Spring Break in Bermuda: On the Water & On the Town

A mere two hours from the U.S. East Coast lies an unexpected paradise for the discerning traveller looking for some springtime respite from chillier climes.

A spring break spent in Bermuda is an easygoing affair that consists of exploring natural wonders and discovering the island's rich, diverse history and culture. With its temperate climate, turquoise waters, dramatic vistas and flourishing arts and cultural scene, the island's 21 square miles offer the perfect setting for a springtime getaway like no other.

The best island escapes are ones that include on-the-water adventures and explorations of the island's cosmopolitan cultural centers – and out here, you can have it all. Here are key experiences you'll want to work into your trip itinerary.

Jet Ski Adventures

Zipping over the island's glassy waters on a one- to two-person vessel is an absolute must for thrill seekers, but it's also a good way to get close to the colourful marine creatures you'll find swimming among the island's surrounding reefs and shipwrecks. Whether you go with a guide or not is up to you; options include renting for a set amount of time and exploring Bermuda's shores on your own, or going with a guided tour for insights from local guides, bonus snorkelling sessions and more. See more about jet skiing in Bermuda.

Wondrous Wildlife

When you're on the water out here, the stunning coastal vistas and turquoise water is only part of the story. To experience the true wonder of the island, you've got to go beneath the surface. The northernmost coral reef system in the Atlantic teems with colourful parrotfish and other kaliedoscopic species – and so do the hundreds of shipwrecks lying on the ocean floor just off Bermuda's shores. In spring, the water becomes warm enough to snorkel, helmet dive, SNUBA or, if you're certified (or up for a quick course), scuba dive around these brilliant seascapes.

If you'd rather stay dry as you view the island's diverse wildlife, opt for a tour via glass-bottom boat or a kayak.

Vistas from the Sky

From the air, Bermuda's pink-sand beaches, interspersed with dramatic cliffs and lined by that famously aquamarine water, are a sight like no other. Opt for a parasailing tour along a stretch of coastline for an unforgettable perspective.

Sunset Cruises

Think Bermuda is colourful by day? Twilight brings about even more beauty, especially when you're watching sunset from aboard a boat. The options for sunset cruises are endless. You can charter a luxury sailboat or sign up for a publicly available sunset cruise. View the reef from a glass-bottom boat with help from lights embedded in its hull, or sample island beverages on a rum-tasting cruise. Whichever way you go, it will be a most unforgettable evening.

Cool Tours

Experience the history, art, culture and food of Bermuda on foot, by tram or even by Segway in the island's population centres. In the Town of St. George, walk through a replica of the legendary Deliverance, which was originally built by the shipwrecked sailors who were Bermuda's first known human inhabitants. Then see the spookier side of the town's history with a Haunted History Tour. On the opposite site of the island, tour Royal Naval Dockyard, a must for history buffs, on foot or by Segway. At Dockyard's National Museum of Bermuda, peruse maritime artifacts including treasure recovered from centuries-old shipwrecks. Delve into the local art scene (and Bermuda-inspired works by internationally renowned artists like Georgia O'Keeffe) at Masterworks Museum in Paget Parish, or sample some of the island's tastiest dishes with a walking food tour in the City of Hamilton or Town of St. George.

Sophisticated Shopping

There's something special about the Bermuda style; it weaves British subtlety, island exuberance and coastal spirit together in such a way that it never goes out of vogue. Whether you're looking for a new outfit, locally made bodycare products or imaginative décor, you'll have a wonderful time searching for island treasures in Bermuda's historic cities and towns. Clocktower Mall in Dockyard is a popular shopping spot, offering everything from clothing to perfume. Bonus: it's housed in a historic building that was part of the large British fort for which the area is named. In Hamilton, experience the island elegance of Front Street, which is lined with shops where you'll find locally crafted jewellery, art and more. In the Town of St. George you'll find boutiques filled with colourful accessories as well as a perfumery.

Vibrant Nightlife

Wherever on the island your spring excursion takes you, you're in for a fun-filled night on the town. Wednesday nights on Front Street in Hamilton, you'll find Harbour Nights, a lively weekly celebration in late spring and summer featuring performances by Bermuda's legendary Gombey dancers. Up for some live music? Across the island, local musicians perform shows nightly at establishments like the Hog Penny, the Frog & Onion Pub and the Reefs Resort & Club, among many others. Many restaurants offer late-night menus to go with your round of Rum Swizzles