Planning my trip to Bermuda was a lot of fun: looking at the photos, scoping out where to stay and obviously the anticipation. .. but the real fun part happened when I actually got to take the trip!
I was overwhelmed by how beautiful Bermuda is and also how convenient it is to get to from New York. It's only an hour and 30 minutes from Newark, so going for a long weekend is totally doable.
The best time to go is May-September. Keep in mind, September and October can be the best time to go, but it is also Hurricane Season: so it may be a last minute trip based on weather patterns.
The first night was spent in Hamilton at the Fairmont Hamilton Princess. They had a gorgeous infinity pool overlooking the harbor. They've recently opened a great new bar and restaurant called Marcus'. If you plan to come to Bermuda for business, you may stay in Hamilton for the convenience and if so there are a few nice spots in town.
Restaurants to try: Harry's, Pickled Onion, Swizzle Inn, Red Steakhouse
We stayed on the other side of the island the last few nights and it was spectacular. If you know someone who is a member at the Coral Beach Club, I highly recommend having them vouch for you to stay. It's understated beauty. Nothing is over the top, but everything is beautiful. This is the spot if you play tennis as well. They have two levels of courts, so bring your tennis whites! If you don't know a member, don't fret: the Elbow Beach Club is right next door.
If you have the chance, eat at the Long Tail restaurant at Coral Beach Club. You will have fabulous views of the turquoise ocean. Wear a classic Bermudian Navy Blazer with slacks and you will be good to go.
When you are in Bermuda, do not miss Horseshoe Bay Beach! The fine, pink sand is breathtaking. I recommend climbing to the top of the cliff. There are two peaks, and it is visually worth walking up the the peak of both. You will have a great birds eye view of the beach and great photo op. To make things easy as well, there is a Fairmont Southampton close by.
After, take a stroll to the other end of the beach, you will see plenty of caves and hidden gems. Make sure to look closely at the sand to witness the "pink coral" blended in, creating a pink tint to the sand.
There are several gorgeous beaches to check out, but depending on the length of your trip: Horseshoe Bay is a must. Just make sure to avoid the Man o' War Jellyfish: they hurt like crazy.
Other things to check out are the Crystal and Fantasy Caves, located 6 minutes from the airport. The tour takes about 30 minutes each, you can opt to just see one as well. They were discovered 100 years ago by two teenage boys playing cricket. They jumped into the caves while exploring and witnessed this amazing natural phenomenon. The water from above crystalizes in the caves creating long, protruding points from the top of the cave. What is even more fascinating, is that it takes 100 years to grow one inch. *(Recommend if it's a cloudy day or on your way to the airport)
Bermuda will be hosting America's Cup in 2017, so if you are big into sailing this might be a great chance to experience it! There are several golf courses in Bermuda, but I've been told Mid Ocean Club and Tucker's Point Golf Club are great.
Keep in mind, Bermuda is a bit dressier: so boys make sure to pack slacks, Bermuda shorts, and a blazer. Ladies, think floral and a bit more conservative attire. If you forget; however, don't worry too much, there are a few stores in town selling blazers and Bermuda shorts!
Like always, enjoy yourself and take lots of photos! (You can always delete photos, but its hard to go back in time and take more!)... OH, and make sure to enjoy the turquoise waters and pink beaches!
Until Next Time, Safe Travels!