Bermuda Travel Guide

Explore the best of Bermuda with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the top places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and when to go.


Introduction to Bermuda

Bermuda is a British Overseas Territory located in the North Atlantic Ocean, approximately 640 miles east of North Carolina. Known for its pink-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and charming pastel-colored architecture, this idyllic island offers a unique mix of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, Bermuda has something to offer everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Bermuda

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Bermuda National Gallery - This art museum showcases the island’s artistic heritage through a collection of both historical and contemporary works of art.
  • Bermuda Maritime Museum - Located in the historic Royal Naval Dockyard, this museum displays an array of maritime artifacts, including models of ships, navigational instruments, and cannons.
  • Fort St. Catherine and Museum - One of Bermuda’s oldest forts, this historic site features exhibits on the island’s military history and offers stunning views of the surrounding ocean.

Natural Attractions of Bermuda: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Horseshoe Bay Beach - This beautiful pink-sand beach is a must-visit spot in Bermuda, offering crystal-clear waters, impressive rock formations, and breathtaking sunsets.
  • Crystal Caves and Fantasy Caves - These stunning underground caves feature crystal-clear pools of water, dramatic stalactites and stalagmites, and otherworldly rock formations.
  • Whale Watching Tours - From March to April, visitors can join a whale watching tour and witness the magnificent humpback whales that migrate through Bermuda’s waters.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bermuda

One of the best ways to explore the natural beauty of Bermuda is on foot or by bike. Here are some of the top hiking and biking routes on the island:

  • Railway Trail - This 18-mile trail stretches from one end of the island to the other, offering scenic views of Bermuda’s coastline and lush vegetation.
  • Cooper’s Island Nature Reserve - This nature reserve features several hiking trails that wind through coastal vegetation and offer stunning views of the ocean.
  • South Shore Park - This park offers several biking trails that traverse the island’s scenic south shore and offer views of some of Bermuda’s best beaches.

Best Things to Do in Bermuda: Activities and Tours

From water sports to cultural excursions, Bermuda offers plenty of activities to keep visitors entertained. Here are some of the best things to do in Bermuda:

  • Snorkeling and Scuba Diving - With its crystal-clear waters, Bermuda is a paradise for snorkelers and divers. Coral reefs, shipwrecks, and abundant marine life make for an unforgettable underwater experience.
  • Gibbs Hill Lighthouse - Built in 1846, this iconic lighthouse offers stunning panoramic views of the island from its observation deck.
  • Island Tour - Take a tour of the island to get an overview of Bermuda’s history, culture, and natural beauty. Tours are available by bus, boat, or helicopter.

Week-Long Itinerary for Bermuda

If you’re planning to spend a week in Bermuda, here’s a suggested itinerary to make the most of your time:

Day Activities
1 Arrive in Bermuda and explore Hamilton, the capital city.
2 Visit the Bermuda National Gallery and stroll through the Botanical Gardens.
3 Relax on the pink-sand beaches of Horseshoe Bay and Warwick Long Bay.
4 Go scuba diving or snorkeling in Bermuda’s crystal-clear waters.
5 Take a tour of the Royal Naval Dockyard and the Bermuda Maritime Museum.
6 Explore the stunning underground world of Crystal and Fantasy Caves.
7 Go on a whale watching tour or hike the scenic Railway Trail.

Food and Drink Scene of Bermuda

Must-Try Dishes

Bermuda offers a unique blend of traditional British, Caribbean, and African cuisine. Here are some of the must-try dishes on the island:

  • Fish Chowder - A spicy fish soup made with local fish, potatoes, onions, and celery.
  • Bermuda Fish Sandwich - A sandwich made with fried fish, coleslaw, and tartar sauce, served on raisin bread.
  • Cassava Pie - A savory pie made with cassava, sweet potatoes, and onions.

Local Beverages

Bermuda is famous for its rum, which is distilled on the island and used in many local cocktails. Here are some of the local drinks to try:

  • Dark and Stormy - A cocktail made with dark rum, ginger beer, and lime, served over ice.
  • Rum Swizzle - A fruity cocktail made with rum, fruit juices, and grenadine, served over ice.

Where to Stay in Bermuda: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Bermuda offers a range of accommodations to suit every budget and preference. Here are some of the top options:

  • Hamilton Princess & Beach Club - This iconic hotel is located in the heart of Hamilton and offers luxurious rooms, a private beach, and a range of dining options.
  • Rosedon Hotel - A historic boutique hotel located in a picturesque garden setting in Hamilton.
  • Clearwater Beach Hotel and Villas - A budget-friendly option located on the eastern end of the island, featuring beachfront rooms and access to a private beach.

What to Buy in Bermuda: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Bermuda offers plenty of unique souvenirs and local products to bring home as a reminder of your trip. Here are some of the top options:

  • Bermuda Shorts - These iconic shorts originated in Bermuda and are made from lightweight cotton in a range of bright colors.
  • Rum Cake - A delicious cake made with local rum and topped with a sweet glaze.
  • Bermuda Onion Relish - A sweet and tangy relish made with Bermuda onions, perfect for adding flavor to sandwiches or as a dip.

Local Culture and Customs of Bermuda

Bermuda has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its architecture, cuisine, and traditions. Here are some things to keep in mind when visiting Bermuda:

  • Dress Code - Bermuda has a strict dress code, especially when it comes to shorts and skirts. Shorts should be no shorter than an inch above the knee, and skirts should be knee-length or longer.
  • Greeting Customs - Bermudians are friendly and welcoming, and it’s customary to greet strangers with a smile and a “good morning/afternoon/evening”.
  • Island Time - Bermuda operates on a slower pace, so visitors should be prepared to slow down and enjoy the relaxed pace of life on the island.

Best Time to Visit Bermuda

The best time to visit Bermuda is from March to May or from September to November. The weather during these months is pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to the mid-70s. Summer can be hot and humid, with average temperatures in the 80s, while winter can be cool and rainy, with average temperatures in the 50s.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bermuda

Do:

  • Follow the island’s dress code.
  • Be courteous and friendly to locals.
  • Take out travel insurance prior to your trip.

Don’t:

  • Don’t drink and drive or operate a watercraft.
  • Don’t litter on the beaches or in the ocean.
  • Don’t touch or disturb the delicate coral reefs.

Safety and Health

Safety in Bermuda

Bermuda is generally a safe destination for visitors, with low levels of violent crime. However, visitors should be aware of the following safety tips:

  • Don’t leave your valuables unattended on the beach or in public areas.
  • Stay in well-lit areas at night, especially in Hamilton and other urban areas.
  • Take precautions when swimming in the ocean, as strong currents and rip tides can pose a risk.

Health in Bermuda

Visitors to Bermuda don’t require any vaccinations, but it’s important to take precautions against mosquito-borne illnesses, such as Zika, especially during the summer months. The island has a well-equipped healthcare system, and travelers should take out medical insurance prior to their trip.

Getting to Bermuda: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Bermuda

Bermuda has one airport, the L.F. Wade International Airport, which is located in St. George’s Parish. The airport is served by several major airlines, including American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and British Airways.

Bus Stations Near Bermuda

Bermuda has a comprehensive bus system that operates throughout the island, with several bus terminals located in Hamilton and other urban areas.

Other Options

Visitors to Bermuda can also travel by ferry, taxi, or rental car. Taxis are abundant and easy to find, while rental cars are available at the airport and in Hamilton. Ferries are a scenic way to travel between the islands or to explore Bermuda’s coastline.

How to Get Around in Bermuda

Bermuda’s convenient transportation system includes buses, ferries, taxis, and rental cars. Visitors can purchase multi-day transportation passes, which offer access to all transportation options and make getting around the island easy and affordable.

Where to Go Next from Bermuda: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to continue your Caribbean adventure, consider visiting these nearby destinations:

  • The Bahamas - Just a short flight from Bermuda, the Bahamas offers stunning beaches, world-class resorts, and vibrant culture.
  • Turks and Caicos Islands - This idyllic island chain is known for its crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches, and luxurious resorts.
  • St. Kitts and Nevis - This picturesque island nation offers a blend of natural beauty, colonial history, and vibrant culture.

Conclusion

Bermuda is a stunning destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and outdoor adventures. With its pink-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and charming pastel-colored architecture, Bermuda is sure to capture your heart and leave you with unforgettable memories. Use this comprehensive guide to plan your perfect Bermuda vacation and make the most of your time on this Caribbean jewel.

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    Devonshire Parish
    Hamilton Parish
    Saint George
    Southampton Parish