Modern Luxury’s Sarah Bray plans the ultimate girls getaway.
While you can’t beat sunny days spent laying out on pink sand beaches and swimming in crystal clear waters, Bermuda offers so much more for the perfect girls weekend. From the best shops to the must-visit waterfront restaurants, I’ve rounded up the top spots to explore while on ‘da rock.’
Where to Sip
The buzziest new bar in Bermuda is The Birdcage. The rooftop bar overlooking Front Street has fresh juices, coffee and a thoughtfully curated list of craft cocktails.
Where to Shop
For stylish souvenirs like beach bags embroidered with local sayings, and mother-of-pearl necklaces engraved with a map of the island, visit Atelerie. They also carry beach essentials like Dr. Barbara Sturm sunscreen and raffia slides from Carrie Forbes.
With its lemon yellow exterior and coordinating cabana-striped awnings, The Irish Linen Shop has the most Instagrammable facade on Front Street. The institution has stood on the corner since the mid-century. Today, the shop is still family-owned and sells pieces for the perfect picnic, like wicker trays by Amanda Lindroth and cheeky cocktail napkins by August Morgan.
Where to Go
This summer, Bermuda National Gallery is hosting the 13th Bermuda Biennial. The exhibit is a great opportunity to absorb the current culture (participating creatives include artists, designers, architects, writers and performers) all under one roof.
The Hamilton Princess’ public art collection is worthy of the MoMA. Juxtaposed against the property’s historic architectural details, are pieces by Andy Warhol, Damien Hirst, Nelson Mandela, Banksy and Philippe Decrauzat.
Where to Eat
The best place to watch sailboats cruise into Hamilton Harbour is 1609 at The Hamilton Princess. The marina-front bar and restaurant takes its name,1609, from the year that the Sea Venture shipwrecked on Bermuda’s shores and the first colony was born. The fish tacos are a favorite.
Where to Sip
The best cappuccinos in town are brewed at Victoire Cafe. Grab the country’s The Royal Gazette newspaper and sip it from the window seat while watching boats and bicyclists cruise by.
Where to Shop
Bring back some Bermuda shorts for the gentleman in your life, but pick up a Bermudian sweater for yourself here. The English Sports Shop has embroidered colorful knits with their iconic Bermuda crest since 1918.
Where to Go
Kristin White gives the best history and architecture walking tours in town. The journey begins at the Historic Tucker House that’s home to her book and bike rental shop, Long Story Short.
Where to Eat
Named for the Shakespearean play that was inspired by the Sea Venture—the ship that crashed upon Bermuda's shores in 1609—Tempest Bistro has one of the town’s most tempting menus. Wrapped in cellar-like brick walls and gas lanterns, it’s a magical spot for a long dinner with friends.
Where to Sip
Housed in the mid 18th-century Cooperage, the Frog & Onion is a classic spot when at the historic Royal Naval Dockyard. Grab a table on the backside of the pub overlooking Victualling Yard, where the Royal Navy formerly stored its food and drink supplies. Order a craft beer from Dockyard Brewing Co., one of Bermuda's microbrewery.
Where to Shop
Half bakery, half general store, Tuck Shop, in the Southampton parish of the island, is a tucked-away treasure. Here you’ll find Indian block print sundresses by brands like Natalie Martin Collective and found items like authentic Japanese silk kimonos.
Where to Go
The National Museum of Bermuda is full of interesting art and artifacts, like the jewelry and porcelain pieces excavated from sunken ships who wrecked near the island. Nautical fans will appreciate the antique vessels at The Boat Loft. Art history lovers, don’t miss the paintings in The Commissioner’s House.
Where to Eat
After walking up the 185 steps to the top of Gibbs Lighthouse, you deserve a pizza and a glass of wine at The Dining Room below. Located in the former keeper’s cottage at the foot of the circa-1846 lighthouse, the restaurant is uniquely charming.
For more travel inspiration and to plan your trip, visit gotobermuda.com.
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