Bermuda is often mistaken for being part of the Caribbean, but it’s actually a British Overseas Territory in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. This location gives it a much milder climate than its neighboring Caribbean islands.
People love Bermuda for its clear turquoise waters, pink sand beaches, and relaxed British atmosphere. The combination of rich history and stunning natural beauty makes it an exciting place to visit.
Nowadays, Bermuda is one of the top vacation destinations in the world. It offers a mix of museums, forts, world-class diving, beautiful beaches, snorkeling, fishing, golfing, and more.
If a local mentions going to the beach, they’re probably talking about Horseshoe Bay Beach in Southampton Parish. It’s the most popular beach and features silky pink sand leading into a strikingly blue ocean. There are plenty of rental facilities, change rooms, and beachside cafes. For calmer waters, check out Port Royal Cove. Other nearby beaches worth visiting include Elbow Beach, Warwick Long Bay Beach, and John Smith’s Bay, which is great for swimming and snorkeling.
St. George’s Island is where Bermuda began. The English claimed it in 1609, and today it’s the oldest continuously inhabited English settlement in the Western Hemisphere. Walking around the town reveals historic architecture with brightly painted stone buildings and charming narrow streets like Featherbed Alley. St. George’s also hosts many historical sites, including St. Peter’s Church, the oldest active Protestant church in the New World, located on Duke of York Street.
To see how the British defended Bermuda, visit the forts on St. George’s Island. These impressive sites have been recognized by UNESCO as World Heritage Sites. Notable highlights include Gates Fort from the 1620s, which offers unique ocean views, and Alexandra Battery, where you can find a small beach covered with colorful sea glass.
Bermuda’s history isn’t only on display outdoors. The National Museum of Bermuda, located at the Royal Naval Dockyard, is another must-see. This maritime museum is housed in a large fort surrounded by a picturesque moat. Crossing the drawbridge, you’ll enter one of the world’s most beautiful maritime museums, showcasing Bermuda’s history through eight historic exhibition buildings. You’ll find a wealth of artifacts from ships and battles, maritime art, and exhibits on shipbuilding, yacht racing, and whaling.
On the museum’s second floor, the 19th-century Commissioner’s House features vintage furniture and displays about Bermuda’s military history, making it feel like stepping onto the set of an old war movie. Don’t forget to explore the 16-acre grounds for panoramic island views. There’s even a playground and playhouse to entertain children. The museum is open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, with an entrance fee of $15.
Bermuda’s limestone caves have fascinated visitors since the 17th century. Today, modern infrastructure allows you to descend 120 feet below sea level to see stunning crystal formations and an underground lake. A guided tour will take you across a bridge over the lake, surrounded by stalactites and crystallized soda straws. New lighting systems enhance the beauty of these formations, making this a remarkable place to visit. The caves are open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, with an entry fee of $22.
Bermuda’s capital overlooks a beautiful harbor and is the cultural, commercial, and historical center of the island. The city boasts colorful buildings, high-end shops, great food, and art galleries to suit all tastes. Most activity happens on Front Street, bustling with cruise ships, tour boats, and ferries.
Hamilton features historical buildings dating back to the 1800s, including the Bermuda Cabinet Building, St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, St. Paul’s Church, and the Anglican Cathedral of the Most Holy Trinity. Even a quick visit is worth it to see these stunning architectural pieces frozen in time. Other attractions include the Bermuda National Gallery, which displays various artwork styles on rotation, and the Bermuda House of Assembly, the oldest Parliament in the Western Hemisphere.
For spectacular views of Bermuda, head to Gibb’s Hill Lighthouse. Built in 1844, this cast-iron lighthouse is one of the original lighthouses of its kind. Despite its modest up-close appearance, its beam can be seen by ships 40 miles away and planes from as far as 120 miles away. Climbing the 185 steps to the top is challenging but rewarding with a breathtaking 360-degree view of Bermuda’s shoreline and the Atlantic Ocean. In spring, you might even spot migrating whales.
Bermuda is a romantic and secluded destination with pink beaches, rich history, a laid-back atmosphere, and stunning scenery. It’s ideal for both short vacations and long-term stays. The island is so small you can walk from one end to the other in just seven hours. Start planning your trip to Bermuda today!