With its pink-sand beaches, balmy turquoise waters, and lush tropical greenery, Bermuda is an idyllic slice of paradise in the heart of the North Atlantic Ocean. Lapped by the waters of the Sargasso Sea, the British island territory is dotted with beautiful bays and beaches such as Elbow Beach and Horseshoe Bay and enjoys a mild subtropical climate throughout the year. Here are the best things to do in Bermuda.
Bermuda Aquarium, Natural History Museum & Zoo (BAMZ)
The Bermuda Aquarium, Natural History Museum and Zoo (BAMZ) is a multi-purpose educational and conservation center for the preservation of marine and land creatures. Owned and operated by the Bermuda Government, the Bermuda Aquarium, Natural History Museum and Zoo (BAMZ) is situated in the picturesque Flatts Village and features a variety of habitats.
The aquarium displays over 200 species of fish and marine invertebrates from the shallow coastal waters, northern coral reefs, and the deep ocean. The zoo exhibits more than 300 birds, mammals, and reptiles from the oceanic islands in naturalistic habitats with beautiful water vistas and coastal walkways. The Bermuda Natural History Museum explores Bermuda's geological formation, the island's diverse habitats, and the impact of human life on a small island environment.
40 N Shore Rd, Bermuda, Phone: +1 441-293-2727
Bermuda Botanical Gardens
The Bermuda Botanical Gardens is located in Paget Parish and features more than 35 acres of beautifully maintained flowers, shrubs, and trees. Established and inaugurated in 1898, the Bermuda Botanical Gardens is home to an extensive collection of subtropical fruit trees, banyan trees, hibiscus, and an aviary as well as an aromatic garden designed for blind visitors.
Exquisite formal gardens and lawns surround large glass conservatories housing cacti and orchids, while a visitor center offers a wealth of information about the gardens. Free walking tours of the gardens are offered on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays starting at 10:30am from the visitor center. The Bermuda Botanical Gardens is also home to Camden House, the official residence of Bermuda's premier, and boasts typical Bermudian architecture and an excellent collection of art and antiques.
Point Finger Road Pharmacy, 16 Point Finger Rd, DV 04, Bermuda, Phone: +1 441-236-4201
Bermuda Historical Society Museum
Set in the gardens of Queen Elizabeth Park in the city of Hamilton, the Bermuda Historical Society Museum presents the history of the island through an outstanding collection of significant historical documents, original collections, and artifacts of the isle. Other exhibits include Bermudian treasures, coins, silver and gold furniture, a great silver collection, rare “hog” money, a Wedgwood vase, and an 1830 Waterford crystal chandelier.
The museum is also home to a model of a ship, the Sea Venture, as well as exhibits of artifacts from the Boer War, and it also houses the Bermuda National Library.
Bermuda Historical Society Museum, Queen Elizabeth Park, 11 Queen St, Hamilton HM 11, Bermuda, Phone: +1 441-295-2487
Bermuda National Gallery
Housed on the second floor of the City Hall and Arts Center, the Bermuda National Gallery was established in 1992 and features three permanent collections along with rotating exhibits of artworks spanning from the 1600s to the present day.
The Bermuda Collection, the centerpiece of the museum, explores the history and culture of the island and its people, while the African Collection celebrates the artistic traditions of West African cultures and the Watlington Collection showcases centuries of European art.
There are also exhibits of contemporary art and photography by local and international artists. The Bermuda National Gallery is located on the 2nd floor of the City Hall and Arts Center.
Bermuda National Gallery , 2nd Floor, City Hall & Arts Centre, 17 Church St, Hamilton, Bermuda, Phone: +1 441-295-9428
Bermuda Reef Explorer
The Bermuda Reef Explorer is a spacious custom-built double-decker glass bottom boat that offers 2-hour tours of the underwater world, along with 3-hour snorkeling cruises to quiet, sheltered coves. Owned and operated by Captain Michael Gladwin, Bermuda Reef Explorer tours leave from the Island Tour Centre in Hamilton and give visitors the opportunity to see and experience the spectacular reefs and waters around the island, which are home to coral reefs, sea turtles, and an 18th-century shipwreck. Nighttime Pirate Adventure Cruises explore Atlantic sea life and its nocturnal creatures, and Captain Michael Gladwin shares interesting stories about Bermuda's buccaneering past.
Bermuda Reef Explorer, Suite 251, 48 Par-la-Ville Road, Hamilton HM 11, Bermuda, Phone: 441-535-7333
Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute
Established in 1997, the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute (BUEI) is situated in Hamilton and features a variety of exciting and interactive exhibits and displays that explore the mysteries of the ocean, its diverse marine life and spectacular corals, and the historic shipwrecks of Bermuda. One of the top tourist attractions on the island, the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute (BUEI) has two floors of exhibitions, including the Treasure Room with artifacts found by legendary scuba diver, Teddy Tucker. Other exhibits include a replica of the jaws of the largest great white shark ever caught, glassware from the wrecks of Lord Amherst (1778) and L'Herminie (1838), and notable displays of the 300 shipwrecks found around the coast in the Shipwreck Gallery.
40 Crow Lane, off Eastern Broadway, Hamilton City, Pembroke, Phone: (441) 292-7219
Cathedral of the Most Holy Trinity
Located in the heart of Hamilton City, the Cathedral of the Most Holy Trinity, also known as the Bermuda Cathedral, is an Anglican church and a magnificent example of neo-Gothic and Victorian architecture. Designed by Scottish architect William Hay of Edinburgh, the Bermuda Cathedral was built in 1844 using Bermuda limestone and Caen stones imported from Normandy in France.
The cathedral features magnificent arches, tinted glass windows, carved altar screens, and a warrior chapel as well as several sculptures depicting Christ and many saints. A 143-foot tower boasts panoramic views of Hamilton City and as far as Bermuda's North Shore. The Cathedral of the Most Holy Trinity is located at 29 Church Street in Hamilton City and is open to the public from 8:00am to 5:00pm daily. The tower is open from Monday through Friday from 10:00am to 3:30pm and admission is free.
29 Church St, Hamilton, Bermuda, Phone: +1 441-292-4033
Crystal & Fantasy Caves
Bermuda's Crystal & Fantasy Caves are magnificent natural caves with deep, clear underground pools of azure blue water and incredible stalactite and stalagmite formations, rare chandelier clusters, and delicate crystallized soda straws.
One of the island's top attractions, the Crystal and Fantasy Caves draw hundreds of visitors every year to marvel at their beauty. Both caves offer different experiences, with majestic waterfalls, walls covered in calcite mineral deposits, crystal-clear mineral pools, and a network of passageways connecting the caves with the ocean. Located in Hamilton Parish and close to Castle Harbor, the 500-meter-long caves were discovered by Carl Gibbons and Edgar Hollis in 1907 and have been delighting visitors ever since. State-of-the-art lighting systems highlight the intricacies and impressive details of the formations and the caves are open to the public daily from 9:00am to 5:00pm with guided tours offered every 20 minutes.
8 Crystal Caves Road, Hamilton Parish CR 04, Bermuda, Phone: +1 441-293-0640
Dockyard Glassworks, Bermuda
The Dockyard Glassworks, Bermuda specializes in handmade glass, including sculptural glass created using the Italian technique as well as stunning art glasses blown in the on-site glass blowing studio. Visitors can watch artisan glass masters at work making intricate glassware items using glass blowing techniques in the studio or purchase some beautiful pieces in the Glass Gallery. Artistic pieces include objets d'art, jewelry, and other decorative items across a wide price range. The Dockyard Glassworks is open to the public daily.
19 Maritime Lane, Royal Naval Dockyard, Hamilton MABX, Bermuda, Phone: +1 441-234-4216
Dolphin Quest
Dolphin Quest offers visitors a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to interact and swim with dolphins. Committed to the conservation and preservation of the planet, Dolphin Quest provides inspirational, interactive experiences to inspire the next generation of visitors to respect, value, and work to conserve the living oceans. Dolphin Quest also offers a variety of educational programs and supports critical marine scientific studies aimed at the conservation and preservation of the ocean and its residents. Dolphin Quest provides a variety of experiences, ranging from Dolphin Dips and Sea Quests to Trainer for a Day and Dolphin Quest camps. Dolphin Quest is also a partner of the National Museum of Bermuda, which explores Bermuda's rich history through an outstanding collection of historical artifacts and objects.
Maritime Lane, Bermuda, Phone: +1 441-234-4464
Elbow Beach, Bermuda
Elbow Beach is a beautiful white sandy beach in Paget Parish off South Road. Named for its unique and gently curving shape that resembles an elbow, Elbow Beach is one of the most famous beaches on the island. Tucked between Coral Beach and the Tennis Club and the luxurious Elbow Beach Resort, Elbow Beach has an array of facilities, including full bathrooms and changing facilities and shuttle services for hotel guests. Beachgoers can also hire beach equipment like snorkeling gear, sun loungers, and beach umbrellas, and there is a casual restaurant and beach bar overlooking the beach.
Kayaks, paddleboards, and scuba diving equipment can be hired from Bluewater Divers, which operates out of the Elbow Beach Resort. There are spectacular coral reefs just off the shore to explore as well as the Pollokshields shipwreck.
60 South Shore Road, Paget PG04, Bermuda
Fort St. Catherine
Located at the northern tip of St George with spectacular ocean views, Fort St. Catherine is a coastal artillery fort dating back to the 15th century. Located between Achilles Bay and St. Catherine Beach, Fort St. Catherine was built by Bermuda's first governor, Richard Moore, in 1612 to defend Bermuda from Spanish attacks. Originally built from wood, the fort has undergone many renovations, including being rebuilt in stone, and today is one of Bermuda's most impressive structures.
The stone fort houses a museum that features an excellent collection of antique weapons and a gallery of dioramas depicting Bermuda's history in the old artillery store. Surrounded by a dry moat and accessed by a drawbridge, Fort St. Catherine has a network of tunnels, towers, ramparts, and redoubts that can be explored. The fort is open Monday through Friday from 10:00am to 4:00pm and guided tours are available.
15 Coot Pond Road, St. Catherine's Point, St. George, Bermuda, Phone: +1 441-297-192
Gibbs Hill Lighthouse
The Gibbs Hill Lighthouse is a famous landmark in Bermuda, standing 245 feet tall on one of the highest hills on the island. Built in 1844 by the Royal Engineers, the Gibbs Hill Lighthouse is one of two lighthouses on the island and features a Fresnel lens, which can be seen from over 40 miles away by ships and 100 miles away from airplanes. One of the first lighthouses in the world to be made of cast-iron, the Gibbs Hill Lighthouse requires a climb of 185 steps over eight flights of stairs and has been running on electricity since 1964, before which the light was operated by hand. Once the living quarters of the lighthouse keeper before being converted into a restaurant, the Lighthouse Tea Room is situated at the base of the lighthouse's tower and serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily.
Lighthouse Road, St Anne's Rd, Cross Bay SN 01, Bermuda, Phone: +1 441-238-8069
Hartley's Undersea Walk
Hartley's Undersea Walk offers guests the opportunity to get up close and interact with an array of tropical fish, vibrant corals, and other sea life on a guided underwater walk. Guests don bell diving helmets complete with hoses that provide topside air, so no snorkeling or scuba diving experience is necessary. Bell dives are conducted less than 2 miles from Bermuda's western shore on the sandy bottom of the coastline 8-10 feet below the surface of the water and last approximately 30 to 40 minutes. Divers can interact, feed, and make friends with the fish they encounter and the dives are catered to all ages and fitness levels. Hartley's Undersea Walks are led by professional divers and marine experts, who share their extensive knowledge and experience as well as their passion for the sea.
12 Rockywold Road, Sandys SB-03, Bermuda, Phone: 1-866-836-3989
Hidden Gems of Bermuda
Hidden Gems of Bermuda is an all-inclusive island eco-tour company that offers specialized and guided tours to explore some of Bermuda's top attractions and best-kept secrets. Summer excursions range from cliff jumping and dry cave explorations to beach-combing and cave swimming adventures, while winter adventures include jungle explorations and visits to the magnificent Southlands Estate, home to limestone quarries, tranquil garden pools, and the island's largest banyan tree grove. Other adventures include fort excursions and photography outings as well as private charters and customized tours for special celebrations. Tailor-made packages range from couple's retreats and birthday parties to scavenger hunts and cave exploration.
Hidden Gems of Bermuda, Royal Naval Dockyard, Sandys, Bermuda, Phone: +1 441-236-1300
Horseshoe Bay, Bermuda
Horseshoe Bay Beach in Southampton, Bermuda, offers an idyllic slice of paradise on which to relax. Shaped like a horseshoe, Horseshoe Bay Beach has exquisite pink sands that stretch out in a curved shape and are lapped by the azure blue waters of the Atlantic ocean. Bordered by limestone rocks, the right end of the beach is just steps away from Port Royal Cove, which is surrounded by rocks and makes a great spot for swimming as well as a safe place for children to play in the clear, shallow waters. Horseshoe Bay Beach offers excellent snorkeling, and there are several secluded coves within easy walking distance from the main beach for those wanting extra privacy. Facilities on the beach include restrooms and changing areas and a beach café that sells a menu of casual food and drinks.
Horseshoe Road, off South Road, Bermuda
National Museum of Bermuda
Previously known as the Bermuda Maritime Museum, the National Museum of Bermuda is dedicated to exploring the cultural and maritime history of the island.
Established and opened to the public in 1974, the museum is based on the grounds of The Keep, a fortress located in Sandy's Parish on Ireland Island, and features an array of historical artifacts, objects, shipwreck items, water crafts, artworks, cannons, and bastions. The museum also publishes several books relating to the history of Bermuda and has several outstanding exhibits in the Commissioner's House, such as Bermuda's Defense Heritage, and displays about Bermuda's involvement in immigration, slavery, and tourism. The National Museum of Bermuda is open daily from 9:00am to 5:00pm.
The Keep, Maritime Ln, MA 01, Bermuda, Phone: +1 441-234-1418
Rising Son II Catamaran
Rising Son II Catamaran is a beautiful sailing catamaran that provides cruises and tours around the island. The 60-foot catamaran can accommodate up to 75 passengers and is fully equipped with modern amenities and facilities for absolute comfort.
Rising Son II offers a variety of charter cruises, ranging from sunrise and sunset cruises to tailor-made packages to suit every need. The vessel can offer plenty of covered space in the case of inclement weather, and provides snorkeling equipment and other water-based sporting gear, such as jet skis, kayaks and water skis, with advanced notice. The friendly and competent crew take care of every need, and there are two large trampoline nets on the boat on which guests can relax and unwind in style.
5 Point Pleasant Road, HM 11, Hamilton, Bermuda, Phone: +1 441-236-1300
Somers Garden
Located in St. George's Parish, Somers Garden is an urban park where locals and visitors can relax and enjoy the lush greenery. Named after Admiral Sir George Somers, founder of Bermuda in 1609, Somers Garden features beautifully manicured lawns and plenty of tree-shaded space for picnics as well as a large fountain at the center of the garden and plenty of walking trails and benches. A tombstone marking the death of Admiral Sir George Somers can also be found in the garden, along with a unique moon gate. Somers Garden is open daily throughout the year between sunrise and sunset and admission to the garden is free.
Government Hill Rd, St. George's, Bermuda, Phone: +1 441-297-1532
The Masterworks Museum of Bermuda Art (MMOBA)
The Masterworks Museum of Bermuda Art (MOBA) is dedicated to collecting, preserving, and showcasing art made in and inspired by Bermuda. Founded in 1987 by Tom Butterfield, the Masterworks Museum of Bermuda Art is located in the heart of the Bermuda Botanical Gardens in Paget Parish and features 16,000 square feet of exhibition space. The museum's permanent collection includes paintings and drawings dating back to the early 1800s, along with other forms of art relating to the culture and history of Bermuda, such as photographs, historical documents, ephemera, and sculpture. Works by notable artists include Georgia O'Keeffe, Winslow Homer, Henry Moore, and Marsden Hartley are all featured here. The MMOBA also has a casual café that sells baked goods and coffee as well as the Arrowroot Gift Shop, which sells art and crafts created by local artisans. The Masterworks Museum of Bermuda Art (MMOBA) is open Monday through Saturday from 10:00am to 4:00pm and Sundays from 11:00am to 4:30pm.
183 South Rd, Bermuda, Phone: +1 441-236-2950
Tobacco Bay
Situated on the coastline of Bermuda's northern shores, Tobacco Bay is a beautiful bay with powder-white sands, unique rock formations, and sheltered coves. Tobacco Bay is not only one of Bermuda's national parks and an area of outstanding natural beauty, but is also an important historical site and close to the historic Fort St. Catherine. The crystal-clear shallow waters and colorful reefs make this a popular beach with both locals and tourists alike, and the Tobacco Bay Beach Bar & Restaurant provides healthy food, drinks, and live music against a backdrop of spectacular sea views. Other facilities at Tobacco Bay include restrooms and changing facilities with showers, lockers, wireless Internet access, and water sport equipment rentals.
9 Coot's Pond Road, St. George, Bermuda, Phone: +1 441-737-2355
Warwick Long Bay Beach
Renowned for its long white sandy beaches lapped by turquoise blue waters and dotted with semi-submerged rock formations, Warwick Long Bay Beach is one of Bermuda's best beaches. Wild and untamed, Warwick Long Bay curls in a half-moon shape along half a mile of Bermuda's spectacular South Shore with pink-hued sands, swaying palm trees, and crystal-clear waters. Colorful reefs just offshore are home to myriad fish and sea creatures, making for excellent snorkeling, while the backdrop of low grasses, scrubland, cedar trees, and shallow dunes are spliced by walking trails for walkers, joggers, and horseback riders to explore. Facilities include public restrooms, a children's playground, a lunch wagon, and a concession stand that rents snorkeling equipment in the summer months.
