Bermuda

Situated in the North Atlantic rather than the Caribbean, Bermuda offers a unique subtropical escape that is famous for its orderliness, safety, and British charm. For families, the island serves as a gentle introduction to international travel. The streets are clean, the infrastructure is reliable, and the flight time from the US East Coast is surprisingly short. While the island is known for its upscale atmosphere, it remains deeply welcoming to children, with activities ranging from underground exploration to maritime history.

The island's most famous feature is its coastline. The south shore is dotted with pink sand beaches, the most popular being Horseshoe Bay. While the main beach can get busy, the adjacent Port Royal Cove (often called Baby Beach) is enclosed by natural rock formations, creating a shallow, wave-free pool perfect for toddlers. For older children interested in marine life, Tobacco Bay in St. George's offers excellent snorkeling in shallow water, where massive blue parrotfish are often visible right from the shore.

Beyond the beach, Bermuda is geologically fascinating. Families can descend into the Crystal and Fantasy Caves, walking across floating pontoons over clear, azure underground lakes. Above ground, the Bermuda Aquarium, Museum & Zoo (BAMZ) in Flatts Village is a manageable size for young kids and features a realistic exhibit of the island's limestone caves and coastal environments. At the western end of the island, the Royal Naval Dockyard provides a full day of entertainment, including the National Museum of Bermuda, which houses a massive playground and the interactive Dolphin Quest.

Transport in Bermuda is part of the adventure. Tourists are not permitted to rent standard cars. Instead, families get around using the reliable pink-and-blue bus system or the scenic SeaExpress ferries. The ferry ride from Hamilton to the Dockyard offers great views of the harbor and is often a highlight for children. For small families wanting independence, electric two-seater vehicles (like the Renault Twizy) are available for rent, though larger groups will find taxis or public transport more practical.

Culturally, the island blends British traditions with island heritage. You might spot officials in Bermuda shorts or catch a cricket match. Food can be expensive, as most ingredients are imported, but local staples like fish chowder (served with sherry peppers) and fish sandwiches on raisin bread are worth trying. The climate is subtropical, meaning winters are mild (great for golf and hiking) rather than hot, while summer brings the perfect weather for swimming.