Bermuda: An In-Depth Travel Guide

Bermuda is a small archipelago located in the North Atlantic Ocean, approximately 1,000 km (650 miles) east of the coast of North Carolina, USA. Despite common misconceptions, Bermuda is not part of the Caribbean but is actually located much farther north. The island consists of about 181 small islands and islets, the largest of which is the Main Island, often simply referred to as “Bermuda. Though small in size (just 53.3 square kilometers or 20.6 square miles), Bermuda packs a lot of history, natural beauty, and activities for visitors.

Distance to the U.S.

Bermuda is about a 90-minute flight from major East Coast cities like New York, Boston, and Washington, D.C., making it a convenient and quick getaway from the United States. The closest point in the U.S. is Cape Hatteras, North Carolina, which is about 650 miles away. Bermuda’s remote location gives it a unique blend of seclusion and accessibility.

Why Go to Bermuda?

Bermuda is a paradise for travelers seeking stunning pink sand beaches, clear turquoise waters, and a variety of outdoor activities, from snorkeling and diving to golfing and deep-sea fishing. The island is also renowned for its rich maritime history, charming British colonial architecture, and vibrant local culture. Its year-round mild climate, well-maintained infrastructure, and friendly locals make it an ideal destination for relaxation, adventure, and cultural immersion.

Key Reasons to Visit Bermuda:

• Beaches: Famous for their unique pink sand, Bermuda’s beaches are among the most beautiful in the world. Horseshoe Bay Beach, in particular, is a must-see.
• Water Sports: Bermuda’s clear waters are perfect for snorkeling, diving, and kayaking, with a wealth of coral reefs and shipwrecks to explore.
• Historical Sites: Rich in history, Bermuda offers everything from ancient forts to museums, such as the UNESCO-listed town of St. George and the Bermuda Maritime Museum.
• Luxury: Bermuda is known for its high-end hotels, golf courses, and dining options, offering a more refined, relaxed experience compared to some busier destinations.

What to See and Do in Bermuda

1. Pink Sand Beaches

Bermuda’s beaches are world-renowned for their soft, pastel-pink sand, which is created by the microscopic remains of red foraminifera (a type of marine organism). The most famous is Horseshoe Bay Beach, located on the south shore. It’s perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and walking along the scenic coast. Other notable beaches include Elbow Beach and Warwick Long Bay.t

2. Snorkeling and Scuba Diving

Bermuda’s waters are teeming with vibrant coral reefs and shipwrecks, making it a prime destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. There are over 300 shipwrecks scattered around the island, offering a rich underwater history to explore. Some top spots include Church Bay, Tobacco Bay, and the Western Blue Cut shipwreck site.

3. Historical Sites

Bermuda has a fascinating history that dates back to the early 17th century. The town of St. George’s, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of the oldest English settlements in the New World. Here, you can explore charming cobblestone streets, historic churches, and colonial-era buildings.

Visit the Royal Naval Dockyard, a 19th-century British naval base, which now houses shops, restaurants, and the National Museum of Bermuda, where you can learn about the island’s maritime past.

4. Crystal Caves

Discovered by accident in 1907, Crystal Caves is one of Bermuda’s most stunning natural attractions. The cave is filled with dramatic stalactites and stalagmites that descend into crystal-clear underground lakes. Walking along the suspended bridges over the clear pools is a unique and awe-inspiring experience.

5. Water Sports

Beyond diving and snorkeling, Bermuda’s waters offer great opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing. You can rent equipment at many beaches or sign up for guided tours to explore hidden coves and sea cliffs.

6. Golfing Bermuda

Bermuda is a golfer’s paradise, with several world-class courses set against stunning ocean backdrops. Port Royal Golf Course is one of the island’s most famous courses, and it has hosted the PGA Grand Slam of Golf multiple times. Other notable courses include Mid Ocean Club, Tucker’s Point, and Riddell’s Bay.

7. Deep-Sea Fishing

Bermuda offers some of the best fishing in the Atlantic. The waters around the island are known for their abundance of marlin, tuna, wahoo, and mahi-mahi. Fishing charters are readily available, and many local operators offer full or half-day trips. The best time for sportfishing is from April to November.

Local Culture

Bermuda’s culture is a unique blend of British, African, and West Indian influences, reflecting the island’s colonial history and its position as a cultural crossroads in the Atlantic. Locals are known for their warm hospitality, and Bermuda’s rich traditions can be seen in its music, food, and annual events like Bermuda Day and Cup Match (a cricket festival). The official language is English, and you’ll see many British customs in day-to-day life, from driving on the left side of the road to the popularity of afternoon tea.

Festivals and Events

• Bermuda Day (May 24th): A major public holiday featuring a parade, live music, and a half-marathon.
• Cup Match: A two-day cricket match in July or August that brings the whole island together for sport, food, and festivities.

Food and Wine i Bermuda

Bermuda’s cuisine reflects its British colonial heritage as well as its proximity to the sea. Seafood is naturally a staple, and many dishes are flavored with island-grown spices and tropical fruits. Some must-try dishes include:

• Bermuda Fish Chowder: A hearty, peppery fish stew traditionally served with a splash of black rum and sherry peppers.
• Rockfish (Black Grouper): A local delicacy, often grilled or served in a sauce.
• Hoppin’ John: A Caribbean-influenced dish made from black-eyed peas, rice, and often served with pork.
• Codfish Breakfast: A traditional Sunday meal of salted cod, potatoes, onions, and bananas.

When it comes to drinks, Bermuda is famous for two iconic cocktails:

• Dark ‘n’ Stormy: Made with Gosling’s Black Seal rum and ginger beer.
• Rum Swizzle: A refreshing mix of rum, citrus juice, and a hint of bitters.

Bermuda doesn’t have much local wine production, but the island is known for its rum, particularly Gosling’s, which has been made on the island since the 19th century.

Best Time of Year to Visit

Bermuda is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences:

• April to October: This is peak season, with warm temperatures (70s-80s°F) and perfect beach weather. It’s also the ideal time for water sports and outdoor activities.
• November to March: Bermuda experiences cooler temperatures (60s°F), but it’s still pleasant for golfing, hiking, and exploring. You’ll also find fewer crowds and lower prices during these months.

Fishing in Bermuda

Bermuda is known for its world-class sportfishing, especially during the spring and summer months. The island’s waters are teeming with big-game fish, including blue and white marlin, yellowfin tuna, and wahoo. The annual Bermuda Big Game Classic fishing tournament, held in July, attracts anglers from all over the world. Offshore fishing charters are readily available, and many operators offer customized trips for both experienced anglers and beginners.

Golf in Bermuda

Bermuda is one of the premier golfing destinations in the Atlantic, boasting several top-tier courses. The island’s small size means you’re never far from a stunning fairway, and the dramatic ocean views make golfing here truly special. The Port Royal Golf Course, with its famous 16th hole along the cliffs, is a must-play for serious golfers. Other top courses include:

• Mid Ocean Club: A private course designed by Charles Blair Macdonald, consistently ranked among the world’s best.
• Tucker’s Point Golf Club: Known for its well-manicured fairways and luxurious setting.

Bermuda and James Bond: A Spy Connection ?

Bermuda has a fascinating connection to the world of James Bond, making it an alluring destination for fans of the British spy. The island has been referenced in Ian Fleming’s James Bond novels and is believed to have influenced some of the stories due to its history of espionage during World War II and the Cold War.

Ian Fleming, the creator of James Bond, had strong ties to Bermuda, visiting the island several times during his career. The island’s strategic location in the Atlantic made it a key center for British and American intelligence operations during World War II. Bermuda’s secretive history with espionage and surveillance might have inspired Fleming’s own work, contributing to his vision of exotic and dangerous locations for 007’s adventures.

One of the most notable Bermuda-James Bond connections is in the novel “For Your Eyes Only”. In this story, Bond’s mission takes him through the Caribbean and involves characters that are reminiscent of the high society and tropical backdrop that Bermuda offers. Although the story is set in Jamaica, many fans believe that the luxurious, tranquil setting Fleming describes mirrors his experiences in Bermuda.

Additionally, Bermuda’s role as a Cold War intelligence hub, with various secret bases and spy networks operating on the island, further enhanced its connection to espionage narratives. During this period, Bermuda was home to multiple British and American surveillance operations, which may have fed into Fleming’s intricate depictions of global intrigue and clandestine operations.

Even though no Bond films were shot in Bermuda, the island’s scenic beauty, exclusive resorts, and air of mystery make it feel like a perfect location for one of 007’s iconic missions. The mix of luxury, danger, and history that defines Bermuda could easily fit into the world of Bond, where opulence and espionage often intertwine. Visitors can explore the island with the same sense of intrigue and adventure that defines the Bond universe, adding an extra layer of excitement to the destination.