Bermuda Shorts On Resort Hotels

Triangulate sun, sand and kids, then apply this one-stop guide to the best places to stay and explore on this Atlantic isle.

Bermuda’s dignified yet laid-back style has long been an attraction for travelers: executives are clad in plaid shorts, pastel stucco homes stand tall behind manicured hedges, and colorful island markets are surrounded by lush golf courses. With a tranquil atmosphere free of social unrest, tourists can absorb the dazzling beauty of the island at their own relaxed pace. An array of versatile accommodations provide a peaceful getaway and myriad activities await your exploration.

The Crown Colony’s elegant British demeanor never changes. It has an enduring “civilized” appeal, sun-drenched pink sand beaches and many kid-friendly attractions. It’s the perfect family destination. And best of all, it’s roughly an hour and a half flight from most of the east coast.

Unlike the Caribbean, Bermuda’s mid-Atlantic location, 600 miles east off the coast of North Carolina, means lower prices during its rainy winters and a temperate high season from Easter through the fall. Several resorts have extensive children’s programs, and the following are among our member’s favorites, listed alphabetically:

Resort Hotels

Cambridge Beaches
30 Kings Point Road
Sandys, Bermuda
800/-468-7300 or 441/234-0331
$$$$
This family-oriented resort draws a large British clientele that returns annually with nannies and kids in tow. Guests can also hire local babysitters for around $20/HR. Although the resort does not have specific programs for children, the cottage-style accommodations, safety of their private beaches and other leisure facilities attract many families. The hotel staff can also offer countless ideas and tips on fun activities like a tour of the Aquarium or Maritime Museum. Families can also rent motor and sail boats, snorkeling equipment and more from their private marina. Children ages five and older are welcome.

Elbow Beach
60 South Shore Road
441/236-3535
$$$$$
One family compared The Elbow Beach Hotel with other 5-star properties and thought it was far and away the most kid-friendly. They found the sandy pink beach easily accessible for their toddler to play at low-tide while they relaxed in the ocean breeze. Their daughter happily played for hours with shovel and pail while they sat a few yards away with peace of mind. The hotel is in close proximity to a variety of kid-friendly attractions including Gibbs Hill Lighthouse and horseback riding. Elbow Beach also has first-rate babysitters available and a charming playroom full of toys, books and games, for kids to enjoy while parents are off motorscooting or exploring the island. In the summer, a camp program for 5-12 year olds is available for $5/HR and includes beach-combing, pool games, hide and seek, golf putting, board games, DVD’s, video games and more. The Elbow Beach Kids Club runs daily 9am-4pm from June 1st to September 3rd.

Grotto Bay Beach Resort
11 Blue Hole Hill
Bermuda
800/582-3190, 441/293-8333
$$$
Grotto Bay Beach Resort provides both parents and children with a wealth of fun activities. This family-oriented resort boasts a beachfront pool, excellent water sport facilities and a wooden playground. Kids 5-13 can participate in the camp program ($5/day, school breaks only) and go cave exploring, kayaking, hiking, sightseeing, join sand castle competitions, pizza parties, fresh water pool swims or feed fish, all supervised by Grotto Bay Beach Resort staff. Parents can play tennis, participate in the vast array of sport activities, or take a boat cruise nearby. There is also a fitness center at Grotto Bay and nearby golf courses.

Pink Beach Club and Cottages
116 South Shore Road
Tuckers Town, Bermuda
441/293-1616; 800/355-6161
$$$$$
This resort is conveniently located near the airport, the capitol of Hamilton, the town of St. George and two of the island’s finest golf courses. The most strenuous requirement of guests is relaxing on one of two pink sand beaches or at the pool. Other leisure activities include two tennis courts, a fitness center, in-cottage massages and excellent snorkeling. Although there is no traditional children’s program, the hotel warmly invites families with children of all ages and frequently offers discounted specials. The suites can be suited to a family’s needs as parents can enjoy privacy in the bedroom while their children sleep in the living area or an adjacent bedroom. Cribs and evening babysitting services are available.

Fairmont Southampton
101 South Shore Road
Bermuda
800/257-7544, 441/238-8000
$$$$
Deluxe accommodations, discreet but attentive service, and the best amenities characterize this upper crust resort. This summer if you book two guest rooms at the Bermuda Family resort- one for adults, one for kids, the 2nd room is half price. On the family getaway package, kids under 18 eat free from the children’s menu or 50% off the à la carte menu and gain free access to the Explorers Kids Camp. Looking to get away for a little adult time? Sitters are also available at a 3 hour minimum for $15/HR with $2/HR per additional child; meal fee if over 6 hours.