Ranked – Best Things to Do with Kids in Bermuda
ⓘ When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.
Planning family activities in Bermuda can feel deceptively straightforward, yet many parents discover that what looks good online doesn’t always translate to a smooth day with young kids. The true challenge isn’t finding things to do, but accurately estimating the time and energy involved in getting there and experiencing them. The island’s natural beauty, from pink sand beaches to hidden coves and charming historic towns, is dispersed across its length. This unique geography, coupled with a reliance on public buses, ferries, or taxis, means travel time between activities compounds quickly. Consequently, selecting the right activities for your family creates a specific decision problem: how to balance exciting excursions with practical logistics to prevent overtired children and wasted time. It’s about crafting an itinerary that maximizes enjoyment without becoming a logistical marathon.
Why Activity Choice in Bermuda Is Harder Than It Looks
The single most critical trade-off families face in Bermuda is between dedicating a full day to extensive exploration involving multiple locations and focusing on a shorter, more immersive half-day water activity. The island’s allure is strong, with many appealing water-based tours, historical sites, and diverse beaches scattered from one end to the other. Attempting to combine a morning snorkeling trip to a shipwreck, an afternoon visit to a historic town, and still squeezing in a different beach can quickly become exhausting and expensive, especially with children. For younger children, having top-rated kids snorkels can make a big difference in their comfort and enjoyment. Getting this balance wrong often results in overtired kids, meltdowns, or spending a significant portion of your budget and precious vacation time on transportation rather than on enjoyable experiences. What appears as a 15-minute drive on a map often translates to a 30-45 minute bus ride or a costly taxi fare once you factor in waiting times and winding roads. This constant movement can quickly deplete a child’s energy reserves and a parent’s patience.
- Consider the actual travel time; map estimates often don’t account for bus schedules or winding roads.
- Balance full-day explorations with shorter, immersive half-day options to avoid child fatigue.
- Prioritize one main activity or geographical area per day.
How to Build a Day That Actually Works
To craft a successful family itinerary, prioritize depth over breadth. Choose one main experience or a single geographical area per day, allowing ample time for relaxed transitions, spontaneous beach play, and child-led exploration. This approach minimizes travel fatigue, fosters genuine discovery, and ensures everyone stays happy and engaged. Remember, a relaxed day enjoying one spot fully beats a rushed, multi-stop marathon.
- Allocate ample time for each activity, including travel and spontaneous play.
- Focus on one major attraction or area daily to reduce transit time and fatigue.
- Allow children time to explore at their own pace.
Top-Rated, Popular Hotels and Resorts
- Hamilton Princess & Beach Club — A well-known resort with family amenities.
Booking.com | Expedia - The Loren at Pink Beach — An oceanfront option on the south shore.
Booking.com | Expedia - Rosewood Bermuda — An upscale choice in the Midlands area.
Booking.com | Expedia
What Families Should Prioritize for Bermuda Adventures
When evaluating activities for your family in Bermuda, several destination-specific factors truly separate the good choices from the poor. First, consider the accessibility of the activity by public transport or a short, direct taxi ride. Bermuda’s public bus system is an excellent way to see the island, but juggling multiple transfers with tired or antsy children is a recipe for frustration. Direct routes to a single destination save valuable family time and energy. Second, prioritize activities that offer natural shade or covered areas nearby. The sun here can be incredibly intense, and many appealing outdoor spots provide little natural respite, making shade crucial for preventing overheating and preserving energy. Finally, look for opportunities for open-ended play or exploration. Activities that encourage kids to discover at their own pace—like exploring rock pools, collecting shells on a calm beach, or wandering through an interactive museum—tend to be far more successful than rigidly scheduled tours. Families might also consider some of the best family hikes in Bermuda for outdoor exploration.
- Accessibility: Choose activities easily reachable by direct public transport or short taxi.
- Shade: Look for locations with natural shade or covered areas to protect from intense sun.
- Open-Ended Play: Prioritize activities that allow kids to explore and discover at their own pace.
Good to Know:
- Many beach entries, especially on the South Shore, are rocky and require sturdy water shoes for comfortable access.
- The intensity of the sun means effective sunscreen, rash guards, and wide-brimmed hats are essential for any outdoor activity lasting more than 30 minutes.
- Public ferries are often a faster, more scenic, and enjoyable way to travel between Hamilton, St. George’s, and Dockyard compared to buses.
Popular Bermuda Activities Families Often Consider
Parents frequently inquire about a few key attractions when planning a Bermuda trip, each with specific details worth noting for family visits.
Key Highlights
- Horseshoe Bay Beach — Expect significant crowds during peak mid-day hours; plan an early morning or late afternoon visit for a more relaxed experience.
- Crystal Caves — Tours run frequently and are suitable for most ages, though they involve several flights of stairs and can feel cool and damp inside.
- Bermuda Aquarium, Museum & Zoo (BAMZ) — This compact, engaging complex makes for an excellent half-day visit, particularly for younger children, and includes an appealing playground nearby.
The full ranked list of best things to do with kids in Bermuda with practical detail on each experience is below. Want a custom plan? Use our personalized Itinerary Generator for Bermuda.
What Catches Families Off Guard in Bermuda
Several practical realities often surprise families visiting Bermuda, impacting their daily plans and enjoyment.
- Public transport, while reliable, operates on a “Bermuda time” schedule and can be quite slow; a bus ride from Dockyard to St. George’s often exceeds an hour.
- Age restrictions on boat tours or certain water sports activities, like jet skiing, can be stricter than anticipated, sometimes even excluding toddlers or infants.
- Popular beaches like Horseshoe Bay have limited and often crowded public restrooms and changing facilities, which can be challenging with small children. For more details on other beach options, see our guide to ranked best family beaches in Bermuda.
- Food options outside of main towns and resort areas are sparse and expensive, making packed snacks, drinks, and a flexible meal plan crucial for longer outings.
Ready to Plan Your Bermuda Trip?
Get a personalized family itinerary built around your kids’ ages, interests, and travel style — free.
1
The Dockyard Glassworks
The Dockyard Glassworks provides an opportunity for children to watch talented glassblowers create intricate glass pieces. Kids can participate in hands-on experiences, making their own glass items under the guidance of professional artisans. This interactive and creative activity allows children to learn about the art of glassblowing while making something special to take home. It’s an enjoyable experience for families interested in the art world.
2
Walsingham Nature Reserve
Walsingham Nature Reserve is a lush, protected area where families can enjoy nature trails, caves, and beaches. The reserve is home to unique limestone caves, mangroves, and wildlife, making it a great spot for kids to explore and learn about the island's ecosystem. Families can walk through the trails, observe the local flora and fauna, and visit the beautiful, secluded beaches. It’s an educational adventure that combines outdoor exploration and nature conservation.
3
Bermuda National Trust
The Bermuda National Trust offers a variety of family-friendly programs that allow kids to learn about the island’s history, wildlife, and conservation efforts. The Trust runs educational programs, nature walks, and hands-on activities that engage kids in learning about Bermuda’s natural environment. Families can also visit the Trust's heritage sites, such as historic homes and gardens, to explore the island’s rich cultural and environmental history.
4
The Bermuda Craft Market
Located in the Royal Naval Dockyard, the Bermuda Craft Market is a great place to introduce kids to Bermuda’s local art and crafts. Children can explore the vibrant stalls where local artisans sell handmade jewelry, pottery, clothing, and souvenirs. The colorful market provides a fun and interactive experience, and kids can even participate in some craft workshops, where they can make their own Bermuda-themed souvenirs. It’s a great way to support local artisans while having a hands-on, creative experience.
5
Scuba Diving for Kids at Blue Hole
Bermuda’s Blue Hole is not just a beautiful natural feature—it’s also a safe and exciting spot for young kids to experience scuba diving. Several operators offer “try diving” experiences, where kids as young as 10 can learn the basics of scuba diving and explore the underwater world in a safe, controlled setting. It’s an incredible opportunity for kids to see the island’s vibrant coral reefs and marine life from a whole new perspective.
6
Bermuda Dolphin Quest
Dolphin Quest is an interactive experience where kids can get up close to and even swim with dolphins. Located at the Bermuda Maritime Museum in Dockyard, this activity allows children to learn about these amazing creatures in a safe and educational environment. The experience is supervised by professional trainers, ensuring a safe and enjoyable time for kids. It’s an unforgettable opportunity to create special memories with dolphins while learning about marine life.
7
Gibb’s Hill Lighthouse
Gibb’s Hill Lighthouse is a great spot for families who enjoy a little adventure and history. Kids can climb the 185 steps to the top of the lighthouse and enjoy panoramic views of Bermuda’s coastline and turquoise waters. The lighthouse is one of the oldest in the world and has been a guiding light for ships since 1846. It’s a fun and educational outing, and the view from the top is a memorable experience for the whole family.
8
Bermuda Pirate Tour
For kids who love pirates, the Bermuda Pirate Tour offers a fun and interactive experience. This guided tour brings Bermuda’s pirate history to life with fun stories, treasure hunts, and hands-on activities. Children can dress up as pirates, learn pirate lingo, and even go on a hunt for hidden treasure. It’s an exciting way to teach kids about Bermuda’s history and spark their imagination.
9
Bermuda Botanical Gardens
The Bermuda Botanical Gardens is a peaceful and beautiful place for families to explore nature. The gardens feature a variety of plants and flowers, including tropical species and native Bermuda plants. Kids can walk through the gardens, visit the petting zoo, and even have a picnic in the shaded areas. The gardens are also home to a large collection of orchids, and there’s a butterfly garden where children can watch butterflies and learn about their life cycle.
10
The Bermuda Railway Trail
The Bermuda Railway Trail is a scenic, family-friendly trail that stretches across the island. The trail, which was once used by a railway, offers an easy and flat path ideal for walking or biking. Kids will enjoy exploring the island’s diverse landscapes, including beaches, forests, and historical landmarks. Along the way, there are plenty of opportunities for bird watching, wildlife spotting, and photo ops. The trail is a great way for families to spend time outdoors while learning about Bermuda’s history.
11
Fishing Trip at St. George’s
Families with older kids can enjoy a fishing trip from the historic town of St. George’s. Several companies offer half-day fishing excursions that are perfect for beginners. Kids can try their hand at fishing with the help of friendly guides, and they might even catch something like snapper or grouper! The peaceful waters around St. George’s are perfect for family fishing outings, and kids will have a blast learning a new skill while enjoying the beautiful surroundings.
12
Nature Walks at Paget Marsh
Paget Marsh is a great spot for a family nature walk. This lush nature reserve offers easy walking trails through Bermuda’s unique wetland ecosystem. Kids can explore the marshes, observe local wildlife, and learn about the plants and animals that thrive in this environment. The trails are relatively flat, making it easy for young children to explore. The quiet, serene setting provides a perfect opportunity for families to connect with nature.
13
Island Playground at the Bermuda Botanical Gardens
Located within the Bermuda Botanical Gardens, the Island Playground is a fantastic space for kids to let off steam. The playground features a variety of slides, swings, and climbing structures in a beautifully landscaped setting. The surrounding gardens make it a relaxing spot for families, and there’s plenty of space for picnics. Kids can enjoy free play in a natural, safe environment while parents take in the peaceful surroundings.
14
Hamilton Harbour Water Ferry Ride
A fun and relaxing activity for families is taking a water ferry ride around Hamilton Harbour. The ferry ride offers beautiful views of the harbor, the island’s coastline, and the boats that dock there. It’s a fun way to get a unique perspective of Bermuda’s capital while enjoying the sea breeze. The ride is safe for children, and they’ll enjoy the sights and sounds of the harbor, making it a memorable experience for the whole family.
15
Coco Reef Resort Beach
Coco Reef Resort offers one of the most family-friendly beaches in Bermuda, with soft, golden sand and shallow, calm waters perfect for younger children. Kids can splash around in the water, build sandcastles, or go on gentle boat rides. The resort has beachside facilities, including snack bars and shaded areas, so families can relax while enjoying a beautiful day by the ocean. It's a great spot for a low-key beach day with plenty of opportunities for fun.
16
Bermuda Aquarium, Museum, and Zoo
The Bermuda Aquarium, Museum, and Zoo is a fantastic destination for families looking to learn about Bermuda's wildlife and marine life. Kids can explore the aquarium, which houses local marine species like colorful fish, sea turtles, and even sharks. The zoo features animals from around the world, including monkeys, flamingos, and birds of prey. The museum offers interactive exhibits on Bermuda’s natural and cultural history. It's an engaging and educational experience for children of all ages.
17
Tobacco Bay
Tobacco Bay is one of the most family-friendly beaches on Bermuda. The calm, shallow waters and soft sand make it perfect for children to swim, build sandcastles, and play. The bay is surrounded by rocky formations, ideal for safe exploration and snorkeling. Kids can also rent snorkel gear and see colorful fish and marine life in the crystal-clear waters. There are also picnic tables and a beach café, making it a great place to spend a day by the ocean.
18
The Bermuda Jungle Adventure
For families looking for a more adventurous activity, the Bermuda Jungle Adventure offers a unique experience. This outdoor treasure hunt-style activity takes kids on an exciting journey through Bermuda’s tropical landscapes, where they can search for hidden treasures and solve clues. The adventure encourages teamwork and exploration while offering lots of fun and excitement for children. It’s a great way for kids to engage with nature and discover new parts of the island.
19
Crystal Caves
The Crystal Caves are one of Bermuda's most famous natural attractions. Families can take a guided tour through the stunning limestone caves, where kids will be amazed by the stalactites, stalagmites, and crystal-clear underground pools. The walkways and handrails make it easy and safe for children, and the cool cave environment is a welcome respite from the island heat. It’s a magical, awe-inspiring experience for young adventurers.
20
The Masterworks Museum of Bermuda Art
The Masterworks Museum of Bermuda Art is a family-friendly art museum that showcases the work of local and international artists. It features a variety of exhibits that highlight the island's culture, history, and natural beauty. Kids can enjoy interactive art activities and even participate in art workshops where they can create their own masterpieces inspired by the museum's exhibits. It’s a great way to introduce children to the world of art and creativity.
21
Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute (BUEI)
The Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute (BUEI) offers an exciting, interactive experience for families interested in marine life and ocean exploration. The institute has exhibits about Bermuda’s maritime history, shipwrecks, and the island’s underwater environment. Kids can learn about coral reefs, marine animals, and Bermuda’s conservation efforts. The BUEI also features a simulated underwater exploration experience, where children can feel like real explorers.
22
Snorkel Park Beach
Snorkel Park Beach is an excellent location for families with young children to enjoy the water. The calm, shallow water is perfect for kids to swim and snorkel. There are also various beach activities available, such as paddleboarding, kayaking, and tubing. Kids can rent snorkeling gear and explore the vibrant underwater world, while parents relax on the beach or join in the fun. The beach also has a café and rest areas for families to relax and recharge.
23
Somerset Bridge
Somerset Bridge is the smallest drawbridge in the world and a must-see landmark for families in Bermuda. Children will be fascinated by the fact that this bridge is so narrow that a small boat can pass under it without much clearance. Families can take a scenic walk to the bridge and enjoy the views of the surrounding water. The area is great for exploring, and it offers excellent photo opportunities.
24
Horseback Riding at Spicelands Riding Centre
Horseback riding in Bermuda is a great way for families to explore the island's scenic beauty. At Spicelands Riding Centre, kids can enjoy guided horseback rides through trails that pass through lush landscapes, beaches, and historic sites. The friendly staff makes sure children are comfortable and safe while riding. It’s a fun outdoor activity that introduces kids to animals and gives them a unique way to experience Bermuda's natural surroundings.
25
Snorkeling at Church Bay
Church Bay is another great spot for families who enjoy snorkeling. The calm, clear waters are perfect for kids to safely explore Bermuda’s underwater world. The bay is home to vibrant coral reefs, schools of fish, and even the occasional sea turtle. Kids can use provided snorkel gear to observe marine life up close in the shallow waters. It’s an educational and fun way for children to discover the wonders of the ocean.