Why is Bermuda Famous for its Beaches?

Bermuda has a special place in our hearts here in America. It is one of the closest islands to visit, and is home to natural beauty like pink sand beaches. But it has so much more, like the cultural fun of the Gombey Dancers. Bermuda is a place I personally have experienced, and it always seems to be a place to go back to again and again. With three unique areas to explore, and plenty of food to savor, Bermuda has a ton of options for a traveller like you. Let’s get lost and be found in Bermuda!

Where is Bermuda, and How Can I Get There?

The great news about Bermuda is that it is one of the closest Atlantic Islands to a majority of the United States. At only 90 minutes from New York City, Bermuda has become a destination for many Americans to enjoy. The Bermuda L.F. Wade International Airport (BDA), which is the only airport on the island, has major connections to nearly every east coast hub. It comes options for additional services like Fast Track for a smooth arrival and departure, as well as Concierge Ambassadors who can assist with travelers through the airport. Note that passenters much complete the Bermuda Arrival Card before entry. And once you leave, you can clear customs in Bermuda, which allows for a smoother arrival back home as a Domestic flight instead of International.

Another option is arrival by cruise, which is usually how travelers are introduced to Bermuda. With three cruise port terminals located around the island, where you land is just as important as who you sail with. Large ships will sail into the Royal Naval Dockyard on the western side of the island. This is where we sailed into, and you will find plenty of historical and aquatic fun here. Smaller ships may be able to sail into Hamilton, which is the heart of Bermuda. Here you will find a city ready to welcome you win true Bermuda style. And for a more exclusive feel, docking at St. George’s gives an intimate Bermuda that is worthy of praise.

How Can I Explore Bermuda Once I Am There?

Getting around the island could also not be easier with the Shorelink app. This app allows you to utilize their bus and ferry network right from your phone. There is no need to find cash with this handy. Just be sure to download it before your journey starts so you can get used to working it. Buses and ferries connect a majority of the island. For those wishing to experience other locations during their stay, it is vital to understand the network. But fret not, for Bermuda has made it quite simple to utilize.

Will there be drinking water?

Bermuda has safe drinking water that does come from the tap due to their extensive desalination programs. If you are still anxious, just use bottled waters found with your cruise, hotel, or at a local market.

Is Bermuda Safe to Visit?

CARTE ATLAS advises all travelers to become aware of the International Travel Advisory Map from the U.S. Department of State. This map lists out the levels of travel. As of the publication of this blog post, the island of Bermuda carries a Level 1 “exercise normal precaution” advisory from the U.S. State Department. Once you are educated on the level, you can decide if you wish to visit where a million overnight voyagers do each and every year.

Can I Rent a Car in Bermuda?

You cannot. There are no traditional rent cars on the island. You can however rent electric microcars, scooters and bicycles to explore the island with. Remember that you will be driving on the left side of the road! And helmets are mandatory on the island if you take a scooter or vehicle. Safety First!

What makes Bermuda’s Regions each so Special?

Even at 21 square miles, there are multiple areas to explore in Bermuda. There are in fact three distinct regions of the island. Each one has its own feel and escape waiting for you. Let’s explore further.

Explore East End

The UNESCO-listed St. George has luxurious boutiques, galleries of art, and landmarks to explore. You can find the Lil Bermuda Perfumery which contains a historic scent that is enjoyed around the world. You can find Fort St. Catherine, the Unfinished Church, and the Tobacco Bay blending everything the island has to offer together. Do not forget the caves named Crystal and Fantasy, and of course the Blue Hole Park which brings the nature of Bermuda to life.

Central Cosmopolitan Bermuda

You can find Hamilton, the capital of Bermuda, right in the middle of the island. In Hamilton Harbor there are plenty of yachts and ships to enjoy sailing in and out. Front Street is the beating heart of Hamilton and has all the dining and shopping delights. Enjoy the English Sports Shop where you can get your own Bermuda shorts! Do not forget natural beauty from the Bermuda Botanical Gardens. A cosmopolitan collection of fun awaits you in Hamilton, and it should be savored each moment.

West End – less Wonders Await

A historical section of Bermuda awaits you on the west end. Here you will find the Royal Naval Dockyard with its fort and historic government homes. The National Museum of Bermuda rests here for history lovers, as well as Horseshoe Bay for beach lovers. There is plenty to explore while you visit, and that is exactly what we did when we arrived!

Our Visit to the West End of Bermuda!

We arrived on our ship at the Royal Naval Dockyard. From there we decided to explore the National Museum of Bermuda. We learned about its British history, World War II Significance, and got to smell the perfume found in a shipwreck. The perfume inspired the island to create their own Perfumery, which still exists to this day! We then met our friends for lunch at a pub, and enjoyed a round of “mini” golf while enjoying stunning views of the ocean. It was a perfect day trip!

If I were to go back, St. George and Hamilton are on my list. I loved how historic our visit was, but I missed the local feel. I would love to wander around Hamilton and see the exciting streets and gardens. My heart also craves to see St. George. Our ship sailed around the island and we got to see St. George from afar. Perhaps a private yacht in the harbor waits for me? It looked stunning, and is now on my Travel To-Do List.

How is Bermuda’s Culture as Pink as their Beaches?

You’ll be blushing with joy as you experience the culture of Bermuda. That pink glow happens naturally to you as you smile your way around the island. Let’s find out what makes us blush so much in Bermuda!

There is a stunning art scene in Bermuda. You can find plenty of museums on this island that could take multiple days to appreciate. The Masterworks Museum of Bermuda Art, the Bermuda National Gallery, and the Bermuda Society of the Arts house some of the best art around the island. For history lovers, look no further than the National Museum of Bermuda, The Mitchell House Museum and Carter House, and the Verdmont Museum (a part of the African Diaspora Trail).

Music and Dance also have a place in Bermuda. You will find Gombey Dancers blending the styles of Africa, Europe and the Caribbean into costumes and music. See their large masks and bright colors dance around you to drums and other musical instruments. Enjoy them as well as beautiful music from ukulele along the streets to stunning piano bars.

Food also stands out in Bermuda. Find Fish Chowder with black rum and sherry peppers. Or perhaps a fish sandwich on fresh raisin bred. And breakfast is served with codfish, potatoes, and extra sweet bananas. Pies and portuguese style doughnuts called malasadas are available. Cocktails flow here in the form of a Rum Swizzle or the Dark’n Stormy®. You will definitely be craving more yet leaving satisfied as you explore the gastronomic delights of Bermuda.

Where are the Hidden Natural Wonders of Bermuda?

Bermuda has amazing natural wonders to experience. One of which is its pink sand beaches. The reason is foraminifera… try that at your local spelling bee! They are organisms with red shells that come ashore and then mix with the white sand. It appears like a soft blush from afar. But the closer you get, the shinier it seems in the bright sun.

Famous beaches include not just Horseshoe Bay Beach, but also Johnson’s Cove, Church Bay, and John Smith’s Bay. These beaches are perfect for a relaxing day during a cruise stop, or destination away from your resort. For more secluded spots, I would recommend Astwood Cove, Devonshire Bay, Somerset Long Bay and Building Bay. These spots are not as often visited, but still hold the same sand and sun you see in Bermuda. Enjoy sailing, snorkeling, and even find a shipwreck to explore. Water activities are all around Bermuda, with plenty of options. All that is missing is you!

You can also find a Natural Reserve on Bermuda. The Cooper’s Island Nature Reserve is 12 acres of beach and forest combined. Plenty of creatures call this place home like herons and land crabs. You can see it all from the Wildlife Observation Tower. Or relax at Clearwater Beach and Turtle Bay. Another landmark is Crystal Caves which hosts cavern wonders with a pathway through it. Guided tours are available to explore a location that inspired Fraggle Rock! Finally, enjoy Tom Moore’s Jungle, or officially the Walsingham Nature Reserve. Also 12 acres, the nickname comes from the Irish poet who wrote poetry here. Blue Hole Park lives here with perfect swimming conditions for adventurers.

Is Bermuda truly a Golfer’s Paradise?

Golf also has a place here in Bermuda, with multiple courses to choose from. The very best debatable is Port Royal Golf Course by Robert Trent Jones’. The Tucker’s Point Golf Club has a 70-par layout with beautiful scenery. Additional links include Mid Ocean Club, Belmont Hills Golf Club, Five Forts Golf Course (a part of the St. Regis Bermuda Resort), Turtle Hill Golf Club (ranked in Golf Magazine as a top five of the world!) and Ocean View Golf Course.

Explore More of the Atlantic Islands

---