The Ultimate Bermuda Travel Guide
Located in the Atlantic Ocean, Bermuda is just a two-hour flight from New York City. Bermuda is a place like no other. Endless views that feel as if you are in a real life painting. The island is speckled with peaceful pastel colored houses with the white rooftops and a constant background of jaw dropping Atlantic blues. It brings a sense of calm that is tough to put into words.
Mark Twain said it best, “You go to heaven if you want to, I'd rather stay right here in Bermuda”.
Bermuda is home to one of the world’s best beaches, Horseshoe Bay. You will quickly find Bermudians to be some of the friendliest people in the world. Socialization is high on the priority list so making new friends can be a weekly or daily occurrence. And, of course, their famous Rum Swizzle helps.
Where is Bermuda?
Bermuda is located in the Atlantic Ocean about 600 miles east from North Carolina, USA.
This image shows Bermuda much larger that it really is. When you look on the map, you might not see it right away on the map, as the size of the island is 21 square miles.
What language is spoken in Bermuda?
Proper English. Prepare your ears for the British accent.
What money does Bermuda use?
The currency is the Bermudan Dollar and the exchange rate is 1 BMD to 1 USD.
Can you use US dollars? Sure, at times, however it is not recommended. If you are not aware, when a person uses a currency other than the countries official currency, the person accepting a foreign currency will have to stand in line at the bank for hours. Yes, hours. To convert and deposit, often they end up losing money. Find an ATM and pay in local currency.
Can you use your cell phone? If you do not have an international plan with a provider such as T-Mobile, you can purchase a local SIM card from Digicel. Before you adventure around the island, make sure the SIM is activated and working properly.
WiFi is available all over the island at most restaurants and pubs. If you do not get a SIM, turn off your cellular data + roaming and only use your phone when connected to WiFi.
In 2019, I switched to T-Mobile and have been a happy customer ever since. My phone works in every single country with no extra daily data charge such as AT&T and others. Click here to learn more about T-Mobile.
Is Bermuda safe?
Yes. Bermuda is exceptionally safe. Just like any location with high rates of tourism there are occurences of petty theft. The most common are popping the seats of scooters and unattended bags.
Follow international rules: never leave your valuables out in the open or unattended.
fun facts about Bermuda
Bermuda is not part of The Caribbean.
They drive on the left side of the road.
As a tourist, you cannot rent a car, but you can rent a scooter or an electric vehicle.
Bermudians are incredibly nice.
It's the most expensive place in the world to live.
Every building has a white roof. This is part of their water collecting system. Yes, the water is safe to drink.
Famous Bermuda beverages are Rum Swizzle and Dark n’ Stormy.
They are a UK Territory = British accent.
If you love history, you will love Bermuda.
How long should you visit Bermuda?
Even though Bermuda is only 21 square miles, it is loaded with activities for all to enjoy.
Including a extensive amount of free places to explore. You can enjoy 34 public beaches, 90 forts, and 18 miles of old railway tracks that that now serve as walking and running trails.
At a minimum, I recommend 7 days to explore the island from east to west.
Best Places to stay in Bermuda
There are countless places to stay in Bermuda. Where you choose to stay will depend on the location and budget.
You will find local homes to rent on Airbnb or VRBO. There are hotels to stay in from end to end. Note: there are no all-inclusive resorts.
Budget friendly options
Mid-range cost hotels
Grotto Bay Beach Resort & Spa is located on the water's edge in Bailey's Bay. Equipped white a sand beach, fresh water pool, jacuzzi, and limestone cave. There are many amenities onsite, including a restaurant, spa, tennis courts, boat rental, dive shop and more.
Reefs Resort Beach Resort & Club is an oceanfront resort located on the South Shore. Named #1 by Condé Nast readers and family operated, this resort is nothing less than amazing. Amenities include a full spa, restaurants, tennis courts, onsite scooter rental, infinity pool, and of course being right on the ocean they have snorkeling gear, kayaks, and all the beach chairs for you to relax.
Pompano Beach Club (pictured above) is an oceanfront hotel located on the southwest coast with a private beach and ocean views from every guest room. The amenities are loaded with pickleball, tennis courts, golf, fitness center, spa, pools, a variety of restaurants and more.
High Budget Places
Hamilton Princess (pictured above) is located right in town and coined as the iconic Pink Palace. You can dine in at one of the gourmet restaurants or explore the food town has to offer. The Princess has pools and harbour views. A few amenities such as tennis courts and the private beach are off site at their sister club located on South Shore. They are known for their incredible art collection with pieces from Banksy and Andy Warhol.
The Loren is located on a stunning pink beach with panoramic views of the endless ocean. The amenities include a full spa, yoga, two heated pools, beach, two restaurants, and a concierge service that is next level.
The St. Regis Bermuda Resort is one of the newest resorts on the island. In 2022 they took first place on the Traveler Hot list by Condé Nast. It is peacefully located on the beach next to St. Catherine's. The amenities include a full spa, golf, butler service available, afternoon tea, infinity pool, an iconic steakhouse and more.
Newstead Belmont Hills Golf Resort & Spa pictured above is located on Harbour Rd. The perfect place to relax in luxury with an infinity pool, full spa, salon, onsite restaurant, water ferry, airport transport, complimentary golf, tennis courts, and more. Newstead, my favorite, offers a fantastic Friday Happy Hour. Great vibe, music, and stunning sunsets.
Rosewood Bermuda Luxury Resort is located in Tucker's Point. Amenities include a world class spa, luxe hydrotherapy, two heated pools, many restaurants and bars, exquisite golf, tennis courts and more.
How to fly to Bermuda
Flying to Bermuda from the east coast of the Unites State is easy. Most flights are less three hours.
Flying from Bermuda to the US is just as easy. Bermuda is one of the few countries in the world where you clear US customs in Bermuda so you do not have to do it once you land in the United States.
Flights to London are about 7 hours non stop.
Transportation in Bermuda
Please know, the bus is not a reliable means of transportation. They are often on strike for days with no notice. Depending on your location you may be able to easily get around on two feet or by bicycle and e-bike. These options are more suitable for staying in St. George's.
Best Places to Eat in Bermuda
Black Rum being added to Bermuda Fish Chowder. Village Pantry
This post would be unworthy without telling you the foods Bermuda is most known for. Meals you should try are a fish sandwich, Bermuda Fish Chowder, Spiny Lobster, codfish and potatoes, and Rum Swizzle.
Cafe Ole has the best fish sandwich (imo) on the island. Every sandwich is fresh to order with quality fish. Cafe ole is located on the property of Crystal & Fantasy Caves making it a great spot to enjoy lunch after touring the historical caves. Pro-tip, order your fish sandwich on raisin bread.
Swizzle Inn is a must stop location. Be sure to bring a sticker, business card, or marker to leave your mark on the wall. Great food and creative cocktails. Swizzle inn and swagger out.
A few of my favs
Sul Verde is located in Tucker's Town with the best pizza on island. The Calabrese with basil pesto will have you coming back again and again.
Beluga Bar is what sushi dreams are made of. It is a challenge to not order the entire menu.
Ascots Restaurant is a brilliant restaurant with a mouth watering wine list, and even better food. Reservations and dress code are required.
Henry VIII on a Saturday night is a must! Go for dinner and stay for the dancing!
Village Pantry is one of my favorite locations for a Saturday or Sunday breakfast/brunch.
For a complete list of recommendations click here. Bonus, all the places mentioned in this post and more are saved on a map for you.
Vegan and Vegetarian Places in Bermuda
Like most islands, Bermuda is not the most vegan or vegetarian friendly destination.
If you buy fresh produce from the store, prepare to find $18 bananas. Import fees are real. In the summer, I suggest going to the farmers markets. You can find details here.
In island fashion, you will find seafood to be the staple of menus. Such as Bermuda Fish Chowder, fish sandwiches, and fish and chips.
Since 2020, I have noticed many restaurants have created a single page offering vegetarian options. With a couple vegan options.
It doesn't seem like much, but it is a great step for an island where seafood is the foundation.
If you have never been to Bermuda before you should know that a tip (gratuity/grats) are included on the bill for you. It is usually 15-17% and it is not optional. Very few places do not do this.
Bailey's Ice Cream is a must. Located across the street from Swizzle Inn.
Top 10 Must Do in Bermuda
Unfinished Church
Fort St. Catherine's and Museum
Blue Hole Hill
Crystal & Fantasy Caves
Bermuda Aquarium Museum and Zoo
Spittal Pond | Portuguese Rock
Admiralty Park
Gibbs Lighthouse
Dockyard
National Museum of Bermuda | The Commissioners House | Dolphin Training
Highly recommend a tour with my friend, Weldon. To make things easy for you, here is the link to book online Discover Bermuda with an Exclusive Eco Adventure
Visit the town of St. George’s
The best way see St. Georges is by renting an e-bike or join a tour from Pedego Bermuda.
St. George's is the quaintest area in all of Bermuda. Filled with some of the oldest buildings on island and painted with pastels.
The Unfinished Church is a beautiful location, with a sad history, and is a UNESCO world heritage site.
It’s the popular locations for weddings. Easy to visit and close to St. Catherine's and Alexandra's Battery.
You will find another UNESCO site at St. Catherine's. It also serves as an informative museum.
See the Caves in Bermuda
Blue Hole Hill
(Free) is such an amazing spot! It can be a little tough to find without a local. Coming from the airport, it is on your left side as soon as you cross over the bridge aka The Causeway. If you hit Swizzle Inn, you've gone too far.
Cathedral Cave
(Free) is located on Grotto Bay Resort property. After you park, turn and face the building and then walk on the left side. In a two minute walk you will see a small warning sign, that is the cave entrance.
Crystal and fantasy Cave
Is an excellent way to learn about the caves and their history. Make sure to get a fish sandwich at Cafe Ole after.
Bermuda Aquarium + Zoo
This is no ordinary aquarium and zoo, yes, it is full of fish and animals but, it is so much more.
In 2026, the Bermuda Aquarium and Zoo will turn 100 years old. It is one of the oldest aquariums in the world!
They go above and beyond allowing locals and visitors to visit the animals. They offer classes, camps, and field trips for children. Each year they aid countless science research projects, ocean conservation projects, internships and scholarships for college students and more.
Spittal Pond Nature Reserve
Along with Bermuda’s famous pink sand beaches, Spittal Pond also shows off an intense pink body of water once a year. This is caused by a seasonal bloom of billions microscopic phytoplankton cells. When the waters are warm and specific nutrients are enriched, they reproduce rapidly gifting visitors and residents with an amazing sight.
Gibbs Lighthouse
It took a bit of time and argument for the lighthouse to be installed. The concerning factor were: who will pay for it, who will make it, and who will build it?
Bermudians knew how to navigate their own waters, surely they should not have to pay for it. There was a shortage of steel at the time. So, Gibbs lighthouse was build in London and shipped to Bermuda in pieces and then assembled by convicts. It is the second lighthouse to ever be made out of cast iron and it is the tallest cast iron lighthouse in the world.
Royal Navy Dockyard
Royal Naval Dockyard is a very area to spend a few hours walking around and a few more hours exploring the museum and live dolphin training.
Are you a history lover?
If yes, you must visit the Forts. You will find them all over the island and they are free. Scaur Hill Fort, Fort Hamilton, Alexandra Battery, Devonshire Fort, Ferry Island Fort and Burnt Point Fort, Fort Cunningham, Fort People, Fort William, Gates Fort, King’s Castle, Martello Tower, and St. David’s Battery.
Beaches
Bermuda is home to over 30 beautiful white sand beaches. It is a great adventure to find the pink sand and sea glass beach. Here are a few of my favorites:
Warwick Long Bay Beach is my number one favorite. It's located close to Horseshoe Bay Beach, which is known for having many tourists. Leaving Warwick Long Bay less crowded.
West Whale Bay Beach offers up a secluded feeling and it is a great spot for whale watching around Easter.
Church Bay is great to spend afternoon soaking up the sun, swimming, or snorkeling.
Clearwater, Turtle Bay, and Long Bay Beaches are all located next to one another right before Cooper's Island Nature Reserve. Beautiful beaches and during the summertime there’s a bar.
Horseshoe Bay Beach is a mustb and has often been ranked one the best beaches in the world. Peak travel times [July & August] the beach is busy.
My favorite part of Horseshoe is at the bottom left of the photo above. There is a small bay area that feels distant and private from the busy beach.
Admiralty House Park is one of my favorite spots and it has something for everyone.
You can explore the caves both above and below the ground, go cliff diving, snorkel, have a picnic, cookout, or just soak up the sun on one of the two beaches.
If you are up for a nice swim to explore, make your way around the point to deep bay. Ironically, there is a shallow area where the catamarans come in with tours.
It is a great spot to relax or have a picnic.
Bermuda by Charter Boat
There is no better way to explore an island other than being on the water. Companies I recommend:
Sail Bermuda recently merged with Native Spirit BDA and they offer private sailing charters tailored to you & your group. Sailing, snorkeling, clear kayaking, clear SUP, celebrating or relaxing. Always the best time!
Traveler Charters Bermuda offers fully customized private charters.
Including but not limited to snorkeling trips, sunset cruises, private dining, onboard massage, wedding parties, and business meetings.
Rent your own Boat
There are a few places where you can rent a motor boat or hobby cat. H20 Sports Bermuda is my favorite place to rent a boat and enjoy a full day out on the water.
If you visit Bermuda often, but are not interested to spend money or more importantly the time to buy and maintain a boat. A membership with Island Boat Club might suit you well.
Schedule your free boat trip by email membership@islandboatclub.bm or call the owner, Jack at 441-704-0186
Scuba Diving in Bermuda
When is the best time to scuba dive in Bermuda? May through September will offer the warmest water. However, November through February will have the best visability.
What can you see scuba diving Bermuda?
First you will see some of the healthiest reefs in the world.
Second, you will see many, many shipwrecks. Bermuda is commonly referred to as the shipwreck capital of the Atlantic. There are so many shipwrecks they do not know the total number.
Why? There are a couple of reasons. First, Bermuda's pristine reefs are tricky to navigate. The reef system is as far out as 16 miles from the island. Ships with an unfamiliar captain, the reef, and unsuspecting shallow waters it is the perfect combination for a crash.
Prior to the installation of the historic Gibbs Lighthouse in 1846 there was no navigational assistance available. Making the occurrence of shipwrecks frequent.
Third, intentional misdirection. During times of war it was common to intentionally misdirect ship directly to reef systems to crash the ships suspected harm.
Highly Recommended Dive Shops in Bermuda
Popular Dive Spots
Hermes Shipwreck
Hermes was built in Pennsylvania, USA in 1943 for the US Navy. While on a mission to the Cape Verde Islands the crew ran into engine troubles around Bermuda.
With help from Bermudians they learned that the cost to repair the issues exceeded the ships worth. So, it was abandoned by crew and eventually awarded to The Bermuda Divers Association. In 1985, the association modified Hermes for scuba divers to safely scuba in the wreck and placed the ship back in the ocean.
North Rock Reef
North Rock Reef is one of my all time favorites. Before the 1900's it was a land mass. Now, due to rising sea levels it is a 1000 meter radius reef system. When you scuba dive here you could easily get lost in the maze of channels and surface miles away from your starting point.
The reef is thriving with corals, sea fans and large groups of fish. This is largely due to the protection and the strict no fishing zone. The maximum depth is around 30 feet making it an excellent location for new divers.
Snorkeling in Bermuda
If you are not certified for scuba diving but would still like to explore the ocean, with over 30 beaches there are numerous places to snorkel around Bermuda. A few of my favorite snorkel spots are Church Bay where you can see giant parrotfish, Tobacco Bay, Shelly Bay,
Whale Watching
Whale Photography by James Doughty
How can you see the whales? As mentioned, you can commonly see them from Southshore. Or, if you are comfortable renting a boat and are familiar with Bermuda waters you can spend the day on the ocean as well.
Where can you see them? You can easily spot the whales breaching, blowing, and leaping out of the water comfortably from the shore. Southshore is the best location to see them from shore. There are plenty of places to stop, enjoy a lunch, and lookout for the whales.
When can you see the Humpback Whales? The months of January through April is when you can see the Humpback Whales. The best time of year to see them is around Easter.
What bring the whales to Bermuda? The warm currents and clear blue waters make it an ideal migration pattern for them.
In the miid 1600's, whales were hunted and killed. It wasn't until the 1700's that whales became a source of income for Bermudians. Each adult whale holds the potential to yield up to one thousand gallons of oil. You can still see the whaling station on Smith's island today.
Are there other whales in Bermuda? A few hundred years ago, it was common to see right whales, orcas, sperm whales, and humpbacks.
Now, you will only see humpbacks. It is important to note that all whales within 200 miles of Bermuda are protected.
That concludes my ultimate travel guide to Bermuda. Each section of this guide has a dedicated post with even more details. You can read more on my Bermuda Page.
My first solo international trip was to Bermuda. Each year, I return for a few months to see friends, many who are now family.
With each trip back to Bermuda, I will continue to update information for you.
Enjoy your trip!
xoxo, Ash