7 Reasons to Drop Everything and Head to Bermuda Right Now

Did you know Bermuda is just a two-hour flight from the East Coast?  Boasting some of the world’s best beaches, a landscape filled with natural beauty, and a rich history, get ready to pack your bags, because this is what Bermuda has to offer.

Beaches

From Horseshoe Bay, to Tobacco Bay, and Elbow Beach, Bermuda’s beaches are known as some of the best in the world. TripAdvisor’s 2016 Travelers’ Choice Awards named Horseshoe Bay as one of the Top 25 Best Beaches in the World, and Warwick Long Bay was named on CNN’s list of the 100 Best Beaches in the World.

The undisturbed beauty of these stretches of sand has helped Bermuda develop into an upscale destination ideal for those seeking R&R. And a Rum Swizzle. For beaches a little more off the beaten path, head to St. George’s Island or St. David’s Island, both of which are on the East end of Bermuda.

Caves

To see Bermuda in a completely new way, head underground. Guests can tour the Crystal & Fantasy Caves in Hamilton Parish, known for the magnificent natural rock formations, chandelier clusters, and 55-foot-deep pool that make up this incredible underground world. Guests can tour one tour or the other, or purchase a combination ticket to see both. Good for kids, this is one adventure that the entire family is sure to enjoy.

Scooters

Forget cars -- the most popular form of transportation around Bermuda is by scooter or Vespa.

Small and easy to navigate, Bermuda has a long history rooted in alternative methods of transportation; cars were not even allowed in Bermuda until 1946, and rentals are still prohibited today. Instead, most tourists and locals get around by scooter or Vespa, which are available to rent at many locations across the island, including Elbow Beach Cycles or Oleander Cycles. Though they’re a fun, user-friendly way to navigate the island, tourists should exercise caution when operating the scooters; follow the 35 km (21 mph) speed limit, and pay close attention to the rental company’s lesson. For families or those not keen on riding a small vehicle around a foreign territory, Bermuda also offers a range of taxi services and an easily navigable public transportation system.

Golf

The island is home to a series of stunning golf courses that cater to both tourists and locals.

Named Bermuda’s Best Golf Course by the 2015 World Golf Awards, Port Royal Golf Course features 18 championship holes overlooking blue waters and sandy beaches. The course was designed by architect Robert Trent Jones St. in 1970 and underwent a $14.5 million renovation in 2009. The signature 16th hole at the Port Royal Golf Course requires a 235-yard shot over the Atlantic Ocean. Other favorites in the area include Turtle Hill Golf Club at The Fairmont Southampton, Tucker’s Point Golf Club and The Mid Ocean Club.

Historical Landmarks

Bermuda’s history is deeply rooted in its position as a British naval stronghold and defensive military station, and thus is dotted with historical forts. Though the forts no longer serve their original purpose, many have been well maintained and remain open for tourism. Fort Hamilton, in Pembroke Parish, and Fort St. Catherine, in St. George’s Parish, are two of the most popular to visit, while the Royal Naval Dockyard has developed into a historical complex of landmarks, restaurants, cruise ship docks, museums and shops.

While the forts protected Bermuda’s land, lighthouses helped sailors navigate the choppy waters. Made completely of cast iron, the Gibb’s Hill Lighthouse, first opened in 1846, is still in operation. Today, those visiting the lighthouse can climb to the top, take home a souvenir from the gift shop, and dine at the onsite restaurant. Another lighthouse on St. David’s Island, is only open from May-September.

Food

The real star of Bermuda is the seafood -- especially their renowned fish chowder, considered the island’s national dish. Flickr: Jeremy T. Hetzel The signature recipe consists of fish, tomatoes, and onions seasoned with rum and sherry pepper sauce, a local favorite for adding flavor. Local spots like Hog Penny Pub, Wahoo’s Bistro & Patio and Lobster Pot serve up steaming hot bowls of Bermuda’s signature dish -- as well as a variety of other seafood delicacies. And if you’re craving a steak (or the ultimate fine-dining experience), there’s no better spot in Bermuda than the Waterlot Inn, a 350-year-old stalwart with a seriously impressive wine list.

Dark ‘N’ Stormy

There’s no traveling to Bermuda without at least one (or a few) of Bermuda’s signature cocktail, the Dark ‘N’ Stormy. Flickr: kansasphoto The name itself was coined by Bermuda-based Gosling’s Black Seal rum, which was able to get a rare trademark on the cocktail’s ingredients -- down to the measurements. The protected recipe, which can be found across the island at virtually every bar, includes Gosling's Black Seal dark rum and the brand's own Stormy Ginger Beer. The result? A warming highball cocktail that’s the perfect accoutrement to a day spent at the beach or lounging poolside.

Ready to go?

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