ELLE Escapes: Bermuda

There’s nowhere in the world like Bermuda—but that’s not just because of its crystalline water and pink sand beaches. The North Atlantic locale has everything an island should. With a flight time of around two hours from most East Coast hubs, it’s far enough away to feel like you’re escaping, but not too far to prohibit a weekend vacation. And since it’s about 650 miles from North Carolina, its summers are comfortably warm while its winters remain mild and bright.

What’s more: Bermuda suits any type of traveler. Adventure-seekers can hike, bike, snorkel, and dive. Epicureans can taste everything—from the island’s famed fish sandwich served on raisin bread, to steak and sushi at the finest restaurants. Here, your full guide to an idyllic island getaway in the paradise of Bermuda.

What to See

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National Museum of Bermuda

Discover the island’s historical importance at the National Museum of Bermuda, where exhibits describe everything from its notorious shipwrecks of the past to its tourism industry. Hint: It may have something to do with that triangle you learned so much about in elementary school. After, you can check out the Royal Naval Dockyard, which dates back more than 150 years.

Hamilton

What the capital, City of Hamilton, lacks in size, it makes up for in activities: Many of the island’s best bars, restaurants, and boutiques are all here, most within a few blocks of one another. Shoppers will want to stop at 1609 for a curated offering of clothing, skin care, and snacks; the soaring, bi-level Atelerie for home goods, chic Bermuda-emblazoned accessories, and party supplies; and TABS to bring home a pair of their very own Bermuda shorts.

The Beaches

You likely won’t be able to pick a favorite beach on Bermuda—since they’re all stunning. The best one for you will depend on what you’re in the mood to do (or not do). Horseshoe Bay, for example, is one of the more frequented, and has lifeguards and beach loungers. If you want something quieter, check out Church Bay. It has spectacular snorkeling and abundant marine life. One of the best ways to explore multiple beaches in a day is to embark on the South Shore Walking Trail; it connects four of the island’s best sandy spots with one mile-long trail.

Walsingham Nature Reserve (Tom Moore’s Jungle)

For something a little more adventurous than wiggling your toes in the pink sand, this 12-acre park—named after the 19th-century poet who frequented it—is a veritable playground for thrill-seekers. You can keep it low-key and just hike the subtropical forest trails, or cool off with a dip in the stunning mangrove pond inside Blue Hole Park. Perhaps the most spectacular attraction, though, is Causeway Cave, a deep-water grotto that’s an ethereal spot for swimming or snorkeling.

Where to Eat

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Woodys Restaurant

While there’s no right answer as to who makes the best fish sandwich on the island, one of the top contenders is this famed spot located in Sandys Parish. In addition to the dish de résistance, which is loaded with a meaty, crispy piece of wahoo or snapper, and crunchy, creamy coleslaw, the menu also features fried chicken, breaded shrimp, and a variety of wraps.

Bolero Brasserie

There may be no better place on the island for a lively group meal than this French brasserie in City of Hamilton. Opt for shares like shrimp with chili & garlic and the Bistro Bibb to start before you move onto your main course. Make sure to save space for the ice cream sundae, made with honeycomb ice cream and bits of a chocolate crunch bar.

Huckleberry Restaurant

Set inside the boutique Rosedon Hotel, this innovative option is just minutes from downtown Hamilton. Snag a table on the covered porch. On a recent visit, the lunch menu included a tuna crudo served with a prosecco gel, crispy oyster mushrooms with an addictive hazelnut cream, and a decadent molten chocolate-gingerbread cake.

Where to Drink

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Swizzle Inn

The oldest—and perhaps most famous—pub on the island, Swizzle Inn is home to the Rum Swizzle, Bermuda’s national drink. The cocktail, made with Gosling’s Black Seal and Gold Seal rums; orange, pineapple, and lemon juices; fruit liqueurs; falernum; and secret ingredients, was created here in 1932 and has since garnered legions of fans. Even if rum isn’t your thing, it’s worth visiting this treasure, beloved for its friendly staff, laid-back atmosphere, and seasonal live music.

Sunken Harbor Club

A sister property of Brooklyn’s buzzy Sunken Harbor Club, this new watering hole inside Cambridge Beaches has quickly become one of the most popular spots for both locals and travelers alike. The menu is a thoughtful collection of everything from classics like the Sunken Swizzle (their take on the Rum Swizzle) to lower-ABV cocktails like the Yellow Tang, made with vodka, pineapple, banana, and passion fruit.

Where to Stay

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Cambridge Beaches

This sprawling property at the western tip of the island has been welcoming those looking for privacy and luxury. With its four private beaches, two private coves, and more than 80 suites spread across 23 acres, we wouldn’t blame you if you never set foot off the property. The immense size of the rooms here is also of note—each one boasts spectacular waterfront views and private outdoor space.

The Loren at Pink Beach

There are few properties that rival The Loren, perched next to Bermuda’s celebrated Pink Beach, for location, style, or elegance. Even the smallest rooms here are 600-square-foot suites; all feature high-end towels and bedding, marble bathrooms, and walk-in rain showers. The hideaway is also home to one of the island’s best spas, the Sisley Paris Spa at The Loren.

Beauty Picks

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