Discover Paradise in Breathtaking Bermuda
If you’re looking for a tropical escape, look no further than Bermuda. This island paradise is located in the Atlantic Ocean and boasts a variety of natural wonders that make it a popular destination for tourists. It is particularly well-known for its stunning pink sand beaches, crystal-clear water, and breathtaking landscapes, as well as its rich history and friendly locals. Whether you’re interested in exploring the island’s historic town of St. George, or trying your hand at cave swimming, diving, or golfing, there’s no shortage of activities to keep you entertained during your visit.
Generally, the best time to visit is from April to October, which is considered the high season. The weather is warm and sunny during this time, and there are cultural and outdoor activities available. The low season runs from November to March, and while the temperatures may be cooler, there are fewer crowds and, typically, lower prices. Keep in mind that hurricane season runs from June to November, so it's important to keep an eye on weather forecasts if planning a trip during this time.
The Beaches
Bermuda’s beaches are some of the most beautiful in the world and offer a range of experiences from serene and tranquil to lively and active. Here are some of the top beaches to visit:
- Horseshoe Bay Beach - Considered one of the most iconic beaches in Bermuda, Horseshoe Bay Beach mesmerizes visitors with its pink sand, turquoise waters, and rocky coves. It's located in Southampton Parish, and it's perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.
- Elbow Beach - This beach is in Paget Parish, and it's known for its long stretch of pink sand and crystal-clear waters. It's an excellent spot for surfing, paddleboarding, and kayaking.
- Warwick Long Bay Beach - a quiet beach located in Warwick Parish. It features pink sand, limestone cliffs, and a few rocky coves. It's a great spot for swimming, snorkeling, and long walks along the shore.
- Tobacco Bay - a small, sheltered beach located in St. George's Parish. It features clear, tranquil waters, coral reefs, and plenty of marine life. It's an excellent spot for snorkeling.
- Jobson’s Cove – tucked away between towering cliffs, this secluded cove is located next to Warwick Long Bay Beach. This hidden gem is small, but breathtaking with soft turquoise water. It is great for relaxing on its pink sand and swimming in its refreshing water.
- Cooper's Island Nature Reserve Beach - Cooper's Island is an uninhabited island located in St. George's Parish. It features two beaches, one on the east side, and one on the west side. The beaches are surrounded by rugged cliffs, and they're an excellent spot for hiking, wildlife-spotting, and swimming.
The Town of St. George’s
Exploring St. George's is an exceptional way to immerse yourself in the rich history and allure of the island. As you venture along the northeastern coast of Bermuda, you'll discover that St. George's holds the prestigious title of a UNESCO World Heritage Site and stands as the oldest continuously inhabited English settlement in the New World. The town boasts magnificent architecture, significant landmarks, a picturesque marina, and awe-inspiring vistas of the surrounding coastline. When embarking on your tour of St. George's, make sure to include these must-visit attractions: King's Square, the Unfinished Church, St. Catherine's Fort, St. Peter's Church, and Tobacco Bay Beach.
And when your journey through this captivating town has triggered your appetite, indulge yourself at Wahoo's Restaurant for a delightful assortment of freshly caught fish and seafood entrees, accompanied by a refreshing Rum Swizzle (Bermuda's official drink), all while enjoying a splendid waterfront view.
The Snorkeling and Diving
Bermuda offers incredible opportunities for snorkeling and diving due to its shipwrecks and diverse marine life.
It is known as a paradise for diving enthusiasts, attracting adventurers from all over the world. The shipwrecks that lie beneath the surface of the water provide a captivating glimpse into history and offer an extraordinary diving experience. From the hauntingly beautiful wreck of the HMS Vixen, an 18th century British warship, to the breathtaking sight of the Mary Celestia, a Civil War blockade runner, each dive promises an unforgettable journey into the past.
For snorkeling enthusiasts, Bermuda promises an exciting snorkeling experience. One of the best beaches for snorkeling is Horseshoe Bay Beach. Snorkelers can dive into the crystal-clear ocean to witness a colorful spectrum of marine life, including vibrant corals, tropical fish, and even the occasional sea turtle gliding through the waters. Another must-visit beach for snorkelers is Church Bay Beach, which boasts a thriving coral reef just a few feet from the shore. Snorkelers here can witness an abundance of underwater creatures, from parrotfish to angelfish, as they navigate their way through the protected marine sanctuary.
If snorkeling or diving is not for you, yet you would love to explore the mesmerizing marine life beneath the surface while staying dry, we recommend embarking on one of the glass-bottom boat tours available on the island.
The Caves
Exploring Bermuda’s caves is an excellent way to discover the island’s geological history. The island is home to multiple underground caverns, including Crystal Cave, Fantasy Cave, and Cathedral Cave. The Crystal Caves are particularly remarkable, featuring stalactites and stalagmites that have formed over millions of years. Visitors can take guided tours inside the caves and learn about their history and formation. Guests at Grotto Bay Resort can experience cave swimming in crystal-clear and exhilarating ‘chilly’ water. Don’t miss out on this unique experience!
The Cliff-Jumping
Cliff-jumping in Bermuda is the perfect way to get the adrenaline flowing while enjoying breathtaking views of the island's coastline. Admiralty House Park offers some of the best cliffs on the island for jumping. There are a series of cliff jumps here ranging from 15 to 25 feet high, where anyone adventurous enough can jump off into the clear blue water. It is also here that you’ll find Clarence Cove, a hidden gem with a quiet beach and lagoon-like waters.
Visitors opting for cliff-jumping should always undertake necessary precautions, such as checking the water depth, wearing appropriate footwear, and having an experienced guide who knows the area.
The Golfing
Bermuda is a golfer's paradise! With nine pristine golf courses, this island nation offers world-class golf surrounded by crystal-clear blue water. Picture yourself teeing off with the crashing waves behind you - an unforgettable experience. Turtle Hill Golf Club, designed by Theodore Robinson, provides sweeping views and exciting challenges. Mid Ocean Club, designed by Charles Blair MacDonald, is recognized as one of the most beautiful courses worldwide. Tucker's Point Golf Club offers a more relaxed, scenic experience with stunning views of Castle Harbour.
When you add a round of golf to your Bermuda itinerary – it will take your breath away!
The City of Hamilton
Hamilton is a vibrant and exciting city with delicious food and shopping. Try traditional Bermudian food at Art Mel's Spicy Dicy or the Bermuda Rum Cake Company. If you're craving international cuisine, restaurants like Portofino, Little Venice, and the Thistle Inn have options. Hamilton also has charming boutiques and upscale retailers, with the main shopping district on Front Street. Take a few moments to enjoy the view of the picturesque waterfront that is lined with colorful pastel buildings.
Nature lovers can visit the Bermuda Botanical Gardens for a peaceful walk or picnic. History enthusiasts can explore Fort Hamilton, a 19th-century fortress, for a bit of history and stunning panoramic views of the city and harbor. Don’t forget to capture some memorable photos from this spot.
The Royal Navy Dockyard
The Royal Navy Dockyard has a rich history and offers a variety of activities. Visitors can dine at restaurants like Frog and Onion Pub and Bone Fish Bar & Grill, where they can enjoy British fare, fresh seafood, and a pint of freshly crafted beer (or two!) with ocean views. The National Museum of Bermuda showcases artifacts on maritime heritage. Commissioner's House, a Georgian-style mansion, provides exhibits on Bermuda's history, as well as breathtaking views for as far as the eye can see. For adventure enthusiasts, there are opportunities for water sports and outdoor activities like jet skiing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and miniature golf.
The Lighthouse
Gibb's Hill Lighthouse stands as a symbol of Bermuda’s maritime history and serves as a beacon of light for ships navigating the treacherous reefs that encircle the island. It was built in 1846 and sits on the highest point of the island. Inside, visitors can explore the lives of the lighthouse keepers. Climbing the spiral staircase to the top provides an unparalleled panoramic view of the surrounding turquoise waters and lush green landscapes. The sight is simply breathtaking.
The Whale-Watching
Whale-watching in Bermuda is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will leave you in awe of these magnificent creatures that inhabit the deep blue sea. The island's strategic location along the migratory routes of various whale species makes it an ideal place for observing them in their natural habitat.
One of the main attractions for whale-watching enthusiasts in Bermuda is the chance to see humpback whales. These majestic creatures travel thousands of miles each year to breed and give birth in the warm, protected waters around the island. The sight of a humpback whale leaping out of the water is an unforgettable moment that will stay with you forever.
The Stargazing
Bermuda is a place where you can escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in the wonders of nature. Among the many activities that Bermuda offers, stargazing should be on your list. The tranquility that the island provides creates a serene and peaceful backdrop for immersing oneself in the beauty of the universe. The absence of light pollution allows for a clearer, more vivid view of the twinkling stars and planets above, making it an ideal destination for astronomy enthusiasts. Stargazing in Bermuda is an experience that will leave an indelible mark on the soul.
Without a doubt, visiting Bermuda is a journey of discovery, where paradise is found at every turn.
