Summary
Perched amid the waves of the Atlantic Ocean approximately 1,000 kilometers from North Carolina and around 1,500 kilometers from the Caribbean, the crescent-shaped archipelago of Bermuda exists at the intersection of tropical allure and the Atlantic Hurricane Belt.
Marking a significant English colonial history, the towns of Bermuda are adorned with whitewashed cottages and occasionally feature Gothic church towers.
Numerous formidable fortresses remain from the era when Her Majesty’s Navy anchored in the region during various conflicts, although today, the marinas primarily accommodate massive cruise ships.
The beaches exemplify perfection, with breathtaking Horseshoe Bay and other segments of coral-tinged sands shining brightly along the coast.
These picturesque beaches lie beneath palm and calabash forests, or at the feet of cliffs where opulent resorts, spas, and world-class golf courses flourish.
Indeed, Bermuda is a stunning destination replete with diverse activities and attractions reflecting its unique Anglo-Caribbean heritage.
Explore this compilation of the best activities in Bermuda:
1. Wonder at the beauty of Horseshoe Bay Beach
Tucked between two rugged volcanic rock formations on the southern coast of Main Island, the gleaming golden sands of Horseshoe Bay consistently captivate visitors.
Gradually sloping down to the Atlantic Ocean, the beach is graced by soft whitecaps from dawn to dusk, occasionally exhibiting a rosy hue derived from crushed corals along the shoreline, and extends from the rolling dunes that separate it from South Road.
Recognized globally as one of the most idyllic beach locations, this destination is essential for any traveler.
Arriving early is advisable, as the area can become quite crowded, particularly during the peak summer months!
2. Sample the energy of Hamilton
Located centrally on Main Island, the charming city of Hamilton serves as the vibrant heart of Bermuda’s cultural and economic activity.
This city is also home to some of the most captivating colonial architecture found in the Caribbean and North Atlantic, including the Gothic towers and buttresses of The Cathedral of the Most Holy Trinity, reminiscent of a medieval English church within the urban landscape.
Additionally, the Bermuda National Gallery invites visitors to explore touring collections and exhibitions by local artists, while establishments like Monty’s and the Robin Hood Pub reflect the town’s British heritage with their hearty ales and traditional cuisine.
3. Hike the Railway Trail
Prior to embarking on your journey along the Railway Trail, be sure to obtain an official guide from the government offices in Hamilton. This will assist you in navigating the winding walking and biking paths that now replace the former railway line that connected St. George’s in the east to Somerset in the west.
This scenic path offers a thorough exploration of Bermuda’s natural beauty.
The trail showcases stunning coastal views, passes by the rocky bays of Coney Island, cuts through Rural Hill’s stone areas, and winds through the palm gardens of Frank’s Bay, tracing the historic route once traversed by 1930s carriages.
4. Head for a round of golf
Many consider Bermuda one of the premier golfing destinations globally. The impressive layout of the fairways and rough at Port Royal, set against the backdrop of crashing ocean waves south of Hog Bay, exemplifies this reputation.
This renowned public course is celebrated worldwide, featuring the famous 16th short hole, notably regarded as one of the most recognized par threes in the sport.
Additional options for golf enthusiasts include the Mid Ocean Club and the distinguished Belmont Hills Club located along Harbour Road.
5. Go underground at the Crystal & Fantasy Caves
Situated at the juncture of St. David’s Island and Main Island, the subterranean networks and corridors of the Crystal & Fantasy Caves represent some of Bermuda’s most remarkable natural attractions.
Formed over a span of more than 30 million years, these magnificent caverns present an opportunity for visitors to discover a plethora of underground marvels.
Visitors can explore submerged lakes and walkways in the Crystal section, adorned with quartz-laden stalactites, while the Fantasy section boasts abundant calcite formations and large boulders!
6. Enjoy the island’s best fusion food at Mad Hatters
Fusing culinary traditions from Asia, Thailand, Indochina, the Mediterranean, and the Caribbean, Mad Hatters in Hamilton has earned an esteemed reputation for its innovative and eclectic fusion cuisine.
Dinner menu features, such as spinach and arugula salads punctuated with vibrantly colored red peppers and charred barbecue flavors, reflect this culinary creativity, while mussels dressed in coconut curry pay homage to West Indian traditions.
The restaurant also boasts an extensive wine list, featuring Italian pinots alongside Argentinian reds.
7. Wander the Unfinished Church in St. George’s
Overlooking the town of St. George’s, the half-finished structure of the aptly named Unfinished Church has withstood the Atlantic winds since construction commenced in the mid-19th century.
The initial purpose was to replace the deteriorated Church of St. Peter located nearby.
However, due to a combination of financial challenges and local disputes, this intended place of worship was never completed.
Consequently, visitors can explore the apses, arches, Gothic windows, and partially constructed stone towers, experiencing an atmosphere that is both haunting and romantic while learning about the history of St. George’s Anglican community.
8. Get your fix of Bermudan history in St. George’s
In the early 17th century, Bermuda welcomed its first European settlers, comprised of shipwreck survivors from a convoy destined for Jamestown, who founded the oldest continuously inhabited colonial town with English heritage in the Americas.
That town is St. George’s, now designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its rich array of historical locations and narratives.
Visitors can wander the captivating streets of the area, exploring attractions such as the State House, Stewart Hall, and the picturesque King’s Square, where regular reenactments bring historical tales to life.
9. 400 years of worship at St. Peter’s Church
Cultural and historical enthusiasts visiting Bermuda should take particular note of the modest white and gray facade of St. Peter’s Church, situated at the heart of historic St. George’s Parish.
This church, over 400 years old, is recognized as the oldest Anglican church outside Great Britain and continues to serve the local community. Visitors can admire the beautiful interior adorned with exposed wooden beams and plaques honoring the accomplishments of community members, while the gnarled cedar in the adjacent graveyard has weathered numerous storms and hurricanes over the centuries!
10. Tour the Royal Naval Dockyard
Situated at the westernmost tip of Bermuda, where the cliffs of Somerset meet the Atlantic Ocean, the Royal Naval Dockyard stands as a testament to historical military strength.
Historically fortified, this site was a pivotal base for British military operations in the region, playing crucial roles during the War of 1812 and World War II.
Today, the dockyard has been revitalized into an area alive with historical significance, featuring restored fortifications that now house shops, eateries, and serve as berths for the grand cruise ships visiting Bermuda year-round.
The area also includes craft markets, art centers, and watersport providers!
11. Shipwrecks and slavery at the National Museum of Bermuda
With an annual visitation of approximately 50,000, the National Museum of Bermuda stands as the island’s predominant heritage center.
This patronage is well-deserved, given that its permanent exhibits are teeming with intriguing artifacts and narratives related to the archipelago’s history.
Discover collections of jewelry salvaged from shipwrecks, historical currency, photographic tributes to the endemic Bermuda longtail bird, and comprehensive accounts of World War II conflicts and the capture of German U-boats – the range of exhibits is extensive!
12. Enjoy afternoon tea under the Gibb’s Hill Lighthouse
Radiating in brilliant white hues on Main Island, Gibb’s Hill Lighthouse is among Bermuda’s most iconic landmarks.
Constructed in 1846, the lighthouse was designed to crown one of the archipelago’s highest points.
Notable for its cast iron construction—a legacy of the pre-industrial era—the lighthouse requires visitors to ascend 185 steps to reach the summit, offering breathtaking views of the Bermudian coastline.
At the tower’s base, guests will find the charming Lighthouse Tea Rooms, where afternoon tea perfectly complements the stunning scenery!
13. Kick-back on pink sands at Elbow Beach
Characterized by Bermuda’s distinctive pink sands, Elbow Beach runs along the southern perimeter of Paget Parish.
The beach is flanked by the Coral Beach Tennis Clubs and several delightful cocktail bars, while an array of sea-blue umbrellas and deck chairs, as well as swaying palm trees and nearby cabanas, provide ample opportunities for sunbathing or relaxation.
The beach also features Bermuda’s iconic turquoise waters and rocky cliffs encircling the cove, making Elbow Beach a worthy contender compared to the renowned Horseshoe Bay!
14. Go off-the-beaten-track to Tom Moore’s Jungle
Tom Moore’s Jungle, also recognized as the Walsingham Nature Reserve, is a captivating expanse of untamed wilderness located atop the cliffs between Harrington Sound and Castle Harbour.
This area, spanning 12 acres, features dense calabash groves and twisted tree trunks, interspersed with a network of mud paths inviting visitors to immerse themselves in this shadowy woodland away from urban surroundings.
The name pays homage to Thomas Moore, a renowned Irish poet believed to have written many verses in this tranquil setting.
15. Ales and hearty meals in Flanagan’s Irish Pub
Located on Front Street in the heart of downtown Hamilton, this vibrant and inviting Irish pub has gained legendary status among the city’s establishments.
Founded in 1988 by an adventurous native of Ireland, this venue is celebrated for its wide selection of international and Irish beers and ales, alongside an extensive menu of satisfying pub fare, including deep-fried wings, crab bites, and burgers. Its lively atmosphere features spirited sports viewings, particularly during cricket matches!
