36 Best Sights in Bermuda

The West End is connected to the rest of Bermuda by Somerset Bridge, and once you have crossed over it, you're no longer, according to local lingo, "up the country." More than marking a boundary, Somerset Bridge is something of an attraction in its own right because it's reputed to be the world's smallest drawbridge. It opens a mere 18 inches, just wide enough to accommodate the mast of a passing sailboat.

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.

If the beauty of Crystal Caves doesn't leave you reeling, a rum swizzle certainly will. Bermuda's potent national drink was supposedly invented at the Swizzle Inn, about five minutes on foot from the caves.

After Gibbs Hill Lighthouse was automated in 1969, the keeper's cottage at its base was converted into an eatery. Whether you're looking for a filling meal or just a refreshing drink to quench your thirst, this quaint little restaurant serves dinner Tuesday to Sunday and lunch from Friday to Sunday. Seafood and pizzas are the specialties on the menu.

Just behind the Hamilton Central Bus Terminal is a green oasis with plenty of benches and leafy shade to rest after sightseeing around the City of Hamilton. The highlight of the park is the ornate, grand bandstand erected in 1889 in commemoration of Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee. Today, it, along with the park, hosts many cultural events including concerts and festivals. Make sure to come to the park with an empty stomach—Leslie's Desserts creates European-style treats served out of an Airstream in the southeastern corner of the park. The freshly baked bubble waffles topped with caramel gelato and Lotus Biscoff cookie crumbles will not disappoint.

The information center, adjacent to the cruise ship pier, the ferry terminal, and a bus stop, has helpful staff, plenty of information about sights and itineraries, and booking monitors so you can arrange activities and tours of all kinds.