Although the British colonial past brought Bermuda a number of historical sites the greater appeal of this island is the sensual charms.
Our concierge has made various recommendations of things to do and see meanwhile nature offers its own pleasures free in the sea, sand and skies of Bermuda. Search for shells and sand dollars; watch the glow worms in summer; count the stars in the remarkably clear skies enjoying the chirp of tree frogs and the heady fragrance of frangipani that permeates the night air.
If you’re looking for something more energetic there are countless creative ways of enjoying the surrounding ocean with water sports that Bermuda manages with professionalism from helmet walks to underwater scooter games with dolphins.
At the hotel – At the hotel For many guests Elbow Beach is a place to relax and forget about everything. For our more active guests we have put together a list of fun activities. Whether you prefer a morning walk or playing bocce ball on the beach there’s plenty to do at Elbow Beach. Click here to learn more.
Beach Exploration - At the hotel Bermuda is made for beach lovers. It is truly a tropical paradise with intimate coves, tranquil lagoons and rolling surf all to be found on one beach or another around the island. You choose your mood and take your pick, or travel between beaches with the freedom of a hired scooter.
Swim with Dolphins - 30 Minutes/15 Miles or 24.1 Km Dolphin quest is a wonderful hands-on experience for children aged from just 3 years old. Touch, play and swim with dolphins, either from a boat, swimming or whiz by, propelled along on underwater scooters. Located at the Royal Naval Dockyard.
Water Sports - At the hotel Being a small island with 62 miles (100 kilometers) of coastline there are inevitably numerous ways of having fun in the water. We have a water sports service on our beach; they can make arrangements for all your interests from kayaking to snorkelling.
Hawkins Island - 5 Minutes/2 Miles or 3.2 Km If your idea of fun is drinking rum cocktails, dancing in the sand and doing the conga with a group of strangers intent on a tropical party then book onto the ‘Don’t Stop the Carnival’ cruise to Hawkins Island. This regular party is held four nights a week between May to October
Harbour Nights in Hamilton - 5 Minutes/2 Miles or 3.2 Km From April to October, every Wednesday as the sun dips, the shopping picks up. Doors stay open along the harbour front, street vendors, artists and musicians all converge to bring a mini carnival atmosphere which locals and visitor enjoy equally.
Horseback Riding - 5 Minutes/2 Miles or 3.2 Km Ride into the sunrise along the South Shore beaches and scenic trails through sand dunes. Experienced guides will accompany you and organise rides for all levels of ability at sunrise or sunset.
USD 65.00 for the 1-1/4 hour ride.
Walk or Cycle the Railway Trail - 5 Minutes/1 Miles or 1.6 Km A disused railway track which formerly ran from one end of the island to the other is now only open to walkers and cyclists. At various points there are good sea views and several picnic spots. Our concierge will be happy to provide a trail map and arrange cycle hire.
Things to See
St. George’s World Heritage Site - 35 Minutes/14 Miles or 22.5 Km The prettiest, pinkest historic settlement in the world. With the bright sunshine kissing today’s neat streets it is difficult to imagine 16th century life with stocks and ducking stools and the many creative punishments residents re-enact for visiting tourists.
Royal Naval Dockyard - 35 Minutes/12 Miles or 19.3 Km Today the dockyard offers shops, cafes, a maritime museum and dolphin quest where you can interact with dolphins. But it's also a site of historical relevance having been constructed in 1809 and supported British maritime defence right up to 19
Bermuda Aquarium, Museum & Zoo - 20 Minutes/10 Miles or 16 Km With such a wealth of aquatic life on the miles of Bermuda reefs it is hardly surprising that visitors want to take a closer look. The Aquarium and Zoo house over 200 species of fish and more than 300 birds, reptiles and mammals.
Fort St. Catherine - 35 Minutes/15 Miles or 24.1 Km Located at St George’s this fort is a 19th century structure built on the site of a 17th century wooden fort. It houses a collection of antique weapons; displays 18 tonne cannons and curiously replicas of the British Crown Jewels.
Where to Shop
Hotel shops - At the hotel The lobby of Elbow Beach features a number of stores, including a Lobby gift shop stocked with holiday necessities including sunscreen, books and postcards. Also in the Lobby you will find famous local jewellers Crisson, a hair salon, Calypso art shop as well as local clothing in the English Sports Shop.
Hamilton - 5 Minutes/2 Miles or 3.2 Km Hamilton is less than a square mile of neat, well organised shops and businesses. Everything you need can be found in Hamilton, the capital of Bermuda, from high class brands to local art shops. When you need a rest there are numerous cafes and restaurants in which to relax
Naval Dockyard - 35 Minutes/12 Miles or 19.3 Km An entertaining alternative to the shops in Hamilton, being based in a 200 year old fort of some historic interest. There are several independent boutiques and various artisans’ work on sale. Unlike Hamilton, the stores here are open on Sundays.
Late Night Shopping on Front Street - 5 Minutes/2 Miles or 3.2 Km From April to October, every Wednesday as the sun dips, the shopping picks up. Doors stay open along the harbour front; street vendors, artists and musicians all converge to bring a mini carnival atmosphere which locals and visitor enjoy equally.
Where to Dine
Bermuda is still quite a formal place, when dining out in the evening restaurants do expect you to make a reservation and when you are doing so, it is wise to check if a jacket is required. Ladies have a fine time as most Bermudians dress with chic elegance in the evenings. With regard to food the local fish is often spectacular, with spiny lobster a delicacy fresh from the surrounding seas, however most other foods have to be imported. Gourmet cuisine is not a major feature of Bermuda but the Seahorse Grill at Elbow Beach stands out; here you will frequently find Michelin chefs invited to showcase their cuisine.
SeaHorse Grill - At the Hotel Our signature restaurant at Elbow Beach has won many awards. It is under the direction of chef Terence Clark formerly of the Michelin starred Foliage at our sister property in London. The menu features global cuisine and a fresh grill menu. Tables are available on the veranda with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Little Venice - 5 Minutes/2 Miles or 3.2 Km As an alternative to the plentiful seafood you might consider this restaurant specialising in Italian cuisine. It has a small terrace where you can watch Bermudians and life pass by.
L’Oriental - 5 Minutes/2 Miles or 3.2 Km From the same owners as Little Venice, they have developed a Japanese Fusion restaurant with sushi bar and teppanyaki. The design is natural wood with a water feature and of course the chefs’ work is all on display.
Barracuda Grill - 5 Minutes/2 Miles or 3.2 Km Unsurprisingly, given the name, this is a seafood restaurant. The design is distinctively contemporary with innovative lighting. A chic bar is a good spot for cocktails. Situated in the centre of Hamilton.
Bistro J - 5 Minutes/2 Miles or 3.2 Km Situated in a narrow passageway off Front Street, this is a characterful bistro with beams in the ceiling and an old world atmosphere. The daily changing menu offers Bermudian inspired cuisine and an utterly romantic atmosphere.
Lido - At the hotel Another local favourite at Elbow Beach. After dinner you can step right down onto the beach and dip your toes in the sea. Beautiful views with sophisticated beach side dining featuring seafood specialities and some Mediterranean classics.
