. Bermuda’s L.F. Wade International Airport (BDA) is located on the far east end of the island, close to the town of St. George’s. Driving from the airport to Bermuda’s main commercial city of Hamilton takes about 30 minutes. And driving to the far other end of the island takes close to an hour.

BDA is served by a wide variety of U.S. airlines, including JetBlue, American, Delta, and United. Cities with non-stop airline service include:

• Miami : American
• New York-JFK : JetBlue, Delta or American
• New York-LGA : American
• Newark : United
• Philadelphia : American
• Boston : JetBlue or Delta
• Atlanta : Delta
• Charlotte : American
• Washington-National : American

From Europe, the only carrier is British Airways from London-Gatwick. Canadian travelers can choose between service on Air Canada or WestJet from Toronto-Pearson.

Visitors flying to Bermuda need to know that its air service fluctuates with the seasons fairly significantly. Some destinations are served only in the peak June-August summer months. Flights from some places may only operate once or twice a week. That’s the major reason my husband and I were able to take a full week vacation. American only served our originating airport of CLT in August once a week on Saturdays!

As for flight time, it’s quick. Bermuda is a very short hop, skip and jump for most East Coast and southern travelers. Flights from Boston and New York City are under 2 hours. Atlanta and Charlotte flights are about 2.5 hours. It’s entirely possible to visit Bermuda on a long weekend from many US destinations, assuming the flights are available.

While cash prices can sometimes be very reasonable from New York and Boston, not all originating cities offer flight deals to Bermuda. We were able to find flights on the cheap using British Airways Avios to book flights on its partner airline, American . 

What Do I Need to Know about Visiting Bermuda by Cruise Ship?

If you aren’t coming by air to Bermuda, you are almost definitely coming by boat! Bermuda is a very popular cruise ship port and with good reason. With its small size, it is an easy destination where visitors can see a lot in a single day’s visit.

Because of environmental damage to Bermuda’s reefs and harbors, the large cruise ships now dock exclusively at the Royal Naval Dockyard. So if you are coming in via ship, you need to plan for transportation from there. If you want to head to Hamilton quickly, there is a ferry located at the cruise terminal (see the transportation section below for even more information).

The cruise ship terminal area also has plenty to do within walking distance for visitors who don’t want to travel too far. The National Museum of Bermuda is located steps away, as are a number of restaurants and shops.

Even if you aren’t coming in via cruise ship, it’s smart to watch the cruise ship schedules into the Royal Naval Dockyard. When a mega-ship is in port or several ships are in town at one time, they can dramatically affect crowd levels all over the island. Tour operators book up more quickly on these dates as well. We purposefully timed our visit to the Royal Naval Dockyard for a day when one of Royal Caribbean’s biggest ships just left town. There is a Bermuda cruise calendar available several months in advance here .

What Are the Best Transportation Options for Getting Around Bermuda?

My husband and I tried pretty much every transportation option during our stay, so I definitely have some thoughts on this question!

First of all, only Bermudians are allowed to drive cars on the island. That means that visitors definitely need to do a bit of planning when it comes to transportation. Uber and Lyft don’t operate in Bermuda either, so don’t plan to rely on them. Here are the various transportation choices:

Taxis : Taxis are the quickest way to get around the island, but they are also pretty expensive and add up quickly. They also charge higher Sunday and holiday rates. Traveling just about half the distance of the island on Sunday cost us over $65 one way! Additionally, while it’s pretty easy to pick up a taxi at the airport, Royal Naval Dockyard, or in Hamilton, more remote locations are not quite so easily served, especially in the early morning or late night hours. My advice? Rely on taxis when you need door-to-door or very quick transportation solutions, but definitely try other options! (Editor’s Note: HITCH is an app that launched after our trip that allows visitors to hail taxis with their smartphones. Definitely give it a try!)

Ferries : The shape of the island of Bermuda makes ferries very useful and actually quite time-saving. For example, while it takes about 45 minutes to drive from Hamilton to the Royal Naval Dockyard, the ferry ride is just 20 minutes. There are 4 different ferry lines that criss-cross the island. Cash is not accepted, so be sure to pick up a transportation pass or token to ride at the ferry terminal building.

Public Bus : Public buses in Bermuda are reliable, inexpensive, safe, and clean. They also travel within close walking distance of many of the major tourist attractions. Take a look at the official Bermuda bus map to plan your route. Bus fare is $5.00 for travel anywhere in the 14 zones (or just $3.50 if you are taking a 3 zone or less trip). Bermudian dollars or transportation tokens (available at a discount if purchased at visitors centers or bus/ferry terminals) are both accepted.

Hotel Shuttles : A lot of hotels offer shuttle services of some sort, so look into those when you book lodging. For example, we stayed at the Hamilton Princess Hotel which has a private beach club elsewhere on the island. The hotel offered a regular and free minibus back and forth to the beach club multiple times a day.

Mopeds & Electric Cars (Twizzy) : Although visitors can’t rent a real car in Bermuda, they are permitted to rent mopeds and a tiny two-seater electric vehicle called the Twizzy. We rented a Twizzy for a single day of exploring when we were going to multiple different stops, and found it was a pretty amazing experience. They would work for families of 4 as well – just rent two and have each parent drive one kid. The minimum age to ride in the back is 5. Just remember that Bermuda drives on the left!

Is Bermuda a Good Destination to Visit with Kids?

Yes! Even though my husband and I took a couples trip, we were always on the lookout for family-friendly things to do. We remarked to each other several times a day how much one both of our kids would have enjoyed what we were experiencing. 

We also saw a ton of other families in Bermuda with kids of all ages. Since it is such a short trip and is a very safe destination, it really makes a lot of sense for families. I’d absolutely return with my kids.

What is the Best Season to Visit Bermuda?

Unlike the Caribbean which stays warm all year, Bermuda is more affected by the seasons. Summer is most definitely the high season, with the island seeing most of its visitors between June and August. Hotel prices tend to surge during these months, but early planners can find deals. During summer months, the island is quite warm and humid. Plan accordingly for outdoor activities, as you don’t want to be exerting yourself too much during the heat of the day in these months unless you are in the water!

But Bermuda isn’t only a single season destination. It’s warm enough in a lot of the spring and fall to travel to the island too. Shoulder season offers more affordability and lower crowds, so I’d certainly consider it on not-so-obvious times. Winter is windy and chilly (but not cold), with temperatures in the mid-60s.

Of course, the one major weather factor travelers also have to consider is hurricanes. The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November, so it can throw a wrench into travel plans. Going the first week of August, we knew we were a bit at risk. Realistically though, peak hurricane season is in September and early October, so most high season visitors should be able dodge most of the riskiest times.

Where to Stay in Bermuda

Lodging in Bermuda doesn’t come cheap, and that is probably why many travelers on the East Coast and the South opt for Caribbean destinations instead. As a California-based traveler often, the prices didn’t shock my conscience. I found them to be roughly equivalent to Hawaii prices. The only difference is perhaps that there were not as many moderate hotels in Bermuda as there are a few places in Hawaii. More of the hotels on Bermuda are luxury level and priced accordingly.

We decided to stay at the Hamilton Princess , which is a Fairmont-managed property. My husband and I always love staying in a hotel with history, and the Hamilton Princess has that in spades. In fact, the history was quite personal for both of us. My mother stayed in the hotel about 50 years earlier with my grandparents when she was in high school, and my husband’s grandparents had visited as well many decades ago!

The Hamilton Princess is located within easy walking distance of Front Street in downtown Hamilton, which has a ton of shops and dining. We loved its urban location on the harbor. Look for a full review coming soon!

Other hotels we considered, visited, and/or researched:

• Fairmont Southampton Princess (see a detailed Fairmont Southampton Princess review from Family Travel Magazine)
• Rosewood Bermuda : Ultimately too pricey even for our splurge vacation, but this hotel definitely sets the luxury standard on the island.
• Grotto Bay Beach Resort & Spa : A somewhat more affordable and family-friendly hotel choice, within walking distance of the famed Swizzle Inn and with a swimmable volcanic cave on property.

There are not really many chain hotels on the island, meaning it’s a bit of a challenge to redeem hotel points in Bermuda to save. However, a St. Regis finally opened in 2021 on the east end of the island, putting Marriott points in play. We saw the construction during our visit and it definitely has a ways to go though!

What to Do in Bermuda

Although we spent a few days lounging on the beach, my husband and I were pretty active on this vacation and did a lot of the local activities and excursions. It’s amazing how efficient we could be again without kids in tow! But if you want to know about all that we did, you’ll have to wait for my things to do in Bermuda guide.

For even more in-depth recommendations of what to do in Bermuda, check out these guides from fellow family travel bloggers I personally know and trust (and that I used in my own planning and research!):

• 25 Things to Do in Bermuda for Couples  from 365 Atlanta Traveler
• 5 Reasons Bermuda Should Be Your Next Weekend Getaway from We3Travel

Even More Bermuda Tips & Tricks for First Time Visitors

Need a few other tips and tricks as you plan your trip? 

1. Don’t worry about money : Bermuda uses the Bermudian dollar which is tied completely to the value of the US dollar. This means that you do not have worry about converting money. Bermudian dollars and US dollars are used interchangeably at cash registers too. Usually if you pay in US dollars, most cashiers will even make change in US dollars when available. We asked for some local currency as change though, so we could bring it home for our kids!

2. Check your cell coverage : We found the cell and data service in Bermuda to be quite good in most places. I guess with such a small island, it’s not too hard to get the infrastructure in place to cover it all. Plenty of restaurants and businesses also have free WiFi, so we were able to stay pretty connected for purposes of getting directions and doing research. Definitely check your cell phone data plan before you leave – we found Bermuda to be covered at such a reasonable rate with ours that we didn’t have to worry about using it as needed even when we could not get WiFi.

3. Pre-book excursions : Because Bermuda is so small, popular activities and excursions can sell out, especially during the high tourist season in the summer. Book early so you aren’t disappointed!

4. Build in extra time for airport departures for customs pre-clearance : Bermuda is one of several foreign airports where US travelers pre-clear immigration and customs before they board their flights. When you land in a US airport, that means your flight will arrive into a domestic gate because you’ve already “entered” the US. So what does this mean for your Bermuda departure? You’ll need to plan extra time at the airport before your flight for this step. Arriving about 2.5-3 hours before flight time should be more than sufficient. 

5. Don’t leave without trying a Dark & Stormy, Rum Swizzle, or fish sandwich : Bermuda has a few local food and drink specialities. No trip is complete without giving them a try! The fish sandwiches in Bermuda are made on raisin bread, making for a sweet and salty combination that is exceptionally tasty. If you drink alcohol, try the rum swizzle (kind of like Bermuda’s take on the mai tai) or a dark and stormy, a stronger mixed drink made with Gosling’s rum and ginger beer.

Have you been to Bermuda? Share your additional tips and tricks in the comments.

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Your Trip to Bermuda: The Complete Guide

Tim M Lanthier / Getty

Thanks to its pink sand beaches and aquamarine water, Bermuda is always a reliably popular tourist destination. But deciding what to do while visiting Bermuda is often not the easiest task—though the island is only 21 square miles long, there's no shortage of things to do on your vacation. Thankfully, we've outlined the top attractions and—crucially—how to get there and where to stay in our guide to Bermuda. From sophisticated dining (and delectable cuisine) to rum-tasting and seafaring (occasionally at the same time), we've got you covered. Read on and get ready to start planning your next trip to this island paradise in the North Atlantic.

Planning Your Trip

• Best Time to Visit : The best time to visit Bermuda is during the spring when the weather is warm, and the cost of travel remains relatively low, before the onslaught of tourists in the summertime.
• Language: English
• Currency : Bermudian dollar (pegged to the U.S. dollar at a 1:1 rate), though the U.S. dollar is widely accepted across the island.
• Getting Around: There is no ride-sharing service in use on the island of Bermuda, aside from Hitch, Bermuda's first electronic taxi app. Please note, however, that many taxis do not have the GPS installed to participate in the service. Taxis are plentiful on the island, however, and there are buses and ferries available via the public transport system.
• Travel Tip : Tourists aren't allowed to rent a car in Bermuda (to avoid accidents and overcrowding), but scooters are available to visitors, and there's no better way to appreciate the island views and cruise along the winding roads than by driving a moped. Be careful to remember to drive on the left side of the road!

Things To Do

Bermuda is famous for its aquamarine water and pink sand beaches, and travelers would be remiss not to make the most of their trip by exploring the island's gorgeous coastline and setting sail upon its crystal-clear waters. Activities available for aquatically-inclined travelers include rum cruises (but more on that later), glass-bottom boat tours, and sunset sailing on a catamaran. Prefer to stay on land? You can't beat the views and the ambiance at the beautiful Jobson's Cove Beach (overlooking Warwick Long Bay). Just remember sunblock.

• In the parish of Southampton, Horseshoe Bay is world-renowned for its visual beauty and a must-visit destination for visitors to the island. The famous bay resembles a horseshoe from above (hence its name), and the beach, surrounded by dramatic cliffs, is one of the most famous and well-known on the entire island.
• Find out why the Crystal and Fantasy Caves are reliably one of Bermuda's top attractions with a day trip to this underground fantasia. Expect azure pools of water and dazzling subterranean rock formations.

Explore more attractions with our guide to the top things to do in Bermuda and the best beaches in Bermuda .

What to Eat and Drink

When in the Caribbean, you'd be remiss not to enjoy a rum cocktail (or three). Though Bermuda's weather is, quite famously, not so dark and stormy, one of the island's preferred beverages certainly is. Dark & Stormy cocktails are a signature in Bermuda, and the only proper way to enjoy the refreshing libation is with some home-grown Goslings Rum from the parish of St. George's. Enjoy rum cocktails, glorious ambiance, and delectable food at Sea Breeze Terrace and 1609 Restaurant at the world-famous Hamilton Princess. Prefer your rum in shot form? Head to The Pickled Onion in Hamilton for a night of drinking, dancing, and revelry.

But the best way to enjoy Goslings? Why, a sunset rum cruise, of course. Opt for a 90-minute rum cruise to enjoy the "Spirit" of Bermuda with Goslings rum. (Tours depart before sundown from Hamilton—and, trust us, the cocktail is best enjoyed while watching the sun turn the sky into a blazing fire of pinks and oranges as it sinks beneath the sea). Another must-order favorite in Bermuda is Bermuda Fish Chowder, of course. And there's no better place to order it than seaside at the Pink Beach Club, in Tucker's Town, in the parish of St. George.

Another popular culinary destination is Mickey's Bistro , a restaurant at Elbow Beach Resort & Spa situated directly on Elbow Beach. The views are breathtaking, and the ambiance is sophisticated—Though the setting may be literally on the beach, the attire is smart casual. (So you can't just roll up in your bathing suit.) Pack a cover-up and nice sandals to enjoy a chic seaside dinner after a day of snorkeling and sunbathing on the pink sands of the shoreline.

Explore our articles on the best street food in the Caribbean, as well as our guide to the best beach bars in the Caribbean.

Where to Stay

Live like a princess at the H amilton Princess & Beach Club , an iconic institution in Hamilton operated by Fairmont Hotels. If you're interested in another pink-themed accommodation—always popular in Bermuda—the Loren Hotel is also a popular option and is home to the Pink Beach Club, purveyor of the previously-discussed Bermuda chowder.

Additionally, the Coral Beach & Tennis Club is nothing short of excellent but, unfortunately, is members-only. That is unless you are staying at the nearby Newstead Belmont Hills Resort in Paget—in which case, a shuttle will drop you off at the private beach. It's well worth the trek. On an island of gorgeous beaches, this is certainly one of the prettiest.

Check out more of the best hotels in Bermuda .

Getting There

Though many people believe that Bermuda is in the Caribbean , the island is actually located in the North Atlantic Ocean—making for easy direct flights from the U.S. The Bermuda L.F. Wade International Airport , located 9 miles east of Hamilton, is the sole airport in Bermuda, with one passenger terminal servicing seven airlines: Air Canada, American, British Airways, Delta, JetBlue, United, and WestJet.

Bermuda Culture and History

Bermuda's history dates back to the 16th century when Spanish explorer Juan de Bermúdez discovered it. There was no indigenous population on the island at the time of its discovery, nor 100 years later when the British settled it. The island became a British Crown Colony in 1684, largely relying on the work of enslaved persons of African and Indian heritage. Today, over half the island's population is Black.

The island's unique positioning in the North Atlantic Ocean has become something of lore—the western part of the North Atlantic is known, famously, as the Bermuda Triangle, due to the number of plane crashes and shipwrecks in these waters. In fact, Bermuda was once known as the "Isle of Devils," and more than 300 ships have sunk in the island's surrounding waters, dating from the 1600s to the present day. Aside from sailing, cricket is another very important activity on the island. So important, in fact, that the first day of Cup Match (a famous cricket tournament), Aug. 1, coincides with Emancipation Day to celebrate the 1834 abolition of slavery. (A second public holiday, Mary Prince Day, is named after a Bermudian abolitionist hero.)

Money-Saving Tips

• Check to see if the service fee is included in your hotel or restaurant bill; otherwise, a 10 percent tip is customary,
• Though the Bermudian and U.S. dollar is usually used interchangeably throughout the island, you will want to have Bermudian dollars on-hand during your trip if you're in an area that doesn't accept U.S. dollars. We recommend switching currency before you arrive in Bermuda because, although the airport does facilitate currency exchange, the rates may be higher than they would be in the U.S.
• You do not need to be a guest of the Elbow Beach Resort & Spa to access the world-famous pink sand beach—there is a small portion of the beach that is open to the public, accessible via a separate entrance from the hotel.
• Consult the front desk at your hotel about the existence of free shuttle services to use during your stay to save on cab fare.
• Consider booking an all-inclusive resort, or a food-and-beverage package at your hotel, to minimize expenses when traveling with a large group or family.
• To save money on your vacation, consider visiting during the off-season when prices dramatically decrease—spring is a perfect time to visit, as the average temperature is relatively high and the cost of travel relatively low.

Bermuda Tourism Authority. "Cup Match Bermuda." February 2021

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11 Things To Know Before Visiting Bermuda + Bermuda Travel Tips

By: Author Stefania Guglielmi

Posted on Last updated: March 1, 2023

Categories Bermuda , North America

Visiting Bermuda soon? Check out 11 things you should know before traveling to the island + some useful Bermuda travel tips.

Bermuda is a beautiful island that is full of hidden surprises. However, there are quite a few misconceptions about the island, and unlike more popular travel destinations, there are things that not many people know about it. But there are definitely things you should know before visiting Bermuda!

So if you’re thinking of visiting Bermuda, or you’ve been thinking where to go on your next vacation, read through these helpful Bermuda travel tips + where to stay in Bermuda tips.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE VISITING BERMUDA

1| bermuda is not in the caribbean.

This is one of the most popular misconceptions about Bermuda. Although it resembles a Caribbean island in many ways, Bermuda is actually in the North Atlantic. While this doesn’t actually make much difference to enjoying the island, it does make a difference on how you get there. If you are from the East Coast, Bermuda might be closer than you think!

2| It’s very close to the East Coast of the US

On that note, Bermuda is located very close to the East Coast of America, and this is where you’ll likely fly from to get to Bermuda. Flights to US cities such as New York and Boston take just over two hours, although you can make connections to almost any East Coast city.

On the other hand, if you don’t feel like flying, a more enjoyable way to reach the island is by combining Bermuda and New England on a cruise. Discover Celebrity’s Bermuda Cruise and imagine being able to visit the idyllic island of Bermuda for a few days followed by dreamy towns in Maine, the young city of Boston, and finish your trip in New York City.

3| Bermuda boasts some beautiful beaches

One of the main reasons Bermuda gets mistaken for a Caribbean island is the quality of the beaches. You can expect crystal clear water, beautiful sand, and plenty of sunbathers, similar to those you would find in Turks and Caicos or other Caribbean islands. Keep in mind though that the island is in the Atlantic: during the summer the water is warm, but can dip to much cooler temperatures in the winter.

Some of the most beautiful beaches are Jobson’s Cove, Tobacco Bay beaches, and, of course, the pink beaches… keep reading!! West Whale Beach is also great, however because of the low tide this is accessible only a few hours a day.  Humpback whales pass here in April, but most of the time they will be too far to actually see them!

4| You can’t rent a car on the island

Car rental is banned by the Bermudian government. The main reason for this is because the island is quite small (21 square miles) and has a small population of 65,000. However, the island expects around 600,000 tourists a year, and if they all rented cars the infrastructure wouldn’t be able to cope.

So what are your options? You can rent scooters and mopeds, as these are freely available and cheap to rent, or there is an emerging market of electric minicars too. Alternatively, there are places for renting bicycles if you prefer (and you can get some exercising done at the same time), or there are plenty of taxis available across the island.

5| You can swim in grottos

There are many grottos and cave systems on the coast of Bermuda, and all of them are beautiful. And to make things even better, you’re allowed to swim in them! There are plenty of companies that arrange swimming tours of the bigger cave systems, and this is usually the best way to experience them as you can take advantage of local knowledge.

Prospero’s & Cathedral Caves are located on the grounds of Grotto Bay Beach Resort, and are definitely worth a visit.

6| You should get travel insurance before flying out

Everyone traveling to Bermuda should think twice before flying out to the island without travel medical insurance. Medical cost in Bermuda appears to be the second highest in the world, often even higher than in the US! Most, if not all, American and British medical insurance companies won’t cover you if something happens to you while on the island, so you really need to think ahead before traveling. 

7| The historic Town of St. George is super instagrammable

The Town of St. George was the first settlement established on the island and is steeped in local history. It has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site for this very reason. There are so many beautiful buildings to see, many of which are very colorful and make for those perfect Instagram shots.

Make sure you visit King’s Square, which is in the center of town and a good place to start any tours. There are companies that provide walking and minibus tours, although it’s perfectly possible to guide yourself around the town if you prefer.

8 | It’s quite expensive

This is an important thing to consider when thinking about visiting Bermuda. Many people who have emigrated to the island don’t bother cooking at home because it’s just as expensive as eating out. The main reason for this is because the island is so small the vast majority of things are imported from other countries, which adds to the price massively.

9| Yes, it’s true. There are pink sand beaches!!

Do I have to say it again? PINK BEACHES! Bermuda is famous for its pink sand beaches , and they make ideal photo opportunities, particularly at sunset. The sand is made from tiny invertebrates that live on the coral reefs along Bermuda’s coastline.

I’m sure you’ve seen photos of Horseshoe Bay Beach before. Ranked by Conde Nast one of the top 20 beaches in the world, there is no way you can miss this unreal pink beach when visiting Bermuda!

10| Watch out for jellyfish

Bermuda is a known home of the Portuguese man o’war, a poisonous kind of jellyfish. Now, I don’t want to scare you. This jellyfish only appears occasionally, usually after storms, and shouldn’t deter you from visiting the island.

The beaches will have warning signs up if the jellyfish are seen there regularly, but it pays to keep an eye out anyway. Ask locals or your hotel if there have been any recent sightings at the beach before you go swimming on some lesser known beaches.

11| Bermudians speak English!

Hey, it will be easy to communicate with the locals! Bermuda’s national language is Bermudian English, which is a mix of American, British, and West Indian English. Some locals also speak Portuguese, but you won’t have any language problems.

WHERE TO STAY IN BERMUDA: BEST HOTELS IN BERMUDA

As I was telling you earlier, Bermuda is not a cheap destination. I usually recommend luxury, middle-range, and budget options, but in this case I had to add a super luxury category as middle range is already expensive.

READ ALSO : Where To Stay in Bermuda | 12 Bermuda Hotels To Book This Year

Book your accommodation by using the map below ⬇

Super Luxury Hotels

Rosewood Bermuda: A 5-star luxury resort with its private pink sand beach, Rosewood Bermuda is synonym with luxury. The gorgeous facilities include 4 swimming pools, a beach club, and a spa, and you can imagine that the rooms and suites are as elegant as they come as well. Stay here if you’re looking for the ultimate luxury beach getaway. ➤ BOOK IT HERE

Hamilton Princess & Beach Club – A Fairmont Managed Hotel: The iconic, 5-star pink hotel you’ve probably seen on Instagram at some point. The star of this luxury hotel is its infinity pool with Hamilton Harbor view, plus its 4 restaurants, first-class rooms, and great spa make this hotel a wonderful choice. Great location, 5-min walking distance from Hamilton. ➤ BOOK IT HERE

Luxury Hotels 

Cambridge Beaches Resort and Spa : A lush, adults-only resort that makes for the perfect romantic getaway. The private beach, tropical ocean views, 3 restaurants, and the Ocean Spa are all you need to relax, but you’ll also find two tennis courts and gym if you want to be more active. ➤ BOOK IT HERE

Newstead Belmont Hills Golf Resort & Spa : Free shuttles to the 18-hole golf course and to the beaches makes this 4-star hotel super convenient. It features elegant rooms and studios and suites that come with kitchenettes. All the rooms have private balconies with incredible views of the harbor. You’ll also find a spa, gym, outdoor pool, and hot tub. What else do you need? ➤ BOOK IT HERE

Boutique & Middle Range Hotels

Inverurie Executive Suites : Located in Mount Pleasant, this hotel offers easy access to all other places in the island. The incredible views of the ocean from your balcony will make you feel like you are on a cruise ship! All the suites come with either a kitchenette or a full kitchen, which will help save money on meals. ➤ BOOK IT HERE

Oxford House : A charming property with great access to Hamilton, the bus, and the ferries. This Bermuda-style townhouse features 12 well-appointed rooms and a wonderful complimentary breakfast. It feels like you’re staying in an English country house! ➤ BOOK IT HERE

Bermuda is a beautiful island that is definitely worth visiting. However, if you are planning to visit, make sure you’re not caught off guard by things like food prices and drinking water. These things can be enough to ruin a trip, and so it pays to be prepared before visiting Bermuda.  Hopefully these Bermuda travel trips were helpful to organize your trip. Have fun!

Stefania Guglielmi is the founder of Every Steph. Originally from Bologna, Italy, she's been traveling full-time since 2016 and has visited over 50 countries across 6 continents. She believes sustainable travel and luxury travel can go hand in hand and has been advocating for responsible tourism since 2014. Stefania's advice and travel experiences have been featured in important publications such as Business Insider, Refinery29, and Yahoo Money.

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Saturday 2nd of December 2023

this article was perfectly written and helped me so much!!! thanks a bunch!!

Stefania Guglielmi

Monday 4th of December 2023

I'm so glad it was helpful!!

Saturday 21st of August 2021

Have you heard of The Reefs? Is that considered a nice hotel? Under what category would you put it under?

Tuesday 24th of August 2021

Hi Mira! I don't personally know it, but the reviews are really good and it's been featured by Conde Nast. I would consider it a mid-range / boutique hotel. The prices are high for a boutique hotel, but this is Bermuda!

Sunday 20th of June 2021

You can drink the tap water. I am a naive of Bermuda and it is safe to drink. Please verify your information before passing it on to others. Secondly it is cheaper to cook at home you just have to know how. It is a regular process for natives and eating out is a treat.

Wednesday 20th of July 2022

@Steph, I'm another native from Bermuda, In Bermuda we have no natural water source because we are an isolated small island and most of the underground water supply is brackish because the island is mainly on a limestone foundation which is a very permeable rock, so instead we collect our water from the sky (rain-water). This is why are roofs are white and slanted in all directions to catch the water and store it in tanks underneath our homes. Most of the population drinks tap water from their tanks as it comes straight from the sky and any water that is being drank and isn't from one of our Bermuda rain water catchment systems, is imported. We use the brackish ground water for our toilets and similar things.... my entire life living hear I have never heard of anyone getting sick we've been doing it for 400 years now!

Tuesday 21st of June 2022

@TB, YES indeed very glad you set the record straight I have family in Bermuda I'm looking forward to attending Cup match this year it's been a long time since I've been on the island I'm so excited

Monday 21st of June 2021

Thanks for your comment! When this article was first written in 2018, the CDC had issued a warning against drinking tap water. When that happens, it would be irresponsible of me to to tell people the water is safe to drink, because then somebody could get sick and it would be my fault. However, I have just checked and now the CDC only has a warning for "travelers visiting rural or remote areas that are served by unregulated water sources such as private wells", so I will edit the article-

Friday 21st of August 2020

You can drink the water in Bermuda, it in fact is clean. The people are called Bermudians not Bermudans. Also Whale Bay is only a beach during low tide so it’s a few hours a day that it is accessible, and you really can’t see whales from the beach as they are farther out.

Monday 7th of September 2020

Hi Jenn! Regarding the water while I agree that it is going to be safe to drink most of the times, the CDC in the US has warned not to, and I wouldn't be doing a good job if I recommended it and someone got sick: http://www.royalgazette.com/environment/article/20180315/us-issues-tap-water-warning For the name, from wat I've read both etimologies are correct: https://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/Bermudan but I've just changed it. Thank you for letting me know about the Whale Bay, I inserted this info in the post just now!

Tracy Dollas

Tuesday 5th of May 2020

can't wait to come!

Friday 8th of May 2020

I bet! I'd give anything to go anywhere right now!! :D

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The 25 Best Things to Do in Bermuda

By Katherine Cusumano

Clocking in at 21 miles in length and just one mile at its widest point, it’s no wonder that one of Bermuda ’s greatest cultural exports is visions of pink-sand beaches. After all, that’s a whole lot of shoreline per square mile. But don’t be fooled by the island’s diminutive size or made complacent by clichés; beyond the cerulean waters and palm trees is a wide range of activities for every kind of traveler. Sure, you can lounge on the beach—and we’d encourage you to do so—but you can also explore Bermuda’s many cultural heritage sites; enjoy fresh-caught fish and locally grown produce; learn about its fascinating geologic history; and, for more of an adventure, take off on a jet ski or a diving excursion. Consider the short travel time (it’s a mere couple of hours from the East cCoast of the United States) and the temperate shoulder-season weather, and you’ve got the ideal weekend getaway. Read on for our recommendations of the best things to do all across the island, from St. George’s to the Royal Naval Dockyard.

Read our complete Bermuda travel guide here .

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

St. George’s, one of three main town centers on the island, was the first established by settlers on the island in 1612. It was a key port city during the American Revolutionary and Civil Wars, assisting both the American rebels and the Confederate south in obtaining supplies; in 2000, its rich architectural and military history earned it a spot among the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Now, it’s home to several churches and a stunning seaside fort, but it’s not just lodged in the past: St. George’s and the rest of the east end are also home to some of the island’s most pristine outdoor spaces, a handful of iconic restaurants, and a perfumery-cum-tea shop. For a little history and a little modern, there’s no better destination on the island.

Bermuda Craft Brewing Arrow

Bermuda hasn’t historically been known for its craft brewing scene, so you’d be forgiven for not automatically seeking out breweries while visiting the island. This is one of the only microbreweries on the island, and its suite of beers are brewed on site in gleaming silver kettles that are visible from the bar. It emerged four years ago out of owners Freddy Phillips and Cameron Madeiros’s experiments in home brewing, when the popularity of those home brews started to take off among their friends. Phillips spent some time at a brewery in the Netherlands, got inspired, and Bermuda Craft Brewing was born. The real draw here is the exterior beer garden, with its picnic tables, string lights, umbrellas, and a tent to protect from the rain (which is always a possibility here in Bermuda). “It’s a real taproom vibe, grungy but fun and relaxed,” Phillips says—plus, dogs are welcome.

St. Peter's Church Arrow

When the Town of St. George’s was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000, it took its place among the world’s great architectural, cultural, and historic treasures. St. Peter's Church, originally constructed in 1612—the same year the town was founded—is one of the main reasons for the honor, since St. Peter’s is the oldest Anglican place of worship outside the British Isles. Granted the royal designation of “Their Majesties Chappell” by Queen Elizabeth to celebrate its 400th anniversary in 2012, the church is a well-preserved gem in a town brimming with cultural history, and one of the best examples of ecclesiastical architecture in Bermuda.

Crystal & Fantasy Caves Arrow

The Crystal Caves of Bermuda, an otherworldly network of caves and subterranean lakes, was first discovered in 1901 by two Bermudian boys who were trying to track down a lost cricket ball. What they eventually uncovered is now one of Bermuda’s true hidden treasures—a cavernous, watery world, complete with centuries-old stalactites and stalagmites. Today, guided tours take visitors deep inside these two Ice Age–era caves where you’ll descend about 120 feet below ground for an unearthly natural experience. A word of caution, though: a tour through the Crystal Caves of Bermuda is not for the faint of heart or for the claustrophobic—the spaces that lead to the caverns are tight. The tour operators recommend that prospective visitors reach out in advance of arrival; walk-in tours are available during peak season.

Sweet P at Lili Bermuda Perfumery Arrow

Twice weekly, on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 1 to 4 p.m., Lili Bermuda Perfumery hosts classic English afternoon tea in the gardens of the shop, which is nestled inside the historic Stewart Hall in St. George’s. It's a picturesque spot to indulge in a quintessential British pastime, and all the staples are here: tiered trays of finger sandwiches, tiny cakes, and petits-fours, plus scones with clotted cream, honey, and jam, many of them featuring local ingredients.

Bailey's Bay Ice Cream Parlour Arrow

On hot days, you’ll see the crowd on the patio at Bailey’s Bay Ice Cream Parlour before you’ve even parked. Located across the street from the Swizzle Inn , this turquoise-hued dessert destination dishes out homemade ice creams, sherbets, sorbets, and frozen yogurts. While you’re sure to spot some classic flavors, you'll also see island-specific scoops, like Dark n' Stormy and Bermuda banana. They have 26 flavors total and their best-seller right now is vanilla peanut butter crunch. There’s also a selection of decadent ice cream sundaes, layered with fudge, whipped cream, brownies, and more. While samples are still available, due to the pandemic customers are limited to one each and must go outside to eat them. There’s no indoor seating right now.

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For a brief time in the late 19th century, townspeople wanted something new and shiny—they wanted to replace the then-dilapidated St. Peter’s Church . The town began to erect a new church, but squabbles over money, plus a healthy dose of local drama, led the project stall out after the roof was erected in 1897. (The roof blew off in a freak storm roughly 30 years later.) Now, the Unfinished Church looks like the picturesque ruin of a house of worship—and not one that was simply never finished—with arches of limestone bricks and a carpeting of scratchy Bermuda grass. Parts of the church are currently closed due to safety concerns, but you can get a sense of its ghostly atmosphere even from the outside.

Bermuda Aquarium, Museum & Zoo Arrow

The Bermuda Aquarium, Museum, and Zoo, a trio of attractions in Flatts Village, couldn’t possibly be a better place to bring the kids for a half-day of island-inspired exploration. The sprawling waterside facility has three distinct permanent components: the aquarium, where you’ll peruse tanks filled with fish and other marine life (like the 140,000-gallon North Rock tank, which mimics a local reef system and houses sharks, tuna, and barracuda); the zoo, which features animals found in island ecosystems around the world; and the natural history museum. See more on our favorite Bermuda museums, here .

Spittal Pond Arrow

The 64-acre Spittal Pond Nature Reserve is one of Bermuda’s wildest spaces—a sprawling oceanfront parkland where birds flock, butterflies flap, and critters crawl through watery marshlands. It’s the island’s largest preserve, making it one of the best stops for nature enthusiasts who’d like a glimpse of Bermuda as it once was. Here you’ll stroll through winding tree-lined pathways, most of which are well-manicured and give up-close looks at some of the island’s most iconic creatures, including the Bermuda skink, one of the rarest lizards in the world.

Fort St. Catherine Arrow

Bermuda is well-known for its stone fortifications, and Fort St. Catherine is among the island’s most impressive. Set on a hilltop overlooking the spot where English settlers first crashed upon Bermuda’s shores in 1609, this mighty military structure was originally constructed in 1614 as a much smaller fort built by the island’s first governor, Richard Moore. And while what you’ll see today is largely an expanded version, completed in the 19th century, the imposing fortress is an excellent example of Bermuda’s military architecture—not to mention an ideal spot to snap some gorgeous sunset pictures of the island’s craggy coastline.

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Bermuda has two national drinks: the Dark n’ Stormy , made with Gosling’s Black Seal Rum and ginger beer, and the Rum Swizzle, a not-so-sweet punch originally invented at the Swizzle Inn when it opened in 1932. In those days, the Bailey's Bay dive bar was a converted 17th-century roadhouse that served potent rum drinks and Bermuda fish chowder. Nearly 90 years later not much has changed; in fact, graffiti from decades of customers is still scribbled all over the walls. Anything goes, which is why patrons are encouraged to “Swizzle Inn and Swagger Out.” It’s impossible to find a bar or restaurant in Bermuda that doesn’t serve Rum Swizzles, but you can’t leave the island without trying a taste of the original.

Hamilton, the island’s capital city (referred to by most locals as, simply, “town”) is the business and financial hub of Bermuda, populated with pastel-colored office buildings (this is still Bermuda, after all). But that’s not to say there’s a dearth of leisure activities downtown: That’s where you’ll find fresh, contemporary boutiques, some of the country’s best restaurants, and a handful of cultural sites. Wander down Front Street, lined with brightly hued buildings (zoned at a maximum of two stories to preserve the waterfront skyline), or venture farther into town—wherever you’re at, here are the best things to see in Hamilton, Bermuda.

The Island Shop Arrow

Pink traditional cottages, blue watery landscapes, green indigenous lizards: They've long been the muse of local artist Barbara Finsness, whose hand-painted, island-inspired sketches appear on just about everything sold at The Island Shop in Bermuda shopping hub Queen Street. You’ll find her designs on Italian ceramics, linen pillows, lucite trays, melamine kitchenware, and accessories galore, including aprons, bags, scarves, and silk ties. If you don’t feel like schlepping home a bunch of pottery on your return flight, pick up a print—the store sells several depicting the artist’s favorite island landscapes.

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The Bermuda Botanical Gardens are a 36-acre park originally founded in 1898 to protect the island's endemic trees and plants. Thanks to that mission, this lovely green space is filled with tall Bermuda cedars and hearty palmetto trees, whose leaves were once used to make thatched roofs for houses and churches . The park is also home to tropical plants and trees from all over the world, including mighty banyans from India. Consider bringing the kids here, too—the hedge maze makes for an excellent spot for them to get (safely) lost; the banyan trees are a blast to climb on; and the nautically inspired playground, built for the America’s Cup village, is a blast.

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If you’ve spent the day exploring Hamilton’s shops and boutiques , it’ll be hard to miss the Hamilton City Hall and Arts Centre, the gleaming white building on the north end of town. First opened in 1960, the structure is the seat of the municipal government; it's also home to the Earl Cameron Theatre, Bermuda’s main stage for prominent musical and theatrical productions. But the real draw is the Bermuda National Gallery on the second floor, where you’ll find an array of galleries dedicated to art by Bermudians and depicting the island, like local artist Elizabeth Mulderig’s “Bermuda Wonderland,” a technicolor reimagining of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland.

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No Bermuda museum is as glitzy, modern, and innovative as this 41,000-square-foot discovery center on the outskirts of the city of Hamilton. Dedicated to exploring Bermuda’s vast underwater world , the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute (BUEI) features three floors of exhibits, many playfully interactive, making it perfect for families with young kids or anyone interested in learning more about the island’s diverse marine environment. BUEI has an enormous collection of gold doubloons, intact artifacts, and priceless treasures from the sea floor, in addition to one of the largest shell collections in the world. Make sure to test out Blue Echo, a small theater-like dive simulator that recreates a plunge to 12,000 feet.

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It would be unwise to visit Bermuda without sampling the local delicacies, and for most Bermudians, a fried fish sandwich—fish pon bun—is one such delicacy. You’d be hard-pressed to find a pub around the island that doesn’t offer some riff on the sandwich, but for the real deal, make your way to Art Mel’s Spicy Dicy, a (way, way) back-of-town outpost dishing out one of the finest sandwiches on the island. Even chef Marcus Samuelsson , who has his own restaurant on the other side of town, still considers Art Mel’s signature offering a stellar bite.

Until it went out of use in 1995, just a few years after the end of the Cold War, the Royal Naval Dockyard was the United Kingdom’s largest naval base in the Atlantic. Today, it’s better known for its tourist attractions: shops like Dockyard Glassworks and the Bermuda Rum Cake Company, Dolphin Quest and Snorkel Park, and a sampling of pubs. And where the east end of the island is home to Bermuda’s best nature reserves— Walsingham and Blue Hole Park —the west end is where you’ll find its most iconic beaches and some of its finest dive shops. Read on for our picks of the best things to do west of Hamilton.

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In the first half of the 20th century, when private cars were banned on the island and destinations were connected by paved roads, a nearly 22-mile-long railway extended from one end of Bermuda to the other. It traced a route along the water from St. George’s to Sandys Parish, shepherding passengers across the island from 1931 to 1948. In 1964, 18 miles of the railway reopened as a mixed-use running, biking, and horseback riding trail; more than 20 years later, in 1986, the Bermuda Railway Trail was consecrated as a national park. All told, it's a free, lovely way to get a high-angle view of the coastline and surrounding waters.

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Pause, for a moment, to conjure an imaginary Bermuda beach in your head. Once you’ve got it, you’re probably looking at Horseshoe Bay Beach, one of the island’s most iconic—and most trafficked—stretches of pink sand, located in Southampton Parish. It's so indelibly Bermuda that it’s also where the island hosts its biggest beach party of the year: Beach Fest, the hedonistic extravaganza that kicks off the cricket tournaments over Cup Match weekend each July. 

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Tom Wadson, the man behind Wadson’s Farm in Southampton, first set trowel to soil in 1976. Since then, he’s raised a variety of fruits, vegetables, and livestock while hewing to sustainable farming practices on his 30-acre farm on the west end of Bermuda. It’s also where he hosts a year-round farm stand, selling whatever’s in season (as well as some can’t-miss souvenir t-shirts)—ranging from zucchinis to sweet potatoes. If you’re staying in an apartment with a kitchen, opt for a whole chicken and some fresh produce to whip up a home-cooked, sustainably- and locally- sourced feast.

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Bermuda is known as the shipwreck capital of the Atlantic, and for good reason. Some estimates put the number of wrecks along the reef surrounding the island at around 300; new ships are continually being discovered—and are continually being scuttled, expanding the underwater geography off the island’s coast. To navigate the vast scope of shipwrecks in Bermuda, there’s no better outfit than Blue Water Divers, the longest-running PADI dive center on the island. BWD, under the guidance of divemaster Chris Gauntlett, offers two-tank morning dives year-round and one-tank afternoon dives when there’s demand for it, at some of Bermuda's best dive sites . Each dive begins with a traditional dive briefing—what to expect, what to look out for, depths, and dive times—and, if you’re lucky, ends with a hot beverage in the colder months.

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Heavily fortified and well-defended against potential invaders, Bermuda has some of the world’s most well-preserved stone fortresses—and the one that houses the National Museum of Bermuda is the largest. This massive west end fort is within the confines of the Royal Naval Dockyard, also home to Bermuda’s main cruise ship piers and a plethora of shops and restaurants. Today, it's most notably where you’ll find this unrivaled collection of nautical heritage, all housed in structures once built for the British Navy. Don't miss the Hall of History, a 1,000-square-foot mural by Bermudian painter Graham Foster, which depicts 500 years of Bermuda history.

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Once you’ve conquered the hill leading up to Gibb’s Hill Lighthouse, a cast-iron lighthouse built in 1844, you’re only part of the way to your ultimate destination. The view from the top of the hill itself is great, but the one from the top of the lighthouse’s 185 steps is even better: a panorama over the whole of the island, stretching east from Hamilton to Dockyard in the west, and from the Little Sound in the north to the South Shore and the Atlantic Ocean beyond. At the base of the lighthouse, in what used to be the lighthouse keeper’s quarters, a solid restaurant from the team behind Rustico in Flatts dishes out a varied menu of sandwiches, salads, and pizzas.

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Bermuda has the highest concentration of golf courses per square mile anywhere in the world. It’s a competitive field, and yet Port Royal—which bills itself as the “number-one golf course in Bermuda”—is, indeed, a standout. This is the site of the Butterfield Bermuda Championship, a PGA Tour event, Port Royal’s greens and fairways draw professionals and amateurs alike. The wishbone-shape course blankets a set of gently rolling hills on the island’s southwestern face. Emerging from the clubhouse, you’ll see the tee for the first hole—which wraps around to the right, away from the waterfront. Seven holes later, find yourself back at the shore, with the holes offering sweeping views of the Atlantic. A particular standout is the sixteenth hole, which wraps perilously along the coast, a steep drop to the ocean on one side and sand traps on the other.

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Spread across Bermuda in parishes from east to west, the African Heritage Diaspora Trail is a somber reminder of the island’s divided past. Like many countries around the world, slavery was no stranger to Bermuda; in fact, approximately 60 percent of Bermudians are of African ancestry, and many of those people can trace their roots to West Indian and West African slaves who were brought to the island in the 18th century. This collection of historical sites, churches, and statues commemorates the role that slaves and—later—segregated black Bermudians played in the formation of this island nation.

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Clocking in at roughly a half-mile, Warwick Long Bay is named for—duh—its length. Though it's next to Horseshoe Bay Beach , it’s a far more secluded, rugged beach-going experience, rarely drawing the crowds of its better-known neighbor. The beach itself is set like a peach-hued jewel against green-and-brown scrub brush laced with walking trails and towering limestone formations. If you’re looking to snorkel or swim, hit Jobson’s Cove, one of several smaller coves at the beach’s western end.

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How To Spend Your Time In Bermuda

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Bermuda is a must-visit Caribbean destination because of it’s close proximity to the USA, crystal clear water, and beautiful sand. Today’s post is a Bermuda travel guide that will cover how to spend your time in Bermuda!

Bermuda is a British Overseas Territory in the North Atlantic Ocean known for its pink sand beaches. The island has a unique blend of American and British culture, with an island flare of course. The capital of Bermuda is Hamilton and one of the its most famous attractions is the Royal Naval Dockyard. If you cruise to Bermuda, which is extremely common from various regions in the US, you will most likely dock here!

This post contains affiliate links. If you click and book through any of these links, I will earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you so much for reading and supporting my little corner of the internet!

Getting To Bermuda

As I mentioned above, cruising to Bermuda is really common. The only problem with cruising from the east coast of the United States is that it takes about 2.5 days to reach the island and then you only have 2 days in Bermuda to explore before sailing 2.5 days back. Although I love cruising, I recommend flying since it’s so convenient! If you’re looking for a Caribbean cruise, I would recommend cruising the Eastern Caribbean instead and visiting islands like St. Thomas, St. Maarten, and the Bahamas!

From Boston, Bermuda is only a 2.5 hour plane ride away, and once you’re on the island there’s a ton to explore — including the infamous Bermuda Triangle shipwrecks.

Where To Stay In Bermuda

My family and I were in Bermuda for 4 nights, which I think is the perfect amount of time. We stayed across the harbor from Hamilton at a hotel called Newstead Belmont Hills Golf Resort & Spa . This place had a great infinity pool and was really nice, but we did have to take a ferry across the harbor to get to Hamilton. The boat ride is only 5 minutes though, so I do highly recommend staying here!

What To Do In Bermuda

The first street facing the water in Hamilton is called Front Street (how creative), and this is where most shops and restaurants are located. I definitely recommend walking around this area! After exploring Hamilton, take a ferry to Royal Naval Dockyard (or vice versa if you’re starting in the Dockyard), and check out the wharf and museums located here. In the National Museum of Bermuda, you’ll find Dolphin Quest Bermuda ! Dolphins are my favorite animals so getting to swim with them here was a highlight for sure.

This unique experience is one-of-a-kind in Bermuda! Dolphin Quest encounters are great for everyone from kids to honeymooners! The best part? A portion of the proceeds from all Dolphin Quest encounter programs supports vital marine education, conservation and scientific study. The company has been a TripAdvisor Certificate Excellence winner since 2015!

Another activity I recommend doing during your time in Bermuda is to take a cab to Horseshoe Bay Beach and explore. Horseshoe Bay is a famous beach in Bermuda and is the perfect place to swim. We went snorkeling here and also crawled through the various rock structures on the beach.

Pro-tip: This full day Island Wrap Around Tour of Bermuda is the perfect way to see the Royal Naval Dockyard to learn about British colonial rule, swim at Horseshoe Bay Beach, and sightsee the famous Gibbs Hill Lighthouse. 

My best recommendation in this Bermuda travel guide is to book a glass-bottom boat tour . This activity is perfect for exploring the shipwrecks of the Bermuda Triangle! This tour was awesome because we could see the shipwrecks and colorful fish below us. We even had the opportunity to jump off the boat and snorkel. Since the Bermuda Triangle is one of the world’s most mysterious phenomenons and is full of sunken aircrafts and ships, I highly recommend exploring a wreck before leaving the island.

I also recommend exploring the Crystal and Fantasy Caves in Bermuda! Legend says two boys were playing cricket when a ball fell into a small hole that was emitting warm air. One of the boys ventured into the hole with only a rope and a headlamp to discover Bermuda’s most beautiful attraction. Today, thousands of visitors visit the caves each year to see the crystal chandeliers. Fun fact — Mark Twain was the first tourist to descend into the caves in 1908!

Pro-tip: This guided tour will bring you into the crystal caves, along with a visit to Horseshoe Bay beach from the main Hamilton shopping center.

The last recommendation I have is also on the east end of the island, and that is to walk around the quaint town of St. George’s. St. George’s is Bermuda’s first English settlement and has a lot of history. We explored the unfinished church here and shopped in the downtown. You can take a bus from Hamilton!

Where To Eat In Bermuda

For dinner, I recommend the Dining Room at Gibb’s Hill Lighthouse. It’s a restaurant that sits at the base of a lighthouse on a hill overlooking the island! Go here at sunset for the best views of Bermuda!

When To Visit Bermuda

Since Bermuda is located in the North Atlantic Ocean, at the same latitude as the Carolina’s, it can actually get quite chilly during the winter months. For a tropical island feel, I recommend visiting Bermuda during the summer. My family and I went in June and felt this was the perfect time in Bermuda!

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If you’ve ever wondered about the best things to do in Bermuda or are planning a trip to this little island, you may be pleasantly surprised at how much this island has to offer. Bermuda is a little island in the middle of the North Atlantic

I agree, Bermuda is amazing

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June 16, 2023

The Bermuda Bucket List

Explore st. george’s.

Explore Bermuda’s first English settlement, full of charm, history, and landmarks.

Visit The Crystal and Fantasy Caves

A trip here is the perfect adventure for the whole family!

Have a Beach Day

Relax on Bermuda’s signature pink sand and take a dip in the breathtaking turquoise water. Pair your day with playing tennis, golf, or renting jet skis!

Sip on a Rum Swizzle

Enjoy Bermuda’s signature cocktail, made with Gosling’s rum only!

Where to Stay

Coral beach & tennis club.

While you’ll need a member to sponsor your stay here, this property exudes old-school elegance and is always a treat.

A seaside getaway where art and luxury meet, this hideaway is unique yet decidedly Bermudian. With the warmth and comfort of a private home, the elegant interiors and chic suites dazzle with endless ocean views, adorned with international contemporary art at every turn.

The St. Regis

Having just opened in May 2022, The St. Regis is set on a quiet beach on St. George’s Island, fitting for its laid-back and low-key feel. Upon arrival, this resort is all about R&R. Think languorous days around the infinity pool with a Dark & Stormy in hand, followed by slow dinners overlooking the ocean. 

Grotto Bay Beach Resort

A more informal beachfront resort, Grotto Bay is scattered over 21 acres, contains two private beaches, and 11 colorful cottages in traditional Bermudian architecture.

The Rosewood at Tucker’s Point

With almost every amenity available, The Rosewood is a true 5-star experience. Pink sand beaches, epic golf, a private beach, stunning pools, restaurants, an indulgent spa, decor reminiscent of an English manor …there’s truly everything at this stunning resort.  

Hamilton Princess

In a central location, The Princess offers next-level service, hip restaurants, a fun lobby bar, and stellar views of Hamilton Harbour. 

Where to Eat

Overlooking the iconic Belmont Hills Golf Course, Blu has an option for everyone, serving fine steak, fish, sushi, pasta, and more.

Find classic Italian fare at this casual spot in Flatts Village. The menu features a flavorful selection of pastas, pizzas and other Italian specialties. Go for outdoor seating and a large wine list!

Little Venice

A lively, welcoming vibe and upscale Italian fare await at Little Venice, a popular fine dining spot in the City of Hamilton since 1971. This is the first and most famous Italian restaurant in Bermuda. 

The Swizzle Inn

Bermuda's oldest pub and home to its national drink, the Rum Swizzle, this pub is famous for its great atmosphere and menu alike. 

1609 takes its name from the year that the Sea Venture ship wrecked on Bermuda’s shores and the first colony was born. With a large sea-infused menu, this is a great spot for groups and has a harbour-front view.

The Coral Room and Longtail Terrace at the Coral Beach & Tennis Club

While this dining room is for members only, the sophisticated atmosphere offers an elegant experience and breathtaking views.

The Beach Club at The Rosewood

For members and hotel guests only, this casually sophisticated oceanfront setting overlooks the pink sands of Bermuda's largest private beach. From a curated sushi menu to beachy barbecue, this is the perfect lunch spot to attend in the middle of a lazy beach day. 

Frequency Cafe & Hub

Grab a coffee and a bite here to start your day! It’s the perfect location to explore the town of St. George’s, and the staff is so friendly and welcoming.

A trip here is the perfect adventure for the whole family. A natural wonder formed over millions of years, these not-to-be-missed caves feature stunning azure underground pools and lush subtropical gardens, plus a unique gift shop and popular café.

Rent a Boat and Go to Cambridge Beaches

Cambridge Beaches is home to four private beaches and two private coves. Lounge in the sun, swim with the sea turtles, or paddle to a private island.

Go Shopping

We love the stores at The Princess, and a favorite Bermuda boutique for gifts is The Island Shop, featuring hand-painted ceramics, linens and more by Bermudian artist Barbara Finsness. Also for guys, be sure to get a pair of the island's signature Bermuda shorts!

St. George’s is full of charm and history, plus it doesn’t feel too touristy. Known for being the territory's first English settlement, the town’s landmarks include the 18th-century town hall, St. Peter’s Church, and Fort St. Catherine. Fort St. Catherine exhibits 17th-century island life, and kids will enjoy exploring the tower’s drawbridge, tunnels, and towers. Nearby St. George’s is the Tucker House Museum, a typical home from the 1700s with displays of crystal, silver and period furniture.

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32 of The Best Things to Do in Bermuda in 2024

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: January 5, 2024

Bermuda is a sliver of paradise offering a blend of British charm and island soul. Its pink-sand beaches are a seductive prelude to an island teeming with hidden treasures and sun-kissed experiences. Often mistaken for a Caribbean vacation destination, Bermuda is actually located in the North Atlantic Ocean, but thanks to the Gulf Stream, it remains a comfortable temperature throughout the year. If you are looking for things to do in Bermuda you’ll want to read on to see all the amazing things to

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Things to do in Bermuda

From its kaleidoscope of marine life to its rich tapestry of history and culture, Bermuda beckons travelers with promises of unforgettable moments. Whether you’re sailing atop its azure waters, spelunking through its luminous caves, or tracing the footsteps of history in its winding streets, Bermuda is a symphony of experiences waiting to be explored.

A lot of people wonder, is there a lot to do in Bermuda? The answer is yes! With its natural wonders and colonial past, fine dining, and museums, there are plenty of things to see and do, even when the temperature dips to around 60 degrees. There are so many places to visit in Bermuda, it will surprise you for a small island.

Planning Your Trip To Bermuda Right Now?

Below are the best Bermuda Tours. Don’t forget to plan ahead when  visiting Bermuda!

Top Day Trips and Tours in Bermuda

• Bermuda Hidden Gems Summer Excursion (Most Popular)
• Restless Catamaran and Sunset Swizzle (Best Deal)
• Bermudiful Island Tour (Likely to Sell Out)
• Hartley Helmet Diving (Unique experience)
• Private Catamaran Tour with Snorkel and Cliff Jumping (Best Luxury Trip)

How to Get to Bermuda

Bermuda is only a 2-hour flight from New York City , 3 hours from Toronto, and less than 7 hours from London England, making it an ideal beach vacation for everyone!

Several international airlines fly to Bermuda, depending on where you’re coming from. Major U.S. carriers like Delta, American Airlines, and JetBlue often have flights to Bermuda, especially from East Coast cities like New York and Boston. British Airways has a direct flight from London Gatwick to Bermuda. Canadian airlines like Air Canada and WestJet also service the route from Canada

1. Stroll the Streets of Hamilton, Bermuda

Named after the Governor of Bermuda Sir Henry Hamilton in 1788, Hamilton has a cosmopolitan flair that is Instagram-ready. The Sea Express ferry service is a great way to get to Hamilton from different parts of the island. Our hotel, the Fairmont Southhampton offered free ferry service to Hamilton. There are a lot of things to do in Hamilton, Bermuda so be sure to give it some time.

2. Front Street

Hamilton is the capital of Bermuda and the colorful colonial buildings of Front Street are must must-visit when on the island. Grab an iced latte and stroll along the waterfront shopping for trinkets to take home.

This lively street is one of the island’s most famous thoroughfares, known for its colorful facades and waterfront views. Front Street boasts a mix of high-end boutiques, local artisan shops, and international brands. The street is lined with a variety of restaurants, bars, and cafes, offering everything from traditional Bermudian dishes to international cuisine.

One of the highlights of Front Street is its picturesque views of Hamilton Harbor. Take a walk along the promenade to see the luxury yachts anchored in the harbor while admiring its colorful facades.

3. Explore Saint George’s

Saint George is a UNESCO World Heritage Site as it is the oldest continuously inhabited English settlement in the Western Hemisphere. With Colonial buildings and cobblestone streets, it is a beautiful place to explore.

Even though it is located on the island’s eastern tip, it isn’t far away from Bermuda’s resorts and beaches. Nowhere is far in Bermuda . The narrow lanes take you back in time to the 18th century where the old merchant houses have been well-preserved.

4. Tour a Tall Ship

One of the most popular attractions in Saint George is the life-size replica of “Deliverance” a 17th-century ship that was built by the survivors of the shipwreck, Sea Venture. The Deliverance is known as “The ship that saved America” as it brought supplies to the colony at Jamestown, Virginia in 1610.

Beaches of Bermuda

No Bermuda vacation would be complete without visiting its beautiful beaches. Bermuda is known for its pink sand beaches, crystal clear turquoise waters, and powdery white sand. Here are some not-to-miss beaches when visiting Bermuda.

Explore the hidden gems of Bermuda on this all day tour as you explore caves, go cliff jumping and cave swimming. You’ll visit Blue Hole Park and snorkeling at Cooper’s Island. Plus you’ll visit Walsingham Nature Resrver and much more!

5. Bermuda’s Pink Sand Beaches

One of the top things to see in Bermuda is its pink sand beaches. There are so many of them that it is a good idea to get in your electric car or scooter to discover them. There are some beaches that are more famous than others. Here are a few to get you started.

6. Horseshoe Bay Beach

Named so because of its horseshoe shape, Horseshoe Bay Beach offers a blend of turquoise waters and soft pink sand made up of crushed coral and calcium carbonate. It is one of Bermuda’s top attractions is Horseshoe Bay Beach. While on the beach you can rent everything from towels, chairs, and umbrellas to stand-up paddle boards, and boogie boards.

7. Elbow Beach

Located just outside the city of Hamilton, Elbow Beach is a very popular beach due to the fact that three different resorts are on it. And with good reason. Elbow Beach has a coral reef right off shore that is great for snorkeling. There is also a shipwreck just 100 meters (300 feet) from shore and you can join a guided snorkeling or kayaking tour to see it.

8. Warwick Long Bay

Warwick Long Bay is Bermuda’s longest beach at half a mile. It’s one of Bermuda’s most picturesque beaches with trees, long grass, and sand dunes lining the coast.

Located in Warwick Parish, Warwick Long is a quieter alternative to the often bustling Horseshoe Bay Beach. It’s a long stretch of pink sand flanked by rocky outcrops and backed by grass-topped dunes. The shallow waters are great for snorkeling, and there’s a trail connecting it to other smaller coves and beaches.

9. Jobson ’ s Cove

Nestled between Warwick Long Bay and Stonehole Bay, Jobson ’ s Cove is small but stunningly beautiful. It’s almost enclosed by rocks, making the waters calm and perfect for swimming. The pink sands and turquoise waters create a picturesque setting.

10. Tobacco Bay Beach

Tobacco Bay Beach is a lovely small beach with limestone rock formations reaching 25 feet high offering shelter. There’s a beach bar here, and there’s great snorkeling. It’s located near Saint George’s.

11. John Smith Bay Beach

Another beautiful pink sand beach, John Smith Bay was named after Captain John Smith. Snorkeling is located right offshore, and it is a popular spot for diving. Especially night diving.

12. Sea Glass Beach

Black Bay and Sea Glass Beach in Hamilton are unique beach fronts where colourful sea glass has washed up upon the shore. Due to a glass-making factory that was once located here, the waste was dumped into the sea and it has since spit it back out creating a glassy waterfront. Taking glass from the beach is illegal. Please leave the glass behind for future generations to admire.

13. Walsingham Nature Reserve

Located in Hamilton Parish, the Walsingham Nature Reserve is known by the locals as Tom Moore ’ s Jungle. It is here that you’ll find many grottos and caves of Bermuda. The hidden gems tour of Bermuda takes you to the Walsingham Nature Reserve where you will also learn about Tom Moore and do some cave exploring and cliff diving. Details here.

14. Take a Jet Ski Tour from South Hampton

A Jet Ski Tour takes you all around the harbor and outer island to see places in Bermuda that you might not get to visit. This is a very cool way to see Bermuda’s multimillion-dollar mansions, the H.M.S. Vixen shipwreck, and to feed the fish that love flocking to the jet skis for little bits of bread. When you are on a jet ski, you really get to see the beauty of Bermuda’s turquoise waters.

15. World’s Smallest Drawbridge, Somerset Bridge

While on our jet ski tour we passed the smallest working drawbridge in the world. Somerset Bridge is a fun attraction in Bermuda connecting Somerset Island with the main island. Dating back to 1620, the bridge is such a symbol of Bermuda, it is featured on the Bermuda dollar. Operated by hand, the tiny 32-inch gap is just enough to allow a sailboat’s mast to go through.

16. See the Unfinished Church

One of the most striking scenes on the island that we visited was the unfinished church of Saint George. One can only imagine how beautiful this Gothic church would be if it were completed, but due to many problems over the years, it was never done. And that is what gives it its charm. Due to funding problems and hurricanes, it was never completed, but visitors can explore the ruins for free.

17. Saint Peter’s Church

Dating back to 1612. Saint Peter’s Church is the oldest continuously running Anglican church outside the British Isles. Located in the town of St. George, St. Peter’s Church was originally constructed in 1612, shortly after the English settlers arrived on the island. The church has undergone multiple reconstructions and renovations over the centuries, but it has been in continuous use since its establishment.

Situated on a hill overlooking the town, the church offers a panoramic view of St. George and the surrounding harbor. Its graveyard is a significant historical site, with some tombstones dating back to the 1600s.

In recognition of its historical and cultural significance, St. Peter’s Church was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000, along with the historic town of St. George and its related fortifications.

18. Cathedral of the Most Holy Trinity

Cathedral of the Most Holy Trinity is worth visiting the 155-step tower for views of Hamilton Harbour. Often simply referred to as the Bermuda Cathedral, the Cathedral of the Most Holy Trinity is located in the city of Hamilton. It is one of the most prominent landmarks in Hamilton and serves as the primary Anglican cathedral on the island.

The original structure was completed in 1869, but it was destroyed by fire in 1884. The cathedral as it stands today was built as its replacement and was consecrated in 1911.

Given its central location in Hamilton, the cathedral is easily accessible for both locals and tourists. It’s within walking distance of many of the city’s other attractions, shops, and restaurants.

19. The Crystal and Fantasy Caves

Everyone loves exploring caves, and touring the Crystal & Fantasy Caves makes for a great trip. With azure blue underground pools and crystal chandelier clusters, these caves are beautiful. You can take a guided tour of both caves with floating pathways spanning clear blue lakes with crystallized soda straws hanging overhead. Each cave is a different experience, but you’ll miss nothing as they both have great lighting.

One very cool story we learned was how the Crystal Cave was discovered by two young boys searching for a lost cricket ball in 1905. Can you imagine how excited they were?

20. Blue Hole Park

Blue Hole Park (sometimes referred to as “Tom Moore ’ s Jungle” after the famous Irish poet who is said to have frequented the area) is located in Hamilton Parish, Bermuda. Outdoor lovers will enjoy exploring the caves of Blue Hole Park and its grottos. The Blue Hole is a popular swimming spot with a deep pool surrounded by mangrove trees.

There are several accessible caves within the park, including the famous Walsingham Cave. Many of these caves have clear, deep waters, and some adventurous visitors enjoy jumping into them from openings above.

The caves, with their deep blue waters, are a result of the limestone foundations of Bermuda and are connected by underground tunnels. The titular Blue Hole is a serene and beautiful spot for swimming. Its turquoise waters surrounded by dense vegetation give a sense of seclusion and tranquility. There are also other smaller pools and caves where visitors can take a refreshing dip.

21. Tom Moore ’ s Tavern

Close to Blue Hole Park is Tom Moore’s Tavern, a historic restaurant that dates back to the 17th century. It’s named after the Irish poet Thomas Moore, who supposedly wrote some of his works under a calabash tree in the area during his visit in the early 1800s.

The Blue Hole isn’t the only grotto in Bermuda though, there’s also Castle Grotto, Walsingham, Subway, Deep Blue, Vine , and Fern Sink.

22. Glass Bottom Kayaking

Bermuda is filled with watersports opportunities, and one of our favorite ways to explore any coast is to go kayaking. There are guided tours around the island and Bermuda offers unique experiences with glass bottom kayaks to showcase its crystal clear waters. You can easily book a trip with your hotel concierge.

Different tours offer eco-adventures for marine life watching to see the HMS Vixen shipwreck or a paddle through Whalebone Bay to Walsingham Nature Reserve & Blue Hole Park where you’ll explore a 12-acre nature preserve.

23. Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute

Dive into the depths of the ocean without getting wet at the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute (BUEI) With state-of-the-art facilities, interactive exhibits, and a plethora of marine artifacts, the institute offers a comprehensive insight into Bermuda’s underwater world. The highlight is the simulated dive experience, which takes visitors into the mysterious deep sea, unveiling its wonders.

24. Go Whale Watching

In March and April, humpback whales migrate through Bermuda. whale watching tours are offered during this time to catch views of the 10,000 whales making their way north to the Arctic Circle.

25. Watch the Sunset from Gibbs Hill Lighthouse

While in the area, head out to Gibbs Hill for dinner at Bermuda’s highest point. The 185 step spiral staircase takes you up a 117-foot lighthouse for the best view of the island. The Dining Room restaurant offers delicious Italian cuisine with a spectacular outdoor setting.

26. The Royal Naval Dockyard

When we visited Bermuda, we spent a lot of time at the Royal Naval Dockyard since we were there for the America’s Cup. Once known as the symbol of British military power, The Royal Naval Dockyard has been transformed into a popular tourist destination and a port for cruise ships.

There’s the clocktower shopping mall built at the historic 18th-century clocktower, the National Museum of Bermuda, The Royal Navy Cemetery, and a replica of a Royal Navy sloop-of-war; a three-masted warship that was used during the 18th century.

27. Bermuda Railway Trail

The Bermuda Railway Trail History and nature converge on this scenic trail, which follows the path of the old Bermuda Railway. Stretching for 18 miles from St. George’s to Somerset, the trail offers panoramic views of the coastline, lush landscapes, and remnants of old railway stations. Whether you choose to walk, bike, or jog, the trail promises serenity and spectacular sights.

28. Bermuda Botanical Gardens

The Bermuda Botanical Gardens are a haven for nature lovers that sprawls across 36 acres and are home to a diverse range of exotic and endemic plants. As you meander through its well-maintained paths, you’ll be greeted by orchids, cacti, palm trees, and even a few resident birds. The gardens also house Camden House, the official residence of Bermuda’s Premier, making it a blend of natural beauty and architectural elegance.

29. Crystal Caves

A subterranean wonder, Crystal Caves is one of Bermuda’s top attractions. Descend into the cool caverns to witness a magical world of stalactites, stalagmites, and crystal-clear lakes. The azure waters reflect the intricate rock formations above, creating a surreal ambiance. Guided tours are available, providing insights into the cave’s formation and history.

30. Sip a Rum Swizzle at the Swizzle Inn

No trip to Bermuda is complete without savoring its national drink the Rum Swizzle. This is a fruity cocktail made with a mix of gold and dark rum, and often includes ingredients such as pineapple juice, orange juice, grenadine, and Bermuda’s own Falernum (a sweet syrup used in Caribbean and tropical drinks).

The drink is mixed by “swizzling” with a special swizzle stick, a tradition that has its roots in the Caribbean. The Swizzle Inn, Bermuda’s oldest pub, claims to be the birthplace of the Rum Swizzle and often gets associated with the phrase, “Swizzle Inn, Swagger Out.” The Swizzle Inn dates back to 1932 and is worth visiting even if you aren’t up for a taste of the sprit.

Bermuda Has Two National Drinks

Bermuda is known for its two national drinks. Besides the Rum Swizzle, it also boats the Dark n’ Stormy , made with Gosling’s Black Seal Rum and ginger beer.

Dark ‘n Stormy is simpler but equally iconic. It’s made with Bermuda’s famous Gosling’s Black Seal rum and ginger beer, served over ice with a slice of lime. The combination of the rich, dark rum with the spicy-sweet ginger beer creates a refreshing beverage perfect for any occasion. The name “Dark ‘n Stormy” is actually trademarked by Gosling’s, and according to the company, the drink should only be made using their Black Seal rum.

Both these drinks capture the essence of Bermuda – its tropical climate, maritime culture, and laid-back island vibe. They’re a must-try for anyone visiting the island or looking to recreate a taste of Bermuda at home.

30. Fort Saint Catherine

Fort Saint Catherine can be toured to learn about the military past of Bermuda. It was the stronghold of the British Empire from the 1600s to the 20th century. Tours are available and there are many tunnels and towers to explore in Bermuda’s largest fort.

31. Traditional Afternoon Tea

The British influence cannot be denied in Bermuda, and they even have high tea to prove it. Take a break from the sunshine at the Crown & Anchor in the Hamilton Princess & Beach Club.

32. Cycle the Railway Trail

The Great Canadian Trans Railway Trail is popular here in Canada, and Bermuda has its own rail trail. Albeit a few thousand km shorter. The 18-mile rail-trail takes you to beaches and beautiful ocean views. The railway was in operation from 1931 to 1948 from Saint George to Somerset. In 1986, it was transformed into hiking and cycling trails.

33. Hit the Links

We aren’t big on golfing, but Bermuda is a golfer’s paradise. The island’s temperate climate makes it a year-round destination for golf enthusiasts. Turtle Hill Golf Club,

Where to Stay in Bermuda

There are plenty of vacation rentals and luxurious accommodation options in Bermuda.

Grotto Bay Beach Resort

Grotto Bay Beach Resort is situated in Hamilton Parish, close to the L.F. Wade International Airport, making it conveniently accessible for travelers. It overlooks the turquoise waters of Bailey’s Bay. Check rates and availability on TripAdvisor

One of the standout features of Grotto Bay is its Natura Cave Spa. The spa is located inside a natural limestone cave, offering a truly unique and tranquil setting. Imagine getting a massage or other spa treatments surrounded by stalactites and crystal-clear underground lakes!

The resort boasts a couple of private pink-sand beaches, providing guests with an exclusive space to relax and enjoy the waters. The beaches are ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling.

Apart from the spa cave, the resort property also includes two underground caves – Cathedral Cave and Prospero’s Cave. These caves are filled with freshwater, allowing guests to swim and explore the mesmerizing natural formations.

The Hamilton Princess & Beach Club

The Hamilton Princess & Beach Club, often referred to as “The Pink Palace”, is one of Bermuda’s most iconic luxury hotels. The hotel is located in the capital city of Hamilton, offering views of the harbor. This central location makes it convenient for guests to explore the city and its various shops, restaurants, and attractions. Check rates and availability

It dates back to 1885. It was named in honor of Princess Louise, the fourth daughter of Queen Victoria, after her visit to Bermuda. Over the years, the hotel has hosted various celebrities, artists, and even world leaders.

Fairmont Southhampton is currently under renovation.

This is where we stayed in Bermuda. Located on the South Shore. The Southhampton has a private beach club located directly beside the Famous Horseshoe Bay Beach. The Fairmont Dock on Southshore Road in Southhampton offers complimentary ferry services to the capital city of Hamilton. Its central location sitting high on a hill with shuttle service and easy access makes it a great place to stay in Bermuda . Book it here and read reviews on TripAdvisor.

Waterlot Inn

The Waterlot Inn is a steakhouse dating back 350 years. Its historic buildings were used by seafarers for the storage of cargo. When you enter, it feels as if you’ve stepped back in time to a waterfront cottage of the 1600s. Check rates and availability here.

How to Get Around Bermuda

The best way to get around Bermuda is to Rent a Scooter to Explore the Island . When visiting Bermuda, we loved having the freedom of renting a motorscooter to explore every corner of the island.

The roads are safe and well maintained and by purchasing insurance at an extra $15 per day, we felt secure knowing should anything happen we’d be covered. This was hands down a great way to explore Bermuda. There are no regular car rentals in Bermuda but you can now rent mini electric cars to scoot around the island.

What is Bermuda Best Known For?

Bermuda is known for several distinctive features, cultural elements, and natural attractions:

Pink Sand Beaches : One of Bermuda’s most iconic features, the island’s beaches are famous for their pink-hued sand, particularly at places like Horseshoe Bay and Elbow Beach. The pink hue is due to tiny crushed shells and coral.

Bermuda Shorts : A unique fashion statement, Bermuda shorts are worn by locals as formal wear, typically paired with socks, loafers, and a blazer.

Triangle Mystique : The “Bermuda Triangle” is a region between Bermuda, Miami, and Puerto Rico where a number of aircraft and ships are said to have disappeared under mysterious circumstances. While largely a myth and sensationalized by media, it has made Bermuda famous in popular culture.

Historic Sites : The town of St. George’s, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of the oldest English urban settlements in the New World. It’s filled with historic buildings and charming streets.

Gombey Dancers : A vibrant and integral part of Bermuda’s cultural heritage, Gombey dancers perform in colorful costumes, reflecting a blend of African, Caribbean, and British cultures.

Rum : Specifically, Gosling’s Black Seal Rum, which is a key ingredient in the island’s national drink, the Dark ‘n Stormy.

Shipwrecks : Bermuda is home to numerous shipwrecks, making it a popular destination for diving and snorkeling.

When is the Best Time to Visit Bermuda?

Bermuda boasts a subtropical climate, which means that the weather is relatively mild throughout the year, but certain times might be more favorable depending on what you’re looking for in your visit:

Late Spring to Early Fall (May to October):

Weather : This period marks the warmest months in Bermuda, with temperatures ranging between the mid-70s to mid-80s°F (24°C to 29°C). The ocean temperature will also be warmer, making it ideal for beach activities and water sports.

Crowds : As this is the peak tourist season, Bermuda will be busier, especially between June and August when most vacationers come.

Events : Many of Bermuda’s major events and festivals, including the Bermuda Day celebrations in May and the Cup Match in July/August, occur during these months.

Fall (Late October to December):

Weather : The weather remains relatively warm, but it starts to cool down as winter approaches, with temperatures ranging from the high 60s to mid-70s°F (18°C to 24°C).

Crowds : The number of tourists tends to decline, which means attractions, beaches, and accommodations may be less crowded.

Rates : You might find better deals on accommodations and other amenities during this time, as it’s a shoulder season.

Winter (January to March):

Weather : Winter is the coolest season in Bermuda with temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to mid-60s°F (12°C to 18°C). While it’s not the best for beach activities, the climate remains mild compared to many other locations.

Crowds : This is the off-peak season, so you’ll experience fewer crowds. It’s a great time if you’re looking for a quiet, relaxing getaway.

Rates : Hotel and resort prices tend to be at their lowest during this period.

Spring (April to early May):

Weather : Spring sees a gradual warming of the weather, making it a pleasant time to visit.

Crowds : Tourist traffic starts to pick up, but it’s not as crowded as the summer months.

Events : The Bermuda International Film Festival and the Agricultural Exhibition are two noteworthy events that occur during the spring.

Other Factors to Consider when visiting Bermuda

Hurricane Season : While Bermuda has well-built infrastructure and is prepared for storms, it’s worth noting that the Atlantic hurricane season runs from June to November. While hurricanes are not a frequent occurrence, it’s something to be aware of.

Your Interests : If you’re particularly interested in water activities like swimming, snorkeling, or diving, the warmer months are best. However, if you’re looking to explore the island, hike, or play golf, the cooler months can be very comfortable.

The best time to visit Bermuda largely depends on your personal preferences, but the island offers something for everyone throughout the year.

Now that you have learned about the amazing natural wonders and rich history of Bermuda, are you ready to get out and discover hidden gems if Bermuda? You’ll be surprised just how much you’ll be able to discover.

Read Next more Caribbean and Tropical Island Travel

• 23 of The Best Tropical Islands in the World
• 13 Unique Beaches To Visit in Your Lifetime
• 10 Great Things to do in the Caribbean

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor.

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Safety Wing - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Book Your Activities: Looking for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more? Then we recommend Get Your Guide.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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• Destinations

The Best Resorts in Bermuda

Plan your trip with these T+L award-winning and editor-favorite properties.

Courtesy of Marriott

Bermuda has a stacked resume of qualifications as a vacation destination. The archipelago is made up of more than 180 islands and islets, creating a nearly endless amount of shoreline. The beaches themselves are also some of the most visually striking natural formations in this part of the world; the pink sand, which gets its color from tiny red-colored shelled organisms, is legendary and well worth the trip alone. Plus, there are numerous golf courses, sport fishing opportunities, charming villages, and a vibrant nightlife scene (you have to indulge in a rum swizzle or two) that work together to create a completely relaxing and unique experience — and one that’s only about a 2-hour flight from most major East Coast airports.

When planning a trip to Bermuda, whether it’s your first time or a repeat adventure, you may want to go the luxurious route. If that’s the case, look no further. Here are nine of the best hotels and resorts to stay at while visiting Bermuda, based on our firsthand knowledge, editor-loved properties, and appearances on T+L’s prestigious It List.

Cambridge Beaches Resort & Spa

Nhuri Bashir

Also available to book at Hotels.com

Unlike many Bermuda hotels (where you shuttle to the ocean), the resort has access to four private beaches.

It’s on a more remote part of the island, a few miles from the buzzier areas of Bermuda.

This 23-acre property may have been named on our It List as one of the best new hotels of 2023, but Cambridge Beaches Resort & Spa has been around for more than 100 years. Billed as Bermuda’s first “cottage-style accommodations,” the historic resort underwent a large-scale transformation in 2022, with hospitality group Dovetail + Co redesigning the 86 cottages, pool area, spa, and four restaurants and bars — including The Sunken Harbor Club , an “immersive tropical cocktail bar” with a footprint in New York and, now, Bermuda.

Travelers who book a vacation at this particular property are looking for rest, relaxation, and a trip interspersed with bits of Bermudian history. Even after the overhaul, the resort still maintains touches of its original architecture, and every level of accommodation — from rooms to suites and three-bedroom cottages — boasts a private outdoor seating area, a private entrance, and views of the surrounding water.

The Details:

• Location: Sandys Parish
• Accessibility: The resort is pretty spread out, and there are golf carts to assist with transportation; the property doesn’t mention specific accessibility features within its rooms, so it’s recommended to call ahead if you have questions or concerns.
• Distance From Airport: About 19 miles from BDA
• Loyalty Programs: The Cambridge Club
• Resort Fee: No, but there are mandatory taxes associated with the booking.
• Rates: From $297 per night

“Perched on a 23-acre peninsula jutting into the Atlantic Ocean, Cambridge Beaches is far from Bermuda’s other luxury hotels and the bustle of Hamilton. 86 pink cottages dot the property, which also has four beaches, a rarity on the island. Cambridge Beaches is not new — it celebrates its centennial this year, and some architectural details date back to the 17th century. Still, it recently underwent a full renovation courtesy of new owners, hospitality group Dovetail + Co, known for Urban Cowboy Lodge in upstate New York. Each cottage now sports a whimsical, tropical style with dark wood beds, rattan chairs, graphic-patterned textiles, and shutter doors with brass knobs embossed with palm leaves.” 

–Beth Klein, T+L Contributor

Rosewood Bermuda

Courtesy of Rosewood Bermuda

Also available to book at Kayak.com

All 91 rooms and suites are roomy, comfortable, and thoughtfully curated.

It’s one of the most expensive hotels on the island.

Rosewood Bermuda is, hands down, the island’s most luxurious resort. Opened in 2009, the 91-room-and-suite property underwent an extensive $25 million renovation a decade later; today, it’s one of the most relaxing, elegant accommodation choices for those traveling to Bermuda.

While you may want to spend most of your time by the Castle Harbour Pool, the heated Palm Court Pool, or the beachfront swimming pools at the Bermuda Beach Club (just a short shuttle ride away), don’t miss out on a slow morning inside your room or suite. Each accommodation type has the quintessential Rosewood freshness and an almost editorial level of design: crisp white linens, four-poster beds, private balconies, and oversized soaking tubs. For the full experience, order room service for breakfast, or make your way down to Island Brasserie for an acai bowl or omelet. At lunch, the menu at the Beach Club Restaurant will fill you up, and come dinner, indulge in delicious Italian dishes at Sul Verde.

• Location: Tucker’s Point
• Accessibility: There are two handicap-accessible rooms.
• Distance From Airport: 3 miles from BDA
• Resort Fee: Hotel occupancy tax/tourism guest fee of 11.75 percent per night, plus a nightly Tucker's Point Club fee of 12 percent per night
• Rates: From $589 per night

The St. Regis Bermuda Resort

Also available to book at Expedia.com

The stunning beach and pools are steps away from each other and the rooms.

Not all rooms have unobstructed ocean views.

Bermuda is known for a bit of glamor, but no hospitality brand embraces elegant, luxury travel quite like St. Regis. Located on St. George’s Island, the Bermuda outpost is a relatively new face, opening its 120 guest rooms and suites in 2021. All of the resort’s features and amenities — including two pools, a spa, and access to Five Forts Golf Club — feel elevated but simultaneously family-friendly; rent a poolside cabana for the day, or make your way down to one of the best beaches on the island, St. Catherine's Beach .

In true St. Regis fashion, expect a daily Champagne sabering tradition, an afternoon tea service, and a few different types of Bloody Marys on the menu. There are, however, still many unique aspects to this particular property, and there’s a true sense of place thanks to the tasteful, beachy decor and the impressive ocean views.

• Location: St. George’s Island
• Accessibility: Accessible guest rooms and public areas (including the pool)
• Distance From Airport: 3.4 miles from BDA
• Loyalty Programs: Marriott Bonvoy
• Resort Fee: Yes, $45 per night
• Rates: From $534 per night

The Loren at Pink Beach

Courtesy of The Loren at Pink Beach

Alfresco meals at beachfront dining spot The Pink Beach Club are a pleasant addition to the overall experience.

It’s not the most family-friendly option on the island.

When you arrive at The Loren at Pink Beach, it’s immediately clear that this is a property where aesthetics are important. There’s a chicness to it that feels more appropriate for adult travelers; you’ll find Malin+Goetz amenities, marble bathrooms, and an impressive art collection that includes works from Tony Feher, Cornelia Parker, and Thomas Schutte.

As the name suggests, guests have direct access to Pink Beach, but you may find yourself spending more time poolside. The hotel has two heated pools — one for adults, one for kids — and if you’re feeling particularly luxurious, you can try to reserve one of the four cabanas. Outside of tanning, lounging, and swimming, you can take a yoga class with Salt Yoga Bermuda or book a treatment at the on-site spa. For an extensive, rejuvenating afternoon, book the five-hour Renew “spa indulgence,” which includes a massage, facial, manicure, pedicure, and lunch.

• Location: Tucker’s Town
• Accessibility: Some of the suites are wheelchair-accessible, but bathrooms aren’t adapted.
• Distance From Airport: 4.5 miles from BDA
• Resort Fee: There are additional taxes and fees added to the final rate.
• Rates: From $505 per night

Hamilton Princess & Beach Club

Courtesy of Hamilton Princess

The hotel’s beach club in Southampton, which requires a free shuttle aboard the jitney, grants guests access to a private cove with overwater hammocks.

The hotel is a short walk from the heart of Hamilton, but some travelers might prefer a more remote location for optimal relaxation.

The Hamilton Princess & Beach Club was my first experience on Bermuda — and the “Pink Palace,” as it’s known, left me thinking of the island for years to come. The rose-colored buildings themselves are immediately unforgettable, and every inch of the property is dedicated to curating a well-rounded, only-in-Bermuda trip for its guests. On your first night on the island, you may want to check out the full-service marina, following dinner at Crown and Anchor or Intrepid, the hotel’s steak, seafood, and raw bar. You’ll want to wake up early, though, to get a chair (or cabana) by the infinity edge resort pool.

The true highlight of the Princess, though, is the off-property beach club. Exclusive to hotel guests, the private cove is somewhere you never want to leave. Bring a book, order some rosé and a Cobb salad, and spend an entire day reading in the overwater hammocks, or paddle boarding, snorkeling, and kayaking around the blue water.

• Location: Hamilton
• Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible rooms are available, and temporary tub grab bars, shower seats, and toilet extensions can be fitted upon request.
• Distance From Airport: 9.4 miles from BDA
• Loyalty Programs : ALL - Accor Live Limitless loyalty program
• Resort Fee: $16 per person per day
• Rates: From $431 per night

Grotto Bay Beach Resort & Spa

Courtesy of Grotto Bay

It’s the only all-inclusive resort in Bermuda.

If you’re looking for a more intimate, secluded property, consider another hotel.

You don’t have to fly to Mexico or the Dominican Republic for a classic all-inclusive experience . Instead, book a trip to Grotto Bay Beach Resort & Spa. Here, the all-inclusive package allows guests to take full advantage of meals at the property’s three restaurants, theme night buffets, unlimited drinks, water sports equipment rentals, and even a public transportation pass for local bus and ferry services.

The 201-room, 21-acre vacation spot has a lot of things going for it, but two of the main draws are its private beaches and spa. Natura Spa offers treatments inside a 500,000-year-old natural cave covered in stalactites and stalagmites — so you can guarantee you’ll never experience a more relaxing, or unique, massage experience.

• Location: Hamilton Parish
• Accessibility: Handicap-accessible guest rooms
• Distance From Airport: 1.3 miles from BDA
• Resort Fee: 11.75 percent hotel occupancy tax/tourism fund, $13 gratuity per person, per day
• Rates: From $540 per night

Rosedon Hotel

Courtesy of Rosden Hotel

A leisurely European continental breakfast at Huckleberry Restaurant is the ideal way to start a Bermudian morning.

It’s a 10-minute ride from the hotel to the beach.

A family-owned Relais & Châteaux property, Rosedon Hotel is perfect for anyone coming to Bermuda to both relax and explore the island’s towns and villages. The boutique accommodations — which include deluxe rooms, luxury rooms, and one-bedroom suites — are cozy, and the tropical gardens and pool (complete with lounge chairs and a cabana) create a complete oasis for guests. When not exploring the grounds, feel free to take a short walk into downtown Hamilton to pop in and out of the many shops.

Huckleberry Restaurant is perhaps the hotel’s high point. The on-site dining destination, named in honor of Mark Twain, pairs Bermudian culture with the author’s Southern roots; expect dishes like braised beef short ribs, culurgiones, and pan-roasted duck breast. This property is currently undergoing a $1.5 million renovation focusing on more dining outlets, rooms, and overall property aesthetic, with plans to have all updates completed by the end of 2025.

• Accessibility: This is a historic property, and the website doesn’t mention any specific accessibility features.
• Resort Fee : Tourism tax ($26), hotel fee ($59), occupancy tax ($42)
• Rates : From $280 per night

Newstead Belmont Hills Golf Resort and Spa

Guests receive a complimentary round of golf with their stay.

There’s no beachfront access.

Travelers who prefer to keep busy — whether that’s golfing, getting some pool time, playing tennis, doing yoga, or exploring their surroundings — will be right at home at Newstead Belmont Hills Golf Resort and Spa. Along with the on-property amenities like a golf course, infinity pool, tennis courts, and a spa, the resort offers a complimentary ferry to town and a free shuttle to the airport and beach.

As there’s no direct beach access, most guests come for either the golf, the harbor views, or the family-friendly suites with fully equipped kitchens and spacious living areas. The resort is also well-stocked with dining options if you plan to stay close by at mealtimes. Try local seafood dishes at Aurora, take in a gorgeous sunset while eating at Blú, or have a swizzle at Divots Bar & Grill.

• Location: Paget Parish
• Accessibility: The property is ADA-compliant, and there are accessible guest rooms available.
• Resort Fee: Yes, $20 per accommodation, per night
• Rates: From $335 per night

The Reefs Resort and Club

Courtesy of Courtesy of The Reefs Resort & Club

This is where you stay if you want some of the best ocean views in Bermuda.

The guest rooms are bright and clean, but nothing spectacular.

If Bermuda’s pink sand is high on your priority list, you’ll want to book at least a couple of nights at The Reefs Resort and Club. The family-owned property has a private beachfront location, and, as the name implies, there are several reefs you can snorkel around — or paddle out to on a paddleboard or kayak. When you’re not soaking up the sun and salt water, work up a sweat on the tennis courts, rent a scooter, or challenge your travel partner to a game of pickleball.

For something a bit more low key, cozy up on your balcony with a complimentary Dark ‘n’ Stormy in hand, or make your way to La Serena Spa. Here, floor-to-ceiling windows overlook the Atlantic, providing a perfectly picturesque place to focus on your health and wellness. Of course, no Bermuda vacation would be complete without an alfresco dinner; be sure to book a romantic dinner at Coconuts before your departure.

• Location: Southampton Parish
• Accessibility: The property has stairs throughout; it’s recommended to call if you have specific questions.
• Distance From Airport: 13.5 miles from BDA
• Resort Fee: There are taxes and fees included in the final price, although the booking system doesn’t specifically call it a resort fee.
• Rates: From $287 per night

Know Before You Go

Bermuda is not located in the caribbean.

The pink sand beaches and turquoise water may communicate otherwise, but no, Bermuda is not a Caribbean island. It’s actually in the North Atlantic Ocean, and the closest U.S. state is North Carolina. This location results in more temperate temperatures throughout the year, and the months of November through April tend to be less ideal for swimming in the ocean or lounging on a beach chair in the sun.

It’s not possible to rent a car in Bermuda

There are no standard car rentals on Bermuda; in fact, it’s illegal for non-residents to own or drive four-wheeled vehicles (this helps to cut down on traffic congestion). Taxis are available to transport visitors around the island, and there are also a few other self-driving options. Eco-friendly two-passenger electric “microcars” or motor scooters can be rented from various companies — hop in a Tazzari from Bermuda Car Rental Ltd . or a Twizzy from Current Vehicles . Just remember to drive on the left and pay attention to the speed limit; it’s 15 mph in Hamilton and 21 mph on the rest of the island.

Bermuda is a British overseas territory — but it has its own currency

You may drive on the left side of the road in Bermuda, just like the Brits, but pounds and pence aren’t exchanged in this part of the world. Instead, you’ll use the Bermudian dollar, which has a 1:1 value to the U.S. dollar. Both are used interchangeably on the island.

How We Chose These Hotels

Lydia Mansel is an East Coast-based writer who has spent nearly a decade professionally traveling to a variety of popular tropical vacation spots, including Bermuda. When compiling this list, she used editor recommendations and her own in-person experiences, as well as recent It List appearances to choose each property. To further narrow down the selections, she carefully researched and considered each hotel’s various amenities, decor, location, and other key features. As always, all chosen hotels align with our T+L Hotel Values .

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Is Bermuda Safe? What To Know Before You Travel

B ermuda is known for its well-preserved beaches and an array of sightseeing attractions. The gorgeous pink sand beaches of Bermuda blend into cerulean waters that are perfect for snorkeling and lounging. Bermuda is an ideal getaway for solo travelers, couples, and families. The islands of Bermuda have a laid-back atmosphere but can also provide luxury experiences to visitors. The area’s famous attire, Bermuda shorts, makes this cultural mix of casual and proper elements clear. Technically, this mix comes from British and tropical influences. Since Bermuda is an overseas British territory that is self-governing, travelers will notice unique ethnic and cultural influences . 

Safety in Bermuda is not a primary concern for travelers beyond conventional wisdom and situational awareness. Although crime still occurs, it is a relatively safe place to visit. From airport renovations to modern accommodations , Bermuda is very accessible and safe for visitors. Check out what tourists should be concerned about while visiting Bermuda. 

Environmental Safety 

While swimming in Bermudian waters is generally a peaceful time for travelers, there are some things to consider before getting in the water. Environmental safety while traveling is a critical concern and can vary from knowing where to swim, what animals to interact with, and when to travel.

Marine Safety

Marine safety is a concern in Bermuda since it has such diverse wildlife. One creature to exercise extreme caution around is the Portuguese Man of War. Although the purple or blue-colored gas-filled animal floats of the Portuguese Man of War are quite attractive, they should not be touched because of their venomous nature. The marine creature (that resembles a jellyfish) can be found on the surface of the Bermuda Ocean and has long tentacles that sting. People stung by a Portuguese Man of War experience pain, burning, swelling and redness that can last for hours, or a subsequent rash lasting for weeks. 

Natural Disaster Safety

Natural disasters are not uncommon in Bermuda, although devastating storms (like tropical cyclones) only impact the island about every six years. Hurricane season runs from June to November, so it is wise for travelers to keep track of resources like the National Hurricane Center or Bermuda Weather Service (BWS). These resources are posted on Bermuda’s Government website , along with tips and information concerning hurricane safety. 

The southern shore of Bermuda is the best place to surf since it is connected to the southern Atlantic Ocean. During storm season, the south side can be dangerous since it does not have protective elements to slow down waves. The northern shore has a coral reef, which provides a sort of natural protection. This cushion helps to calm the waters and creates a more serene environment. For travelers wanting to avoid the storms of Bermuda , knowing which shores to visit is important.

Transportation Safety 

The best way to get around Bermuda is on the bus. The buses are more reliable and affordable options for travelers needing to get to and from attractions. Island-wide buses are available with fares depending on the zone. Most fares cost $3.50 for travel in three zones, while travel in more than three costs $5. Travelers can purchase an all-day pass for around $20 or carry exact change or fare tokens, which can be purchased at bus terminals or local hotels. Since the buses run on a schedule, which can be found in visitor centers or the Bermuda Government website, they are a more stable mode of transportation.

Taxis in Bermuda are not regulated; therefore, they are driven by independent drivers, which can be a downside for travelers. There are taxis, especially for tours, but travelers will notice that cab fares can be pretty steep. They are either charged per hour (starting around $50) or per distance traveled. The increased cost of taking a taxi makes this type of transportation not the most ideal for travelers. From Bermuda International Airport, travelers will most likely need to take a taxi since they dominate the area but they do not have to be the sole means of transportation throughout your time on the island.

Is Bermuda Safe?

According to the U.S. State Department travel advisory , Bermuda is a pretty safe place to visit. The travel advisory for Bermuda states that travelers should exercise standard precautions. While Bermuda does have moderate petty crime, it is not targeted towards travelers. As long as visitors of Bermuda take some precautions like keeping up with personal property, they should be safe since they are in a relatively crime-free place. Travelers should monitor the travel advisory while planning their trip and can even follow the Department of State on social media for updates. Resources like the CIA World Factbook provide tips and information that will help travelers looking to have a smooth travel experience to and from Bermuda.

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2025 Caribbean Cruises: Visit Puerto Plata, St. Thomas & Aruba

When you consider all that The Caribbean has to offer, you can easily see why the region is so popular among travelers. Its tropical climate offers a toasty respite from cooler climates, its white-sand beaches are unsurpassed, and its brilliant blue waters are idyllic. Together, these characteristics may explain why, according to the Caribbean Tourism Organization , the region saw over 28 million registered tourist visits in 2022, a figure that Travel Markets Insider projected would be surpassed by several million in 2023.

In 2025, you can count yourself among the lucky millions with one of Norwegian Cruise Line's cruise vacations in The Caribbean . Let's look at what beauty and thrills await you in the Bahamas, Barbados, Mexico, Belize, Honduras, and the Dominican Republic.

Ready to start planning? Explore all 2025 Caribbean cruises .

2025 Caribbean Ports of Departure

Norwegian's 2025 cruises to The Caribbean range from five to 15 days, originating from a variety of major North American, Caribbean, or European ports. Depending on the cruise itinerary you choose, your port of departure may be in any of the following cities:

• Galveston, Texas.
• Lisbon, Portugal.
• Miami, Florida.
• New York, New York.
• New Orleans, Louisiana.
• Orlando, Florida.
• Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.
• San Juan, Puerto Rico.
• Tampa, Florida.

Norwegian's 2025 Caribbean Ports of Call

Every itinerary with Norwegian includes numerous ports of call, allowing you to experience the culture, cuisine, and attractions of multiple nations during your cruise vacation. Here are just some of the major ports of call in Norwegian's 2025 cruises to The Caribbean , including cities in Central and South America:

• Basseterre, St. Kitts.
• Bridgetown, Barbados.
• Cartagena, Colombia.
• Cabo Rojo, Dominican Republic.
• Colón, Panama.
• Costa Maya, Mexico.
• Cozumel, Mexico.
• George Town, Grand Cayman.
• Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas.
• Harvest Caye, Belize.
• Kralendijk, Bonaire.
• Ocho Rios, Jamaica.
• Oranjestad, Aruba.
• Philipsburg, St. Maarten.
• Ponta Delgada, Azores.
• Puerto Limón, Costa Rica.
• Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic.
• Roatán, Honduras.
• St. George's, Grenada.
• St. John's, Antigua.
• St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands.
• Willemstad, Curaçao.

RELATED CRUISES: 7-Day Caribbean Cruise: Great Stirrup Cay & Dominican Republic from Miami 7-Day Caribbean Cruise: Harvest Caye, Cozumel & Roatan from New Orleans 10-Day Bermuda Cruise: San Juan, Dominican Republic & St. Maarten from New York

Highlights of 2025 Cruises to The Caribbean

Many of Norwegian's Caribbean cruises have the same ports of call on their itineraries. These destinations are among the most desirable in The Caribbean, so you can experience some of the best the region has to offer. Let's take a closer look at the highlights of Norwegian's 2025 cruises to The Caribbean to give you a better sense of what to expect on your journey:

• Cartagena, Colombia: Featured in the 14-day cruise on Norwegian Jewel to the Panama Canal, which sails in January 2025, Cartagena is a historic Colombian city that's rich in natural beauty and urban splendor. Some must-see attractions are Old City Cartagena, Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas, and the Palacio de la Inquisición.
• Cabo Rojo, Dominican Republic: Located just southeast of the border between the Dominican Republic and Haiti, Cabo Rojo is a beloved beach destination because of its unspoiled nature and extraordinary coastal views. The azure waters are also home to some of The Caribbean's best-preserved coral reefs, offering sightings of fauna such as manatees and hawksbill sea turtles.
• Cozumel, Mexico: Cozumel is an island situated off the eastern coast of the Yucatán Peninsula. Here, you have ample opportunities for water activities, such as fishing, snorkeling, and diving, as well as explorations of wilderness at Punta Sur Ecological Park or the island's east side.

• George Town, Grand Cayman: Though only around 22 miles long, Grand Cayman has abundant offerings for beachgoers, culture and history buffs, art lovers, and families alike, and George Town provides easy access to it all. Some of the most popular destinations are Seven-Mile Beach, the Cayman Farmers Market, and the Cayman Islands National Museum, which features over 8,000 items.
• Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas: Norwegian owns a 268-acre private paradise known as Great Stirrup Cay and offers it exclusively to our guests. In addition to beaches and water sports, the island offers opportunities for ziplining, shopping, and splashing alongside the famous Bahamian swimming pigs.
• Puerto Limón, Costa Rica: Puerto Limón , bursting with natural beauty, is well-suited to a broad range of cruisers. Adventure seekers may want to go ziplining amid the rainforest canopy or rafting down the Río Pacuare, and water lovers can go snorkeling at Cahuita National Park. If you're looking for a quieter time, relax on the beach or look for sloths near the port or in Vargas Park.
• St. George's, Grenada: St. George's , the capital of Grenada, is rich in distinctive experiences. One of the most unique sights is the haunting Grenada Underwater Sculpture Park, accessible via snorkeling or scuba diving. Other special activities to consider are rum distillery tours, tasting tours, and hiking to the Seven Sisters Waterfalls.

2025 Caribbean Cruise Vacation Shore Excursions

Norwegian shore excursions present convenient ways to experience ports of call without overthinking your day-to-day itinerary. Here are some featured shore excursions to consider for getting the most out of your days at port during your next Norwegian Caribbean cruise vacation:

• Barrier Reef Snorkel in Harvest Caye, Belize.
• Best of Bonaire in Kralendijk, Bonaire.
• Best of Ocho Rios in Ocho Rios, Jamaica.
• Cultural Journey & Soul Food Delight in Puerto Limón, Costa Rica.
• Dolphin Encounter With Stingray Sandbar in George Town, Grand Cayman.
• Exploring Magnificent Cartagena in Cartagena, Colombia.
• Fricolandia Beach Club in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic.
• Golden Eagle Sailaway & Swim in Philipsburg, St. Maarten.
• Hot Springs & Botanical Gardens in Ponta Delgada, Azores.
• Island Zipline Adventure in Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas.
• Nelson's Dockyard & Island Drive in St. John's, Antigua.
• St. Kitts Scenic Trail in Basseterre, St. Kitts.
• Two Oceans by Railroad in Colón, Panama.

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