Bermuda, which is nestled in the eye-poppingly blue expanse of the Sargasso Sea, is a collection of perfect little islands with gorgeous pink-sand beaches. Encircled by reefs teeming with life, it’s one of the world’s top diving destinations. You could spend countless days on these pretty shores, soaking up the sun, paddling around in the clear water, and getting to know the brightly colored fish that dart around the reef ecosystem. But this island has a fascinating history and vibrant cultural scene, too. Bermuda is a British territory and a former naval center, and its grounds are dotted with imposing fortifications, many of which now operate as historical sites. Hamilton, the capital city, is a charming enclave of pastel-colored buildings with steep white roofs whose diminutive borders encompass galleries, museums, and ritzy restaurants. Sunbathing on the beach is on the menu here, but so are golfing, sailing, and high tea. Pack your shorts alongside something a bit more upscale and get the best of both worlds.

Fly into L.F. Wade International Airport (BDA), located about 20 minutes outside Hamilton. Once on the ground, taxis are the preferred transport to the area’s vacation rentals, although there are also shuttles available. Public buses serve the airport, but it’s not recommended you travel on them with luggage. You can get around Bermuda on the public bus and ferry network, as cars are not allowed. Buses require exact change to ride. Make things easier by purchasing tickets and passes for both systems at the Ferry Terminal or inside a post office. Ferries don’t accept cash, so make sure you have a ticket or pass ahead of time. Scooters, bikes, and two-seater electric cars are also popular and can be rented at several locations.

Bermuda’s bright, mild weather makes it a year-round destination. Summer, when the weather is warmest, draws the largest crowds, but even in winter, when temperatures dip, it’s rarely cold. Fall and winter evenings can be brisk, though, so pack layers. Hurricane season runs from June to November; large storms are rare. Rain showers, usually brief, aren’t uncommon, so pack for wet weather. There are festivities in Bermuda all year, especially sporting events. In March the Dark 'n Stormy World Par 3 Championship draws world-class golfers, in June sailors race 635 miles between the islands and Rhode Island during the Newport Bermuda Race, and in November fans descend for the World Rugby Classic.

Royal Naval Dockyard

This expansive complex exploring Bermuda’s history as a British naval outpost includes the Keep, a massive limestone fortress, home to the National Museum of Bermuda, which chronicles 500 years of island history. The grounds include more commercial enterprises too, including shops, restaurants, and a watersports park.

Masterworks Museum of Bermuda

Beguiling Bermuda has inspired many artists, and this museum has collected more than 1,500 examples of works made by those who have visited its shores. This museum is located in the 36-acre Bermuda Botanical Gardens, so after you’ve finished soaking in the art, bask in the beauty of nature.

Church Bay

This absurdly pretty beach, buffered by cliffs, is ideal for a picnic, lounging on the sand, or underwater sightseeing. Strap on a snorkel and wade into its warm, calm waters to commune with the comically colorful parrotfish and angelfish who swim in the reefs offshore.