Bermuda blew my mind on sight. Those pastel houses against turquoise water? Even better in person. But after three visits, I’ve learned the Bermuda most tourists experience is just the glossy cover of an amazing book.
The best places in Bermuda appear when you chat with locals. I spent days wandering St. George’s, where skinny lanes connect colonial buildings and residents actually wave to strangers. In Somerset village, I found waterfront spots where fishermen bring their catch straight to restaurant kitchens. The wahoo I ate there was so fresh it ruined all other fish for me forever. Ready to see the real Bermuda that keeps pulling me back? These 12 incredible spots will make you question why anyone would stick to the tourist zones.
Top Must-See Destinations in Bermuda
Looking to uncover Bermuda’s hidden gems? Beyond the famous spots, the island offers plenty of lesser-known treasures waiting to be explored. Wander through the Crystal Caves, a stunning underground wonder. Marvel at the Spittal Pond Nature Reserve, offering serene landscapes and wildlife.
Stroll the charming streets of St. George’s, rich with history and character. Whether you’re into nature, history, or coastal beauty, here are 12 of Bermuda’s most underrated destinations!
1. Tom Moore’s Jungle
- 📍 Location: Blue Hole Hill, Hamilton Parish
- 🏆 Best For: 🌿 Nature lovers, 🏊♂️ wild swimming, 🕳️ cave explorers
- 📸 Top Experiences: Swimming in the Blue Hole, hiking limestone trails, exploring underwater caves
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May for clear water and lighter foot traffic 🌤️
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Grotto Bay Beach Resort – Lakeside resort just minutes from the jungle trails and caves
Tom Moore’s Jungle feels like a secret world hidden under Bermuda’s tropical canopy. Officially known as Walsingham Nature Reserve, it’s home to crystal-clear blue holes, jungle paths, and caves where you can actually swim. One of the best parts? It still feels wildly untouched.
The trails wind through mangroves and dense forest, eventually opening up to Blue Hole, a deep turquoise pool surrounded by limestone walls. The water is so clear that swimming feels like floating in glass. For the adventurous, there are underwater cave entrances along the edges worth checking out with a snorkel.
Arrive early to avoid tour groups and bring sturdy water shoes for the slippery rock surfaces. After your hike and swim, grab a bite at Tom Moore’s Tavern nearby, one of the island’s oldest restaurants. This spot shows off Bermuda’s raw beauty better than any resort ever could.
2. Jobson’s Cove
- 📍 Location: South Shore Park, Warwick Parish
- 🏆 Best For: 🏖️ Private beach vibes, 🐠 snorkeling, 💞 romantic escapes
- 📸 Top Experiences: Swimming in the sheltered cove, snorkeling along the reef, lounging on pink sand
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to July for calm waters and fewer crowds 🌺
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Coco Reef Bermuda – Relaxed oceanfront stay just a short drive from the beach
Jobson’s Cove feels like your own personal slice of paradise. Tucked between cliffs on Bermuda’s south shore, this tiny pink sand beach is framed by high limestone walls that create a calm, crystal-clear swimming area. The water is shallow and glassy, perfect for floating or snorkeling just steps from shore.
You won’t find facilities or vendors here, which keeps the vibe peaceful and uncrowded. Bring your own towel, snacks, and snorkel gear for a slow afternoon of quiet swimming and sunbathing. Early mornings are especially magical when you can have the whole cove to yourself.
It’s located right next to Warwick Long Bay but feels much more intimate. If you’re looking for a romantic stop or a peaceful place to escape the tourist trail, Jobson’s Cove is one of Bermuda’s best-kept secrets.
3. Cooper’s Island Nature Reserve
- 📍 Location: St. David’s Island, Southeast Bermuda
- 🏆 Best For: 🐢 Wildlife watching, 🏝️ secluded beaches, 🥾 coastal hiking
- 📸 Top Experiences: Swimming at Turtle Bay, hiking to the observation tower, spotting sea turtles
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May for whale sightings and blooming trails 🐋
- 🏨 Where to Stay: The Loren at Pink Beach – Chic, ocean-view hotel about 20 minutes from the reserve
Cooper’s Island Nature Reserve feels like stepping into a Bermuda postcard with no one else around. This former NASA tracking station has been transformed into one of the island’s most beautiful nature spots, complete with quiet beaches, forested trails, and hidden coves that stretch along the coastline.
Clearwater Beach and Turtle Bay are both inside the reserve, offering gentle waves and views that stretch out over Castle Harbour. Bring binoculars for a climb up the wildlife observation tower, where humpback whales can sometimes be seen passing offshore in spring. If you’re into snorkeling, the calm waters often host sea turtles and tropical fish near the rocks.
This area stays quiet year-round, especially on weekdays. Pack a picnic and spend the day swimming, sunbathing, or just walking the trails with almost no interruption. It’s a rare slice of Bermuda where nature completely takes over and lets you breathe.
4. Blue Hole Park
- 📍 Location: Behind Grotto Bay, Hamilton Parish
- 🏆 Best For: 🏊♀️ Hidden swimming spots, 🌿 jungle vibes, 🕳️ cave exploring
- 📸 Top Experiences: Swimming in the blue hole, hiking mangrove trails, snorkeling near cave entrances
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to June for vibrant water color and mild weather 💧
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Rosewood Bermuda – Upscale resort with beach access and gorgeous garden paths
Blue Hole Park is one of Bermuda’s most underrated adventures. Tucked behind a quiet parking lot, this inland oasis opens up into a vibrant world of jungle paths, mangroves, and bright blue pools. The main swimming hole is surrounded by limestone cliffs and filled with water so clear it feels unreal.
Rope swings hang from trees, and brave visitors can jump right into the deep pool. Snorkelers will find hidden cave entrances under the surface and fish darting through the shadows. The trail system winds through dense greenery, connecting you to small caves and secret lookouts.
Locals love this park because it’s peaceful, uncrowded, and completely free. Arrive mid-morning when the sun lights up the water and highlights its surreal color. With its low-key vibe and high-reward scenery, Blue Hole Park offers a fun way to experience Bermuda off the beach.
5. St. David’s Lighthouse
- 📍 Location: Lighthouse Road, St. George’s Parish
- 🏆 Best For: 🌅 Panoramic views, 📷 photo ops, 🏛️ history fans
- 📸 Top Experiences: Climbing to the top, spotting hidden coves, visiting Black Horse Tavern nearby
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May for clear skies and whale spotting 🌤️
- 🏨 Where to Stay: The St. Regis Bermuda Resort – Elegant stay with ocean views
St. David’s Lighthouse is the kind of landmark that makes you pause and look twice. Perched on Bermuda’s eastern edge, this red-and-white striped tower sits high above the sea, offering one of the island’s most expansive views. You can climb the narrow staircase inside to reach the top, where 360-degree views stretch across the coast.
Built in 1879, the lighthouse is full of character and history. From the upper platform, you can see local fishing boats, quiet bays, and even migrating whales in the right season. The wind is strong, the air is clean, and the perspective is unbeatable.
The area around the lighthouse feels different from more developed parts of Bermuda. It’s quieter and more local, with nearby walking paths and one of the island’s best fish sandwich spots just down the hill. Don’t forget your camera for this one.
6. Bermuda Railway Trail
- 📍 Location: Across Somerset, Hamilton, and Bailey’s Bay
- 🏆 Best For: 🚲 Scenic rides, 🌅 coastal views, 🥾 peaceful nature walks
- 📸 Top Experiences: Biking the Somerset section, walking the Bailey’s Bay bridge, exploring hidden beaches
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: March to May for clear skies and comfortable hiking weather 🌤️
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Cambridge Beaches Resort – Secluded resort near the trail’s western starting point
The Bermuda Railway Trail is one of the island’s best-kept secrets. Stretching miles from end to end, this former train route has been converted into a quiet path for walkers and cyclists. It passes through forests, coastlines, and neighborhoods, giving you a behind-the-scenes look at local life.
Each section offers something different. The Somerset stretch hugs the western shoreline and is perfect around sunset, while the Bailey’s Bay area features a restored wooden bridge with incredible water views. Along the way, you’ll find hidden beaches, small farms, and food stands that rarely show up on tourist maps.
It’s easy to access from multiple entry points, and most parts of the trail are flat and beginner-friendly. For a peaceful day outdoors with some of Bermuda’s most authentic scenery, the Railway Trail is hard to beat.
7. Scaur Hill Fort Park
- 📍 Location: Somerset Road, Sandy’s Parish
- 🏆 Best For: 🏰 History buffs, 🌇 sunset seekers, 🧺 relaxed picnics
- 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring the fort ruins, taking in Great Sound views, wandering garden paths
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to June for colorful skies and blooming gardens 🌺
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Willowbank Resort – Quiet, waterfront hotel just a short drive from the fort
Scaur Hill Fort Park is a blend of military history and peaceful beauty. Built in the 1800s, the fort was meant to defend Bermuda from American attacks and now offers one of the best panoramic views on the island. The original walls, tunnels, and cannon mounts are still intact and open to explore.
The elevated grounds overlook the Great Sound, Ely’s Harbour, and Somerset Village. Visit during late afternoon for golden light and sweeping views that stretch far in every direction. A series of shaded trails and benches make it an ideal place for a relaxed afternoon stroll or casual picnic.
What makes this place extra special is how uncrowded it is. Most visitors skip it entirely, which means you often get the whole park to yourself. For a quiet, meaningful stop with epic views, Scaur Hill Fort delivers every time.
8. Spittal Pond Nature Reserve
- 📍 Location: Harrington Hundreds, Smith’s Parish
- 🏆 Best For: 🐦 Bird watchers, 🌊 coastal explorers, 🥾 nature walkers
- 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking the coastal trail, visiting Portuguese Rock, spotting migratory birds
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: October to April for bird migration and cooler hiking weather 🐦
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Newstead Belmont Hills Golf Resort & Spa – Elegant waterfront resort with infinity pool, spa, and complimentary ferry to Hamilton
Spittal Pond Nature Reserve gives you a wilder side of Bermuda that few tourists see. Spanning over 60 acres, it’s the island’s largest nature reserve and a paradise for birdwatchers, hikers, and quiet nature seekers. From forested trails to wind-battered cliffs, it’s full of contrast and character.
The Checkerboard, a dramatic limestone formation along the coast, is a highlight that feels like stepping onto another planet. You’ll also find Portuguese Rock, carved by shipwreck survivors in the 1500s, adding a historic layer to your hike. Wildlife here is rich too, especially during migration months.
Trails are well marked, making it easy to explore without a guide. Early mornings are peaceful, and weekdays are often crowd-free. Bring binoculars, sunscreen, and a snack to enjoy on a cliffside bench. For anyone craving both scenery and solitude, this reserve is a top-tier escape.
9. Somerset Bridge
- 📍 Location: Mangrove Bay, Sandys Parish
- 🏆 Best For: 🌉 Curious travelers, 🚣♂️ kayaking fans, 📷 fun photo ops
- 📸 Top Experiences: Watching the drawbridge open, kayaking nearby bays, walking part of the Railway Trail
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to July for calm water and bright skies ☀️
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Pompano Beach Club – Oceanfront hotel just minutes from the bridge
Somerset Bridge isn’t just a cool piece of trivia, it’s one of Bermuda’s most charming surprises. Known as the world’s smallest working drawbridge, this 17th-century crossing opens just 18 inches wide to let sailboat masts pass through.
What makes it more than just a photo stop is everything nearby. Robinson’s Marina is right around the corner with kayaks for rent, letting you paddle through sheltered bays and mangroves at your own pace. The bridge also sits along the Bermuda Railway Trail, so you can easily explore by bike or on foot.
It’s best to visit in the late afternoon, when the golden light hits the bridge and nearby waters just right. If you’re lucky, you might catch a local sailor signaling the bridge to open. It’s small, but Somerset Bridge leaves a big impression.
10. Hog Bay Park
- 📍 Location: Port Royal area, Sandys Parish
- 🏆 Best For: 🐄 Hidden beaches, 🌳 nature lovers, 🥾 peaceful hikers
- 📸 Top Experiences: Walking the forest trails, exploring tidepools, picnicking with sea views
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to June for dry trails and blooming plants 🌼
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Cambridge Beaches Resort – Secluded oceanfront resort just a short drive from the park
Hog Bay Park is one of Bermuda’s best-kept nature escapes. It stretches over acres of farmland, forest, and rocky coastline, all untouched by big developments. You’ll follow quiet trails through native cedar trees and farmland, with roaming goats sometimes crossing your path.
The best part is at the end of the trail. A hidden beach appears at low tide, where you can wade through warm water and explore tidepools teeming with marine life. On clear days, you can see all the way across the Great Sound from the bluff above.
This park doesn’t have restrooms or vendors, so bring water, snacks, and sturdy shoes. It’s a quiet, local favorite that gives you a different side of Bermuda’s beauty. The mix of forest, farmland, and sea views makes Hog Bay Park feel like a secret waiting to be discovered.
11. Fort Scaur
- 📍 Location: Middle Road, Warwick Parish
- 🏆 Best For: 🏖️ Secret swimming spots, 🐠 quiet snorkeling, 🌅 peaceful escapes
- 📸 Top Experiences: Swimming in the protected cove, snorkeling near limestone rocks, enjoying a private beach day
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to October for warmest water and calmest conditions 🌊
- 🏨 Where to Stay: The Reefs Resort & Club – Award-winning boutique resort with private beach access, just 2 miles from Annie’s Bay
Annie’s Bay feels like Bermuda’s best-kept swimming secret. This tiny crescent of sand sits tucked between limestone cliffs near Warwick Parish, accessible only by a short scramble down a rocky path. The protected cove stays calm even when other beaches have waves, which makes it perfect for a peaceful swim or snorkel.
Local families have been coming here for generations, but it never feels crowded because there’s no parking lot or official entrance. You’ll need to park along Middle Road and look for the narrow trail that winds down through the rocks. The reward is your own private beach with crystal-clear water and some of the island’s best snorkeling right off the shore.
What I love most about Annie’s Bay is how untouched it feels. No beach bars, no rental umbrellas, just pink sand and that incredible Bermuda blue water. Bring your own gear and snacks, and prepare to understand why locals guard this spot so carefully.
12. Crystal and Fantasy Caves
- 📍 Location: Wilkinson Avenue, Hamilton Parish
- 🏆 Best For: 🌌 Underground adventurers, 💎 crystal lovers, 💧 geology geeks
- 📸 Top Experiences: Walking the floating bridge, admiring crystal formations, learning cave history
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: Year-round for cool temps and clear cave pools ❄️
- 🏨 Where to Stay: The Loren at Pink Beach – Modern, ocean-view hotel just 10 minutes from the caves
Crystal and Fantasy Caves feel like entering a hidden world under Bermuda’s surface. These limestone caves are filled with dramatic stalactites, deep crystal-clear pools, and floating bridges that take you right over the glowing water. Guides lead you through narrow paths while sharing stories of how the caves were discovered.
The air inside stays cool year-round, making it a refreshing escape from the island heat. Fantasy Cave is slightly deeper and features rare soda-straw formations, while Crystal Cave offers the most photogenic water views. Both are included in combo tickets and worth exploring fully.
Tours are well-paced and suitable for all ages, though the stairs can be steep in places. Don’t rush through as it’s easy to miss the subtle textures and reflections that make these caves magical. For a change of scenery that’s entirely underground, this is a must-visit.
- Read Next: 12 Scenic Destinations in Bermuda
