It can feel surprisingly quicker to reach Bermuda than to drive to a popular East Coast beach spot on a busy summer Friday. This British island territory offers a blend of relaxation and adventure, from its soft sandy beaches and clear blue waters to thrilling scuba diving around shipwrecks and vibrant coral reefs. With direct flights under two hours from cities like New York, Boston, and Philadelphia, a short trip to this idyllic island is easily achievable.
Charming Island Stays
While many resorts line the coast, I often look for a more intimate lodging experience. The Rosedon Hotel, a Relais & Châteaux property in Hamilton, offers just that. Built as a private home in 1906, it feels like stepping back in time. You can enjoy complimentary afternoon tea on the breezy front porch or borrow a bike to explore the town.
Behind the main house, a heated pool is set within a lush tropical garden. For ocean access, the hotel provides shuttle service to nearby Elbow Beach. Another excellent option is the Elbow Beach Resort, which features ocean-view rooms, tennis courts, and a spa that offers treatments inspired by local flavors, like the Rum Swizzle Ritual. This resort spreads across 50 acres with manicured gardens leading to a private pink-sand beach, offering a secluded enclave.
When planning a family getaway, I always consider the little details. For instance, ensuring easy access to a beautiful beach is a must for Sofia. Knowing the Rosedon offers shuttle service to Elbow Beach or that Elbow Beach Resort has its own pink-sand beach makes these options appealing for a parent seeking both relaxation and enjoyment for their child.
A Taste of the Island
Dining on the island offers a delightful culinary journey. Huckleberry, located at the Rosedon, focuses on sea and farm-to-table ingredients and boasts an award-winning wine list. It’s named as a nod to a frequent visitor. For a different experience, Marcus at the Hamilton Princess hotel serves dishes created by a renowned chef, with options like “Yep Chicken and Waffles” and fresh sashimi with a tropical twist.
In downtown Hamilton, Front Street and its surrounding areas are filled with eateries. Devil’s Isle is a popular spot, serving as a lively coffee shop by day and a seasonally focused café at night. If you happen to visit during spiny lobster season, from September to March, this is the place to try it. The meat is often compared to Maine lobster, but this crustacean lacks claws.
For a more casual waterfront dining experience in St. George’s, Wahoo’s is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. They are known for their namesake fish tacos, fried fish nuggets, and spiced fish chowder. While many places serve it, a must-try dish is the Bermuda fish sandwich. Traditionally made with wahoo or snapper, coleslaw, and tartar sauce, it’s often enjoyed with a cold ginger beer. Places like Mama Angie’s, Woody’s, and Seaside Grill also offer great versions.
Island Sips and Cocktails
Bermuda is famous for its signature cocktails, including the Dark and Stormy, made with Gosling’s dark rum and ginger beer. Another iconic drink is the Rum Swizzle, which is said to have been invented at the Swizzle Inn, the island’s oldest pub. Trying the original recipe there is a true island experience.
For more inventive cocktails made with in-house creations and locally sourced ingredients, consider visiting the Birdcage, which offers views of Hamilton Harbor. Across the street on Front Street, Brew is a modern coffee shop that also serves local beers and wines on tap. Yours Truly, Bermuda’s first speakeasy bar, offers creative cocktails in an atmospheric setting.
If you’re looking for a relaxing spot to enjoy a sunset, The Dock at the historic Waterlot Inn, on the way to Southampton, provides a beautiful bay backdrop. It’s an ideal place to sip sangria as the sun dips below the horizon.
Exploring Beyond the Beach
With approximately 75 miles of coastline, finding an uncrowded beach is certainly possible, and enjoying one with a refreshing drink in hand is highly recommended. However, there’s much more to discover on the island. A mobile app called Winnow, created by a local, curates unique Bermudian experiences. These can range from swimming with turtles and kayaking around shipwrecks via a glass-bottomed kayak to enjoying cocktails at a local’s home.
For a truly unique encounter, a foraging walk with a local expert like Doreen Williams-James offers insight into the island’s edible plants and herbs. These walks take place in beautiful natural reserves, such as Cooper’s Island nature reserve in St. George’s. For a different perspective, take a subterranean tour of Crystal Cave. This cave, discovered in 1905, features a clear, ocean-fed lake and ancient stalactites, offering a dramatic look into the island’s geology.
Before departing, exploring the boutiques in Hamilton and St. George’s can yield wonderful souvenirs. You can find handmade leather sandals, custom-crafted while you enjoy an espresso, or discover your signature scent at the Lili Bermuda Perfumery. For a classic Bermuda souvenir, consider a pair of colorful shorts from TABS (The Authentic Bermuda Shorts), a style synonymous with island fashion for decades.
When I’m planning trips, I always try to incorporate activities that offer a real sense of place. Learning about local flora on a foraging walk or understanding the island’s history through its natural formations like Crystal Cave provides that deeper connection. It’s these kinds of experiences that make travel memorable, especially when traveling with family.
Making the Most of Your Trip
Reaching Bermuda can be surprisingly straightforward, especially from the East Coast of North America. Direct flights often take less than two hours, making it a feasible destination for a short getaway. This ease of access means you can spend less time traveling and more time enjoying the island’s attractions.
For a weekend of biking to secluded beaches, savoring a delicious fried fish sandwich, and sipping on fruity Rum Swizzles, careful planning is key. Exploring options beyond the sprawling resorts can lead to more personalized experiences, whether it’s a boutique hotel or a unique local encounter.
When considering travel options, especially for family adventures, the availability of direct flights and the proximity of attractions to accommodations are always high on my list. It’s about maximizing enjoyment and minimizing travel stress, allowing everyone to relax and explore.
Bermuda offers a unique blend of accessibility and island charm, making it an excellent choice for a short escape filled with exploration and relaxation.
