Experience Bermuda: Uncover the Best Things to Do
Though many people think Bermuda lies in the Caribbean, this cluster of islands actually sits less than 700 miles off the coast of North Carolina in the Atlantic Ocean. Just a short 3-hour flight from several travel hubs on the east coast, this self-governing British Overseas Territory makes a great vacation spot thanks to temperatures ranging from the mid-60s in the winter to the mid-80s in the summer. No rainy season means you have a wide variety of things to do in Bermuda in every season.
01 Summer Street Party in Hamilton
During the summer months, head to the lively, colorful capital city of Hamilton on Wednesday nights to enjoy the weekly Harbour Nights street party. Officials shut down the main thoroughfare, Front Street, between 7 and 10 p.m. and stop all vehicle traffic so visitors to this harbor city in Central Bermuda can explore the artisan shops and eateries. While you're there, chow down on street food, take in cultural performances, and dance and mingle with fellow travelers and locals alike.
02 Flyboarding on the West End
The turquoise-blue waters off the coast of Bermuda make the archipelago a haven for sports enthusiasts who want to jet ski, snorkel, and paddleboard. One of the newer water sports sensations here, however, is flyboarding, and it's taken off as a fun competitive sport in recent years. It starts with strapping boots with jet nozzles to riders' feet, then attaching a long hose to a jet ski. Water pumps through the hose to the jet nozzles, which propels riders into the air by using the thrust of the water jets. Riders can fly, perform acrobatic moves, or dive in and out of the water dolphin-style. Visit Coconut Rockets on the West End of the island, the first flyboarding outfit in Bermuda, to try out this fast-growing sport for yourself.
03 The Royal Navy Dockyard
From 1809 until 1951, the Royal Navy Dockyard served as a military port for England. Today, the stone buildings and wharves instead house art galleries, shops, craft markets, restaurants, and entertainment options. The Dockyard's National Museum of Bermuda Military provides a fascinating look at history by displaying over 500 years of maritime artifacts. The museum houses a treasure trove of historic and cultural stories of Bermuda, including its role in Transatlantic slavery and as a penal colony for English and Irish convicts. As a bonus, the Dolphin Quest sanctuary sits right outside of the dockyard walls, giving visitors options to touch or swim with the dolphins.
04 Spittal Pond Nature Reserve
A haven for wildlife and an important rocky shore habitat, the Spittal Pond Nature Reserve near Smith's Parish is one of the natural wonders of Bermuda. Enjoy 64 acres of a diverse landscape featuring an array of bird species and plant life. While here, be sure to check out the unique geological rock formation called "The Checkerboard." Over time, weather and water eroded cracks and joints into this large, flat slab of limestone, leaving behind a rare geological formation that takes on the appearance of a checkerboard. Clearly marked hiking trails enable a pleasant hike through the reserve, and leashed pets are welcome.
05 Go Underground
Natural wonders that sit far below the surface earn a place on the list of top things to do in Bermuda, including the Crystal Cave and the Fantasy Cave. These underground geological attractions in Hamilton Parish are popular tourist destinations, and the unique rock formations, underground pools, and rare chandelier clusters are just as exciting for both amateur and professional spelunkers. Certified cave guides offer tours of one or both the caves, which maintain a cool 50-degree temperature year-round. Try one of the evening lantern tours offered during the summer months.
06 Horseshoe Bay Beach
Travel experts rank Horseshoe Bay Beach as one of the top 20 beaches in the world. The picturesque shoreline also makes this popular beach with soft pink sand and clear blue water one of the most photographed. Try visiting in the early mornings to avoid crowds between May and October, the height of the tourist season. Alternatively, stroll down to Horseshoe Bay's second beach, Port Royal Cove. Families enjoy this area because of its calm, shallow waters. A large rock formation separates the two beaches, and if you're feeling adventurous, you can climb to the top of it for a panoramic view of the area.
07 Culinary Fare
Don't expect to find a fast-food franchise in Bermuda — the "Prohibited Restaurant Act" forbids foreign fast-food chains on the island. Officials allow only one KFC to continue operation because it opened before the law was in place. But with all the delicious local delicacies across the island, who needs fast food? Bermuda's international-style cuisine showcases Caribbean, British, West African, Native American, and Portuguese influences. The codfish breakfast, featuring boiled or steamed salt cod, onions, boiled potatoes, sliced bananas, and a boiled egg, is a Sunday morning staple. Don't miss the famous fish sandwich at Art Mel's Spicy Dicy in Hamilton. For more elegant fare, visit the award-winning Waterlot Inn, a dockside steakhouse in Southampton.
08 Tobacco Bay
Just a short distance from St. George is the public Tobacco Bay Beach, featuring limestone rock formations, and shallow crystal blue waters perfect for snorkeling, kayaking, or paddleboarding. The rocks on this delightful beach offer a haven for the local marine life, including blue parrotfish, angelfish, and sergeant majors. After a day in the sun, head over to the family-friendly restaurant that's nearby or grab a cocktail. You can also attend Tobacco Bay's Bonfire and Bohemia, a beach party featuring live music every evening during the summer months.
09 The Bermuda Perfumery
The perfume tradition in St. George's Parish dates back to 1928, and today, master perfumer Isabelle Ramsay-Brackstone carries on the tradition, creating Bermuda-inspired fragrances. Housed in historic Stewart Hall, the Bermuda Perfumery offers tours where you can learn about the process of creating, bottling, and aging perfumes. Sign up for a workshop, and work with Isabelle to create your own signature scent. Afterward, enjoy a pastry, scone, or cake and traditional tea at Sweet P's High Tea, also in Stewart Hall.
10 Sailing and Boating
The calm waters surrounding Bermuda are perfect for sailors and those who love cruising across the ocean. From March through July each year, Bermuda hosts several sailing and yachting events, including the historic Newport Bermuda Race. Explore the waters surrounding the island on one of the many sightseeing cruises available, or take a sunset cruise for a more romantic ambiance. Glass-bottomed catamarans offer unique and thrilling views of marine life, coral reefs, and shipwreck sites. Local sailing companies also offer lessons for those seeking more than just a relaxing boat ride.
11 Jet ski tour from South Hampton experience
Skim across Bermuda's azure waters on a jet ski tour from South Hampton. This high-octane adventure offers a unique perspective of the island's coastline, revealing hidden coves and secluded beaches. As you zip around the harbor and outer islands, you can also get a glimpse of Bermuda's multimillion-dollar mansions and the historic H.M.S. Vixen shipwreck. Don't forget to feed the fish that flock to the jet skis, eager for a nibble of bread.
12 World’s smallest drawbridge: Somerset Bridge
Featured on the Bermuda dollar and dating back to 1620, the Somerset Bridge stands as a symbol of the island and a testament to its quaint charm. This bridge holds the title of the world's smallest working drawbridge, with its tiny 32-inch gap that's just big enough to allow a sailboat's mast to pass through. A visit to this charming attraction is a must for any traveler.
13 Tour a tall ship in Saint George
Step back in time and explore a life-size replica of the 17th-century ship "Deliverance" in Saint George. Known as "The Ship that Saved America," it brought vital supplies to the colony at Jamestown, Virginia, in 1610. A tour of this tall ship offers a fascinating insight into Bermuda's maritime history and the island's role in the early days of the New World.
14 Unfinished church in Saint George
The Unfinished Church in Saint George offers a hauntingly beautiful site. Its Gothic architecture, left incomplete due to funding problems and hurricanes, serves as a testament to the island's resilience. Visitors can explore the ruins for free, wandering among the stone arches and imagining what might have been.
15 Cathedral of the Most Holy Trinity
Towering over the city of Hamilton, the Cathedral of the Most Holy Trinity beckons those curious about Bermuda's religious heritage. Visitors can climb the 155-step tower for panoramic views of Hamilton Harbour. Inside, the cathedral's stained glass windows and intricate woodwork showcase the island's commitment to craftsmanship.
16 Front Street in Hamilton
The vibrant heart of Bermuda's capital, Front Street, is a bustling hub of activity. Colonial buildings painted in pastel hues line the street, while the sparkling harbor provides a stunning backdrop. Here, visitors can shop for unique trinkets, dine at local eateries, and soak up the lively atmosphere.
17 John Smith Bay Beach
Named after Captain John Smith, this beautiful pink sand beach is a hidden gem. You can snorkel here right offshore, and the beach is also a popular spot for diving, especially at night. The secluded location makes John Smith Bay Beach perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat.
18 Sea Glass Beach in Hamilton
A unique beachfront where colorful sea glass has washed upon the shore, Sea Glass Beach in Hamilton has its beginnings in a glass-making factory that once operated nearby. Visitors to the glassy waterfront are reminded to leave the glass behind for future generations to admire.
19 Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute
Dive into the mysteries of the deep at the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute. With interactive exhibits on everything from shipwrecks to marine conservation, the institute offers a fascinating insight into the world beneath the waves. Don't miss the virtual reality dive experience, which takes you on a journey through Bermuda's stunning underwater landscapes.
20 Bermuda Aquarium, Museum and Zoo
A triple threat of entertainment, the Bermuda Aquarium, Museum, and Zoo offers a day of fun for the whole family. Marvel at the colorful marine life in the aquarium, learn about the island's natural history in the museum and meet a variety of animals at the zoo. From playful seals to exotic birds, there's something here to delight every animal lover. The facility's commitment to conservation and education makes it a must-visit for anyone interested in Bermuda's diverse ecosystems.
21 Bermuda's railway trail
Discover the heart of Bermuda by embarking on an adventure along the Railway Trail. This scenic path, once a railway line, now offers a serene route through lush landscapes, coastal views, and historical sites. Stretching across the island, it's a perfect way for visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and tranquility of Bermuda, whether on foot or by bike. Along the way, you'll encounter hidden beaches, local wildlife, and remnants of Bermuda's past, making it an essential experience for any traveler.
22 Bermuda's art scene
Bermuda's vibrant art scene is a testament to the island's rich cultural tapestry. From the colorful streets of Hamilton to the historic lanes of St. George's, art galleries and studios dot the landscape, showcasing the work of local and international artists. A visit to the Bermuda National Gallery offers insights into the island's heritage through visual arts, while the Bermuda Arts Centre at Dockyard presents contemporary works in a variety of mediums. Art lovers will find themselves enchanted by the creativity and spirit of Bermuda's artistic community.
23 Step back in time to Bermuda's historical forts
Bermuda's strategic location in the Atlantic has endowed it with a rich military history, evident in its well-preserved forts. Fort St. Catherine, with its impressive ramparts and museum, offers a glimpse into Bermuda's colonial past. Meanwhile, Fort Hamilton, overlooking the capital city of Hamilton, provides panoramic views along with a peaceful garden setting. Exploring these historical sites not only educates visitors about Bermuda's defense history but also offers unique vantage points of the island's stunning scenery.
24 Experience the thrill of a Bermuda ghost tour
For those who enjoy a blend of history and mystery, Bermuda's ghost tours offer an intriguing night-time adventure. Stroll through the moonlit streets of St. George's or the eerie alleys of the Royal Naval Dockyard, listening to tales of haunted houses, ghostly apparitions, and Bermuda's own legends. These tours provide a captivating glimpse into the island's past, where history and folklore intertwine, ensuring an unforgettable experience.
25 Kayaking through Bermuda's mangroves
For a different perspective on Bermuda's natural beauty, take a kayaking tour through the island's mangrove forests. These tranquil waterways offer a sanctuary for wildlife and a peaceful escape from the bustling beaches. Paddle at your own pace, navigating through serene lagoons and hidden coves, all while learning about the crucial role mangroves play in Bermuda's ecosystem. This eco-friendly adventure is perfect for nature lovers and those seeking a moment of tranquility amidst the island's natural wonders.
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