Things To Do In Bermuda
Popular Beaches in Bermuda
Horseshoe Bay Cove, Southampton Parish
Experience the allure of Bermuda’s crown jewel, Horseshoe Bay Beach in Southampton Parish. Renowned for its iconic crescent of pink sand and gentle turquoise waves, this stunning destination is a mere 35-minute journey from King’s Wharf. The beach’s wide appeal caters to all, with lifeguard-patrolled shores ensuring safety, making it an ideal haven for families. Revel in full amenities, from umbrella rentals to beachside bars offering delightful ice-cream-and-rum smoothies.
Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Horseshoe Bay has it all – walk through ocean caves, explore Gibb’s Hill Lighthouse, or meander along picturesque beach trails. Named the No. 8 beach in the world by Trip Advisor, Horseshoe Bay’s dreamlike setting offers miles of pink sandy coastline, perfect for swimming, surfing, and snorkelling.
Take in the cinematic views, vibrant coral reefs, and hidden caves, creating an enchanting escape for beach enthusiasts of all ages. Immerse yourself in the beauty and luxury of Horseshoe Bay, a destination that embodies the essence of Bermuda’s coastal paradise.
Clearwater Beach, St George’s Parish
Discover the captivating Clearwater Beach in Bermuda, located at the east end of the island, boasting a rich history as part of a former US military base and NASA tracking station. Today, this pristine beach is a haven for relaxation and adventure. Explore the Coopers Island Nature Reserve, a protected area featuring wetlands, rocky shoreline, and more pristine stretches of white sand beaches. The former NASA radar tower provides a unique viewing platform for observing birds and wildlife.
Clearwater Beach offers a range of activities, from renting kayaks and hydro-bikes to snorkeling in the shallow waters adorned with sea grass. Home to Bermuda’s only true beach bar, The Gombeys Bar and Restaurant, indulge in island delights like jerk chicken grill and Bermuda fish chowder. With lifeguards on duty from April to September, Clearwater Beach stands out as a family-friendly destination with public restrooms, a children’s playground, and even a rollerblade rink.
Steeped in history, Clearwater Beach has evolved into a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike. Its two sandy beaches, created for army personnel after land reclamation, offer a mix of natural beauty and man-made comfort. Turtle Bay, a natural haven, sits nearby, named after the green turtles that once bred here.
Tobacco Bay, St. George Parish
Discover the captivating beauty and rich history of Tobacco Bay, Bermuda, located on the eastern side, just moments away from the UNESCO town of St. George’s. Known for its role in the Gunpowder Plot of 1775, Tobacco Bay offers a blend of historical significance and natural beauty.
As a favourite among snorkelers and families, the limestone rock formations and shallow waters teem with vibrant marine life, including parrot fish, sergeant majors, butterfly fish, and blue wrasse. The enclosed lagoon provides a safe haven for children to splash and play. A seasonal beach house adds to the charm, offering delectable food, refreshing drinks, and rental options for chairs, umbrellas, and snorkel gear.
Tobacco Bay stands out with its unique amenities, providing comfort with lounge chairs and attentive service. The picturesque bay, nestled within UNESCO World Heritage surroundings, holds a fascinating history as the site of Bermuda’s “Gunpowder Plot.” Today, it invites pleasure seekers, adventurers, and snorkelling enthusiasts to explore its waveless, shallow waters and witness the captivating sea life beneath the surface.
Shelly Bay Beach, North Shore
Indulge in the atmosphere of Shelly Bay Beach, a family-friendly haven along North Shore Road in Bermuda, just a short ride from the vibrant City of Hamilton. With crystal-clear waters, this beach is an ideal destination for families with young children, offering a protected cove that stays shallow even at high tide, perfect for little ones to swim and snorkel. The presence of trees along the sandy shores provides natural shade, enhancing the beach’s appeal for a leisurely day out.
While the sandy shores are adorned with rocks, adding a touch of natural beauty, it’s essential to note this characteristic. Despite this, Shelly Bay remains a picturesque spot, inviting visitors to unwind and enjoy a relaxing day trip. For water sports enthusiasts, especially those into kitesurfing, surfing, or even windsurfing, Shelly Bay is a paradise, particularly when the winds are blowing from the west. Even if you’re not actively participating, relish the excitement from vantage points like the railway trail or the benches near the kids’ playground.
Ranked 27th among Bermuda’s 40 beaches, Shelly Bay Beach stands out with its crystal turquoise waters and bright sands. Partially covered by trees, it provides a natural shade that enhances the overall experience. As a free-to-access beach with a focus on nature, Shelly Bay invites solo travellers, relaxation seekers, and those craving a peaceful escape.
Warwick Long Beach, Bermuda
Experience the serenity of Warwick Long Bay Beach, one of Bermuda’s longest and most picturesque coastal stretches. Extending along half a mile of the island’s southern coast, this beach stands out for its tranquil atmosphere and stunning natural beauty. The peach-hued sands set against green-and-brown scrubs, interwoven with walking trails and limestone formations, create a secluded and rugged beach experience. Unlike its more renowned neighbour, Horseshoe Bay Beach, Warwick Long Bay remains a well-kept secret, offering a more private and intimate swimming encounter, even during peak seasons.
Ideal for families, the calm sea with minimal waves provides a safe swimming haven for all levels. The inner reef near the shore transforms Warwick Long Bay into a snorkeler’s paradise, revealing a vibrant underwater world with coral formations and schools of parrot fish. The pink-tinged sands, a distinctive feature of Bermuda’s beaches, add to the allure of this coastal gem.
Accessed from South Road, the beach offers convenience with restrooms, a playground, and a lunch cart during the summer. While lacking the crowds of some major south shore beaches, Warwick Long Bay boasts natural superb beauty, making it a preferred destination for those seeking tranquillity and an authentic beach experience.
Unique Attractions - Discovering Destinations
The Crystal And Fantasy Caves
Embark on an extraordinary journey through time and nature at the Crystal and Fantasy Caves, two of Bermuda’s most captivating attractions. Millions of years in the making, these awe-inspiring caves unveil a world of wonder with stunning azure pools and formations of every imaginable size and shape. The adventure begins amidst lush sub-tropical gardens, setting the stage for an immersive exploration that promises to enthrall the entire family.
Crystal Caves, one of the island’s largest and most dramatic cave systems, invites you to traverse royal palm-lined gardens before delving into the mesmerizing underground realm. As you descend into either Crystal Cave or Fantasy Cave, be prepared to marvel at soaring stalagmites, delicate crystallized soda straws, and the rare beauty of chandelier clusters adorning the cave ceilings. The two caves, though distinct, share neighboring entrances, seamlessly connected by a landscaped pathway, making them the perfect tandem adventure.
Guided tours, included with admission, lead you down wooden walkways, staircases, and bridges, illuminating the caves’ most spectacular features with strategic floodlights. From fossilized tree roots to intricate rock formations beneath crystal-clear lakes, each cave unfolds a unique narrative of historic discovery and formation. Don’t miss the chance to explore both Crystal and Fantasy Caves, where the underground wonders of Bermuda await your discovery.
Blue Hole Park, Hamilton Parish
Embark on an unforgettable adventure at Blue Hole Park, a 12-acre oasis nestled in the northern part of beautiful Bermuda. Contrary to its name, Blue Hole is not your typical “blue hole” but a mesmerizing haven of aquamarine delights. The park boasts an enchanting swimming hole, where the water’s vibrant blue hues mingle with crystal clarity, creating a magical setting teeming with colorful fish. Surrounded by intricate mangroves and featuring a captivating cave at one end, the scenery enhances the allure of this natural wonder.
Beyond the breathtaking views, Blue Hole Park offers an adrenaline rush for thrill-seekers with popular cliff-jumping spots. Follow the dirt path to the right of the viewing platform for an exhilarating experience. The deep Blue Hole itself feels like a secluded pool, embraced by the serenity of the mangrove forest. As you explore the interconnected pools, caves, and underground tunnels, the park unfolds as a hidden gem, making it a must-visit destination.
Located in Hamilton Parish, this expansive property, primarily held by a private family trust but graciously open to the public, encompasses the coastal beauty from Blue Hole Park to Tom Moore’s Jungle, also known as Walsingham Nature Reserve. Blue Hole Park, being the only designated public park, ensures the best access and ample parking.
The Royal Naval Dockyard, Sandys Parish
Welcome to the Royal Naval Dockyard, a vibrant and historic hub that seamlessly blends Bermuda’s maritime past with its present allure as a top tourist destination. Once a stronghold of British military power, the dockyard has evolved into the busiest cruise port in Bermuda, welcoming around 500,000 tourists annually.
Situated on the picturesque West End, the Royal Naval Dockyard boasts breathtaking views of transparent turquoise waters, providing a stunning backdrop to your Bermuda experience. Explore the architectural remnants of England’s maritime era, with notable attractions such as the historic clocktower shopping mall, the National Museum of Bermuda, the Royal Navy Cemetery, and a replica of an 18th-century Royal Navy sloop-of-war.
Spanning 24 acres, the dockyard offers a plethora of experiences, from vibrant boutiques to quaint cafes, and it features two berths, Kings Wharf and Heritage Wharf, the former often colloquially referred to as Kings Wharf due to its popularity.
The dockyard is not just a historical treasure; it has transformed into a modern tourist complex catering to diverse interests. From shopping at the Clocktower Mall and exploring artisan shops to enjoying events at the Victualling Yard and relaxing at Snorkel Park Beach, there’s something for everyone.
Walsingham Nature Reserve, Hamilton Parish
Welcome to the Walsingham Nature Reserve, affectionately known as Tom Moore’s Jungle, a captivating 12-acre haven nestled in the scenic Hamilton Parish of Bermuda. Embark on an adventure through lush forests, meandering paths, and hidden gems, immersing yourself in the island’s natural beauty. The reserve, named after the Irish poet Thomas Moore who found inspiration in its serene surroundings, offers an intimate escape into Bermuda’s rich history and diverse ecosystem.
As you traverse the network of paths, shaded by arching trees, you’ll encounter caves and grottos formed during the Ice Age, adorned with stunning stalactites and stalagmites. Delve into the secrets of these geological wonders, witnessing the transformative effects of water dissolving calcium carbonate over centuries. Some caves now feature crystal-clear ocean water, creating enchanting swimming caves.
The highlight of Walsingham Nature Reserve is the mesmerizing Blue Hole, a mangrove pond boasting a rich blue hue. The pond, surrounded by thick foliage and limestone formations, provides a secluded and rugged oasis. Stroll along the trails, discovering small caves and grottos that add to the reserve’s mystique. Keep an eye out for the diverse bird species that call Walsingham home.
Saint Peter's Church, St George
Welcome to Saint Peter’s Church, an enduring beacon of faith and history in the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Town of St George, Bermuda. Established in 1612 by the Virginia Company, this sacred site has stood as the Church of England’s intentional planting in the New World for over four centuries. The church, rebuilt over the years and dedicated to the Apostle St. Peter in 1826, is not only the birthplace of Christian worship in Bermuda but also a testament to the island’s rich cultural and historical legacy.
In 2012, as part of our 400th anniversary celebration, Her Majesty the Queen granted Saint Peter’s Church the Royal designation “Their Majesties Chappell,” a distinction first bestowed in the 1690s during the reign of King William III and Queen Mary II. This royal acknowledgment highlights the church’s significance and enduring role in the community.
Step inside to explore the rich history within, from the three-decker wooden pulpit hand-carved in 1660 to the collection of fine Communion silver from the 1600s. The scent of Bermuda cedar permeates the air, adding to the sensory experience of this historic site. Wander through the churchyard, where centuries-old tombstones and historic graves, including those of Midshipman Richard Dale and Governor Sir Richard Sharples, offer poignant glimpses into Bermuda’s past.
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