Bermuda’s Only Travel Guide You Need For A Great Trip in 11 Easy Steps

Bermuda’s Only Travel Guide You Need For A Great Trip in 11 Easy Steps

Bermuda’s Background

 

Bermuda was founded in 1609 by shipwrecked English colonists on their way to Virginia. Visiting the island to escape the harsh winters of North America began in the Victorian era. Tourism remains crucial to the island’s economy, albeit worldwide business has recently surpassed it. Bermuda has grown into an extremely successful offshore financial hub. In 1995, an independence referendum was badly defeated.

The island of Bermuda is a self-governing British overseas territory situated in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, a short plane flight from major Northeastern cities in the United States, off the coast of North Carolina, and north of the Caribbean.

But it’s considerably more diversified than that, with elements from Britain, North America, Africa, Portugal, and West Africa all contributing to the distinctive cultural mash-up. Bermuda’s museums and art galleries offer touches of urban refinement, and its many forts draw history enthusiasts, while its varied geography makes it excellent for all manner of water sports, hiking, golfing, or simply relaxing on a picture-perfect pink-sand beach.

It is split up into nine parishes. St. George’s Parish includes the ancient town of St. George as well as the island of St. David’s. Hamilton Parish is home to the Crystal Caves and the Bermuda Aquarium, while Smith’s Parish is home to Flatts Village, Spittle Pond Nature Preserve, and Devil’s Hole Aquarium. Paget Parish is home to several resorts, as well as Elbow Beach and the Bermuda Botanical Gardens. If you want to play golf, go to Warwick Parish, while the nicest beaches are in Southampton Parish. Devonshire, Pembroke, and Sandy’s Parishes are among the others.

Bermuda is a beautiful vacation destination with a variety of attractions and activities. Bermuda, surrounded by dangerous reefs and bathed in the warm turquoise waters of the Sargasso Sea, is one of the world’s best diving locations. This British territory offers a fascinating island holiday with breathtaking caverns and exquisite pink-sand beaches, as well as small villages and historical museums dedicated to its naval heritage.

With its pastel-colored buildings and big estates drowning in lush foliage and perfumed frangipani and bougainvillea, and its step-like white roofs poised to soak up precipitation, the island feels like a beautiful slice of rural England lifted into warmer climes.

 

“Bermuda, a place in the midst of the Atlantic with diversified influences by different countries across the planet, is only a few hours away and ready to be discovered by the adventurous wanderer.

 

Bermuda is made up of 138 islands and islets that run east-west. Bridges connect the larger islands. The southernmost half of the region has the nicest beaches, and the majority of the islands are made up of low hills and complicated rivers. The capital is Hamilton, which is located in Pembroke Parish, while St. George is the historical capital and the oldest surviving English New World settlement.

The island country’s climate is subtropical, with hot and humid springs, summers, and autumns, but moderate winters. During the winter, water temperatures are also relatively low. Like the southern coast of the United States, the Gulf Stream keeps water temperatures higher than you may think.

As you step off the airport or cruise ship onto Bermuda’s beaches, a sensation of joy washes over you. Bermuda’s bright pink and yellow buildings with white roofs, tranquil blue waters, friendly people, and beautiful year-round weather are just a few characteristics that will make your visit even more enjoyable and leave you wanting to return.

Your experience is heightened even further with top-tier resorts in the capital city of Hamilton and on the island’s most recognized stretch of beach in Southampton. If you grow weary of sunbathing next to infinity pools and being treated at exquisite spas, there are plenty of golfing and aquatic sports to choose from.

Bermuda is arguably best known for the inexplicable disappearances and odd storms that resulted in the still-existing no-fly zone! While the jury is still out on the truth, we do know that this little archipelago in the midst of the Atlantic is unlike any other in terms of beauty, people, and culture.

Whether you have seven days to spend or only three or five, this Bermuda guide and itinerary offer everything you need to make your stay the best it can be.

Top Places in Bermuda

The Royal Naval Dockyard

The Royal Naval Dockyard in Bermuda houses a significant cruise ship port as well as a variety of attractions like shopping, dining, craft studios, and entertainment, all housed in 18th-century naval structures. The Dockyard is also home to the National Bermuda Museum, which is housed within the fort’s body. Visitors may also go to adjacent Snorkel Park Beach, which has a white sandy beach, a restaurant and bar, and water sports.

Crystal and Fantasy Caves

Bermuda’s Crystal and Fantasy Caves are among the most famous tourist attractions. Visitors may walk on floating pontoons viewing the subterranean pools’ crystal-clear, blue waters. The caves are thought to have formed during the Pleistocene Ice Age 1.6 million years ago. Take in the spectacular rock formations of the soaring stalagmites rising from deep within the lake and limestone icicles falling from the ceiling like frozen waterfalls as you make your way into the caves.

St. Peter’s Church

Bermuda’s St. Peter’s Church was erected in 1612 and is the oldest Anglican church in continuous use in the Western Hemisphere. Part of the St. George UNESCO World Heritage Site, an 18th-century throne recovered from a shipwreck as well as communion silver dating from the 1600s are on display. The western addition of the church is currently a station on the African Diaspora Past Trail, which retraces Bermudians of African ancestry’s rich heritage and culture.

St. George’s Island forts

Bermuda was fortified with a succession of forts, particularly in St. George. The spectacular, fully restored Fort St. Catherine includes a collection of dioramas portraying Bermuda’s rich history. Alexandra Battery, which dates from 1840, is located nearby and overlooks Building Bay Beach, famed for its brilliant sea glass.

Horseshoe Bay Beach

Southampton Parish on Bermuda’s South Shore is one of the world’s best beaches. Horseshoe Bay Beach is a crescent-shaped blush-pink sand beach surrounded by beautiful rock formations. During the peak season, from May to September, lifeguards patrol the beach. Beach walkways connect Chaplins Bay, Stonehole Bay, and other adjacent beaches. Change rooms and equipment rentals are available along the coastline.

5-day Itinerary in Bermuda (with extension options)

Day 1

 

Arrive at Southampton

You’ve finally arrived in Bermuda, and the first thing you want to see is… the beach, of course! Bermuda is well-known for its turquoise seas and strangely pink beaches. The only issue is that during the summer, some of Bermuda’s nicest beaches can get overcrowded. If you wish to avoid the swarms of sun-kissed Americans, have no fear: there is plenty of beach to go around.

Among the things to do in Bermuda for the ultimate beach day starts with a stroll along Horseshoe Bay. When you have had your fill of the different shades of blues and sun kissed enough go on a picnic to Jobson’s Cove.

Head to Warwick Long Bay which is a great place to unwind then from Gibb’s Hill Lighthouse, you can see the entire island with one of the best views you’ll witness.

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From the Airport to your accommodation

By Train

 

By Bus

 

By Metro

 

Day 2

 

A Trip in the Old Days

To enjoy the entire experience of this unusual tiny archipelago, make time to visit its still-existing original settlement, St. George’s. This little village is renowned as the Western Hemisphere’s oldest continually populated community. St. George is a must-see for all visitors because of its history, churches, cobblestoned streets, and charming cottages.

Activities to do in St. George, Bermuda includes going to the town plaza, where you can watch a historical reenactment of the area’s past.

You can also then Visit art galleries and museums in the area. When you’re done have lunch at the famous White Horse Tavern.

After lunch, walk up to the incomplete church. Afterward, head to Fort St. Catherine’s and Tobacco Bay.

If you are lodging elsewhere on the island, the best method to get here is via ferry. Take the swift boat from Hamilton in the morning and you’ll arrive right in the heart of town, in King’s Square, in time for the famed historical reenactment that happens every day at noon. Curve your way through narrow alleyways and past UNESCO world heritage sites like St. Peter’s Church, the oldest in the Western hemisphere. It’s preferable to get lost on these routes on your own. You never know what you might find.

Day 3

 

Adventure Time

You cannot visit Bermuda without participating on a snorkeling or scuba diving tour. Bermuda’s sophisticated reef system has not only kept its borders from washing away for thousands of years, but it has also captured numerous ships—between 250 and 400, to be exact—in its chops. This results in some absolutely spectacular snorkeling and scuba diving experiences.

Snorkeling trips are available through many providers, which most depart from the Hamilton Princess marina at 10 a.m. or the Fairmont Southampton pier at 10:15 a.m. The snorkel trip visits two separate locations: a shipwreck and a world-famous coral reef. Price: $89 per person for 2.5 – 3 hours.

After you’ve been safely brought to land, take the bus or the boat to Dockyard. If you’re taking the bus, request that the driver drop you off at Sea Glass Beach. This secluded nook is well-known on the island for being covered in – you guessed it – sea glass. It’s ideal for little keepsakes, but it’s notoriously difficult to locate. Fortunately, Bermudians are quite nice and will even accompany you to the beach if you can’t find it.

Once you’ve collected all the sea glass you can carry, walk or take the bus to Dockyard. This ancient coastal hamlet serves as a hub for sightseeing, shopping, eating, entertainment, and a variety of other exciting activities. We recommend going by the Clocktower Mall to buy souvenirs and ice cream from Haagen Dasz. From there, visit sights like Bermuda Glassblowers, where you can see artists create beautiful artworks in real-time.

You can end the day however you want. Maybe stroll around and find a place to dine, then head back to your accommodation to prepare for your next day.

Day 4

 

Boat around Cambridge Beaches

Once you’re on the western side of the island, we recommend Somerset Bridge Watersports for boat rentals. This is best reached by bus or personal transportation. Prices start at $100 for 2 hours and up to $280 for 8 hours.

Make it your goal to see the caverns that encircle Cambridge Beaches Resort now that you have your own boat to explore the island with. This is one of the island’s calmest, purest sections of water, and there are lots of little beaches to call your own for the day. Keep an eye out for turtles; this region has a thriving sea turtle population.

Lunch at Breezes restaurant is one of the nicest things to do in Bermuda if you have your own a boat. This restaurant is located on the backside of the Cambridge Beaches resort, in a large bay that is frequently crowded with residents in their boats, laughing and enjoying the quiet, blue seas. When you become hungry, simply stroll up to the restaurant from the lake and you’ll be seated right away. If you’d rather go out to supper, make a reservation and return after you’ve returned your boat. It’s a fantastic place to view the sunset since you can practically see the sun sink into the water while sipping your chilled drinks.

When you’re ready to return to the water, head west into the open ocean to visit the Vixen, Bermuda’s sole out-of-water ship disaster. This boat is now a fish sanctuary, although it was initially sunk to safeguard Dockyard from any potential military attacks during the Revolutionary War.

Days 5

 

A Day off the Beaches

You’ll be tired of beaches and blazing heat by day five, so why not spend the day in Bermuda’s sole city? Shop for souvenirs, visit local shops, enjoy a cup of tea, or simply drink and relax at one of the numerous pubs and restaurants on Front Street. Hamilton is conveniently accessible by all modes of transportation and provides all you need for amusement. Stop by Bermuda’s tourism hub and bar on Front Street for some more amazing activity ideas and reasonably priced beverages.

Bird Cage is a new restaurant with spectacular views of Hamilton Harbor. Drinks are moderately cheap, and the atmosphere is always upbeat. They are open 4PM to 10PM and have gone cashless.

Spend nights at the harbor. On Wednesdays during the summer, Front Street is closed to traffic and transformed into a massive street party known as Harbor Nights. If your journey overlaps with this, we strongly recommend going; it’s a peek behind the curtain of Bermuda’s lively culture and community. While eating warm doughnuts and watching Bermuda gombeys dance on the street, enjoy a flight of Bermuda rum.

Gombeys are an important part of Bermudian culture: while slave owners still existed, slaves were not allowed to dance unless they were commanded to do so in these costumes for the enjoyment of their masters. It gradually became more about rebelling than following orders, and today the custom serves as a reminder and celebration of Bermuda’s black population’s power.

Take a stroll along Front Street until you reach Pitts Bay Road and see a sign advertising the Rosedon Hotel. To arrive in time for tea, go up the hill to the front porch shortly before 4 p.m. Rosedon has been in business since 1901 and has been providing tea for nearly as long. Rosedon’s new restaurant and gardens, on the other hand, have lately pulled it into the current day, so anticipate modern flavor with a traditional touch.

Finish the evening at Hamilton Princess’ luxurious over-water bar, 1609, right across the street. While the beverages are pricey, the vistas and coastal breeze make this a must-do experience.

You may now either end your Bermuda holiday and return home or extend it by a few days. Continue reading if you wish to include additional days.

Day 6

 

On an Adventure

You’re almost at the finish of your journey! It’s the ideal time to go big. Get crazy on a jetski, drive the entire island in a day, or just put your feet up and relax on a luxury Catamaran tour.

There are a lot of Watersports and jetski offices including snorkeling programs that are ideal for adrenaline seekers desiring a remarkable adventure. It’s a little pricey, but it’s well worth it. You’ll spend two hours navigating around coral reef formations before diving into them, feeding fish at the shipwreck-turned-nature reserve The Vixen, and mooring and swimming at the famed Pompano Beach beach bar. Discover the finest of Bermuda in the most enjoyable way imaginable. Furthermore, if you do not have your own vehicle and take the boat into Dockyard, many tours operators will pay for your cab ride to their site depending on what program you signed up for of course.

 

Twizys are two-person electric vehicles. They are better for the environment and safer than mopeds, but they are also a lot of fun to operate and maneuver. One of the most affordable modes of transportation if you just have a few days and want to see as much as possible. If you rent one, you should stop by Admiralty House, made up of jagged cliffs that have become well-known around Bermuda for their adrenaline-inducing abilities with beautiful vistas.

Alternatively, get on a Catamaran and explore Bermuda. If you just have a short stay in Bermuda, this is one of the finest ways to make the most of it. Many catamaran operators will handle everything for you, from meals and beverages to all the water sports and activities you could want. Simply meet the cruise at the Dockyard pier at your preferred hour. They’ll drop you off in Dockyard, where you can take the boat back into Hamilton for drinks or stay in the neighborhood and try out one of the more local pubs.

Day 7

 

Ending it on a High Note

Bermuda has so much to offer, and this itinerary just scratches the surface. If you stick to this plan, you’ll see everything that makes this island unique, although there are lots of other things to do that we didn’t mention.

Cooper’s Island is one of Bermuda’s lesser-known yet most magnificent natural wonders. Cooper’s was a restricted base for the US military and, later, NASA until 1995. Today, you may roam among its natural beauty in perfect seclusion; during less touristic months of the year, you may find yourself the only person on Cooper’s Island at all. We recommend packing a lunch and a good book or two to last you the full day.

Without your own vehicle, Cooper’s Island is difficult to access. It is absolutely remote, and you will be unable to acquire a cab or bus once there. This is best done on a day when you have access to your own vehicle, be it a vespa, a private car, or a boat.

If you’re still feeling adventurous, head west from Cooper’s Island toward Hamilton to return to civilization. Swizzle Inn and Crystal Caves, two of Bermuda’s most popular attractions, are only over the bridge.

We recommend starting with Crystal Caves. Two adolescents discovered this unusual location by chance. These secret caverns are home to exquisite million-year-old formations known as stalactites and stalagmites, which take thousands of years to produce and resemble crystal icicles. The walkthrough is an absolutely otherworldly experience. The Crystal Caves are open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Price: $22 per person.

Then head to the zoo. The Aquarium and Zoo are easily accessible by bus or personal transportation. Bermuda’s only zoo features two open-air exhibits with free-roaming monkeys, birds, and reptiles. The zoo is well worth a visit. Finish the day by walking across the harbor to Flatt’s Village, where you can get fresh meals like poke bowls or flatbreads from the restaurant village Pantry. Bermuda Aquarium and Zoo Prices: $10 per adult $5 per child

Day 8

 

Departure Day

If you still have time early in the morning, head for your last breakfast on the island. After a great trip following this Bermuda itinerary, you can start bidding this wonderful island country farewell, if you haven’t caught a flight the day before at night. 

That said, get your things ready early in the morning and head to the streets to be able to reach the airport in time for your departure out of Bermuda.

The Most Popular Food in Bermuda

Bermuda cuisine makes use of the readily available fish. Boiled rice or black-eyed peas are common side dishes. Chowder is a popular dish among both residents and visitors. If you wish to feel the British influence, there are a few British pubs around. Restaurants near the cruise ship docks are usually the most costly, so if you want to save some money, go a little further away.

The culinary culture in this nation is as diverse as it is outstanding, so it’s no wonder that people are proud of their country’s cuisine and drink. The mainstay of Bermudian cuisine is, of course, seafood.

Chowder of Fish

If there’s a meal that defines Bermuda, it’s this — a fragrant combination of fish and spice that frequently includes potatoes, tomatoes, onions, carrots, green peppers, and celery. You could call it Bermudian gumbo. Every recipe is somewhat different, but they always use the island’s own Outerbridge’s Original Sherry Peppers and black seal rum, which give the chowder its characteristic flavor and heat.

Glasseye Snapper

The glasseye (also known as the catalufa) is a member of the bigeye family of fishes that may be found in tropical oceans all around the world. Divers like seeing colorful glasseyes on Bermuda’s reefs, and diners enjoy the fish’s buttery smooth flavor.

Lobster with Spices

From September to March, you can find spiny lobsters at practically every restaurant on the island, including Lobster Pot, Wahoo’s, and Blû, as well as grocery shops. Because this delicacy is smaller than its Maine cousin and lacks claws, the majority of the soft, flavorful flesh is located in the tail. Bermuda chefs frequently include spiny lobster into chowder, tacos, and pasta sauces, but it’s just as good with a coating of butter.

Codfish Breakfast

On Sunday mornings, people gather for a substantial codfish meal, which consists of a heaping plate of boiling or steamed salt cod with boiled potatoes, onions, sliced bananas, a hard-boiled egg, and, occasionally, avocado slices. It comes with a tomato or butter onion sauce on top. Bouchée, Paraquet, and Speciality Inn are all terrific places to try this popular brunch.

Fish Sandwich

The fish sandwich is a menu mainstay in Bermuda, from no-frills eateries to fine dining bistros. The fundamental recipe is typically the same across the island: deep-fried fish fillets with tartar sauce layered over raisin bread or whole-wheat toast. Choose the “works” option, which includes lettuce, tomato, grilled Bermuda onions, cheese, spicy sauce, and coleslaw. Art Mel’s Spicy Dicy is a hidden gem noted for serving one of Bermuda’s greatest fish sandwiches (and some say, the world).

What's the Travel Budget for Bermuda?

Final Thoughts on Bermuda

The island country of Bermuda offers a lot of history which is entangled throughout the country, with its lovely beaches and warm sun, makes it so appealing and even scenic thanks to its nature. This makes Bermuda a country worth visiting. From the reefs to the pastel buildings and creative marvels to its natural beauty and wildlife, the beauty of Bermuda is a dramatic one. Would you visit Bermuda?

Have you been to Bermuda? Let us know how your trip was in the comments below.

Cruisit Team

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