Bermuda Travel Guide for First-Time Visitors
How to Plan Your First Trip to Bermuda
Honestly, we never really considered making the trip out to Bermuda until recently, but we are so glad we made the spontaneous decision to go. The archipelago has more to offer than we could’ve ever imagined. We cannot believe it’s taken us this long to get to this gem in the middle of the Atlantic. For travelers wondering if Bermuda is a good place to visit, we can confirm it’s one of the best places to go for an island getaway.
Bermuda is unexpected, underrated, and extraordinary. Once we had spent just 24 hours there, Bermuda already had our hearts! We were amazed at the crystal blue water and pink sand beaches scattered all over the island. We loved learning about the island's architecture, culture, and history. It was incredibly interesting to be in such a tropical place with a tradition of afternoon tea and pictures of Queen Elizabeth everywhere. If you’re asking what Bermuda is like, it’s a unique blend of Caribbean-style beauty with British charm. We only wish we had more time to take it all in, but of course, we cannot wait to get back to Bermuda one day and again cheers with a Dark and Stormy in hand.
Conveniently located in the mid-Atlantic, Bermuda is less than a two-hour flight from most East Coast gateways. Bermuda is perfect for getaways year-round.
Visiting Bermuda for the first time, the cost can be intimidating. As an isolated set of islets, Bermuda boasts itself as a luxury tourist destination. Where it asks for high dollars, it does not fall short of delivering a quality vacation you’ll never forget. This is a destination you’ll want to pull all the stops for, which is why we recommend planning your trip well in advance and opting to stay at a hotel or resort that will have everything you need to make it the trip of your dreams. For anyone building their Bermuda must-do list, splurging on the right accommodation is worth every penny.
Some days take you by surprise. After a stressful study with nursing school and dentistry, we spent the weekend in Bermuda to catch up with each other and finally take a moment to relax. It was everything we needed right now... happy to bring you along! Thanks for watching :)
Where to Stay in Bermuda
Hamilton Princess and Beach Club
The Hamilton Princess & Beach Club offers everything you could possibly need to make your vacation a truly magical experience. Overlooking the stunning deep blue waters of the breathtaking harbor of Hamilton, the Fairmont Managed Hotel is only steps away from downtown Hamilton and Bermuda’s Bacardi Headquarters. The resort is conveniently located around the corner from boutique shopping, restaurants, and all the nightlife that Hamilton has to offer visitors. For those deciding on the best part of Bermuda to stay in, Hamilton offers both convenience and luxury. Private beach shuttles run daily, 20 minutes down the coast to the shimmering, clear turquoise waters of Sinkey Bay Beach, Hamilton Princess’s private luxury beach club. Hamilton Princess & Beach Club features well-appointed guest rooms, many of which have incredible harbor views, private balconies, and marble bathrooms that would make us even blush. For unsurpassed luxury and service, reserve a room on Fairmont Gold, a luxury lifestyle offering that pampers guests with its dedicated concierge, complimentary continental breakfast, afternoon tea, and evening canapes served daily in a private lounge. Travelers looking for the best area to stay in Bermuda for both nightlife and relaxation will find this resort unbeatable.
This was our first time staying on Fairmont Gold, and we are so glad we did. The afternoon tea and evening canapes were one of the highlights of our trip. As many know, the prices to eat out in Bermuda can climb quite quickly. Having the option to enjoy a light lunch of small appetizers and snacks in the Fairmont Gold lounge within the comfort of the resort is the highest perk we could ask for. It’s almost as if the property was built to become one of those Bermuda must-see attractions that combine luxury with cultural tradition.
Best Places to Eat in Bermuda
1609
On property at the Hamilton Princess is a charming harbor-side lofted restaurant by the name of 1609, named after the historic year marked by the British ship the Sea Venture wrecking on the reef off Bermuda's shores on its way to Jamestown, Virginia. If the food isn’t impressive enough, the view of the harbor, especially during sunset, is one for the books. We enjoyed every bit of our experience at 1609, from the flawlessly twisted cocktails to the exquisite flavors of the fresh catch-of-the-day. For foodies building their Bermuda must-see list, dinner at 1609 is one of the best restaurants in Bermuda that blends culinary history with fine dining.
Choose from a Coconut Caprinha (Leblon Cachaça, Bermuda Gold Coconut, Fresh Lime) or add on a Barral Aged Rum Negroni (Goslings Black Seal, Gosling’s Amber Rum Campari, Carpano Antica Formula, Orange Slice). Our recommendations for dinner include the Lobster Carbonara, Prime NY Striploin, Pan Seared Snapper, or Seared Yellow Fin Tuna Poke. Make sure to also try the Golden Fried Shrimp as an appetizer! It’s a highlight for anyone asking, and this may be obvious but it’s worth stating that Bermuda is a nice place to visit for seafood lovers.
Crown & Anchor
Crown & Anchor has reimagined the traditional island lounge as a sleek, contemporary venue that honors the traditions of the past. This is where great food, captivating entertainment, and exceptional rum come together to celebrate the pleasures of island life. Set on the property of the Hamilton Princess, the lounge restaurant and bar hosts indoor and outdoor seating to enjoy the garden space of the resort and the view of the harbor. If you’re looking for places to go in Bermuda for dinner, Crown & Anchor combines an elevated dining experience with a luxurious atmosphere. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Crown & Anchor is also known for its Sunday roast night. We recommend trying the grilled salmon with pepperonata sauce, beer-battered red snapper and chips, and the Tenderloin with Yorkshire pudding. Dining here deserves a spot on any traveler’s Bermuda must-see attractions, especially for those who want to taste both local and international favorites.
Mad Hatters
The maddest of all restaurants in Bermuda, of course, is Mad Hatters! Self-described as “a humble haven of culinary delight in the city of Hamilton, which has earned its sterling reputation as one of the finest Bermuda restaurants. Serving cuisine which can best be described as Classic European with a Thai/North-American fusion, our set menu and daily specials are constantly changing to reflect both seasonal demand and the diversity of our talented chefs.”
The unpretentious setting still manages to balance a sense of upscale quality with classic Bermuda style. One of the best and perhaps silliest aspects of this restaurant is that all guests are encouraged to try on a hat from the many ordained on the walls of the indoor space. The hats come in all shapes, styles, and sizes, and many guests enjoy wearing silly hats throughout their meal. It’s a funny sight and adds a bit of fun to enjoy alongside delectable dishes. For travelers asking where to visit in Bermuda for both playful experiences and excellent food, Mad Hatters is a must.
Image Complimentary of Mad Hatters
Ruby Murry’s
Aside from the great seafood options available in Bermuda, there is also a variety of foreign cuisines. Ruby Murry’s serves authentic Indian dishes in one of the oldest wine cellars in Bermuda. The informal and relaxed setting does not cut any corners on flavor. Don’t underestimate the culinary abilities at Ruby Murry’s, as it may be in the mid-Atlantic, it still champions itself in mastering true Indian flair. For those creating their Bermuda attractions and things to do list, Ruby Murry’s adds a flavorful twist beyond the island’s famous seafood.
Image Complimentary of Ruby Murry’s
What to Do in Bermuda
Relax and Enjoy the Hamilton Princess Beach Club at Sinky Bay
What do travelers to Bermuda usually seek more than a peaceful day spent on the beach? Sinky Bay is a private beach owned and operated by The Hamilton Princess, providing beachside food and beverage service along with a variety of beach and water activities. Choose from kayaks, paddleboards, or snorkeling equipment and enjoy some time out on the turquoise waters. The bay is protected by a rock barrier from rougher surf, so the beach of Sinky Bay is incredibly calm and peaceful. There are plenty of beautiful fish to spot around the rocks, so enjoy the day and soak up the sun at this popular beach and lounge location. It’s one of the most relaxing sites to see in Bermuda and easily among the best places to go in Bermuda for first-time visitors.
Discover Pink Sand Beaches at Horseshoe Bay
One of the most famous parts of Bermuda amongst travelers is the island’s pink sand beaches. Named for its curved shape, Horseshoe Bay is arguably the most popular and frequented beach by tourists and visitors to Bermuda. Horseshoe Bay is trademarked by the quintessential turquoise water and pink sand beach. But what gives Horseshoe Bay its rosy shade? It’s from the colors of the coral and calcium carbonate from organisms called red foraminifera that make up the sand. For travelers asking if Bermuda is a nice place to visit, look no further than Horseshoe Bay for the real concrete proof! Horseshoe Bay is, of course, one of the top Bermuda must-see attractions.
Take the Ferry to the Royal Naval Dockyard
To see the island from a different perspective, take to the water and ride the ferry from Hamilton to the Royal Naval Dockyard. You’ll be greeted by incredible views on both sides as the ferry embarks across the harbor. The 30-minute ride is only 5 dollars each way and provides a great opportunity to explore the history around the Royal Naval Dockyard. The ferry departs Monday through Friday from Hamilton every hour and a half, running from 7:10 am to its last departure at 4:30 pm. For weekend and holiday times, as well as more detailed departure times, check out the Bermuda Ferry schedule and timetable. For anyone researching what to visit in Bermuda, this ferry trip is as much a cultural experience as it is a scenic one.
Swim in Jobson’s Cove
Jobson’s Cove is a lovely pink sand beach with lots of shady areas. Jobson’s Cove is easily one of the most popular tourist destinations in Bermuda. The water is shallow and perfect for kids to play in. The secluded area is sequestered between rocks providing lots of private nooks for couples. The cove is incredibly popular, so it’s wise to start early to get there and grab a good spot on the beach. You can reach the cove hiking from Horseshoe Bay Beach. Bring plenty of sunscreen to enjoy this beach. If the area gets too crowded, as it often does, you can continue on the path to Warwick Bay and stop to play in the waves. The cove itself is picture-perfect, and is sought after by tourists and photographers alike. The lagoon is bright turquoise and is perfect for snorkeling and spotting Parrot Fish.
As one of Bermuda’s tiniest but most beautiful beaches, you won’t be disappointed making the stop to see this gem.
Image Courtesy of Travel & Leisure
Join the Adventure!
Come Along for Another Trip!
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