How to Plan Your First Trip to Bermuda

Honestly we never really considered making the trip out to Bermuda until recently, but we are so glad we made the spontaneous decision to go. The archipelago has more to offer than we could’ve ever imagined. We cannot believe it’s taken us this long to get to this gem in the middle of the Atlantic.

Bermuda is unexpected, underrated, and extraordinary. Once we had spent just 24 hours there, Bermuda already had our hearts! We were amazed at the crystal blue water and pink sand beaches scattered all over the island. We loved learning about the island's architecture, culture, and history. It was incredibly interesting to be in such a tropical place with a tradition of afternoon tea and pictures of Queen Elizabeth everywhere. We only wish we had more time to take it all in, but of course, we cannot wait to get back to Bermuda one day and again cheers with a Dark and Stormy in hand.

Conveniently located in the mid-Atlantic, Bermuda is less than a two-hour flight from most east coast gateways, Bermuda is perfect for getaways year-round.

Visiting Bermuda for the first time, the cost can be intimidating. As an isolated set of islets, Bermuda boasts itself as a luxury tourist destination. Where it asks for high dollars, it does not fall short of delivering a quality vacation you’ll never forget. This is a destination you’ll want to pull all the stops for, which is why we recommend planning your trip well in advance and opting to stay at a hotel or resort that will have everything you need to make it the trip of your dreams.

Where to Stay in Bermuda

Hamilton Princess and Beach Club

The Hamilton Princess & Beach Club offers everything you could possibly need to make your vacation a truly magical experience. Overlooking the stunning deep blue waters of the breathtaking harbor of Hamilton, the Fairmont Managed Hotel is only steps away from downtown Hamilton and Bermuda’s Bacardi Headquarters. The resort is conveniently located around the corner from boutique shopping, restaurants, and all the nightlife that Hamilton has to offer visitors. Private beach shuttles run daily 20 minutes down the coast to the shimmering clear turquoise waters of Sinkey Bay Beach, Hamilton Princess’s private luxury beach club. Hamilton Princess & Beach Club features well-appointed guest rooms, many of which have incredible harbor views, private balconies and marble bathrooms that would make us even blush. For unsurpassed luxury and service, reserve a room on Fairmont Gold, a luxury lifestyle offering that pampers guests with its dedicated concierge, complimentary continental breakfast, afternoon tea and evening canapes served daily in a private lounge.

This was our first time staying on Fairmont Gold, and we are so glad we did. The afternoon tea and evening canapes was one of the highlights of our trip. As many know the prices out to eat in Bermuda can climb quite quickly, having the option to enjoy a light lunch of small appetizers and snacks in the Fairmont Gold lounge within the comfort of the resort is the highest perk we could possibly ask for.

Best Places to Eat in Bermuda

1609

On property at the Hamilton Princess is a charming harbor-side lofted restaurant by the name of 1609, named after the historic year marked by the British ship the Sea Venture wrecking on the reef off Bermuda's shores on its way to Jamestown, Virginia. If the food isn’t impressive enough, the view of the harbor especially during sunset is one for the books. We enjoyed every bit of our experience at 1609, from the flawlessly twisted cocktails to the exquisite flavors of the fresh catch-of-the-day.

Choose from a Coconut Caprinha (Leblon Cachaça, Bermuda Gold Coconut, Fresh Lime) or add on a Barral Aged Rum Negroni (Goslings Black Seal, Gosling’s Amber Rum Campari, Carpano Antica Formula, Orange Slice). Our recommendations for dinner include the Lobster Carbonara, Prime NY Striploin, Pan Seared Snapper, or Seared Yellow Fin Tuna Poke. Make sure to also try the Golden Fried Shrimp as an appetizer!

Crown & Anchor

Crown & Anchor has reimagined the traditional island lounge as a sleek, contemporary venue which honors the traditions of the past. This is where great food, captivating entertainment, and exceptional rum come together to celebrate the pleasures of island life. Set on the property of the Hamilton Princess, the lounge restaurant and bar hosts indoor and outdoor seating to enjoy the garden space of the resort and view of the harbor. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, Crown & Anchor is also known for its Sunday roast night. We recommend trying the grilled salmon with peperonata sauce, beer-battered red snapper and chips, and the Tenderloin with yorkshire pudding.

Mad Hatters

The maddest of all restaurants in Bermuda, of course, is Mad Hatters! Self-described as “a humble haven of culinary delight in the city of Hamilton which has earned its sterling reputation as one of the finest Bermuda restaurants. Serving cuisine which can best be described as Classic European with a Thai/North-American fusion, our set menu and daily specials are constantly changing to reflect both seasonal demand and the diversity of our talented chefs.”

The unpretentious setting still manages to balance a sense of upscale quality with classic Bermuda style. One of the best and perhaps silliest aspects of this restaurant is that all guests are encouraged to try on a hat from the many ordained on the walls of the indoor space. The hats come in all shapes, styles and sizes, and many guests enjoy wearing silly hats throughout their meal. It’s a funny sight and adds a bit of fun to enjoy alongside delectable dishes.

Ruby Murry’s

Aside from the great seafood options available in Bermuda, there is also a variety of foreign cuisines. Ruby Murry’s serves authentic Indian dishes in one of the oldest wine cellars in Bermuda. The informal and relaxed setting does not cut any corners on flavor. Don’t underestimate the culinary abilities at Ruby Murry’s, as it may be in the mid-Atlantic, it still champions itself in mastering true Indian flare.

What to Do in Bermuda

Relax and Enjoy the Hamilton Princess Beach Club at Sinky Bay

What do travelers to Bermuda usually seek more than a peaceful day spent on the beach? Sinky Bay is a private beach owned and operated by The Hamilton Princess, providing beachside food and beverage service along with a variety of beach and water activities. Choose from kayaks, paddleboards or snorkeling equipment and enjoy some time out on the turquoise waters. The bay is protected by a rock barrier from rougher surf, so the beach of Sinky Bay is incredibly calm and peaceful. There are plenty of beautiful fish to spot around the rocks, so enjoy the day and soak up the sun at this popular beach and lounge location.

Discover Pink Sand Beaches at Horseshoe Bay

One of the most famous parts of Bermuda amongst travelers is the island’s pink sand beaches. Names for its curved shape, Horseshoe Bay is arguably the most popular and frequented beach by tourists and visitors to Bermuda. Horseshoe Bay is trademarked by the quintessential turquoise water and pink sand beach. But what gives Horseshoe Bay its rosy shade? It’s from the colors of the coral and calcium carbonate from organisms called red foraminifera that make up the sand.

Take the Ferry to the Royal Naval Dockyard

To see the island from a different perspective, take to the water and ride the ferry from Hamilton to the Royal Naval Dockyard. You’ll be greeted by incredible views on both sides as the ferry embarks across the harbor. The 30-minute ride is only 5 dollars each way and provides a great opportunity to explore the history around the Royal Naval Dockyard. The ferry departs Monday through Friday from Hamilton every hours and a half, running from 7:10am to its last departure at 4:30pm. For weekend and holiday times, as well as more-detailed departure times, check out the Bermuda Ferry schedule and timetable.

Swim in Jobson’s Cove

Jobson’s Cove is a lovely pink sand beach with lots of shady areas. Jobson’s Cove is easily one of the most popular tourist destinations in Bermuda. The water is shallow and perfect for kids to play in. The secluded area is sequestered between rocks providing lots of private nooks for couples. The cove is incredibly popular, so it’s wise to start early to get there and grab a good spot on the beach. You can reach the cove hiking from Horseshoe Bay Beach. Bring plenty of sunscreen to enjoy this beach. If the area gets too crowded, as it often does, you can continue on the path to Warwick Bay and stop to play in the waves. The cove itself is picture-perfect, and is sought after by tourists and photographers alike. The lagoon is bright turquoise and is perfect for snorkeling and spotting Parrot Fish.

As one of Bermuda’s tiniest but most beautiful beaches, you won’t be disappointed making the stop to see this gem.

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