“Located off the eastern US coast, in the North Atlantic, Bermuda is not only famous for its unique blend of American and British culture, but also for its unique pink sand beaches (Elbow Beach, Horseshoe Bay).
The island offers a combination of heritage and modern activity hubs, through sites such as the Royal Naval Dockyard, which houses both the National Museum and the fun Dolphin Quest.”
If you’re a thrill seeker or an active type looking for a holiday to expel your pent up energy- Bermuda is most certainly not for you… unless of course golf is where you get your thrill! Even in Caribbean standards, life here moves at a slow, relaxed pace; perfect for lying in the sunshine with a good book- or a little swim if you can muster the energy.
Although not technically located in the Caribbean Sea, the island retains many of the same qualities of other countries in the region and is thus often noted as Caribbean Islands. Think pink sandy beaches, underground caves, the signature laid back attitude, combine it all with the unique culture of its welcoming locals, and you’ll be talking about the same things as travel journalists and Conde Nast Traveler readers who voted Bermuda "Best Island in the Caribbean/Atlantic" 18 times since 1994.
With a total area of just 20.58 square miles (54 sq km) spread over 181 islands, islets and rocks, Bermuda is in the North Atlantic Ocean, about 1,100 miles northeast of Miami, Florida. Bermuda is of volcanic origin, giving the island a base of igneous rock, and a top coating of limestone. Because limestone is so porous, rainwater quickly seeps into the ground, leaving no significant streams or rivers on the islands and thus no surface water. Despite this, Bermuda is still covered in beautiful, lush greenery. As well as the beautiful scenery on the island, Bermuda doesn’t fail to disappoint out at sea either, with one of the world’s most northerly coral reefs.
Despite being closer to America, British heritage is important here, and the people here are keeping up traditions- including shutting up shop for their afternoon tea! While the mix of cultures here once caused some tension, this has now eased thanks to increased involvement of ethnic minorities in government. On the whole, you can expect your Bermuda holiday to be quiet and relaxing, with no worries of about aggressive vendors.
Unlike Caribbean islands, Bermuda weather isn’t tropical, but defined as sub-tropical; mild weather for most of the year, but then turning quite hot and humid throughout the summer months, with temperatures averaging between 23oC and 29oC from May to mid-October, whilst the winter months average at a mild 21oC.
AROUND THE ISLAND
Though a place of relaxation and down time, Bermuda activities do stretch to those who are keen to get up on their feet for a day or two. You can have a go at a variety of water sports such as jet skiing, snorkelling and scuba diving , all of which will give you a great view as you look back to the island. In particular, the famous reef (one of the most northerly in the world) dazzles guests choosing to scuba dive and snorkel here, but aside from reefs to explore there are also over 350 ship wrecks just a short trip from the shore.
If swimming with dolphins is something you’ve been dreaming of, then do not miss the opportunity to swim with the dolphins at Dolphin Quest in Sandys. Your involvement with these stunning and intelligent creatures ranges from simply sitting on an underwater platform and interacting with the dolphins, to signing up to work alongside the dolphin trainers for a day- and many packages in between. If you chose to join the Trainer for a Day program, then you can expect to spend five and a half hours learning about dolphins through health exams, preparing meals, training and playing with the dolphins. Program prices range from $160 to $3250(USD).
If you’d like some context to the beautiful views and the welcoming people here- or just want a break from dozing in the sunshine there are numerous historical and cultural attractions to explore on your Bermuda holiday. The National Maritime Museum and local water crafts, has recently expanded and joined forces with the National Museum of Bermuda and together, the two feature exhibits that cover the history of Bermuda both on land and at sea. Other attractions include Gibbs Hill Lighthouse (the oldest cast iron lighthouse), St. Catherine Fort (the first fort built on the island) and Crystal Caves (a nature-made 55 foot deep lake surrounded by crystal stalactites and stalagmites).
If, like many holidaymakers to Bermuda, you just want to put your feet up and relax with some pampering, there are plenty of spas, 32 beaches, beauty salons, golf courses and many high end restaurants in which to enjoy. The highest concentration of private beaches is in Paget Parish, but all of the beaches in Pembroke Parish are public so you can explore.
