15 Fun Things to Do in Bermuda
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Boasting some of the most beautiful beaches in the world and the oldest settlement in the Western Hemisphere, Bermuda is a choice destination for both sun worshipers and history buffs alike. Throw in shopping, museums, a renowned aquarium and zoo, and unique natural attractions, and you'll quickly see why a cruise to Bermuda offers truly something for everyone—and why each year sees more than half a million vacationers arrive on this idyllic Caribbean archipelago via cruise ships alone.
Read on to explore 15 of the best things to do in Bermuda during your own dream vacation.
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St. George Island
1. Visit St. George Island
St. George Island on Bermuda's East End is home to the oldest continually inhabited English settlement in the Western Hemisphere. In 1609, the English ship Sea Venture, bound for the Jamestown Colony in America, wrecked offshore of St. George Island. A permanent settlement was established in 1612. Today, the town of St. George's is a UNESCO World Heritage Site complete with historic churches, forts, and museums that preserve the history of the settlement's early days, as well as situate them within the wider context of this fascinating island.
Students of history, culture enthusiasts, and young children will all enjoy the step back in time offered by a journey to St. George Island. Visitors can stroll along narrow, cobblestone streets with early-English names like "Shinbone Alley" and "Needle & Thread Alley," now populated with shops, galleries, and boutiques, taking in the island's past and present in equal measure.
Cost: $
Best For: Families, Adults
RELATED CRUISES:
7-Day Bermuda Cruise on Norwegian Jewel
7-Day Bermuda Cruise on Norwegian Getaway
7-Day Bermuda Cruise on Norwegian Jewel
2. Explore St. Peter’s Church
Enter the hallowed halls of St. Peter's Church, which, at more than 400 years old, is the oldest surviving Anglican church in the Western Hemisphere. Visitors to the church today will see the altar made of hand-carved red Bermuda cedar, candlelit chandeliers, an 18th-century throne salvaged from a shipwreck and communion silver believed to be more than 900 years old and gifted to the church by King William III in 1697. Established in 1612, the church's beauty and blend of architectural styles are a sight to see; however, also worthwhile are St. Peter's ongoing exhibits that offer visitors a unique perspective into the complex history of this storied place.
Cost: $
Best For: Families, Adults
3. Enjoy Fantastic Views from Fort St. Catherine
Fort St. Catherine was constructed in 1614, as protection against invaders and pirates. It towers above the pink sand beach where settlers from the Sea Venture came ashore in 1609. Today, the fort has been fully restored. Visitors will enjoy fantastic views from the looming ramparts and are free to explore the towers, period artillery, and tunnels and chambers drilled into the terra firma.
Cost: $$
Best For: Families, Adults
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Unfinished Church
4. Wander the Ruins of the Unfinished Church
A favorite spot on St. George Island for photographs and weddings, the Unfinished Church is exactly what it sounds like—but these ruins are a must-see for a reason. Conceived as a replacement to St. Peter’s Church after it had been damaged in a storm, construction on this newer parish began in 1874. But when a tornado tore the roof off the church in 1925, plans were put on hold. The church was never completed, but its Gothic-style archways and stone still stand within the Town of St. George, offering a picturesque venue for those looking to tie the knot—or just grab a great selfie to remember their Bermuda vacation by.
Cost: Free
Best For: Families, Adults
5. Relax at Horseshoe Bay
Bermuda is much more than St. George, of course. And it wouldn’t be a Caribbean island without its fair share of breathtaking beaches. While it’s tough to boil down Bermuda’s wide range of scenic spots to a single destination, if you do see just one beach, make it Horseshoe Bay. Located on the south coast of Bermuda’s main island, Horseshoe Bay is famous—and consistently ranked as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world—for its fine pink-tinted sand and warm turquoise waters. Regular shuttle buses carry beachgoers to this well-equipped beach’s calm waters. Lifeguards on duty from May and October make this a great spot for those with children, while the bevvy of service options available at the beach and nearby ensure that travelers will have access to everything they need throughout their long, relaxing day at the beach.
Cost: $$
Best For: Families, Adults
6. Discover History and Heritage at the Royal Naval Dockyard
Once home to the British Royal Navy, the recently transformed Dockyard gives visitors a chance to learn about the island’s maritime heritage at the National Museum of Bermuda and wander through beautifully restored historic buildings. The area is also now home to art galleries, craft shops, restaurants, and more. So, whether you’re looking to sample local flavors, shop till you drop, see a performance at the Bermuda Arts Centre, or catch a glimpse of Bermuda’s bygone eras, you can find it all at the Royal Navy Dockyard.
Cost: $$
Best For: Families, Adults
7. Venture into the Depths of Crystal & Fantasy Caves
In 1907, two boys enjoying a game of cricket suddenly lost their ball, as it disappeared down a hole. Their search yielded much more than the ball. What they discovered was, in fact, an entrance to what are now known as the Crystal Caves. Formed over tens of millions of years, this stunning cave system features massive white and pink stalactites looming over clear blue water. Visitors of all ages can enjoy a guided tour of the colorful display in Crystal Cave and the neighboring Fantasy Cave, learning facts about the caves' incredible history as they stand face to face with their otherworldly features.
Cost: $$
Best For: Families, Adults
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Crystal Caves
8. Discover Bermuda's Biodiversity at the Bermuda Aquarium, Museum & Zoo (BAMZ)
It wouldn’t be an island without sea life, and one of the world’s oldest and most regarded aquariums is the Bermuda Aquarium, Museum and Zoo, or BAMZ for short. The aquarium’s centerpiece is a 140,000-gallon tank featuring a living replica of the North Rock coral reef. One of the largest living coral collections in the world, the exhibit is inhabited by more than 200 species of fish and an array of fascinating creatures.
Adjacent to the aquarium are the museum and zoo. The Natural History Museum showcases the story of Bermuda's ecological and geological development, informing visitors of how the island became such a fertile ground for the natural world. Meanwhile, the Zoo boasts more than 300 birds, reptiles and mammals from Bermuda and beyond, including species from the islands of the Galapagos and Madagascar.
Cost: $$
Best For: Families, Adults
9. Climb Gibbs Hill Lighthouse
Gibbs Hill Lighthouse is a must-visit for those seeking stunning views and a unique perspective on Bermuda. The lighthouse's location on a hilltop offers unparalleled vistas of the island's diverse landscape. Bring your camera to capture the beauty of the coastline, the colorful houses, and the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean-just be prepared to climb the 185 steps to the top.
Cost: $$
Best For: Families, Adults
10. Swim at Jobson’s Cove
Jobson's Cove is a true hidden gem of Bermuda, offering a peaceful retreat for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty away from the hustle and bustle of the island's cities. The cove's unique shape and sheltered location create a sense of intimacy and seclusion. While calm, shallow waters also make it a great destination for families with young children. At Jobson's Cove anyone can come to unwind, soak up the sun, and enjoy the serenity of the island.
Cost: Free
Best For: Families, Adults
11. Hit the Links on World-Class Golf Courses
Tee off amidst breathtaking scenery on Bermuda's renowned golf courses. Whether you're seeking a challenging round on a championship course or a relaxing day playing on some more forgiving holes, Bermuda's courses offer something for everyone. From the fairways of Mid Ocean Club, which has played host to professional tournaments as well as world leaders, to Port Royal Golf Course and its signature 16th hole that offers a clear shot across stunning ocean waters, Bermuda's courses are sure to satisfy all comers. Enjoy the island's temperate climate and unbeatable natural backdrop as you perfect your swing.
Cost: $$$
Best For: Adults
12. Walk the Bermuda Railway Trail
The Bermuda Railway Trail gives vacationers another way to explore the island on foot. Following the route of the former Bermuda Railway, the 29-mile trail encompasses the full variety of this island paradise’s natural beauty. Whether you’re just out for a casual stroll or looking to take a longer hike, this well-maintained trail features everything from rugged coastal cliffs and sandy beaches to lush forests and charming villages, with segmented trails that make it easy to choose a walk that suits your fitness level and interests.
Cost: Free
Best For: Families, Adults
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Norwegian Breakaway in Bermuda
13. Experience Hamilton’s Night Life
Those looking for an exciting night out on the town will find that downtown Hamilton is the place to be. Wander bustling, lively city streets, and explore the city's diverse fare. Listen to live music alongside locals at a friendly local pub. Plan an elevated experience at world-class restaurants, where you can sip on delicious cocktails like the island's famous Rum Swizzle as you take in the beautiful waterfront views. Dance the night away in a dazzling waterfront club. No matter what the ideal night out means for you, you'll find it in Hamilton.
Cost: $$-$$$
Best For: Families, Adults
14. Kick Back on a Catamaran Tour
Some might say that the best way to see the island is by sailing around it. Booking a catamaran tour offers an opportunity to escape from the crowds for a while, floating along on open waters.
Soak up the sun on deck and be cooled by a refreshing sea breeze. Many tours include a meal and drinks, as well as your choice of excursions, including snorkeling and swimming stops at those tougher-to-reach places. Discover the island's less-traveled gems, from hidden coves to secluded beaches. Take in a beautiful sunset-and who knows, maybe you'll even encounter a playful set of wild dolphins along the way.
Cost: Free
Best For: Families, Adults
15. Snorkel at Snorkel Park
While there is no shortage of places to swim and snorkel among the island's marine life, the centrally located Snorkel Park offers an easily accessible snorkeling venue that's perfect for families or curious beginners. The park's protected beach ensures swimmers can encounter colorful fish, sea turtles, and a host of other creatures in calm waters, with optimal visibility. Rent snorkeling equipment on-site and take in this encapsulation of the island's teeming underwater worlds.
Cost: $$
Best For: Families, Adults, Children
Discover Your Perfect Bermuda Getaway
While there is no shortage of places to swim and snorkel among the island's marine life, the centrally located Snorkel Park offers an easily accessible snorkeling venue that's perfect for families or curious beginners. The park's protected beach ensures swimmers can encounter colorful fish, sea turtles, and a host of other creatures in calm waters, with optimal visibility. Rent snorkeling equipment on-site and take in this encapsulation of the island's teeming underwater worlds.
EDITOR'S NOTE: This article was originally published on August 8, 2017. It has been updated to show updated information and related itineraries.