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Bermuda Travel Guide: Coral Shores, Hidden Caves & Island Elegance

Intro to Bermuda Travel Guide

Start planning your journey with our complete Bermuda Travel Guide — from pastel-colored towns and pink-sand beaches to shipwreck dives, hidden caves, and centuries of maritime mystery.

Bermuda is not your typical Caribbean island — it’s a subtropical British territory in the North Atlantic with a character all its own. Think genteel charm, blue-hole lagoons, historic forts, and some of the clearest waters on Earth. The island blends British elegance with island ease, offering a perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and culture. Whether you’re sailing along the Great Sound or snorkeling over coral reefs, Bermuda invites you to slow down, dress up, and dive in.

Explore immersive Bermuda tours and experience unforgettable things to do in Bermuda — from cave swimming and catamaran cruises to rum tastings and coastal trail walks.

Where to Go in Bermuda

💡Quick Facts:
Destination: Bermuda
Continent: North America (Atlantic Ocean)
Country: British Overseas Territory
Administrative Division: None (unitary territory)
City: Hamilton (capital)
Area: 53.2 km² (20.5 mi²)
Population: ~64,000 (2024 est.)
Density: ~1,200 people/km²
Capital: Hamilton
Regions/Subregions: Sandys, Southampton, Warwick, Paget, Pembroke, Devonshire, Smith’s, Hamilton Parish, St. George’s
Official & Regional Languages: English (official), Portuguese (Azorean minority)
Currency: Bermudian Dollar (BMD) – 1:1 with USD
Time Zone(s): Atlantic Standard Time (AST, UTC–4)
Airports: L.F. Wade International Airport (BDA)
Climate: Subtropical oceanic; mild winters, warm humid summers
Known For: Pink sand beaches, coral reefs, shipwreck dives, British colonial heritage, pastel architecture, international insurance hub

🛂Arrival Info:
– No visa required for U.S., Canada, UK, EU, Australia, Japan, and many Caribbean passport holders for stays up to 90 days
– Electronic Travel Authorizations (ETA) not required
– Visa required for some African, Asian, and Middle Eastern nationalities; check with consulate
– Entry requires proof of onward travel and accommodation
– Bermuda Entry Requirements
– Immigration Department

💉Health Info:
– No mandatory vaccines; routine vaccinations recommended
– No major disease outbreaks reported
– King Edward VII Memorial Hospital (Hamilton) provides emergency and general care
– Limited clinics outside capital; plan ahead for prescriptions
– Travel insurance with emergency evacuation recommended
– No malaria or tropical disease risks
✅ Check travel insurance options for travel emergencies, delays, and medical needs abroad — Get coverage here
✅ Stay Informed with Official Updates: WHO – International Travel & Health | CDC – Travel health updates

🚨Travel Advisory:
– Low crime rates; exercise normal precautions
– No political unrest, protests, or major civil disruptions
– Scams and petty theft are rare
– LGBTQ+ travelers generally safe; legal protections in place
– Hurricane risk: June–November; monitor forecasts during this season
✅ Stay Informed with Official Updates: US Travel Advisory | UK Foreign Travel Advice

📅Holidays:
– Bermuda Day (last Friday in May) – parades, races, cultural pride
– National Heroes Day (June) – celebrates local figures
– Cup Match (late July/early August) – 2-day public holiday with cricket and beach festivities
– Christmas Day (Dec 25) and Boxing Day (Dec 26)
– Public services may close or reduce hours during major holidays

💰Visitor Info:
– Currency: Bermudian Dollar (BMD), interchangeable with USD
– Credit cards widely accepted; ATMs available in urban areas
– Tipping: 15–17% usually included; additional tip appreciated
– Tourist tax: 11.75% hotel tax + $25 per person airport departure tax (usually included in airfare)
– Budget: $150–200/day (budget), $300–500/day (midrange), $600+/day (luxury)

✈️Airports:
– L.F. Wade International Airport (BDA)
– IATA: BDA
– Location: St. George’s Parish, ~14 km (9 mi) from Hamilton
– Type: International
– Direct flights from U.S., Canada, UK
– Served by: American Airlines, Delta, JetBlue, British Airways, Air Canada
✅ Delayed or canceled flight? Check if you’re eligible for compensation

🚍Transport:
– No rental cars (only scooters, electric minicars, bicycles)
– Public buses and ferries connect major parts of island
– Taxis available but costly; fixed rates per zone
– Multi-day public transport passes available
– Driving: left-hand side; visitors prohibited from renting full-size cars
– Walkable towns; many resorts provide shuttles
✅ Book reliable airport transfers and in-city rides in advance. Reserve your ride here

📶Connectivity:
– SIM cards: Digicel and One Communications
– eSIM not widely supported
– Mobile coverage good throughout island
– Public Wi-Fi available at resorts, airports, cafes
– U.S. and international roaming plans may incur high charges
✅ Stay connected abroad with affordable eSIM data packs. Get your eSIM here

📜Laws & Etiquette:
– Legal drinking age: 18
– LGBTQ+ rights recognized; same-sex marriage legal
– Public intoxication discouraged; dress modestly in towns
– Tipping is expected in service industries
– Conservative but friendly local culture; politeness valued
– Avoid wearing swimwear off the beach

🛡️Emergency Info:
– Emergency: 911 (police, fire, ambulance)
– King Edward VII Memorial Hospital (Hamilton): +1 441-236-2345
– U.S. Consulate: 16 Middle Road, Devonshire – Website
– UK citizens should contact Governor’s Office (UK represents Bermuda)
– Bermuda Tourism Authority visitor hotline: +1 800-223-6106 (U.S.)
✅ Use embassy locator tools: Embassies Worldwide

🌦️Weather:
– Subtropical climate; warm and humid summers (~28–30°C)
– Mild winters (~18–21°C)
– Best time to visit: April to June (less rain, warm weather)
– Hurricane season: June–November (monitor advisories)
– Water temps ideal for swimming April–October
– Occasional short rain showers; rarely disruptive
✅ Stay prepared—check the weather forecast for your destination — Weather Forecast

Bermuda by Region – Where to Go

Bermuda is made up of 181 islets and islands, with its main areas connected by bridges and scenic roads. The entire country spans only 21 square miles, but every part offers a distinct charm.

Hamilton Parish & the East End

St. George’s: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this historic town is filled with cobbled streets, colonial forts, and local eateries. Nearby Tobacco Bay is perfect for snorkeling.
Crystal and Fantasy Caves: Stunning subterranean chambers with turquoise pools and dramatic stalactites.
Blue Hole Park: A hidden gem for cliff jumping and lagoon swims.

Hamilton & Central Parishes

Hamilton: The capital blends global sophistication with island charm. Shop on Front Street, enjoy cocktail hours, and stroll colorful gardens.
Flatt’s Village & Bermuda Aquarium: Great for families and marine life lovers.

South Shore & Warwick

Horseshoe Bay: The island’s most famous pink-sand beach, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and cliff photography.
Warwick Long Bay: Quieter and just as stunning — perfect for couples and peaceful afternoons.
Gibbs Hill Lighthouse: Climb for panoramic views over Bermuda’s coral coastlines.

West End – Somerset & Dockyard

Royal Naval Dockyard: Home to museums, pubs, and shopping in historic surroundings.
Snorkel Park Beach: Family-friendly with watersports and on-site rentals.
Daniel’s Head & Somerset Village: Off-the-beaten path with calm waters and local vibes.

Top Places to Visit in Bermuda

Coastal & Water Adventures

Horseshoe Bay Beach – Picture-perfect pink sands and clear water.
Tobacco Bay – Calm waters ideal for snorkeling and paddleboarding.
Elbow Beach – Great for surfing and reef snorkeling near Hamilton.

Historic & Cultural Sites

St. George’s – Explore historic churches, forts, and museums in this 400-year-old town.
Royal Naval Dockyard – Discover Bermuda’s maritime history and vibrant arts scene.
Gibbs Hill Lighthouse – One of the oldest cast-iron lighthouses in the world.

Natural Attractions

Crystal Caves – Walk above blue underground pools on floating bridges.
Blue Hole Park – Explore jungle paths, cliff jumps, and caves.
Spittal Pond Nature Reserve – Spot migratory birds and rare plants.

How to Choose Where to Go in Bermuda

Looking for beaches and relaxation? Stay along the South Shore for iconic pink sands and easy water access. History buffs should explore St. George’s and the Royal Dockyard, while families and first-timers often base in or near Hamilton for easy access to transport, shops, and restaurants. Prefer hidden gems and quiet coves? Head west to Somerset Village or east to Blue Hole Park for fewer crowds and scenic trails.

Perfect combos:

Hamilton + South Shore Beaches – Culture, dining, and daytime sun.
St. George’s + Crystal Caves – History and nature.
Dockyard + Somerset – Maritime heritage with laid-back coastal beauty.

How to Get Around Bermuda

Scooters & Electric Minicars
The most popular way to explore. Rentals available across the island — great for flexibility but drive cautiously (left side of the road).
Public Buses & Ferries
Efficient and scenic. Bus routes cover the entire island, color-coded by direction. Ferries run from Hamilton to Dockyard, St. George’s, and more.
Taxis & Tours
Reliable but pricey. Taxi tours are a great way to see key sites with a local guide — many drivers double as cultural ambassadors.
Bicycles & Walking
Good for small towns and scenic trails like the Railway Trail.
Note: Rental cars are not permitted in Bermuda.

Travel Budget & Costs in Bermuda

Bermuda is known for its upscale appeal, but savvy travelers can still enjoy it without splurging.

Daily Budget Estimates

Budget: $100–$150 (guesthouses, bus travel, free beaches)
Mid-range: $200–$350 (boutique hotels, casual dining, guided tours)
Luxury: $400+ (resorts, private yachts, fine dining)

Sample Costs

Public bus or ferry ride: $4.50–$5.00
Fish sandwich or meal: $10–$18
Snorkeling tour: $70–$120
Hotel: $200–$500+ per night (seasonal)

Money Tips

Use an Island Transportation Pass for unlimited bus/ferry rides.
Eat at beach shacks or local joints for better value.
Travel during shoulder season (May–June or Sept–Oct) for deals.

Best Time to Visit Bermuda

Spring (April–June)
Warm weather, fewer crowds, and great hotel deals. Ideal for beach lovers and outdoor adventures.
Summer (July–August)
High season with perfect swimming conditions and vibrant festivals. Expect higher prices.
Fall (September–October)
Still warm, with fewer tourists and better rates. Waters remain ideal for snorkeling.
Winter (November–March)
Cooler but pleasant; great for golf, museums, and hiking — less ideal for beach swimming.

Must-See Experiences in Bermuda

Swim in the Crystal Caves, lit by glowing turquoise pools
Sail across the Great Sound on a catamaran at sunset
Snorkel shipwrecks and coral gardens near Elbow Beach or Daniel’s Head
Wander St. George’s, where British colonial streets meet sea breezes
Eat a fish sandwich on raisin bread, a true Bermudian tradition
Hike the Railway Trail, a peaceful coastal path through forests and cliffs
Climb Gibbs Hill Lighthouse, for panoramic island views
Join a rum tasting or Dark ‘n Stormy cruise along the coast

Book immersive Bermuda tours and experience unforgettable things to do in Bermuda — from cliffside explorations and pink-sand strolls to coral reef snorkeling and maritime heritage walks.

Best Travel Itineraries in Bermuda

3-Day Escape

Day 1: Explore Hamilton & lunch on Front Street
Day 2: Beach-hop from Horseshoe Bay to Warwick Long Bay
Day 3: Day trip to St. George’s + Crystal Caves

5-Day Classic Bermuda

Day 1–2: South Shore beaches + lighthouse hike
Day 3: Hamilton markets + rum cruise
Day 4: St. George’s + underground cave tour
Day 5: West End Dockyard + Museum + snorkel trip

7-Day Relaxed Itinerary

Base in Hamilton or Warwick
Alternate days between culture (St. George’s, Dockyard, museums) and leisure (beaches, sailing, spa)
Cap off with a sunset picnic on the beach or lighthouse summit