The best things to do in Bermuda

Of course you’re going to Bermuda for the beaches. But there’s much more to this tiny island in the Atlantic Ocean than plonk yourself on the sand. While Bermuda is not part of the Caribbean, it shares the same history of colonial influences, pirate outlaws and distilling rum, and a similarly fascinating hinterland tucked away behind the palm trees and golden sand. 

Whether you’re looking for a low-key getaway, an active island adventure or a deep dive into history, here are nine things to do to break up those beach days on Bermuda.

Drink Bermudian rum

The official rum of Bermuda is Goslings, used in the island’s signature drink, the Dark and Stormy (a mix of Goslings rum, ginger beer, and lime) as well as the island’s unofficial national drink, the Rum Swizzle (three types of Goslings rum and fruit juices stirred into a potent punch). Even if rum isn’t your favorite spirit, Bermuda all but begs you to try one of these classics, and you’ll find them at most island pubs and hotel bars.

Planning tip:  Seek out rum-based cocktails at the historic Swizzle Inn near Castle Harbour, named after the house punch. For a cocktail with a view, try the beachside bars at coves such as Tobacco Bay and Achilles’ Bay; or waterfront restaurants such as The Birdcage and 1609.

Find your pink-sand bliss at Bermuda’s top 14 beaches

Eat a fish sandwich

While you may have tasted a fish sandwich before, it wasn’t a Bermuda fish sandwich. On this idyllic island, fresh catch of the day (usually a white, flaky fish such as snapper, wahoo or mahi-mahi) is fried and stacked between slices of raisin bread slathered with tartar sauce and hot sauce. 

Locals usually ask for the sandwich with “the works” – usually lettuce, tomato and onion, plus extra tartar sauce on the side. The combination may sound a bit much, but you won’t regret experiencing a Bermuda fish sandwich at least once.

Planning tip: Find a fine fish sandwich at hole-in-the-wall cafes such as Hamilton’s Art Mel’s Spicy Dicy and the north shore’s Seaside Grill.

View the island from on deck 

Cruising away from the jagged coast on a boat trip will let you take in Bermuda’s size…