This is my travel guide to Bermuda! We just got back from a week in Bermuda for Vacation and had the best time! Everyone keeps asking me if we brought our toddler. Of course! Bermuda was a great spot for a family friendly vacation! Click here for a my full review of the resort where we stayed, Cambridge Beaches!
In early April, it was still a little on the cooler side which made it bearable to spend the days outside doing activities without getting too hot. It was too chilly for me to spend time in the pool or go very deep in the ocean. However, there is so much to do there we still had a great time!
We chose to visit Bermuda primarily for two reasons. First, it is a close flight from the US East Coast. With an active toddler and me being pregnant, we did not want to have to entertain him on a long flight. Second, there is plenty to do outside of just hanging out on the resort.
I was in the second trimester of my pregnancy during our trip. I typically love vacations that are full of sightseeing. Unfortunately, I suffer from sickness throughout my pregnancy. Therefore, I needed somewhere I could relax if I was not feeling well that would have stuff from the boys to go out and do. Bermuda offered both things to do and nice resorts for relaxing, so we could plan accordingly based on how I was feeling each particular day.
Getting Around Bermuda for Vacation
Bermuda is about 21 miles long so it is relatively small. However, there are no highways or interstates so getting across the island can take some time. We stayed on almost the complete opposite end of the island from the airport and it took us about 45 minutes to make the trip in a private transfer van.
Private Transfers in Bermuda
Our transfer came with our vacation package but it was reliable. We confirmed that they would be at the airport waiting for us when we arrived via email a few days. They were when we walked out of customs. The driver was nice and gave us some facts about the island on our drive to the hotel and even stopped to let us take some pictures. Our hotel confirmed with them that they would be picking us up for our return flight and they showed up to our hotel 15 minutes early.
Taking the Bus in Bermuda for Vacation
The bus system is a popular transportation method for tourists in Bermuda. In our experience, the bus drivers were super helpful with making sure we got off at the right stop for our destination.
The schedule does run on what I would classify as a loose system. It leaves the origin point at a designated time. However, if you are getting on at a stop along a route, it can be difficult to determine exactly what time the bus will arrive. Basically, if it is not a busy time of day, the bus could get there earlier than the estimate given by the schedule. So if you miss the bus, you would have to wait for the next one. Depending on the route, this can be 15-30 minutes between buses. However, we tried to arrive 10-15 minutes before we expected the bus to arrive. This strategy worked well for us.
Paying for the Bus in Bermuda
We used tokens purchased from our hotel to pay for the bus. Tokens are also available for purchase at the main terminals and post offices. There are 3 zone tokens and 14 zone tokens. The zones symbolize the parishes on the island. So 3 zone tokens are if you are going from one parish next to another. However, if you are taking a ferry or going to a parish on the opposite side of the island you need a 14 zone token. Clarify with an official vendor of bus tokens to determine the appropriate token for your journey.
Passes are also available if you are planning on visiting several destinations. For example, if you are planning on taking 4 bus rides and 2 ferry trips in a day, it will probably be more cost efficient to buy a day pass than pay for each trip individually. There are multiple day passes available as well.
In our experience, the bus felt like a safe, cost effective way to get around the island for sightseeing. It does not stop at every stop. It only stops if someone is waiting or someone hits the “stop request” button. This helped it be more time efficient than we expected. We only took the bus and ferry during the day. Therefore, I cannot speak to the safety of the bus at night time. I personally would not feel comfortable waiting at a bus stop in the dark, but this is regardless of where I am in the world.
Strollers on the Bus in Bermuda
I saw a lot of debate about strollers on the bus while I was researching my trip. We brought our travel stroller (affiliate link) that folds up easily. We did not have any issues bringing this stroller on the buses. This stroller fit between the seats or in the designated storage area present on some of the buses. I did notice a sign on several buses that only umbrella strollers were allowed. So I would recommend leaving the large double stroller at the hotel if. you are planning on taking the bus.
Taking the Ferry in Bermuda
The ferry schedule can be accessed on the Bermuda Port Services website. It does not run as frequently as the buses so a bus or a taxi might be a better option if you do not want to wait around for the next ferry.
We think the ferry is a nice alternative to taking the bus and is still cost effective. It allows you to relax and enjoy the view on the water. It also gave us a chance to feed JL a snack. The buses are a little too bumpy for snacking in my opinion and food and drink are not allowed on the buses.
The ferry requires a 14 zone token or you can pay a case equivalent if you have exact change. Passes can also be used for the ferry. The ferry offers bike racks as locals use mopeds to get around the island and take them on the ferry. There was plenty of space for wheelchairs and strollers but we were not there in peak season so I am sure it can be tight. I recommend bringing a fold up travel stroller. *affiliate link
Where to Stay for a Week in Bermuda for Vacation
I honestly think where you should stay depends on what you want to do while you’re in Bermuda. Whether that is just hanging out on the resort or days filled with adventures, there is something in Bermuda for every purpose.
We stayed at Cambridge Beaches and loved it! I did a full review of the resort you can check out here.
If you’re going for a quick few days and want to check out the Crystal Caves and St. George’s. I would recommend staying at a hotel closer to the airport like Grotto Bay. They actually are unique in that they offer an all-inclusive supplement. It is a short drive from the airport so you will not waste too much of your first or last day in transit.
If you within walking distance to a wide variety of shops and restaurants, I would recommend staying at The Princess Hamilton. It is right on the water in Hamilton, close to the ferry terminal providing easy access to other parts of the island. This hotel offers a kid’s club for ages 5-12 years old. That way you can take a family trip but have some relaxing adult time as well!
Fairmont Southhampton is currently undergoing renovations but I am told it is a lovely place to stay. It is further out on the island but not as far as Cambridge Beaches. It sits atop a hill giving it a beautiful view of the water. There are nice beaches on coves nearby where the water stays calm. They also offer a kid’s club.
Things to Do in Bermuda for Vacation
Hamilton
In our opinion, Hamilton has the best shopping on the island. They have a mix of typical touristy shops in addition to unique boutiques. There is also a Vineyard Vines store that sells Bermuda exclusive attire. There was a pullover there I loved and I regret not buying. Tabs offers “The Authentic Bermuda Shorts” and has a wide array of fun, bright clothing. They also have a coloring area for children while adults shop.
We took the ferry there from the Royal Naval Dockyard. It was a quick 20 minutes and arrived right in the center of everything. The ferry schedule can be accessed on the Bermuda Port Services website. It does not run as frequently as the buses so a bus or a taxi might be a better option if you do not want to wait around for the next ferry.
There are plenty of good options for restaurants while in Hamilton but we were starving and wanted something quick and easy. We headed to Brew for a quiche, a sandwich, and a fruit cup for JL. They have high chairs available in the back near the bathrooms and outdoor seating as well!
Royal Naval Dockyard
The Royal Naval Dockyard is on what I call the Eastern tip of Bermuda. There are usually two cruise ships docked there so it has a bus stop with buses leaving every 30 minutes and ferries as well. We took the 1120am bus back to our hotel on a day when a cruise ship had just arrived. The bus was packed so be sure to get in line for the bus early if you want a seat and want to ensure there is enough space for your party.
My husband read that Royal Naval Dockyard has the best shopping in Bermuda and I have to disagree. I was disappointed after seeing the shopping in Hamilton and wished we had gone back to Hamilton instead. That is just my opinion though.
Dockyard has plenty of other things to do besides shopping though. The National Museum of Bermuda is there if you want to learn the history of Bermuda. Dolphin Quest is located at the museum which allows you the opportunity to swim with the dolphins! Bermuda Fun Golf is ranked as the World’s finest mini golf course! There are also a number of tours that go out of the Dockyard, whether they are Segway tours or tours on the water.
There are a number of restaurants to choose from in the Dockyard. We were there in the morning so we headed to the Dockyard Pastry Shop for egg sandwiches and coffees right when they opened at 9am. They offer tables with full service outside or you can grab some food to go as well. They offer lunch so it is more than just pastries!
Bermuda Aquarium, Museum, and Zoo
JL stops by the fish tank every morning at daycare to look at the fish so we had to take him to the aquarium while in Bermuda.
Getting to BAMZ
It was quite the trek from our hotel. We took the 740am bus to the Royal Naval Dockyard, hopped on the 8am ferry to Hamilton. Then we bought more bus tokens at the ferry terminal (they only take cash) because it was an impromptu decision to head into Hamilton. Then we stopped and grabbed a water for me and a pastry for JL. We caught the 9am bus to the aquarium. Luckily, the bus driver was nice enough to ask where we were going because I never would have known when to hit the button to get off. So it was quite a trek but we spent 2 hours there and could have definitely stayed longer so it was worth it!
Aquarium
The aquarium is essentially one big room that has separate exhibits for the individual fish in addition to one big tank where they all swim around together. Outside the have a sea turtles exhibit where they do feedings and presentations a few times a day. They also have 3 harbor seals outside. We were lucky enough to catch the 930am feeding and presentation. We were the only people there at that point so we got a private information session on the seals. The seals there are older than typical seals in the wild since they receive such great care which is sweet to hear!
Museum
The great thing about the Bermuda Aquarium, Museum, and Zoo is there is something for everyone. My husband is not a lover of museums but I am so it was a great way for me to learn a little about the history of Bermuda without boring him for a whole day. The museum has games and activities for the kids too.
Zoo
The great thing about the zoo is it is an immersive exhibit so you can walk amongst the birds and lemurs in one of the encasements. They also have an alligator, wallaby, flamingos, tortoises, and more. They have a fun playground area in this portion for kids who just need a break to run around for awhile.
Boat Rental
One of my favorite things we did while in Bermuda was rent a boat for a few hours. H20 Sports is conveniently located at our resort. We felt the pricing was very reasonable. Gas is calculated after the trip depending on how much is used so be sure to keep this in mind when planning your budget.
A cooler of ice is included in the cost of the rental so you can bring drinks and food along. We stopped and anchored about halfway on our trip and had a picnic on the boat with lunch I got to go from our hotel.
There is a zone of water where the boat rental is permitted to go. It is a pretty wide area with plenty of places you can anchor and explore if you like depending on your preference. Since we had JL with us we chose not to do any snorkeling or fishing. They have equipment available if you are interested in either of these activities. If you do plan on getting out to go swimming and snorkeling, be sure to bring towels as they are not provided. The staff member working drew us his suggested route for our 3 hour time frame so we just followed his recommendation and had a great time.
There was a shipwreck along our route where fish like to congregate and the glass bottom boat tours bring guests. Based on my research, the ship was actually intentionally sunk to act as a block ship and block the channel.
Things to Do in Bermuda: Bucket List for Our Next Trip
Gibbs Hill Lighthouse
One thing I really wanted to do and every local I spoke to recommended was visit Gibbs Hill Lighthouse. Unfortunately, I sprained a muscle right before we left for our trip and did not feel up to making the trip up the 185 steps to the top carrying a toddler.
The assistant manager at our hotel said there were plenty of places to take breaks along the way. I also inquired as to what we could do with our stroller and she said they would be happy to keep it in the gift shop while we made the trip up.
Unfortunately it did not fit into our trip this time but it is definitely a must do next time we’re in Bermuda. Also, I was told by a local the cafe there is lovely!
Crystal Caves
The Crystal Caves look really neat but they are on the opposite side of the island from where we stayed. We could have taken a bus or taxi over but I was enjoying our resort so much I just did not feel the need to. It is definitely be something to do if we go again!
St. George’s
St. George’s is supposed to be a nice little hamlet on Bermuda. I would have liked to take the ferry over there to check it out. There is a church there where Jane Austen’s brother got married!
Horseshoe Bay
Horseshoe Bay is ranked one of the top beaches in the world and I can see why. All the beaches in Bermuda are beautiful due to the clear water. Horseshoe Bay provides a nice cove for swimming in calm waters. It is bordered by cliffs and reefs that provide a nice spot for snorkeling. This is a popular destination for visitors on cruise ships. We skipped it because we preferred enjoying the beaches at our hotel. I want to check it out in the future when my kids are old enough for snorkeling!
Bermuda
For a small island, Bermuda offers so much to do and is definitely a family friendly island! I can’t wait to go back with my family!
