One of the things I liked about Bermuda was that it never felt like I needed a packed itinerary. Some days, simply finding a good spot by the water and staying there for a while felt like enough.
That relaxed pace is a big part of the island’s appeal. It’s also why I think choosing where to stay matters more than people realise. Bermuda isn’t huge, but different parts of the island can give your trip a completely different feel.
Some areas are better if your priority is spending as much time as possible by the water. Others put you closer to the restaurants, shops, and things to do. It really comes down to the kind of trip you’re looking for.
That’s exactly what this guide is here to help with. I’ll walk you through the best areas to stay in Bermuda so you can find the right fit without overthinking it.
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Bermuda’s Area Guide – Places to Stay in Bermuda
Hamilton
Hamilton is the easiest place to base yourself if it’s your first trip to Bermuda, with everything close by. It’s central, easy to get around from, and has the most choice for food, shops, and things to do.
St. George’s
St. George’s is a great option if you’re trying to keep costs down in Bermuda, with more affordable stays and a slower pace. It’s quieter and a bit further out, but you’ll get more value for money and a more local feel.
Somerset Village
Somerset Village is a great choice for families, with a quieter, more spacious feel and easy access to beaches and attractions. It’s a bit further from the centre, but that extra space and slower pace make it ideal if you’re travelling with kids.
A Guide to Bermuda’s Best Areas
Before booking a flight to Bermuda, it’s worth getting a feel for the different areas, so you’re close to what you actually want to do. The island is tiny (around 53 km² / 20.5 sq miles), so honestly, nowhere is that far from anything.
Most first-timers stay in Hamilton. It’s central, has the most restaurants and bars, and is the best shout if you want a bit of nightlife.
If you want somewhere with more character, St. George’s is a great option. It’s full of history, feels a bit like stepping back in time, and you’ll usually find more affordable stays. It’s also a solid pick for digital nomads or longer trips where you want to settle in a bit.
Over on the west side, Somerset Village is quieter and great for beaches, snorkelling, and diving. It’s got a more relaxed, local feel and works really well for families or anyone wanting space.
Whether you’re after a hotel, guesthouse, cottage, or a vacation rental in Bermuda, each area has something slightly different, so it just depends on your vibe.
Let me help fit your vibe…
1. Hamilton – Where to Stay for your First Visit
Hamilton is right in the middle of the island and, honestly, it’s the easiest place to base yourself if it’s your first time in Bermuda. You can get pretty much anywhere on the island in around 30 minutes, so it’s ideal if you want to explore without overthinking logistics. Plus, there’s a really solid mix of accommodation options.
Hamilton itself is the capital, and it’s where things feel the most lively. Think restaurants, bars, shops, there’s always something going on. While the city isn’t known for big beaches right in the centre, you’re only a short bus, taxi, or scooter ride from some of the island’s best ones.
If you’re into shopping and food, this is definitely your spot. Front Street and Queen Street are lined with shops, restaurants, and cafés, and are perfect for an easy wander, especially in the evening.
Best For: First-time visitors, food, nightlife, and easy exploring.
The Vibe: Lively, polished, a bit city-like (by Bermuda standards).
Proximity to Airport: Around 20–25 minutes by taxi.
Transport Level: Excellent – buses, ferries, and taxis are all easy.
Budget: Mid to high (not the cheapest area).
Crowds: Busiest area on the island, especially on weekdays and evenings.
Top Things to Do in Hamilton
- Stroll around the Bermuda Botanical Gardens, a beautiful 36-acre green space just a short drive (or bus ride) from Hamilton.
- Visit the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute, a fun and interactive museum right near the city.
- See art at the Bermuda National Gallery, located in the centre of Hamilton.
- Dine at local favourites like Devil’s Isle and Mad Hatters – both really popular spots.
- Relax at John Smith’s Bay, one of the island’s prettiest beaches, about a 15-minute drive from Hamilton.
- Go shopping along Front Street and Queen Street, the main hub for shops, restaurants, and cafés in the city.
- Visit Spittal Pond Nature Reserve for the famous pink lagoon and great birdwatching. It’s not in Hamilton, but it’s close enough for an easy trip.
- Head out on the water with a catamaran sailing tour; most leave from Hamilton or nearby docks.
Best Hotel: Hamilton Princess & Beach Club
Hamilton Princess & Beach Club is a luxury five-star hotel set right on the waterfront overlooking Hamilton Harbour, just a short walk from Front Street.
There’s a wide range of rooms and suites to choose from, including spacious options that can accommodate up to four guests.
The hotel also has several highly regarded restaurants and bars, a standout infinity pool, a 24-hour fitness centre, complimentary bikes for exploring, and a private beach club with shuttle transfers.
Best Apartment: Smuggler’s Cove
This one-bedroom, one-bathroom, two-story townhouse is located on the edge of Hamilton, ten minutes walk to the city centre. It has a lovely island-style design. The bedroom features a queen-sized bed, a flat-screen TV, a desk, and plenty of natural light.
Outside the apartment, there’s a private patio with an outdoor dining area, which is a fantastic place to eat breakfast in the morning or enjoy a cold beverage at the end of the day.
Best Luxury Home: Palmberry Oceanfront Cottage
It may not be the biggest house in Hamilton, but this one-bedroom cottage is certainly one of the most luxurious! There are unbeatable ocean views everywhere you look, a giant patio, and even a private dock where you can have a delightful early morning or sunset swim.
A perfect choice for a romantic getaway!
2. St. George’s – Where to Stay on a Budget
Visiting St. George’s honestly feels a bit like stepping into another era. Tucked away on the northeastern tip of Bermuda, it was once the island’s capital and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ve got these quiet cobbled streets, pastel colonial buildings, and little historic corners everywhere you turn. It’s the kind of place you just wander without much of a plan.
It’s not all history, though. This part of the island has a much more relaxed, outdoorsy feel, with some of the quieter beaches nearby. Clearwater Beach is a favourite for a reason, with soft sand, clear water, and far fewer crowds than some of the more central spots.
If you head a little further out, you’ll find places like Cooper’s Island Nature Reserve, which is perfect for a slow walk when you want a break from everything. And if you’re up for something a bit more adventurous, Blue Hole Park is nearby too, with swimming, cave exploring, and even a bit of cliff jumping if you’re feeling brave.
Best For: History lovers, quieter stays, longer trips, digital nomads
The Vibe: Laid-back, historic, a bit sleepy but charming
Proximity to Airport: Around 10–15 minutes by taxi
Transport Level: Good, but just not quite as often as Hamilton.
Budget: More affordable overall, especially for longer stays.
Crowds: Much quieter, even in peak season.
Top Things to Do in St. George’s
- Wander around St. George’s itself, especially King’s Square and St. Peter’s Church, one of the oldest Anglican churches outside the UK.
- Explore the underground lakes at Crystal Cave, just a short drive from St. George’s.
- Swim or cliff jump at Blue Hole Park, a really unique little spot with caves and deep water.
- Go for a nature walk at Cooper’s Island Nature Reserve, great for wildlife and coastal views.
- Visit Fort St. Catherine for history and some of the best views on this side of the island.
- Stop by the Bermuda National Trust Museum (Mitchell House) to get a feel for local history and daily life in the past.
- Play a round at Mid Ocean Club or Tucker’s Point Golf Club if you’re into golf (both just outside St. George’s).
Best Hotel: The St Regis Bermuda Resort
At the top of Bermuda, right next to Fort St. Catherine, you will find the gorgeous St Regis Bermuda Resort. They offer standard hotel rooms, as well as larger suite-style apartments. Also, attached to every room, you’ll find a private balcony or porch, many of them with stunning sea views.
On top of that, there’s a bar/restaurant that has a buffet breakfast daily, an oceanfront swimming pool, and its very own private beach that’s only available to guests.
Best Room: Pepper Tree Cottage private room
If you’re travelling on more of a backpacker budget, this is one of the best-value places to stay in Bermuda. Instead of just a room, you get access to the entire ground floor of the house, which includes two bedrooms. You can book one or both, depending on the size of your group.
If you only book one room, you’ll still have the space to yourself, as the hosts don’t rent the other room out separately at the same time. There’s also a large private garden area to enjoy, and the property is just a short walk from the water.
Best Apartment: Charming Apartment in Old Town
This cute apartment is situated right in the centre of historic St. George’s. It’s an old colonial-style house that will make you feel less like you’re on holiday and more like a local. Inside, there’s one bedroom and one bathroom, but it’s the outside amenities that make this apartment stand out. There’s a lovely garden full of flowers where you can relax, a barbecue, and an outdoor dining area.
If all that wasn’t enough, the hosts also provide snorkelling gear to guests for no additional fee if you ask in advance.
3. Somerset Village – Where to Stay for Families
Somerset Village is a quiet, laid-back spot on the western end of Bermuda, and a great choice if you’re after a slower pace. It’s especially well-suited to families, with plenty of space, easy access to the water, and a more relaxed feel than the busier parts of the island.
You’re also close to places like the Royal Naval Dockyard and the National Museum of Bermuda, which are both worth a visit if you’re into history. This area is also known for its boat trips and dolphin experiences, which tend to be a hit with kids.
When it comes to beaches, you’ve got some of the island’s best within easy reach. Horseshoe Bay Beach is the most famous, but if it’s busy, spots like Warwick Long Bay and Jobson’s Cove are usually a bit quieter and just as beautiful.
If you want to be a bit more active, the Bermuda Railway Trail runs through this part of the island and is great for walking or cycling, with some really good coastal views along the way.
Best For: Families, relaxed stays, beach lovers, and slower-paced trips.
The Vibe: Quiet, residential, easygoing, a bit more spread out.
Proximity to Airport: Around 45–60 minutes by taxi.
Transport Level: Good, but less central, so journeys can take longer.
Budget: Mid-range to high (larger homes and villas are more common).
Crowds: Generally quiet, even during peak season.
Top Things to Do in Somerset Village
- Swim with dolphins at Dolphin Quest, located within the National Museum of Bermuda.
- Go snorkelling or scuba diving around the west end, with easy access to some of Bermuda’s best reefs and wrecks.
- Spend a day at Horseshoe Bay Beach, the island’s most famous stretch of pink sand, about a 25–30 minute drive away.
- Try something different with Hartley’s Helmet Diving, a unique underwater walking experience based in the Dockyard.
- Take a trip to the Bermuda Aquarium Museum and Zoo. It’s a bit further (around 40 minutes), but still very doable as a day out.
- Walk or cycle part of the Bermuda Railway Trail, which runs through this area and offers some great coastal views.
- Explore the Royal Naval Dockyard, once a major British naval base and now home to shops, museums, and restaurants.
- Climb up Gibb’s Hill Lighthouse for panoramic views across the island.
Best Hotel: Cambridge Beaches Resort and Spa
This hotel is one of the highest-rated and most popular resorts in Bermuda, and for good reason. They have a wide variety of room options, as well as private villas that sleep up to six people. As terrific as the rooms are, it’s everything else this hotel offers that makes it stand apart from the competition. It has four private beaches, a tennis court, a putting green, two swimming pools, three restaurants, a full-service spa, and more!
Best Guesthouse: Hakuna Matata Cottage
The Hakuna Matata Cottage is a charming guesthouse located right on the coast. There’s a giant grassy lawn overlooking the sea where you can relax while the kids swim and snorkel. If you want to go to a proper beach, there’s a secluded, hidden beach only two minutes away that’s hardly ever crowded. Additionally, the apartment has a full kitchen, a washer, and a dryer.
Best Luxury Home: Panoramic 2 Bed, Private Beach in Lovely Location
This two-bedroom, two-bathroom house is one of the most stunning properties in Bermuda. It has an exquisite interior design that’s modern but still manages to create a laid-back island atmosphere. The kitchen is spacious, features all top-of-the-range appliances, and is perfect for cooking up a delicious home-cooked meal.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Bermuda
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
FAQs about Finding a Place to Stay in Bermuda
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Bermuda and where to stay.
Where will you decide to stay in Bermuda?
It may not have the name recognition of the Bahamas or Jamaica, but if you’re looking for an amazing tropical island to visit, you should 100% consider Bermuda.
With remarkable beaches, world-class diving, and fascinating history, it has something for everyone. Best of all, you’ll be able to cross loads of bucket list items while also getting a rare stamp in your passport.
As you have seen, Bermuda has accommodation options for everyone, no matter what you are interested in or what your budget may be.
I hope that this guide has helped you decide where to stay on your next trip to Bermuda. Did you find what you were looking for? Let me know in the comments!
