Last Update
May 25, 2025 11:02 PM

Bermuda

Bermuda

Quick Info

Bermuda
Bermuda is a sun-drenched jewel in the North Atlantic, where Caribbean flair meets British tradition. This island isn't just about picture-perfect beaches—it’s a living postcard of coral-colored cottages, winding limestone lanes, maritime history, and unforgettable ocean adventures. Whether you're sipping a Rum Swizzle in a pastel-shaded town or diving into shipwrecks off the reef-studded coast, Bermuda delivers a blend of elegance, culture, and tropical escape that’s uniquely its own.
Capital:
Bermuda is a sun-drenched jewel in the North Atlantic, where Caribbean flair meets British tradition. This island isn't just about picture-perfect beaches—it’s a living postcard of coral-colored cottages, winding limestone lanes, maritime history, and unforgettable ocean adventures. Whether you're sipping a Rum Swizzle in a pastel-shaded town or diving into shipwrecks off the reef-studded coast, Bermuda delivers a blend of elegance, culture, and tropical escape that’s uniquely its own.
Main cities:
t. George’s, Somerset Village
International airport:
L.F. Wade International Airport (BDA)
Population:
Approximately 63,900
Area:
53.3 sq km
Dependency Status:
British Overseas Territory
Language:
English (official), Portuguese widely spoken
Currency:
Bermudian Dollar (BMD, $) – on par with USD
Time zone:
GMT -4
Country Code:
+1 441
Driving:
Left-hand side
Electricity:
Type A and B, Standard Voltage 120V
Emergency Number:
911
Tipping:
15-20% is customary; many restaurants include a service charge

Map

Best Time to Visit

Bermuda

The sweet spot to visit Bermuda is from May through October, when the sea is warm and the pink beaches are at their sparkling best. Summer temperatures hover around 26–30°C, perfect for snorkeling, sailing, or lounging in a cabana. Spring and early fall are ideal for fewer crowds and cooler evenings. While winter (November to March) is off-season for beachgoers, it’s great for golfing, hiking, and exploring historic sites in peace.

Top 10 Attractions in

Bermuda

  • Horseshoe Bay Beach – Bermuda’s most iconic pink-sand beach, great for swimming, sunbathing, and photography.
  • Crystal & Fantasy Caves – Stunning underground caverns with sapphire-blue pools and dramatic limestone formations.
  • St. George’s Town – A UNESCO World Heritage Site with colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and historical reenactments.
  • Royal Naval Dockyard – Cultural and shopping hub with the National Museum of Bermuda, Dolphin Quest, and local artisan shops.
  • Gibbs Hill Lighthouse – One of the oldest cast-iron lighthouses in the world; offers panoramic views of the island.
  • Tobacco Bay – A lively beach with limestone rocks, shallow turquoise waters, and vibrant beach bars.
  • Elbow Beach – Quieter than Horseshoe, known for golden-pink sand and excellent snorkeling.
  • Spittal Pond Nature Reserve – Bermuda’s largest nature reserve, perfect for hiking and birdwatching.
  • Bermuda Aquarium, Museum & Zoo (BAMZ) – Educational and fun for all ages, showcasing local wildlife and marine species.
  • The Unfinished Church – A surreal open-air Gothic ruin that captures Bermuda’s romantic and historical charm.

Local Tips -

Bermuda

  • Public Transport is Great – Use the pink and blue buses or ferries to explore the island without needing a car.
  • No Rental Cars Allowed – Tourists can’t rent full-size cars; opt for electric mini-cars, scooters, or mopeds instead.
  • It’s Expensive – Bermuda is one of the pricier islands; budget accordingly and look for grocery stores and local eateries.
  • Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen – Help protect Bermuda’s coral ecosystems when snorkeling or swimming.
  • Swim at Smaller Beaches – Try Church Bay or Jobson’s Cove for fewer crowds and top-notch snorkeling.
  • Tap Water is Rainwater – Most buildings collect and filter rainwater. It’s generally safe, but bottled water is available.
  • Dress Modestly in Towns – Swimwear is for beaches only; in Hamilton or St. George’s, casual smart dress is expected.
  • Try Local Drinks – The Dark 'n Stormy and Rum Swizzle are essential sips for the full island experience.
  • Watch for Humpback Whales – From March to April, book a boat tour for whale watching.
  • Sundays are Quiet – Many shops and restaurants close early or all day. Plan accordingly.

Carnivals and Festivals in

Bermuda

  • Bermuda Day (May) – Parades, dance troupes, Gombey performers, and the start of summer celebrations.
  • Cup Match (August) – A two-day public holiday filled with cricket, Crown & Anchor gambling, and non-stop partying.
  • Harbour Nights (Summer Wednesdays) – Street festival in Hamilton with food vendors, crafts, and live entertainment.
  • Gombey Festival (September) – Celebration of Bermuda’s Afro-Caribbean culture through dance, music, and folklore.
  • Bermuda International Film Festival (March) – Features independent and international films, workshops, and screenings.
  • Cool Facts About

    Bermuda

    • Pink Sand Beaches – Made from crushed coral, shells, and Foraminifera—tiny red marine organisms.
    • Rainwater is Life – There are no rivers or lakes; homes collect and store rainwater for drinking.
    • No Billboards – Outdoor advertising is banned to preserve Bermuda’s scenic charm.
    • Left-Side Driving – British heritage means driving on the left, but with American-style cars!
    • Gombey Dancers – Iconic performers with colorful costumes, drums, and African-inspired rhythms.
    • Over 300 Shipwrecks – Bermuda is a wreck diver’s paradise, with reefs hiding centuries of maritime history.
    • Triangle Mystery – The island sits inside the infamous Bermuda Triangle, a hotbed of conspiracy theories.
    • No Fast Food Chains – No McDonald’s, Burger King, or Starbucks; Bermuda favors local cafes and cuisine.
    • Bermuda Shorts are Formalwear – Often worn with a blazer, knee socks, and loafers.
    • Golf Galore – Bermuda has more golf courses per square mile than anywhere else in the world.

    FAQ

    What is Bermuda known for?
    Bermuda is famous for its pink-sand beaches, coral reefs, and British charm in a tropical setting. It’s often associated with the mysterious Bermuda Triangle, but visitors come for world-class diving, pastel-colored towns, rum cocktails, and warm island hospitality. Historic forts, underground caves, and shipwrecks add to its allure.

    Is the island a good destination for families?
    Definitely. Bermuda is very family-friendly, with clean beaches, calm waters, and attractions like the Bermuda Aquarium, Zoo & Museum (BAMZ) and Crystal Caves. There’s plenty to explore for kids and teens, from snorkeling to riding scooters with parents.

    Is the island safe for tourists?
    Yes, Bermuda is extremely safe. It’s one of the safest islands in the Atlantic, with low crime and a welcoming, helpful local population. Normal travel precautions apply, but it’s a worry-free destination for solo travelers, couples, and families.

    Do you need a visa to visit?
    Bermuda allows visa-free entry for many nationalities for stays up to 90 days, including travelers from the UK, EU, USA, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Others may need a transit visa via the UK or US depending on their flight path. Always check current travel rules based on your passport.

    What’s the best way to get to the island?
    Fly directly into L.F. Wade International Airport (BDA) from major cities like New York, Miami, Toronto, and London. Once on the island, you can get around using buses, ferries, electric mini-cars, or scooters—rental cars are not allowed for visitors.

    Should I rent a car on the island?
    Nope! Tourists can’t rent standard cars in Bermuda. Instead, rent a Twizy electric mini-car, scooter, moped, or use public transport. The island is small and well-connected, making travel easy and scenic.

    Is the island wheelchair accessible?
    Partially. Many newer resorts, beaches, and public areas are accessible, but some historic sites and older buildings can be tricky. Accessible taxis and ADA-compliant accommodations are available—just check in advance to confirm details.

    What are the island’s most famous landmarks?

    • Horseshoe Bay Beach – Bermuda’s postcard-perfect pink-sand beach.
    • Crystal & Fantasy Caves – Magical underground pools and limestone formations.
    • St. George’s Town – UNESCO World Heritage Site with colonial history.
    • Royal Naval Dockyard – Home to the National Museum, shopping, and Dolphin Quest.

    What are the best beaches on the island?

    • Horseshoe Bay – The island’s star beach, perfect for swimming and lounging.
    • Tobacco Bay – Great for snorkeling and weekend beach vibes.
    • Elbow Beach – Peaceful and family-friendly, great for long walks.
    • Jobson’s Cove – A small, stunning spot surrounded by limestone cliffs.

    What’s unique about Bermuda’s wildlife?
    Bermuda is full of surprises—no native mammals, but lots of vibrant marine life. You’ll spot parrotfish, angelfish, rays, and even humpback whales in season. On land, expect longtail birds, tiny whistling frogs, and lizards. Coral reefs and over 300 shipwrecks make it a diver’s dream.

    What traditional foods should you try?
    Bermuda’s cuisine is a mix of British roots and island flair. Don’t miss:

    • Bermuda fish chowder with black rum and sherry pepper sauce
    • Spiny lobster (seasonal)
    • Codfish and potatoes – A classic Bermudian breakfast
    • Fish sandwich on raisin bread – Yes, raisin bread!
    • Rum cake and homemade ginger beer

    Can you drink tap water?
    Tap water in Bermuda is collected rainwater, filtered and treated at each property. It’s usually safe to drink, especially in hotels, but bottled and filtered water is readily available if you prefer.

    What’s the nightlife like?
    Bermuda offers laid-back but classy nightlife. Think oceanfront bars, live music in Hamilton, sunset cocktails, and maybe some dancing on weekends. No wild parties—just good vibes, starry skies, and local rhythm.

    How can I stay connected to the internet?
    Wi-Fi is available at most hotels, cafes, and restaurants. Mobile coverage is good across the island with Digicel and One Communications. You can roam or get a local SIM card, but many travelers enjoy the chance to unplug.

    What souvenirs should you bring home?

    • Gosling’s Rum or Rum Swizzle mix
    • Locally made cedarwood carvings
    • Pink sand in a keepsake jar (purchased, not taken)
    • Bermuda shorts and island apparel
    • Handcrafted jewelry or island-themed art

    20 Essential Words

    • Gombey – Traditional dancer in colorful costume, rooted in Afro-Caribbean culture.
    • Dark 'n Stormy – Bermuda’s signature drink: rum + ginger beer.
    • Swizzle – A fruity rum punch cocktail born at the Swizzle Inn.
    • Crown & Anchor – Local dice game, especially popular during Cup Match.
    • Belco – Bermuda’s power company; frequently mentioned during outages.
    • Rumpus Room – Term for a family rec room or hangout space.
    • Longtail – Bermuda’s national bird, seen soaring along cliffs.
    • Islander – What locals often call themselves with pride.
    • Spiny Lobster – Seasonal delicacy served grilled or curried.
    • Waterville – Historic waterfront estate in Hamilton.
    • Pink Bus – Public transport known for its cheerful tropical color.
    • Bermudiana – Bermuda’s national flower.
    • Somerset – One of the two cricket teams in the Cup Match rivalry.
    • St. George’s – The historic east-end town and Somerset’s Cup Match rival.
    • Sargasso Sea – The unique Atlantic area surrounding Bermuda.
    • Gosling’s – Local rum brand that’s a point of island pride.
    • Jobson’s Cove – A quiet, picturesque beach spot.
    • Church Bay – Top snorkeling beach on the south shore.
    • Blue Hole – A deep marine sinkhole with a beautiful lagoon.
    • Snorkel Park – A beach near the Dockyard that’s great for water sports and snorkeling.

    Famous figures connected to

    Bermuda

    • Mark Twain – Visited often and praised Bermuda as a paradise in his letters and speeches.
    • John Lennon – Wrote parts of Double Fantasy in Bermuda and was deeply inspired by the island.
    • Michael Douglas & Catherine Zeta-Jones – Celebrity couple with a family home on the island.
    • Heather Nova – Acclaimed singer-songwriter raised in Bermuda.
    • Dame Lois Browne-Evans – First female Attorney General of Bermuda and influential political leader.
    • Dr. Neil Burnie – Marine vet and conservationist featured in Ocean Vet.
    • Ross Webber – Prominent tourism and business development advocate.
    • James Darrell – Noted early Black Bermudian pilot in the Royal Navy.
    • Kristin Armstrong – Olympic cyclist who trained in Bermuda.
    • Will Kempe – Shakespearean actor whose shipwreck inspired The Tempest legend.

    Films and TV Shows Shot on the Island

    • The Deep (1977) – Filmed in Bermuda’s waters and shipwrecks, starring Jacqueline Bisset.
    • Ocean Vet (2016) – Docu-series about Bermuda’s marine life and conservation.
    • The Bermuda Triangle (1978) – Horror film inspired by the island’s mystique.
    • Mutiny on the Bounty (1950s) – Features Bermuda’s maritime landscape.
    • The Amazing Race (Season 31) – Contestants competed in a leg through Bermuda.
    • Coconut Hero (2015) – Scenes shot in Bermuda’s lush outdoor locations.
    • Luxury Escapes – Bermuda Edition – Travel show featuring high-end resorts and pink beaches.
    • 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea (inspired) – Based on submarine adventures linked to Bermuda’s seas.
    • PBS Travel Specials – Bermuda has been highlighted for its culture and beauty.
    • Shipwreck Hunters (various documentaries) – Dive teams explore Bermuda’s famous wrecks.

    Videos