3 Best Sights in Bermuda

Both beautiful marine life and evidence of the Dockyard's impressive naval legacy can be viewed at this protected inlet, accessed through a stone tunnel adjacent to the National Museum of Bermuda. Beneath the water's surface lie cast-iron cannons dating from 1550 to 1800, plus an antique anchor and gun-carriage wheel. The true attractions, however, are colorful fish (you might see more than 50 varieties) and other sea creatures including anemones, sea cucumbers, and assorted species of coral. Thanks to amenities like floating rest stations, snorkeling and scuba diving couldn't be easier. Everything is available to rent, including kayaks, pedalos, Jet Skis, and underwater scooters. This is a family beach by day, catering mainly to cruise ship passengers, and a nightclub by night, with beach parties and island barbecues.

This is a popular spot for tourists as well as local families who like to treat their children to a sheltered white sand beach and pristine views of the water. Enjoy local and American cuisine while sipping a frozen cocktail at the beach's Hammerheads Bar and Grill; on-site water-sports and beach equipment rentals are available for kids and parents. A playground outside the park features a 70-foot, wooden green moray eel and a replica of St. David's Lighthouse. Snorkel Park Beach is just a short walk from the Dockyard cruise terminal, so it attracts many cruise passengers. Before you leave, stop in the Clocktower Mall and the Bermuda Craft Market to pick up a souvenir or two. Also nearby are restaurants, the Dockyard Ferry Terminal, and an ATM.

At night, Snorkel transforms into a lively nightclub area, especially on Monday and Thursday when live DJs spin top 40, soca, reggae, and dancehall hits. Amenities: food and drink; parking (free); toilets; water sports. Best for: partiers; snorkeling; sunset; swimming.

Popular with Somerset locals, this beach is on the quiet northwestern end of Bermuda, far from the bustle of Hamilton and major tourist hubs. In keeping with the area's rural atmosphere, the beach is low-key and great for bird-watching. Undeveloped parkland shields the beach from the light traffic on Cambridge Road. The main beach is long by Bermudian standards—nearly ¼ mile from end to end. Although exposed to northerly storm winds, the bay water is normally calm and shallow—ideal for children. The bottom, however, is rocky and uneven, so it's a good idea to put on water shoes before wading. Amenities: parking (free). Best for: solitude; swimming; walking.