Of course you’re going to Bermuda for the beaches. But there’s much more to do on this tiny island in the Atlantic Ocean than plonk yourself on the sand.
While Bermuda is not part of the Caribbean, it shares the same history of colonial influences, pirate outlaws, and distilling rum, along with a similarly fascinating hinterland tucked away behind the palm trees and golden sand.
Whether you’re looking for a low-key getaway, an active island adventure, or a deep dive into history, here are nine things to do to break up those beach days in Bermuda.
1. Drink Bermudian Rum
The official rum of Bermuda is Goslings, especially known for its use in the island’s signature drink, the Dark and Stormy (a mix of Goslings rum, ginger beer, and lime) as well as the unofficial national drink, the rum swizzle (three types of Goslings rum and fruit juices mixed into a potent punch).
Even if rum isn’t your favorite spirit, Bermuda all but begs you to try one of these classics, which you’ll find at most island pubs and hotel bars. Seek out rum-based cocktails near Castle Harbour at the historic Swizzle Inn, named after the house punch. For delightful cocktails with a view, try beachside bars at Tobacco Bay and Achilles’ Bay.
2. Eat a Fish Sandwich
While you may have tasted a fish sandwich before, it wasn’t a true Bermudian fish sandwich. Fresh catch of the day (usually a white, flaky fish like snapper, wahoo, or mahi-mahi) is fried and stacked between slices of raisin bread slathered with tartar sauce and hot sauce.
Locals recommend asking for the sandwich with “the works” – typically lettuce, tomato, onion, plus extra tartar sauce on the side. The combination may sound a bit much, but you won’t regret experiencing a Bermuda fish sandwich at least once.
Planning tip: Find fine fish sandwiches at hole-in-the-wall cafes, like Hamilton’s Art Mel’s Spicy Dicy and the north shore’s SeaSide Grill.
3. View the Island from the Water
Cruising away from the jagged coast on a boat trip will allow you to appreciate Bermuda’s size and topography from a new angle. The view from the water is reminiscent of the landscape that once greeted pirates, smugglers, and Royal Navy sailors who pursued them.
Whether it’s summertime’s “raft-up” regatta with locals, lubricated with plenty of homemade rum swizzles, or an off-season cruise enjoying moderate winter temperatures, boating is never a bad idea while visiting Bermuda.
If you’re looking for independent travel options, consider renting a boat or jet ski, going kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding around the bays, or hopping on a ferry for a budget-friendly cruise around the island’s perimeter.
4. Soak Up History in Bermuda’s Forts
Due to its strategic location in the middle of the Atlantic, the island constructed numerous fortifications over the years to protect itself. Today, the forts provide a glimpse into Bermuda’s history dating back to the early 1600s when the island was first settled.
You won’t have to travel far to find a fort; they’re situated throughout the island. Popular options include Fort Scaur, Fort Hamilton, Fort St Catherine, and the massive Royal Naval Dockyard.
Planning tip: Most forts can be explored for free, although on-site museums, such as at Fort St Catherine, may charge a small entry fee.
5. Explore Reefs and Wrecks with a Mask and Snorkel
Just below the surface of Bermuda’s jewel-blue waters, shallow coral reefs provide a stunning underwater show featuring a diverse cast of marine life, from parrotfish to visiting turtles.
If you’re looking for a short excursion, rent snorkeling gear and head to Church Bay for quality snorkeling right off the beach. Prefer a full day? Try a snorkeling tour with local operators. If you’d rather not dive in, many areas offer views of the underwater world without getting wet.
For something truly unique, Hartley’s Helmet Diving allows you to walk under the sea about two miles offshore, wearing a helmet with a pumped-in air supply.
6. Take Part in the Island’s Sporting Scene
No matter what time of year you visit Bermuda, there’s always an exciting sporting event taking place. From golf, the island boasts the highest concentration of golf courses in the world, to summer’s Cup Match cricket tournament and the annual World Rugby Classic each autumn, Bermuda’s sports scene reflects its Commonwealth roots.
7. Dine by the Sea
From elegant venues overlooking the harbor to beachfront bars where you can dine with your toes in the sand, visitors will find plenty of waterfront restaurants serving delightful meals with stunning views.
You can also create your own alfresco dining experience by bringing a picnic to the beach. Jobson’s Cove off Warwick Long Bay offers a tranquil setting for enjoying a romantic sunset meal or casual dining.
8. Walk the Railway Trail
The Railway Trail extends from one end of the island to the other, offering miles of peaceful walking with sweeping views of turquoise waters. It’s a great way to explore another side of Bermuda’s natural beauty beyond the sandy beaches.
This scenic path, once a railway, encourages walking through undisturbed sections of rocky coastline and views of the horizon beyond.
Planning tip: Access the Railway Trail from either the Somerset or St George’s end and ensure to stay hydrated during summer walks.
9. Don’t Forget the Obvious: Hit the Beach!
While it may seem obvious, it’s impossible to overlook this Bermuda must-do. With more than 30 idyllic beaches scattered around just 64 miles of coastline, visitors can expect easy access to fine white sands dotted with rosy coral wherever they stay.
A drive along the South Shore leads to postcard-perfect beaches, such as Warwick Long Bay and Horseshoe Bay. For a more local scene, visit Cooper’s Island Nature Reserve for solitude among the beauty of Bermuda’s nature.
