The mythical wizard Merlin once wanted to exile himself on the island of Bermuda and we can’t say we blame him. Though located in the North Atlantic Ocean, Bermuda is very much a part of Caribbean culture and is one of the best Caribbean destinations you’ll ever experience.
Whether it’s the pink sand beaches, hiking trails, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, or, of course, Carnival – there’s something in Bermuda for all ages and interests. It’s a place for everyone and a place where you’ll love your vacation so much, that it’ll be hard for you to leave.
But before you pack your bags, you want to plan ahead. You want to make sure you enjoy everything Bermuda has to offer.
Let’s explore the best things to do in Bermuda…
NUMBER ONE – Visit Horseshoe Bay Beach
There’s no shortage of beaches on Bermuda and frankly, you should visit as many as you can. But if there’s one that you can’t miss out on it’s Horseshoe Bay Beach.
Horseshoe Bay Beach is a stunning beach located in Southampton Parish and is renowned for its pristine pink sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. You can spend the day relaxing and swimming while during the evening, Horseshoe Bay Beach is the best place to watch the sunset.
One of the main things to do at Horseshoe Bay Beach is to simply relax and soak up the sun. With its picture-perfect scenery, it’s the perfect place to kick back, unwind and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Visitors can rent beach chairs and umbrellas or bring their own and set up camp for the day.
For those looking for a more active day at this beach, there are plenty of options available. Snorkeling is a popular activity, as the clear waters allow for great visibility of the colorful marine life. Visitors can also rent paddleboards or kayaks to explore the waters or go on a scenic hike along the nearby trails.
Another must-do activity at Horseshoe Bay Beach is to try the local cuisine. There are plenty of food vendors on the beach and nearby. You’ll enjoy a diverse cuisine of fresh seafood, delicious sandwiches, and plenty of water, juice, soft drinks, and you’ve got to dry the local beers and rums too.
Near the beach, there’s also the South Shore Park Trail, which is a scenic 1.5-mile trail that offers stunning views of the ocean and coastline, perfect for hiking, jogging, or cycling. Be sure to make that a part of your trip.
__________________________________________________________________________
NUMBER TWO – Visit the Royal Navy Dockyard
The Royal Navy Dockyard is located in the western end of Bermuda and is one of the most popular tourist attractions on the island. You’ll get to learn about the island’s history and maritime heritage. The Dockyard is home to a variety of attractions, including museums, art galleries, shops, restaurants, and a marina, making it a great place to spend a day exploring.
One of the top attractions at the Royal Navy Dockyard is the National Museum of Bermuda. At the museum, you’ll learn about the island’s history and culture, from its early settlement to its role in the slave trade, its naval history, and what role it plays in the world today. The museum features exhibits displaying shipwrecks, the island’s forts, and displays of traditional Bermudian boats.
Another popular attraction is the Dolphin Quest Bermuda, where visitors can swim and interact with dolphins in a natural lagoon setting. For those interested in art, the Dockyard also houses the Bermuda Arts Centre, which showcases the works of local Bermudian artists.
You can also take a stroll along the Dockyard’s waterfront, which features stunning views of the island’s turquoise waters, as well as the historic buildings that make up the complex. The Dockyard also serves as a hub for water activities, with opportunities for snorkeling, kayaking, and jet skiing.
And with all the things to explore at the Dockyard, you’ll likely get very hungry. The Royal Navy Dockyard has a range of dining options, from casual cafes to fine dining restaurants, serving up delicious seafood and traditional Bermudian dishes.
__________________________________________________________________________
NUMBER THREE – Visiting St. George’s
St. George’s is a historic town in Bermuda and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Today it has a population of 1500 residents, almost double the amount of the capital Hamilton!
St. George’s is known for its picturesque architecture, rich cultural heritage, and stunning natural beauty. St. George’s is the oldest continuously inhabited English town in the New World, and it’s filled with many historic landmarks for such a small area.
One of the top attractions in the town is St. Peter’s Church, which was completed in 1612. It’s considered one of the oldest Anglican churches in the Western Hemisphere. It’s known for its beautiful stained-glass windows and traditional Bermuda cedar woodwork.
Another must-visit attraction in the town is the Bermuda National Trust Museum. This unique museum is housed in an 18th-century building that was once belonged to a merchant. The museum features exhibits on the island’s history, culture, and heritage. It also has displays of traditional Bermudian furniture and art.
Of course, one of the best things to do in St. George’s is to simply go for a walk around the town. Visitors can take a stroll through the town’s narrow streets which are lined with colorful houses and charming shops selling local crafts and souvenirs.
The town’s main square, King’s Square has historic buildings, a statue of Admiral Sir George Somers – whom the town is named after, and picturesque views of the harbor – the perfect spot for taking photos.
For those interested in outdoor activities, St. George’s is home to several beautiful beaches, including Tobacco Bay and Achilles Bay, where visitors can swim, snorkel, or just relax in the sun. It’s a small town that packs a punch.
NUMBER FOUR – Exploring the trails, nature reserves, and crystal caves
You’ve already realized by now that Bermuda is an island with no shortage of incredible nature. Apart from the beaches, you want to explore the trails, nature reserve, and crystal caves.
The Bermuda Railway Trail is a popular attraction in Bermuda for both tourists and locals. It offers visitors a unique way to explore the island’s stunning natural beauty and historic landmarks. The trail follows the route of the former Bermuda Railway, which operated from 1931 to 1948 and connected the island’s parishes.
The trail spans 18 miles and winds through picturesque landscapes, from rugged cliffs and rocky shorelines to lush forests and charming villages. Visitors can hike or bike along the trail, taking in stunning views of the ocean and stopping to explore historic landmarks along the way, such as the Gibbs Hill Lighthouse and the old railway stations.
One of the most popular stops along the trail is the Blue Hole, a natural swimming hole located in the Walsingham Nature Reserve. The Blue Hole is a crystal-clear pool surrounded by towering cliffs and lush vegetation, offering a refreshing escape from the island’s heat and humidity. You can swim, snorkel, or simply relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
In addition to the Blue Hole, the Walsingham Nature Reserve is home to several other attractions, including the Tom Moore’s Jungle and the Crystal Caves, both of which offer unique experiences for visitors.
Tom Moore’s Jungle is a region of the nature reserve where you can walk through a lush jungle and enjoy being surrounded by greenery and seeing caves and small ponds – with clear blue waters.
The Crystal Caves is a lot more fascinating than your school geology courses. You can hire a guide to take you through the caves and they’ll show you beautiful crystals that built these caves.
_____________________________________________________________________________
NUMBER FIVE – Enjoy the Carnival celebrations
The best way to round off your trip to Bermuda is to experience the Bermuda Carnival. If you’re planning to visit Bermuda in the summer, this is a must experience!
Carnival is one of the most exciting times of the year in Bermuda and in the Caribbean as a whole. It brings together locals and tourists alike in a celebration of music, dance, and culture. The event takes place over several days and features colorful parades, vibrant costumes, and lively music. There are many events relating to Carnival suited for different preferences.
One of the main highlights of Carnival in Bermuda is the Parade of Bands. This is a colorful street parade with dancers, musicians, and performers, who move through the streets as crowds gather to watch them. The parade is led by a group of drummers known as the Gombey dancers, who wear elaborate costumes and perform traditional dances, accompanied by musicians playing drums, whistles, and other instruments.
One of the most popular events during Carnival is the Pan In The Park competition. If you know anything about Caribbean music, you know that the steel pan is one of the staple instruments. At this competition, steel pan bands from across the island compete for prizes and recognition. You’ll see local steel pan artists but even a few from other Caribbean islands joining in the competition.
Another highlight of Carnival is the J’Ouvert celebration, which takes place early in the morning before the Parade of Bands. J’Ouvert is a street party where revelers cover themselves in paint, powder, and mud. At J’Ouvert there’s plenty of drinking and dancing – this one’s just for the adults! If you love soca music, then you want to head down to J’Ouvert.
Carnival in Bermuda is also an opportunity to celebrate the island’s African heritage, with events such as the Emancipation Celebration, which marks the anniversary of the abolition of slavery in Bermuda. The event features traditional African drumming, dance, and storytelling.
We know you’ll love your trip to Bermuda. It’s a beautiful island that punches above its weight. It’s been featured in mythology for centuries and it has a rich history. It’s also modern and luxurious and is the perfect getaway to relax in the day and party at night. Whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, or group, Bermuda is waiting for you.
So, are you ready to head to Bermuda? In fact, what are you looking forward to the most?
Are you looking forward to strolling along the beaches and just relaxing on this beautiful island?
Or are you more adventurous and want to go on the hiking trails and perhaps dance at Carnival?
We’ll see you in Bermuda!