Ultimate Guide to Planning Your Dream Bermuda Vacation

Bermuda is a true island paradise. This British territory is famous for its pink-sand beaches and laid-back island vibe. A popular destination for travelers but fiercely protective of its strong sense of identity, Bermuda offers an atmosphere that is upscale, artsy, and naturally wild.

iBestTravel editors recently named the island as one of the best places to visit in 2023. Thanks to a new $400-million airport terminal, various hotel openings and renovations, including the highly anticipated The St. Regis Bermuda Resort and Cambridge Beaches Resort & Spa, and new airline routes to the island such as a direct flight from LaGuardia Airport in Queens, now is a great time to plan your trip. Visiting in early January allows you to experience the island’s film festival and restaurant weeks, while the summer months feature the vibrant music and dance of Bermuda’s Carnival.

Despite its popularity with tourists, Bermuda maintains a non-commercial vibe: tacky souvenir shops are scarce, and fast-food chains, apart from one grandfathered KFC, are absent. This North Atlantic destination, located about 900 miles north of the Caribbean islands, boasts wonderful weather year-round.

Best Hotels and Resorts

Cambridge Beaches Resort & Spa

Opened in 1923, Cambridge Beaches Resort & Spa underwent a major renovation and reopened its doors in 2022. It has been voted as one of the best new hotels of 2023. With 86 rooms featuring four private beaches, both indoor and outdoor pools, and multiple sports courts, this resort is a paradise for visitors seeking relaxation. Guests can enjoy classic island cocktails at The Sunken Harbor Club amidst treasures recovered from the sea.

The St. Regis Bermuda Resort

With its reopening in May 2021, the Marriott brand returned to Bermuda at The St. Regis Bermuda Resort. Known for “bespoke service, exquisite design, outstanding culinary venues, and the historic Five Forts Golf Course,” this resort offers a relaxing and luxurious retreat against a picturesque backdrop.

The Loren at Pink Beach

The Loren is situated on Bermuda’s East End, right on the beachfront. It is renowned for its thoughtful amenities, including a curated soundtrack that plays throughout the hotel. Developer Stephen King stated, “The Loren shows what Bermuda can be.”

Hamilton Princess & Beach Club

The five-star Hamilton Princess combines a hotel, beach club, and marina. Its iconic pink exterior has been a landmark on the island for over a century, located just a five-minute walk from downtown Hamilton.

Grotto Bay Beach Resort & Spa

Grotto Bay Beach Resort is the only hotel in Bermuda offering an all-inclusive option. Known for its inviting family-friendly atmosphere and great beach, this resort also features impressive water sports offerings. With breathtaking crystal caves covered in centuries-old formations, Grotto Bay offers an unforgettable experience for relaxation and well-being.

Best Things to Do

Crystal and Fantasy Caves

The stunning Crystal Caves are a must-see on any Bermuda itinerary. Visitors can descend underground to encounter crystal-clear pools surrounded by extraordinary stalagmites and stalactites, exploring via floating bridges. Tours are available daily without reservations.

Gibb’s Hill Lighthouse

Constructed in 1844 following a string of shipwrecks, Gibb’s Hill Lighthouse is one of the world’s few lighthouses made of cast iron. Visitors can climb its 185 steps for breathtaking panoramic views of Bermuda’s vibrant landscapes.

Horseshoe Bay Beach

Among Bermuda’s most iconic attractions, the curved Horseshoe Bay Beach is renowned for its stunning pink sands and crystal blue waters. For those eager to dive into the waters, connect with Dive Bermuda to explore underwater adventures.

African Diaspora Heritage Trail

To discover the history and contributions of Bermudians of African descent, explore the African Diaspora Heritage Trail. This path leads to sites like the National Museum of Bermuda, Bermuda Heritage Museum, Cobbs Hill Methodist Church, among various statues, sculptures, and historic locations.

Lili Bermuda Perfumery

The historic Lili Bermuda Perfumery, established in 1928, shares Bermuda’s story through scent. Visitors can enjoy complimentary tours daily (except Sundays and public holidays) at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., revealing the artistry behind perfume-making. Traditional afternoon tea is also offered on Wednesdays and Sundays (reservations required).

Best Shopping

Urban Cottage

Combining classic and modern styles, Urban Cottage is a beloved two-story boutique showcasing locally made jewelry, salvaged shipwreck items, home goods, apparel, and various accessories.

Long Story Short

This gift shop and tour center, owned by Bermudian blogger and entrepreneur Kristin White, is described as “my dope emporium of wonderment.” Focused on social progress, the African Diaspora, women’s empowerment, and environmental sustainability, it features products from authors of color, planet-friendly home goods, and local artisans like Salt Spray Soap Co with an in-house workshop.

Bermuda Craft Market

Even locals treasure the charm of the Royal Naval Dockyard Craft Market. Here, you’ll find handcrafted jewelry, local artwork, souvenirs like cigars and rum cake, and unique keepsakes. It is housed within a former warehouse built in 1831.

Best Restaurants

Bolero Brasserie

Under the guidance of chef/owner Jonny Roberts, Bolero’s offers deceptively simple yet delightful dishes. Its hidden entrance leads to a popular spot among both tourists and locals, where you can enjoy tapas, vegan options, specialty dishes, and outdoor dining.

Devil’s Isle Cafe

At Devil’s Isle, mingle with locals at this specialty coffee shop, which also features a dine-in restaurant. Serving healthy options such as house-made sourdough and pasta, it includes an outdoor terrace for patrons to enjoy.

Flanagan’s Irish Pub

Bermuda’s only traditional Irish pub, Flanagan’s serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, offering international beer selections. Its outdoor second-story patio provides beautiful views, making it a popular spot to unwind. Reservations are accepted.

The Swizzle Inn Pub and Restaurant

The oldest pub in Bermuda, The Swizzle Inn is known for its national cocktail, the rum swizzle, crafted here in the 20th century. A laid-back atmosphere and outdoor seating make it a must-visit. Reservations are not necessary.

Art Mel’s Spicy Dicy

If you’re in search of a true Bermudian meal, visit Art Mel’s Spicy Dicy, located near Hamilton. This establishment is renowned for its unique fish sandwich, which features a deep-fried fish filet served on raisin toast with tartar sauce. It’s a must-try!

Best Time to Visit

The ideal times to visit Bermuda are March and April when the weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller. Bermuda celebrates one of its most beautiful traditions during Good Friday, the Kite Festival, which brings vibrant kites to the horizon over Horseshoe Bay Beach.

The peak tourist season occurs from May to October, perfect for beach-goers and water sports enthusiasts. As local expert Rachel Sawden states, “Elbow Beach has an amazing shipwreck on its eastern side and a stunning reef on the western side, perfect for snorkeling or diving.” If you’re traveling from November to February, pack a light sweater, as temperatures can unexpectedly drop during winter.

January features Bermuda’s Restaurant Weeks and the annual Bermuda Triangle Challenge Weekend with running events for all skill levels. Harbour Nights, a popular island tradition, runs from April through early September, transforming Hamilton into a lively pedestrian-friendly block party on Wednesdays, alongside the lively Gombey dancers and Bermuda Carnival in June.

How to Get There

Bermuda is easily accessible by air or by sea. The L.F. Wade International Airport serves many major U.S. airlines, providing a fast and direct route to the island.

Bermuda is also a sought-after cruise destination, supporting itineraries from Norwegian Cruise Line, Carnival Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Disney Cruise Line, and Royal Caribbean Cruises, all docking at the island’s capital, Hamilton.

Neighborhoods to Know

Bermuda is divided into three primary regions across its 21 square miles.

East End: Home to the historic town of St. George’s, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the East End beckons visitors with its rich heritage, charming brick streets, and colonial architecture. Wandering this picturesque area, you can discover captivating natural attractions such as Tobacco Bay Beach, Tom Moore’s Jungle, the Crystal Caves, and Ferry Reach National Park.

Central Bermuda: As the island’s capital, Hamilton features a vibrant and sophisticated urban atmosphere, perfect for dining, shopping, and nightlife along Front Street. Visitors enjoy walking tours that reveal Bermuda’s storied past alongside the gorgeous streets of North Hamilton.

West End: This area is home to the Royal Naval Dockyard, a cruise ship port, and several attractions like Gibb’s Hill Lighthouse and gorgeous South Shore beaches. The West End is a lively hub for exploring, shopping, and dining.

How to Get Around

Buses: The pink-and-blue striped buses connect various areas of interest across the island, with 11 routes and 14 zones. A day pass costs $19, while transportation passes can be purchased for durations ranging from one day to three months.

Ferries: Public ferries operated by the SeaExpress Ferry Service provide a scenic way to navigate Bermuda. Departures are available from Hamilton’s Ferry Terminal, and transportation passes can be utilized for fare payment.

Taxis: Metered taxis in Bermuda offer direct transport services, and some provide hourly sightseeing tours. Download Hitch to easily book a taxi through your smartphone at any time.

Car Rentals: Due to environmental concerns, car rentals are not generally available on the island, although you can rent an electric two-seater. Keep in mind that in Bermuda, driving is on the left side, and the speed limit is capped at 21 miles per hour.

Scooters and Bicycles: Various outfitters around the island offer scooter and bicycle rentals, starting around $30 per day. Helmets are mandatory, and rental vehicles are limited to individuals aged 18 and older. For rentals, check Pedego Electric Bikes, Elbow Beach Cycles, and Oleander Cycles.