Visiting Bermuda’s Crystal Caves should be on every tourist’s list! The caves are a tourist hot-spot, but for a very good reason! Visitors flock to these caves to experience the clearest water one may ever see. It really is breathtaking and such a cool phenomenon to see first-hand. Here are five tips for visiting Bermuda’s Crystal Caves!
Make a reservation
I visited Bermuda in what is called the “shoulder season” – the time leading up to peak tourist season. My visit was at the end of March so, while there were a good share of tourists on the island, it wasn’t anywhere near peak season. Therefore, I was able to go right up to the ticket counter and buy a same day ticket. However, the time slots were already limited. Because I was traveling solo, I was able to jump in a group leaving right away (win for solo travel!) but I know groups behind me in line had to wait a while for the next group.
If you plan to visit during peak season, I highly recommend making a reservation. Annoyingly, reservations can only be made by phone and all the details can be found here. It costs $24 per person to enter the Crystal Caves, and $35 if you wanted to pair it with the Fantasy Caves. My opinion? Just do the Crystal Caves. It’ll save you a little time and money, and you’ll still feel incredibly fulfilled!
Wear sturdy footwear
As with any natural formation, you’ll want to be wearing sturdy footwear in Bermuda’s Crystal Cave! I wore Birkenstocks which I found to be sufficient, but you cannot go wrong with a pair of study sneakers.
Inside the cave, there is a paved walkway at first, but then you descent 83 steps down to the bottom. And what goes down, must come back up, so you’re climbing those same 83 steps at the end! The stairs are pretty study but can be slippery from the dripping water and humidity. Once you make it to the crystal lake, you are walking on floating docks. They’re completely safe, but do move around a bit and can also get wet.
Dress in layers
As with any cave, it’s always cooler inside! I’d recommend dressing in layers on your visit. Outside in the sun will of course be much warmer, but the temperature as you descend into the cave drops dramatically. The tour is not long (about 45 minutes total), but for your comfort I’d recommend bringing a sweatshirt or jacket to wear inside. Plus, the stalactites can drip water on you throughout so you’ll want to stay warm and dry.
Utilize public transportation
The Crystal Caves are located pretty far from most “hubs” on the island such as Hamilton, St. George’s, and the Dockyards. A cab is always an option, but will certainly cost a pretty penny. Instead, take the public busses! They are incredibly easy to use and drop you off right at the entrance to Bermuda’s Crystal Caves. The #1, #3, #10, and #11 will get you there. When you board the bus, just let the driver know where you’re heading and the will let you know when to get off. It really couldn’t be easier!
Tip: the caves are located right near the airport, so could be an easy stop right after landing, or before leaving Bermuda!
Leave time for nearby fun
Right across the street from the entrance to the Crystal Caves is the famous Swizzle Inn! This is arguably the most famous bar/restaurant on the island (and Bermuda’s oldest!), and it serves up the famous Rum Swizzle! This drink is famous on Bermuda and is a blend of Black and Gold Seal rums with orange, pineapple, and lemon juices. Grab a glass or a pitcher (or two) and unwind a bit. Be warned- they are STRONG. They say “you Swizzle Inn, but you stumble out!”. They also have an extensive food menu and, while seafood is not for me, they are also famous for their Wahoo Burger.
After lunch, make your way across the street to Bailey’s Bay Ice Cream Parlor. Everyone I met who had been to Bermuda told me this was a must stop. Unfortunately, it was closed when I visited. It appears to close during off and shoulder seasons, and opens in the summer. I was super bummed, but now it just gives me an excuse to go back!
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