North Atlantic 5/29/2024

Bermuda Travel Guide 2026: The Atlantic Gem

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Bermuda is often mistaken for a Caribbean island, but it sits alone in the North Atlantic, 650 miles off the coast of North Carolina. This isolation has created a unique culture: British politeness mixed with island relaxation. In 2026, Bermuda is the destination for the sophisticated traveler—think cricket matches, high tea, and beaches with sand the color of blush wine.

Why Visit Bermuda in 2026?

It is safe, clean, and incredibly beautiful. Bermuda has no income tax, and the wealth is visible. The manicured gardens, pastel houses with white stepped roofs, and turquoise water create a picture-perfect environment. It is also the shipwreck capital of the Atlantic, making it a premier diving destination.

Iconic Experiences

1. The Pink Sand Beaches

The sand really is pink, thanks to crushed coral and shells.

  • Horseshoe Bay: The most famous. It gets busy, so walk to the eastern end to find hidden coves like Butts Beach.
  • Warwick Long Bay: A longer, quieter stretch of pink sand. Great for snorkeling right off the shore.

2. St. George’s (UNESCO)

The oldest continuously inhabited English town in the New World.

  • The Vibe: Narrow alleys with names like “Featherbed Alley” and “Needle and Thread Alley.”
  • St. Peter’s Church: The oldest Anglican church outside the British Isles. The interior smells of cedar wood.
  • Unfinished Church: A Gothic church that was started in the 1870s but never finished. It’s now a hauntingly beautiful ruin open to the sky.

3. Crystal & Fantasy Caves

Discovered by two boys looking for a lost cricket ball in 1907.

  • The Experience: Descend deep underground to see crystal-clear subterranean lakes and massive stalactites. Pontoon bridges allow you to walk over the water.

4. The Shipwrecks

Bermuda is surrounded by treacherous reefs.

  • The Constellation: The wreck that inspired Jaws.
  • The Cristobal Colon: A massive Spanish luxury liner.
  • Snorkeling: You can snorkel over many wrecks in shallow water without needing scuba gear.

Gastronomy: Chowder and Rum

Bermuda has two national drinks and one serious soup.

  • Bermuda Fish Chowder: A dark, spicy soup made with fish stock, tomatoes, and vegetables. It is always served with a splash of Sherry Peppers sauce and Black Seal Rum.
  • Dark ‘n Stormy: Gosling’s Black Seal Rum and ginger beer. It’s trademarked—legally, it’s not a Dark ‘n Stormy without Gosling’s.
  • Rum Swizzle: A potent punch of rum and fruit juices. The Swizzle Inn is the famous birthplace (“Swizzle Inn, Swagger Out”).
  • Codfish Breakfast: The traditional Sunday breakfast. Boiled salt cod, potatoes, bananas, avocado, and egg.

Where to Stay: Historic Luxury

  • Hamilton Princess & Beach Club: The “Pink Palace.” Urban luxury in the capital with a massive art collection (Warhol, Banksy).
  • The Loren at Pink Beach: Modern, sleek, and sexy. A departure from the traditional colonial style.
  • Rosewood Bermuda: Located in Tucker’s Point. Golf, tennis, and old-money elegance.

Shopping: British Quality

  • Bermuda Cedar: This endemic wood is prized for its scent and rich color. Look for bowls or boxes, but make sure they are certified for export.
  • Lili Bermuda: A historic perfumery in St. George’s. They create fragrances using local flowers like Oleander and Frangipani.
  • Rum Cakes: The Bermuda Rum Cake Factory in Dockyard makes cakes with Gosling’s Black Seal Rum.

Safety & Etiquette

  • Safety: Bermuda is one of the safest destinations in the world. Violent crime is rare. You can walk alone at night in most areas without worry.
  • Mopeds: The biggest danger is the road. If you rent a scooter, drive slowly. Locals may honk—it’s usually a friendly “hello,” not aggression.
  • Politeness: Always say “Good Morning” or “Good Afternoon” to bus drivers, shopkeepers, and people you pass on the street. It is the Bermudian way.
  • Solo Travel: It is an expensive but excellent destination for solo travelers who want peace and quiet.

Practical Travel Intelligence

  • No Car Rentals: Tourists are generally not allowed to rent regular cars. You can rent “Twizy” (tiny electric cars) or scooters.
  • Scooters: They are the main way to get around, but be careful. We drive on the left.
  • Dress Code: Bermuda is formal. “Bermuda shorts” are business attire here (worn with knee-high socks and a blazer). Bathing suits are strictly for the beach. Cover up in town.
  • Cost: Bermuda is arguably the most expensive island destination in the world. Everything is imported. Expect NYC/London prices plus 20%.

The 2026 Verdict

Bermuda is class. It doesn’t do “spring break” chaos. It offers a refined, manicured version of island life. If you want to play a round of world-class golf in the morning and dive a 19th-century shipwreck in the afternoon, all while staying in impeccable comfort, Bermuda is the only choice.