Cruising to Bermuda? Here's How to Spend a Day on the Island

The best part of a Bermuda cruise happens off the ship. Whether you and your crew are into beaches, nature, culture, entertainment, or all of the above, there’s an expertly crafted itinerary to guide your day in paradise. Take your pick from West End, Central, or East End Bermuda adventures to make the most of your time. 

If you’re lucky enough to be staying more than a day in Bermuda, try two or more of these itineraries or check out our three-day cruise itinerary. 

WEST END ITINERARY: AN ICONIC BERMUDA DAY 

If you like the idea of famous pink-sand beaches and celebrated landmarks that take you back in time and up to new heights, choose this itinerary exploring Bermuda’s West End.

Morning

Head for the island’s most famous stretch of pink-hued sand: Horseshoe Bay Beach. Swim in the turquoise water, rent snorkel gear and boogie boards, or relax in lounge chairs while soaking up the sun at this idyllic beach. Located in the heart of South Shore Park, Horseshoe Bay connects to other beaches via a walking trail, so you can easily explore other stunning beaches.

If travelling with younger kids, consider Snorkel Park Beach Club instead. Located close to the cruise port, Snorkel Park offers a sandy beach and activities like swimming, snorkelling, and kayaking. Meanwhile, adults can soak up island vibes with food, drinks, live entertainment, and amazing water views. Nearby, find fun with inflatables at FryDay’s Bounce Park as well as mini golf at Bermuda Fun Golf.

Lunch

Near Horseshoe Bay, feast on fresh sushi or traditional British cottage pie at Henry VIII Restaurant, Sushi Bar & Pub. Take in the Old English charm of the restaurant while enjoying delicious food and ocean views. Nearby, visit Gibbs Hill Lighthouse, the world’s oldest cast iron lighthouse, and climb the 185-step spiral staircase to the top for the best bird’s-eye view of the island and surrounding ocean. Or, head to local favourite Woody’s on the way back to Dockyard. Order the famous fish sandwich or other Bermudian dishes, and pair your meal with a fruity cocktail on the waterfront patio. 

Afternoon

Before getting back on the ship, dive into Bermuda’s fascinating maritime history at the Royal Naval Dockyard. Visit the National Museum of Bermuda to see treasures from old shipwrecks, or shop for local jewellery, Bermudian art, and souvenirs at one of the many boutiques in the Clocktower Mall.

CENTRAL BERMUDA ITINERARY: A DAY OF ISLAND CULTURE

Choose this itinerary to explore Bermuda’s colourful, vibrant capital, the City of Hamilton, where cultural attractions, shopping, and gardens abound. Ferry service whisks you from the cruise port to the heart of Hamilton, giving you gorgeous island views along the way.

Morning

In downtown Hamilton, stroll to Rock Island Coffee for artisan coffee and a fresh-baked chocolate croissant, or visit Brew for grab-and-go bites. Then head out for some shopping and exploring along Front Street. In the pastel-hued storefronts, you’ll find everything from high-end clothing and handcrafted pink-sand jewellery to island-inspired home décor, local art, and Bermuda rum.

A few blocks away, check out the Bermuda National Gallery, an award-winning museum that houses the island’s national art collection and world-class exhibitions. Near the waterfront, explore Queen Elizabeth Par-La-Ville Sculpture Park. With lush trees and striking sculptures, this green space blends nature and culture beautifully. 

Lunch

Enjoy a casual lunch and scenic Hamilton Harbour views at one of the many local spots on Front Street. Order fish and chips at Bermuda’s only traditional Irish pub, Flanagan’s, or settle in at The Astwood Arms, a Victorian-era style pub. Sample Bermudian brews with your meal at The Pickled Onion, or relax with a cocktail and water views at The Terrace. 

Also taste the spirit of Old Bermuda with Harry’s Special Rum Blend at Harry’s Restaurant and Bar near the harbour. Or, check out Deja View Restaurant & Bar in the waterfront Barr’s Bay Park for outdoor dining with Asian flavours and international flair. 

Afternoon

If you’re feeling adventurous, go underground to traverse the passages and dungeons of Fort Hamilton. Above ground, see the upper battlements and more mesmerising harbour views. South of Hamilton, stop and smell the roses at the Bermuda Botanical Gardens, featuring a variety of flowers and fruit gardens. Located onsite, the Masterworks Museum of Bermuda Art is home to over 1,500 pieces of art, including a painting by Georgia O’Keeffe. 

EAST END ITINERARY: A DAY OF HISTORIC & NATURAL TREASURES

Experience the East End’s breathtaking natural beauty and a UNESCO World Heritage Site: the Town of St. George. Ferry service connects the cruise port and St. George’s. Norwegian Cruise Line even offers its own transfer ferry service.

Morning

Start the day with natural wonders and island bliss at Tobacco Bay Beach, a short walk from the Town of St. George. You’ll pass by the beautiful ruins of the Unfinished Church on the way to Tobacco Bay, where limestone rock formations frame the alluring water views, and many amenities await. Spend the morning lounging on the beach, or rent snorkel gear, stand-up paddleboards, or kayaks. For another scenic beach with pink sand, explore the nearby St. Catherine’s Beach, tucked away by the historic Fort St. Catherine.

Lunch

You’ll find great lunch options in the Town of St. George. Dine on the water at Wahoo’s Bistro and Patio, where you can’t go wrong with the award-winning Bermuda Fish Chowder. At The Wharf, the biggest waterfront dining spot in St. George’s, you can feast on traditional British dishes like curry or cottage pie.

Afternoon

Before hopping on the ferry back to Dockyard, explore the Town of St. George, where cobblestone lanes and alleyways wind through Bermuda’s first capital, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take a self-guided walking tour and do some shopping along the way. Start at Kings Square to see Colonial-era buildings, and visit can’t-miss spots like St. Peter’s Church, the oldest Anglican church in use outside the British Isles, and the Lili Bermuda Perfumery, where you can buy handcrafted fragrances made from Bermuda botanicals.

TIPS 

Overnight Cruises to Bermuda

During summer, enjoy local vendors, artists, and performers at Destination Dockyard on The North Lawn on Tuesdays. Or, get a taste of local culture during Harbour Nights, the waterfront street festival held on Wednesday nights in the City of Hamilton. Note that the ferry runs late from Dockyard to Hamilton. 

Getting Around

For the East End and Central itineraries, use the ferry to get around. For the West End itinerary, riding the bus to the South Shore is a good option. For the ultimate island-wide adventure, rent a scooter or electric microcar. See more information on getting around Bermuda.