6 things to do on Bermuda, away from the beach

The famous sugar pink sands of Bermuda and its glorious turquoise waters tempt visitors to relax and sunbathe on its pristine beaches. But away from the beach there is a wealth of luxurious and diverting things to experience on this lush, 21-mile island.

Shop

Hamilton

The capital Hamilton is a shopper’s paradise. As well as Duty Free stores, elegant Front Street and the surrounding Reid and Queen Streets are lined with original upmarket stores selling everything from cigars to sandals. You can’t leave Bermuda without trying on a pair of Bermuda shorts, spotted all over the island and worn by policemen and businessmen as well as tourists. Stop off at TABS (it stands for The Authentic Bermuda Shorts) for a taste of island style found in their range of chic, colourful clothing.

Harbour Nights takes place held every Wednesday from May to September. This is when the streets close to traffic from 7-10 pm and artisans set up their stalls along Front Street. This year the family friendly Family Fete has been added, making the lively event ideal for all ages.

St George’s

The former Bermudian capital St George’s is a UNESCO World Heritage Site where there are twisting alleyways leading to quaint shops. Don’t miss Lili Bermuda Perfumery housed in an 18th century building. You can make your own perfume and enjoy afternoon tea in the gardens. The charming Long Story Short is a gift shop and book store run by local blogger and entrepreneur Kristin White, who also runs historic walking and cycling tours.

The Bermuda Craft Market in The Royal Naval Dockyard is a busy, colourful emporium selling handmade soaps, ceramics, carved woods as well as delicious rum cakes. After shopping visit St George’s old Anglican chapels including the lovely St Peter’s Church and Their Majesties Chappell.

Eat local

Bermuda is a foodie’s dream with its fine dining restaurants and food prepared by top chefs such as James Wambui at Cambridge Beaches and Richard Zuill at Hamilton Princess. But for an authentic flavour, head to local eateries and family-owned diners. The top Bermudian dish is the humble-sounding but delicious fish-finger sandwich. Served on raised bread with coleslaw, tartar sauce, and hot sauce, this firm island favourite can be found at all local food stops including Cafe Olé and Art Mel’s Spicy Dicy. Family-run Wahoos, located in the heart of St. Georges, is another popular foodie hot spot.

Take in some art

The famous Hamilton Princess & Beach Club in the heart of the capital Hamilton is not only an elegant place to stay, but also houses an amazing art collection. See works by Andy Warhol, Damien Hirst, Banksy and Philippe Decrauzat. As you walk around the city you will spot murals, sculptures and other eye-catching art works. There is a self-guided tour using a free map. There are two outstanding galleries in Hamilton, The Bermuda National Gallery and Bermuda Society of Arts. In Paget (about ten minutes away from Hamilton) the Museum of Bermuda located in the Bermuda Botanical Gardens has over 3000 watercolours and lithographs by well-known artists including Georgia O’Keefe and Winslow Homer.

Jump into Carnival

Lively Bermudian celebrations happen throughout the year and are a great way of getting into the island spirit. Some unusual key events include the unplanned Raft-Ups, spontaneous and unpredictable parties that take place on the water: A group of boats toss a line to connect each other or drop an anchor along a sandbar. Locals hop from one boat to another while enjoying a Rum Swizzle and dancing. On the last Friday of May, Bermuda’s National Day is celebrated as locals commemorate the unique cultural heritage of the island. 

Bermuda Carnival is taking place on June 13-18, 2024, a colourful and heart-warming exciting event music, dancing and incredible food.

Explore the Railway Trail

One of the most interesting walks on the island is along the disused railway line which stretches the length of Bermuda. Known affectionally as Old Rattle and Shake, the line was made into a national park in 1984 and bridges connecting parts of the trail have been opened over recent years.

Open only to cyclists and pedestrians, this is a peaceful trail through glades and there are information points along the route explaining the history of the railway. Pause to listen to some melodic birdsong including that of Bermuda’s iconic yellow bird.

Get around in style

Environmental laws forbid rental cars so bicycles, taxis, scooters and buses are the most common forms of transport on Bermuda. Visitors can rent electric two-seater Twizy from Current Vehicles Bermuda. They are designed by Renault’s Formula One racing team and can travel up to 50 miles on a single charge, so they are a great way to whiz around the island. Use them to pack a picnic and visit the less well known parts of the island such as the eastern end of Bermuda where there are some lovely deserted beaches. But for a more relaxed island experience you can’t beat walking around the beaches and villages at your leisure.

Judith Baker

Judith Baker is a travel writer from London. She has travelled all over the world and loves sampling unusual cuisine, exploring hidden places and talking to strangers.