For our fourth wedding anniversary, my husband Will and I decided to embark on a romantic getaway to the enchanting island of Bermuda. Although we got married in June, we decided to take advantage of the long holiday weekend to enjoy some island time! Known for its pink sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and warm hospitality, Bermuda promised to be the perfect destination for our special occasion. From exploring breathtaking natural wonders to savoring delectable cuisine, our trip was filled with unforgettable experiences. If you’re thinking of planning your first trip to Bermuda soon- read on!
The best time to visit Bermuda is during the spring and fall seasons, which typically offer pleasant weather, lower rates and fewer crowds compared to the peak summer months. The weather in Bermuda is influenced by its subtropical climate. And unlike other islands, it doesn’t have a rainy season. While it rained for the majority of our trip, it was mostly luck of the draw. However, keep in mind that weather patterns can vary, and it’s always a good idea to check the forecast before planning your trip.
Did you know Bermuda isn’t in the Caribbean? I guess we should blame The Beach Boys and “Kokomo”. After moving to North Carolina a few years ago, I was shocked by just how close the island was. Bermuda is conveniently located in the Atlantic Ocean, making it easily accessible from major cities along the East Coast of the United States. Our journey began with a short, direct flight from Charlotte, which took a little over 2 hours. The island is also well connected to other East Coast hubs like New York City, Boston, and Miami, allowing travelers to reach their tropical paradise quickly. Thanks to the frequent flights and efficient transportation options available, getting to Bermuda was a breeze!
The lack of transportation services was honestly a huge inconvenience and a major sore point for our vacation. Keep in mind we didn’t visit during the peak season. With no Uber, Lyft, or call-ahead options for cabs, you’ll find yourself waiting at taxi stands with crossed fingers. Most resorts will coordinate airport transportation but you’ll have to rely on public buses, ferries, and walking for the rest of your trip. Additionally, tourists cannot rent cars but they can rent a “Twizy” microcar to get around the island. The two-seat electric vehicle is great for honeymooners but group trippers, beware.
Are you looking to simply lounge on the beach all day every day? Interested in dolphin and whale watching excursions? Exploring the towns and culture the island has to offer? With the car situation, you can see why finding the right hotel is crucial for activity planning. Traveling to Bermuda is easy but narrowing down a resort is the tricky part. The British Overseas Territory is known for being one of the most expensive islands in the world. There are also very few 4 and 5-star resorts that are Beachfront (not oceanfront) properties. With all this in mind, be prepared to spend a pretty penny if those things are important to you. The St. Regis, Fairmont Southampton (reopening spring 2024) and The Hamilton Princess would be my top suggestions.
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We stayed at the infamous pink hotel and loved our time there! When it comes to Bermuda hotels, I think the Hamilton Princess gives you everything you may be looking for. They provided luxury service, plenty of food options, and it’s walkable to the main hub of the island. While they’re not directly on the beach, the hotel sits on Hamilton Harbour, showcasing beautiful water views. If you’re still looking to score some time on the sand, they offer a free shuttle service (15-20 minute drive) to their private beach in Southampton.
One of my favorite perks from our stay was upgrading our room to the “Fairmont Gold” level. The package includes a larger room, private check-in, complimentary breakfast, and a lounge filled with free food and drinks throughout the day. It was WELL worth the expense and we honestly probably saved money in the long run from all the free drinks! Highly recommend!
I love to try as many local restaurants as possible while I’m traveling but due to the transportation issue, we struggled this time. I’ll be honest. Nothing really wowed me. It could’ve been off days, poor dish choices, or tourist traps. But ultimately I believe that the British-inspired cuisine was just not for me. All of the seafood was lovely though! I’ll include a few additional recs we were given below.
The Hog Penny is a historic English pub located in Hamilton. Its cozy atmosphere, complete with warm wooden accents and live music, created the perfect ambiance for a delicious meal.
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The menu at Mad Hatters is a fusion of international influences, featuring dishes that are both visually stunning and incredibly delicious. The restaurant takes pride in using locally sourced, seasonal ingredients, ensuring that every plate bursts with freshness and flavor. From appetizers to main courses, the dishes at Mad Hatters are carefully crafted with attention to detail and a touch of whimsy.
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For a more upscale and waterfront dining experience, we dined at 1609 at the Hamilton Princess. This restaurant offered stunning panoramic views of the harbor, making it an idyllic spot for a romantic dinner. The menu featured a blend of international and Bermudian cuisine, and each dish was a true work of art. From fresh seafood to tantalizing desserts, our taste buds were delighted throughout the evening. This was definitely our favorite meal from the trip!
The ambiance of the restaurant is elegant and sophisticated, yet relaxed and comfortable. Whether you’re dining indoors or enjoying the outdoor seating area, you’ll appreciate the tasteful decor and the pleasant atmosphere.
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Bermuda offers a wide range of activities to keep visitors entertained. Explore the pristine pink-sand beaches and indulge in snorkeling, scuba diving, or kayaking in crystal-clear waters. Depending on the time of year you can go whale watching and swim with dolphins, too! Discover the island’s history at the Royal Naval Dockyard or the Bermuda Maritime Museum. Go on a shopping spree in the charming boutiques of Hamilton, the capital city. Regardless, make sure to set aside 3-4 days in Bermuda to see everything the island has to offer.
We embarked on our own adventure to the breathtaking Crystal Caves. These underground wonders unveiled a mesmerizing world of stalactites and stalagmites. With an expert guide leading the way, we wandered through the enchanting limestone formations and learned about the caves’ fascinating history. It was only 30 minutes or so but definitely a must-see if you visit! Pro tip: The Fantasy Caves are the same as the Crystal, so there’s no need to book both.
Once the rain finally let up, we wasted no time in exploring the island’s natural beauty. Our first stop was Horseshoe Bay, one of the world’s most famous beaches. As we strolled along the soft pink sands, we were mesmerized by the turquoise waters. Because it was still overcast, it was harder to see the pink hues but that didn’t stop us from relaxing! Later, we ended up shuttling to the Hamilton Hotel’s private beach to enjoy the warm weather, swam in the crystal-clear ocean, and marveled at the stunning rock formations that framed the bay.
While Bermuda proved to be an idyllic destination, it is important to note that it can be quite expensive. From accommodations to dining and activities, prices tend to be on the higher end. Staying at the Hamilton Princess with the Fairmont Gold Level allowed us to enjoy exclusive amenities, personalized service, and access to the Gold Lounge, but it also came with a higher price tag. Dining at upscale restaurants like 1609 and enjoying various excursions added to the overall cost of our trip.
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From the ease of travel from Charlotte, NC, and other East Coast hubs to the mesmerizing beauty of Horseshoe Bay and the Crystal Caves, the island captivated us at every turn. While Bermuda can be expensive, the memories we created and the stunning sights we witnessed made it all worthwhile. We left the island feeling rejuvenated, grateful, and with our hearts full of love and cherished moments that will last a lifetime. If you live close to the island, I’d recommend it for an enchanting getaway.
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That direct flight from Charlotte is so tempting, but every time I check, the price is way higher than I typically spend for a weekend getaway. Do you feel comfortable sharing how much you paid for the flights?