8 of the best places to visit in Bermuda

The subtropical island of Bermuda is famed for its powdery beaches, lapped by the shallow, turquoise waves of the Atlantic Ocean.

It’s an almost Caribbean experience without actually being in the Caribbean. And there’s much more to do than just relax on the beach in this British Overseas Territory. Any local taxi driver will proudly take you from one tip of this fishhook-shaped island to the other, dropping in on the historic naval yard, the sprawling botanical gardens and the pastel-colored townships that dot the island – and making some obligatory stops on those world-class beaches.

Whether your tastes run to history, culture, water sports or golf, here are the best places to visit on a trip to Bermuda.

1. Bermuda’s South Shore 

Best place to go for beaches

Bermuda is only 21 miles long and measures just one mile at its widest point, so the ocean is never far away. If you’re here for the sand, the South Shore serves up a scenic strip of rosy-hued, powdery beaches. Head to Horseshoe Bay for white sand and calm blue waters, Warwick Long Bay for intimate coves and the pinkest sand you’ll ever see, Church Bay for snorkeling, and Elbow Beach for an unforgettable sunset.

Planning tip: The northern end of Horseshoe Bay can get very crowded with cruise-ship passengers and their sun loungers, so if you’re looking for a bit more solitude, head to the south end to find a quiet spot. 

2. Cooper’s Island Nature Reserve

Best for birdwatchers

Venture to the southeastern tip of the island, and you’ll discover the spot where island residents escape at weekends for barbecues and picnics. Formerly a restricted area occupied by the US military, and later a NASA space tracking station until 1995, the 12-acre Cooper’s Island Nature Reserve is filled with forested walking trails and shallow bays.

Today, visitors can enjoy the peaceful beaches at Clearwater and Turtle Bay. Be sure to bring food and drinks for a subtropical picnic. Include time for a casual walk in the reserve, and end the day spotting turtles and seabirds at Cooper’s Island Beach. One bird you’re sure to see soaring above the azure waters is the longtail (aka the white-tailed tropicbird) with distinctive black markings on its white feathers and long, sinuous tail feathers….