Best Things to Do in Bermuda with Kids

Bermuda is one of those destinations that captures intrigue and brings up lots of questions. How does it compare to a more traditional trip to the Caribbean? What’s the weather like? Besides the beach, what else is there to do for families? Where exactly is Bermuda? And most importantly, does it match your vacation style? 

Things to Do in Bermuda with Kids, Travel Tips & More

This island may seem like a traditional tropical vacation destination, but many factors and perks set Bermuda apart from its beach competitors to the south and west. 

Where is Bermuda? 

Contrary to popular belief, Bermuda is not located in the Caribbean. It’s out on its own in the Atlantic, roughly parallel to South Carolina. It is a quick flight from most major East Coast airline hubs (about a 90-minute direct flight from New York City, for example), making it doable as a long weekend destination for those who don’t have a full week to spare. 

Bermuda’s Weather Forecast 

Given its latitude, many wonder if Bermuda is warm enough to visit year-round. Travelers can expect highs in the upper 60s and low 70s November through April, and highs in the 80s May through October. Water temperature will fluctuate accordingly, so it is usually not warm enough to swim in the ocean in the winter months. But many visitors love the lower accommodation costs and flight deals in winter and spring, knowing that it is typically still warm enough to walk the beach, play golf and enjoy time outdoors. Travelers coming to Bermuda in the summer months appreciate that the island rarely experiences the stifling heat (and humidity!) of locales like Florida and the Caribbean. 

Transportation 

Bermuda does not allow tourists to rent cars and drive around the island (roads are narrow, and driving is done on the opposite side, like in the UK). Despite this travel restriction, Bermuda is still easy to explore, as it’s only 21 square miles or so. It is served by a safe and reliable bus and ferry network that families love. Hiring a driver is affordable — about $50 per hour (for 1 to 4 people) — and larger resorts often have private boat service to shuttle guests around the island. Many tourists rent scooters, but this is not advisable when traveling with children. 

Beaches and Water Activities for Families 

The universal appeal of Bermuda lies in its pink sand beaches and mindblowing crystal-clear water. Many larger resorts have their own private beaches, but Bermuda is dotted with several scenic public beaches as well.  

Snorkelers love the reefs off of Elbow Beach, and you can rent gear right onsite. Families with young children flock to Horseshoe Bay Beach, as the cove here makes the waves very gentle and perfect for little ones. Nature lovers will enjoy a day at Cooper’s Island Nature Preserve, not only for its pristine, undeveloped shore, but also its incredible wildlife. You can often spot whales from the observation tower here, not to mention a wide variety of bird species. 

For more active families who prefer to enjoy island life on the go rather than by sunbathing, water sports are big in Bermuda. The legendary Bermuda Triangle has had its fair share of wrecks (both ships and planes), creating amazing settings for scuba diving, snorkeling and helmet diving. For those who prefer to enjoy the water from above, kayak eco-tours are very popular with families, as are sailing lessons. 

If you can only drag yourself away from your resort for one adventure while in Bermuda, make it an outing on a whaler boat (no, not for whaling, but a fiberglass motorboat known for its unsinkable construction and design used by fishermen and water enthusiasts). You can rent these independently and explore the island (and the smaller, uninhabited islands all around Bermuda) on your own, or splurge and hire a captain to take you around for a day.  

Family-Friendly Towns and Attractions 

What really separates Bermuda from other tropical destinations is the variety of off-beach activities. If your family loves to pair resort relaxation with family-friendly outings, it’s the perfect place.  

TIP: Be sure to consult cruise ship schedules before setting out, as crowds can be overwhelming at the three major ports (Royal Naval Dockyard, Hamilton and St. George) when the ships are docked.

Bermuda packs more golf courses per capita than anywhere else on earth, so golfers of all ages are spoiled for choice with six world-renowned courses that have hosted countless famous golfers and professional tournaments. The oceanview holes are always a thrill. Younger golfers will enjoy the miniature course at the Royal Naval Dockyard; nearby is the family-friendly National Museum of Bermuda. 

Hamilton is another town ripe for family exploration, with its zoo, aquarium, entertaining town crier tours and visits to Fort Hamilton. The fort is a must while in Bermuda; children will love the creepy underground tunnels, and parents will love the fantastic views of the island and exotic tropical landscape. 

If it seems as though UNESCO World Heritage sites are limited to places like Europe, the town of St. George in Bermuda defies this assumption. It was the first English town established in the New World, and its British influence is distinct. Fort Catherine, located in this part of the island, is another fun historical site for families. 

One final suggestion for a family-friendly thrill: a tour of the underwater caves that dot the island. The two best are Crystal and Fantasy Caves, which both offer organized tours and experiences. Many who venture down to see the remarkably clear water and intricate geological formations say they are every bit as impressed with the views below as they are with the scenery above ground in Bermuda.  

Additional Family-Friendly Activities 

Beyond the well-known attractions, Bermuda offers several other activities that families can enjoy: 

• Bermuda Aquarium, Museum & Zoo (BAMZ): Located in Flatts Village (and the geographic center of Bermuda), BAMZ is a combined facility featuring an aquarium, natural history museum and zoo. It houses more than 200 species of fish and invertebrates, as well as mammals and birds from island ecosystems worldwide. The interactive displays and touch pools make it a hit with kids.  

• Bermuda Botanical Gardens: Spanning 36 acres in Paget Parish, these gardens showcase a variety of flowers, shrubs, and trees. It’s a peaceful spot for families to explore and learn about local flora.  

• Bermuda Railway Trail: This 18-mile trail, converted from a former railway line, offers scenic paths for hiking and biking, providing families with an active way to see the island’s natural beauty.  

• Gibbs Hill Lighthouse: Climb the 185 steps of this historic castiron lighthouse for panoramic views of the island. It’s an educational and physical activity rolled into one. 

• Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute (BUEI): Located in Hamilton, BUEI offers interactive exhibits about ocean discovery, shipwrecks, and the mysteries of the Bermuda Triangle, appealing to curious minds of all ages. 

Tips for Visiting Bermuda with Kids 

• Accommodations: Consider family-friendly resorts that offer amenities like kids’ clubs, pools and beach access. Some resorts also provide babysitting services, allowing parents relaxation time and a chance to sneak out for a quiet meal. 

• Dining: Bermuda offers a range of dining options, from casual eateries to fine dining. Many restaurants are accommodating to children, but it’s always good to check ahead for kid-friendly menus. 

• Packing Essentials: Don’t forget sun protection, including hats; reef-safe sunscreen; and UV-protective clothing. Also, pack comfortable walking shoes for exploring local attractions. 

For such a tiny island, Bermuda packs a mighty punch of picturesque beaches and activities to please all ages, making it a location families return to year after year. 

Relevant Links:

See the top family beach destinations and accommodations around the world

Best family beach vacations for kids at every age

Browse family-friendly accommodations and activities in the Caribbean on Ciao Bambino

Best Caribbean islands with kids: Find your perfect match

Essential tips for a Caribbean family vacation

Editor’s note: This post was accurate when published. We advise checking independently for the latest information and updates. Ciao Bambino does not accept responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in, or for any actions taken based on, the information presented.