Explore the enchanting "Things to Do in Bermuda Island" – from pink sand beaches to historical marvels, discover the top attractions, adventure activities, and cultural experiences on this picturesque island. Plan your dream Bermuda getaway now! Bermuda Island, a jewel in the Atlantic, invites travelers to embark on a journey filled with captivating sights and unforgettable experiences.
Things to Do in Bermuda Island
This article serves as your guide to exploring the vibrant tapestry of "Things to Do in Bermuda Island." Nestled in the Atlantic Ocean, Bermuda boasts a rich tapestry of historical marvels, natural wonders, and cultural gems. Let's delve into the diverse array of attractions that make this island a must-visit destination.
1. Stroll the streets of Hamilton, Bermuda
Named after Sir Henry Hamilton, governor of Bermuda in 1788, Hamilton has a cosmopolitan feel that's Instagram-ready. The Sea Express ferry service is a great way to get to Hamilton from different parts of the island. Our hotel, Fairmont Southampton offers free ferry service to Hamilton. Hamilton, Bermuda has a lot to do so be sure to make some time.
2. The road ahead
Hamilton is Bermuda's capital and the colorful colonial buildings on Front Street are a must-see when visiting 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 streets, known for its colorful facades and waterfront views. Front Street has 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 main attractions of Front Street is its panoramic view of Hamilton Harbour. Walk along the promenade to see the luxury yachts anchored in the harbor and admire its colorful facade.
3. Explore St. George
St. George is a UNESCO World Heritage Site because it is the oldest continuous English settlement in the Western Hemisphere. With colonial buildings and cobblestone streets, it's a beautiful place to explore.
Although it is located on the eastern tip of the island, it is not far from Bermuda's resorts and beaches. Bermuda is not far away. The narrow lanes take you back to the 18th century where the old merchant houses are well preserved.
4. A long ship journey
One of the most popular attractions in St. George is the "Deliverance," a life-size replica of a 17th-century ship built by Sea Venture, a shipwreck survivor. The Deliverance was called the "ship that saved America" as it brought supplies to the colony at Jamestown, Virginia in 1610.
No Bermuda vacation would be complete without a visit to its beautiful beaches. Bermuda is known for its pink sand beaches, crystal clear turquoise waters and powdery white sand. Here are some not-to-be-missed beaches when visiting Bermuda.
Explore Bermuda's hidden gems on this full-day tour as you explore caves, go cliff jumping and cave swimming. You will visit Blue Hole Park and snorkeling at Cooper's Island. You'll also see Walsingham Nature Resrver and more!
5. Pink sand beaches of Bermuda
One of the top things to see in Bermuda is its pink sand beaches. There are so many of them that it's a good idea to get on 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 for its horseshoe shape, Horseshoe Bay Beach offers a mix of turquoise water and soft pink sand made of crushed coral and calcium carbonate. It's one of Bermuda's top attractions is Horseshoe Bay Beach. While at 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 as it has three different resorts. And for good reason. Just off shore at Elbow Beach is a coral reef that's great for snorkeling. There is a shipwreck just 100 meters (300 feet) offshore and you can join a guided snorkeling or kayaking tour to see it.
8. Warwick Long Bay
Warwick Long Bay Bermuda's longest beach is half a mile. It is one of the most picturesque beaches in Bermuda with trees, tall grass and sand dunes along the coast.
Located in Warwick Parish, Warwick Long is a quiet alternative to the often busy Horseshoe Bay Beach. It is a long stretch of pink sand backed by rocky fields and grass-topped dunes. The shallow waters are great for snorkeling, and there is a path connecting it to other small coves and beaches.
9. Jobson's Cove
Nestled between Warwick Long Bay and Stonehole Bay, Jobson's Cove is small but stunningly beautiful. It is almost surrounded by rocks, making the water calm and suitable for swimming. Pink sand and turquoise water create a pleasant environment.
10. Tobacco Bay Beach
Tobacco Bay Beach is a beautiful little beach with limestone rock formations reaching up to 25 feet into the shelter. There is a beach bar, and great snorkeling. It is located near St. George.
11. John Smith Bay Beach
Another beautiful pink sand beach, John Smith Bay was named after Captain John Smith. Snorkeling is located on the right coast and is a popular spot for diving. Especially night diving.
12. Sea Glass Beach
Hamilton's Black Bay and Sea Glass Beach are unique beach fronts where colorful sea glass washes ashore. Due to a glass factory once located here, the waste was dumped into the sea and has since spit back out creating a glassy waterfront. It is illegal to take glass from the beach. Please leave the glass behind for future generations to appreciate.
13. Walsingham Nature Reserve
Located in Hamilton Parish, Walsingham Nature Reserve is known locally as Tom Moore's Forest. Here you will find many of Bermuda's grottoes and caves. Bermuda's Hidden Gems tour takes you to Walsingham Nature Reserve where you'll 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 around the harbor and outer islands to see places in Bermuda you might not normally visit. This is a great way to see Bermuda's multi-million dollar mansion, HMS. Vixen shipwrecks, and jet skis for little bits of bread to feed on swarming fish. When you're on a jet ski, you can truly see the beauty of Bermuda's turquoise waters.
15. World's Shortest Drawbridge, Somerset Bridge
During our jet ski tour we crossed the world's shortest working drawbridge. Somerset Bridge is a fun attraction in Bermuda that connects Somerset Island to the main island. Dating back to 1620, the bridge is a symbol of Bermuda, featuring on the Bermuda dollar. Operated by hand, the short 32-inch gap is just enough to allow a sailboat mast to pass through.
16. See Unfinished Church
One of the most interesting sights on the island we visited was the unfinished church of St. George. One can imagine how beautiful this Gothic church would be when it was completed, but it was never done due to many problems over the years. And that is what gives it its charm. Due to funding issues and hurricanes, it was never completed, but visitors can explore the ruins for free.
17. St. Peter's Church
Dating from 1612. St. Peter's Church is the oldest continuously operating Anglican church outside the British Isles. Located in the town of St. George, St. Peter's Church was originally built in 1612, shortly after English settlers arrived on the island. The church has undergone several reconstructions and renovations over the centuries, but has been in continuous use since its founding.
Perched on a hill overlooking the town, the church offers a lovely view of St George and the surrounding harbour. Its cemetery 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 associated castles.
18. Cathedral of the Most Holy Trinity
The Cathedral of the Most Holy Trinity is worth a visit up the 155-step tower to view Hamilton Harbour. Often referred to simply as the Bermuda Cathedral, the Cathedral of the Most Holy Trinity is located in the city of Hamilton. It is one of Hamilton's most prominent landmarks and serves as the island's primary Anglican cathedral.
The original structure was completed in 1869, but it was destroyed by fire in 1884. The cathedral as it stands today was built as a replacement and consecrated in 1911.
Due to its central location in Hamilton, the cathedral is easily accessible to both locals and tourists. It is within walking distance of many of the city's other attractions, shops and restaurants.
19. Crystal and Fantasy Cave
Everyone loves exploring caves, and crystal and fantasy cave tours make for a great trip. With sky blue underground pools and crystal chandelier clusters, these caves are beautiful. You can take a guided tour of both caves, including a wide floating walkway over clear blue lakes suspended above crystal-like soda straws. Each cave is a different experience, but you won't miss anything because they both have great lighting.
A very beautiful story we learned is how two young boys discovered the Crystal Cave in 1905 in search of a lost cricket ball. Can you imagine how excited they were?
20. Blue Hole Park
Blue Hole Park (sometimes referred to as "Tom Moore's Forest" after the famous Irish poet who is said to have frequented the area) is located in Hamilton Parish, Bermuda. Outdoor lovers will enjoy exploring Blue Hole Park and its caves of grottos. 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 contain clear, deep water, and some adventurous visitors enjoy jumping into them from the openings above.
The caves, with their deep blue waters, are the result of Bermuda's limestone bedrock and are connected by underground tunnels. The titular Blue Hole is a serene and beautiful place for swimming. Surrounded by dense vegetation, its turquoise waters offer solitude and tranquility. There are also other small 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 dating back to the 17th century. It is named after the Irish poet Thomas Moore, who wrote some of his works under a calabash tree while traveling in the area in the early 1800s.
The Blue Hole isn't Bermuda's only grotto though, there are also Castle Grotto, Walsingham, Subway, Deep Blue, Vine and Fern Sink.
22. Glass bottom kayaking
Bermuda is full of water sports opportunities, and one of our favorite ways to explore any coastline is by 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.
Various tours offer marine life eco-adventures such as the HMS Vixen shipwreck or a paddle from Welsingham Nature Reserve and Blue Hole Park to Welsingham Nature Reserve and Blue Hole Park where you'll explore a 12-acre nature reserve.
23. Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute
Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute (BUEI) With state-of-the-art facilities, interactive exhibits and a plethora of marine artifacts, the institute provides a comprehensive insight into Bermuda's underwater world. The highlight is the simulated dive experience, which takes visitors into the mysterious deep sea, revealing its wonders.
24. Go whale watching
In March and April, humpback whales migrate through Bermuda. Whale watching tours are offered during this time to see 10,000 whales north of the Arctic Circle.
25. Watch the sunset from Gibbs Hill Lighthouse
While in the area, head to Gibbs Hill for dinner at Bermuda's highest point. A 185-step spiral staircase takes you to the 117-foot lighthouse for the best view of the island. The Dining Room Restaurant offers delicious Italian cuisine with a spectacular outdoor setting.
26. Royal Naval Dockyard
Since we went to Bermuda, we spent a lot of time at the Royal Naval Dockyard for the America's Cup. Once a symbol of British military might, the Royal Naval Dockyard has been transformed into a popular tourist destination and a port for cruise ships.
The historic 18th-century clocktower houses the Clocktower Shopping Mall, the National Museum of Bermuda, the Royal Navy Cemetery and a replica of a Royal Navy sloop-of-war; A three-masted warship used in the 18th century.
27. Bermuda Railway Trail
Bermuda Railway Trail History and nature come together on this scenic trail, which follows the route of the old Bermuda Railway. Stretching 18 miles from St. George to Somerset, the trail offers scenic views of the coastline, lush landscapes and remnants of old railway stations. Whether you choose to walk, cycle or jog, the trail promises tranquility and sights.
28. Bermuda Botanical Gardens
The Bermuda Botanical Garden is a haven for nature lovers spread across 36 acres and home to a variety of exotic and native plants. As you walk through its well-maintained paths, you will be greeted by orchids, cacti, palm trees and even some resident birds. The gardens also include Camden House, the official residence of the Premier of Bermuda, making it a combination of natural beauty and architectural elegance.
29. Crystal Cave
An underground wonder, Crystal Cave is one of Bermuda's top attractions. Descend into the cool cave to witness a magical world of stalactites, stalagmites and crystal-clear lakes. The azure water reflects the intricate rock formations above, creating a surreal environment. Guided tours are available, providing insight into the cave's structure and history.
30. Sip Rum Swizzle at Swizzle Inn
No trip to Bermuda is complete without sampling its national drink, the Rum Swizzle. It's 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. Bermuda's oldest pub, The Swizzle Inn, claims to be the birthplace of the Rum Swizzle and is often associated with the phrase "Swizzle In, Swagger Out". The Swizzle Inn dates back to 1932 and is worth a visit even if you don't taste the spirit.
Bermuda is known for its two national drinks. In addition to the Rum Swizzle, it also boats the Dark N' Stormy, made with Gosling's Black Seal rum and ginger beer.
Dark 'N Stormy' is simple but equally iconic. It's made with Bermuda's famous Gosling's Black Seal rum and ginger beer, served over ice with a wedge of lime. The combination of rich, dark rum with spicy-sweet ginger beer creates a refreshing drink 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 of these drinks capture the essence of Bermuda – its tropical climate, maritime culture and laid-back island atmosphere. They are a must-try for anyone visiting the island or wanting to recreate a taste of Bermuda at home.
FAQs:
Must-Visit Attractions:
Wondering about the top attractions in Bermuda? Don't miss St. George's UNESCO Heritage Sites, the pink sand beaches, and the enchanting Crystal Caves.
Safety and Local Etiquette:
Traveling to Bermuda? Stay informed with our travel tips, emergency contacts, and guidance on cultural respect, ensuring a safe and respectful visit.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Bermuda Island is a paradise for those seeking a perfect blend of history, nature, and culture. The diverse range of activities ensures a memorable experience for every traveler. Plan your getaway to Bermuda, where each moment is a celebration of life's wonders.
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