Where to Book a Stay in Bermuda for a Local Experience

Stuck on where to stay in Bermuda? The hip Pink Beach Club at this South Beach-style hotspot, gets lively at weekends, when DJ sets bring in patrons. Offering relaxed beach chic, The Loren is Bermuda’s newest large hotel, having opened in 2017, defined by its large swathes of glass, contemporary artworks, and soft decor in muted hues of blue, gray and sand. Chef Tim Sullivan is at the helm at dining spots Marée and the Beach Club, where all-day alfresco dining takes place on the slick over-ocean deck. Order the snapper, which was likely caught from the Atlantic that very afternoon.

You can’t moor your boat in Hamilton after a morning of sailing without stopping for a bite at the Princess. Set right on the harbour, it’s perfect for watching world-class yachts as they take to the bay, and just a 14-minute walk from landmarks such as the Bermuda National Gallery – though you don’t need to leave the hotel to see works by some of the world’s best artists. Pieces by Picasso and Matisse adorn the walls of this alternative gallery space, with new pieces being acquired all the time – book a guided tour.

This brand new development of lofts and villas on the site of the former Surf Side Beach Club combines a mix of residential and holiday properties, making you literally a part of the community. Get tips for exploring the island from your neighbors, take advantage of the hotel concierge service, pool, bistro and bar as well as spa services, fitness centre, and private natural beach. Rooms, bright and crisp in white with splashes of yellow and natural textures, have coffee machines, a nightly turndown service and Egyptian cotton linens.

Leave the tourist hubs and live in a residential neighborhood for a spell. Located on the scenic South Shore Road in Warwick Parish, the Sandpiper apartments are within walking distance of Elbow Beach, Warwick Long Bay, Horseshoe Bay and Astwood Park. Sleeping up to four, each has a balcony, and a full kitchen with dining area, while some have a living room too. Swim in the pool and then fire up the BBQ to cook your catch of the day in the pretty garden.

Maximalism rules at this Bermudian institution, where decor worthy of a grand chateau defines the stone chamber of the restaurant. Nearly three centuries old, Fourways has previously operated as a private home and a guesthouse, before settling into its place as the spot to celebrate with fine food. Don’t miss Sunday brunch, where three courses are near mandatory. Go for the old-school charm of the shrimp cocktail, beef wellington and strawberry shortcake. To sleep off that food coma, you’ll be glad to know there are 11 family-friendly cottages on site, with spacious balconies and patios, and access to a shared pool.

Described as Bermuda’s ‘old world’ hotel, guests have been crossing the threshold of the grand Rosedon since 1904. Once a grand house, the lush gardens filled with passion flowers and birds of paradise make it feel secluded from the bustle of capital city Hamilton. Long-serving staff know the best eateries in town and secret spots to discover as you head out across the island, accessible via the free beach shuttle. Alternatively, take tea in gardens, then wander five minutes to the boutiques along Bermuda’s most famous street, Front Street. Don’t miss the hearty breakfast of cloud-light buttermilk pancakes or silky eggs benedict at the hotel’s restaurant, Huckleberry.

Try not to get distracted by the views of the ocean as you play the Port Royal Golf Course, reputed to be Bermuda’s best public course. Located just next door is Pompano’s. Owned and run by the Lamb family since 1956, the hotel attracts a lot of repeat customers because of the spectacular location, relaxed vibe and easy service. It is here – uniquely in Bermuda – that you can wade out to sea over 365 meters (400 yards) in knee- to chest-deep water along the resort’s sandbar. Visit from May to late October to enjoy the full service beach bar.

Ever had a massage in a 500,000-year-old cave? Book the Grotto Bay Serenity Cave Experience and instead of your therapist’s feet, you’ll be gazing down at clear, turquoise waters, to the sound of droplets gently falling from thousands of stalactites. Described as Bermuda’s only all-inclusive optional resort, it’s also just five minutes from the airport. In the rooms, luxury touches such as marble bathrooms and coffee makers come as standard. Try the swimming cave if the luminous bay gets boring.

Walk the dappled shade of the squares, and explore the brick and cobble streets of St George’s Parish. The balconied merchant’s houses and commanding St Peter’s church have plenty of stories held firm within their walls. The 400-year-old town, a Unesco World Heritage site, is the oldest permanent English settlement in the New World, and the landing point of the island’s first settlers. Overlooking the historic harbour, set in nearly 12 acres of landscaped gardens, is the St George’s Club & Resort. Over 70 one- and two-bedroom cottages here have access to three pools – one heated in the cooler months – two tennis courts, a gym, and an onsite scooter rental facility to explore the island at your own pace.