The main attraction in Bermuda is undoubtedly the coast, with the famous pink sand beaches mostly in the south. Horseshoe Bay and Elbow Beach—both of which are within easy reach of Hamilton—are the main draws, and have decent facilities. Bermuda is also a historic town, displaying many reminders of its colonial past under the English reign. Main sights are in the UNESCO World Heritage designated St George, the island’s former capital, and can be explored on foot.
St George’s
The former capital of Bermuda, and its most inviting town, resides in the northeast of the island on St George Harbor. UNESCO World Heritage status was garnered through its old buildings, and the town has retained a colonial air, whereas Hamilton, the current capital, is more modern. Exploring St George’s winding streets and cobblestone alleys is a pastime, and be sure to take note of the odd street names and explore the squares, gardens, and lovely waterfront. King’s Square is the focal point, while main attractions include St Peter’s Church, the Bermuda Heritage Museum, and HMS Deliverance. Keep an eye out for actors in period dress. Address: St George’s Parish, northeast Bermuda Phone: n/a Website: n/a
Hamilton
Bermuda’s happening capital lies in the middle of the island and is a town of pastel-painted, Victorian buildings and good tax-free shopping. It is the largest city and has beaches galore, a sizeable harbor, and many pretty squares and boulevards. Sightseers can take in the capital’s forts, churches, and museums, while bars, restaurants, hotels, and Harbor Nights offer nightly entertainment. Hamilton is easy to discover on foot and recommended to get the full island vibe. Address: Pembroke Parish, Central Bermuda Phone n/a Website: n/a
Horseshoe Bay
This must-visit stunning arc of pink sand is located to the southwest of Hamilton. Hemmed in by cliffs and backed by greenery, the beach offers gentle shelving that makes it a popular spot for families. Facilities include bathrooms, concession stands for food and drinks, and lifeguards (in the summer). A great spot for snorkeling, the only downside is that all this beauty brings crowds, so aim to get here early, and consider heading to nearby East Whale Bay or Chaplin Bay when it gets too busy. Horseshoe Bay Beach House is a good place to grab a bite should you get hungry. Trip time by scooter from Hamilton is about 15 minutes. Address: Southampton Parish, South Bermuda Phone: n/a Website: n/a
Elbow Beach
Three top-end Bermuda resorts surround this pretty beach, which is almost within walking distance of Hamilton. Elbow Beach is a fair way north of Horseshoe Bay and has more sand, stretching for nearly one mile. This is a safe beach due to the in-situ reefs offshore, although it is busy with families and somewhat of a haven for holidaying students as a result. Major hotels nearby are Coral Beach, Coco Reef and Elbow Beach, the latter being home to the excellent* Café Lido*. Those staying at Elbow Beach hotel have direct access to towels, restrooms, and beach attendants. Paget Marsh and the Botanical Gardens are also nearby sightseeing options. Address: Paget Parish, South-Central Bermuda Phone: n/a Website: n/a
Bermuda Aquarium
The Bermuda Aquarium is one of the top places to take kids and is one of the more realistically-priced attractions on the island. It has a 140,000-gallon coral reef replica with hundreds of species and is home to an aquatics museum. What’s more, it has an enviable setting in Flatts Village, on the banks of Harrington Sound, between Hamilton and St George. Nearby Shelly Bay is one of the go-to places for families, featuring a playground and shallow water. Bermuda Aquarium is on the Hamilton-St George bus and taxi run so it’s easy to get to. Address: 40 North Shore Road, Flatts Village, Hamilton Parish Phone: +1-441-293-2727 Website: https://bamz.org/home.php
Scaur Hill Fort Park
The British went to town in ensuring Bermuda’s protection in the days of colonialism, piracy, and American aggression by building scores of forts across the island. Many are restored and open to visitors including Scaur Hill, which resides in Scaur Hill Park, overlooking Great Sound. It was one of the later forts, built in 1870 to protect the Royal Naval Dockyard from a possible attack by the Americas. There are nice walking paths and fabulous views over the sound. Also nearby are pretty Somerset Village, nice beaches (Snorkel Park Beach), and the Gilbert Nature Reserve. You can get here by bus numbers 7 and 8 from Hamilton, as well as by ferry. Address: Scotts Hill, Sandys Parish Phone: n/a Website: n/a
St Peter’s Church
The oldest church in Bermuda is also the oldest Anglican church in this part of the world. It was originally put up not long after the arrival of the British, and although a hurricane destroyed much of it in the early 1700s, parts of the interior dates back to 1620. The indoor design is impressive, with cedar beams, while in the graveyard are noted individuals from Bermuda’s past. St Peter’s Church is an easy walk from King’s Square and other St George’s landmarks, including the Old Rectory and ferry terminal. Address: Church Lane, St George’s, St George’s Parish Phone: +1-441-297-2459 Website: http://www.anglican.bm/j3r.html
Somerset Village
This cute village actually resides on an island (Somerset Island) in the far west of Bermuda, and is laid-back personified. It is thoroughly charming—almost a snapshot of rural England—complete with pretty countryside and dainty cottages, and has just one road going through it. There are a few cafés and shops, but people mainly come to get away from the crowded main beaches. Nearby are the Gilbert Nature Reserve and Scaur Hill Fort Park. Get here direct by ferry, taxi or bus numbers 7 or 8. Address: Somerset Island, Sandys Parish Phone: n/a Website: n/a
Bailey’s Bay
This popular north shore destination in the district of Hamilton Parish is best known for the Crystal Caves. It resides on the run between St George and Hamilton, and is worth a trip in its own right. The caves at nearby Blue Hole Park are particularly impressive, while the walk between here and nearby Coney Island is part of the celebrated Railway Trail and in one of its nicest sections of town. Buses and taxis run by Bailey’s Bay all the time. Address: Hamilton Parish, Central-North Bermuda Phone: n/a Website: n/a
Royal Naval Dockyard
Positioned at the western tip of the territory in a fabulous citadel is the revamped Royal Naval Dockyard complex. You could easily spend half a day at the site, learning about the British relocating their Atlantic fleet during the American Revolutionary War at the Bermuda Maritime Museum, and taking in the impressive storage buildings. There are cannons, bastions, artifacts from shipwrecks, and various maritime artworks, as well as fine views and several side attractions. Also on site is the island’s largest shopping center and one of Bermuda’s three cruise piers. Address: Pender Rd., Royal Naval Dockyard, Sandys Parish Phone: +1-441-234-1418 Website: http://www.bmm.bm/