Around The Caribbean contains affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. If you make a purchase using one of these Amazon links, we may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. See our privacy policy for more information.
Both Bermuda and Puerto Rico are awesome destinations to consider for a Caribbean vacation.
In this article, we dive deeper into these two islands comparing and contrasting them to help you make an informed decision about your vacation.
As a general rule, Bermuda is suitable for individuals who enjoy basking on pink sand beaches with turquoise waters and a more laid back quiet destination. Alternatively, Puerto Rico is ideal for persons who love Spanish culture, kite surfing and a vibrant nightlife atmosphere.
Read on for more attributes of Bermuda and Puerto Rico. This article was written by a Caribbean national.
Bermuda Vs Puerto Rico- Which Destination Is Bigger
Both destinations are archipelagos with Puerto Rico being the larger of the two.
Puerto Rico is 3,515 square miles consisting of 143 islands, cays and islets.
Contrastingly, Bermuda is only 20.54 square miles and it is an archipelago comprising of a total of 181 islands.
Bermuda Vs Puerto Rico- What Are The Official Currencies
As an overseas territory of the United States of America (USA), the US dollar is the official currency of Puerto Rico.
Contrastingly, Bermuda has its own currency which is the Bermudian dollar (BMD).
The island does not have a central bank but the Bermuda Monetary Authority (BMA) issues and manages the currency.
The exchange rate of the Bermudian dollar to the US dollar is 1:1. Furthermore, both currencies are used interchangeably on the island.
Therefore, visitors can use both US dollar and coins while in Bermuda.
Bermuda Vs Puerto Rico- Entry Requirements
As part of the USA, US Citizens do not require a passport for entry into Puerto Rico.
On the contrary, US Citizens are required to have a passport as well as a return ticket to enter and exit Bermuda.
Bermuda Vs Puerto Rico- How Does The Weather Compare
Generally, the weather in Puerto Rico is warm and sunny and the average temperature is typically around 80 F. There is no winter.
On the other hand, Bermuda experiences winter season during the months of December to April.
Temperatures during these months are not ideal for the beach with the coldest month of the year being February.
Golf enthusiasts can enjoy the many award winning courses during the colder period.
Bermuda Vs Puerto Rico- What Are The Official Languages
Along the same lines as the official currencies, the languages spoken in both territories differ.
English is the official language spoken in Bermuda while Spanish is the principal language of Puerto Rico.
Puerto Rico is Spanish speaking due to the fact that the island was previously an overseas province of Spain.
As a result of the Treaty of Paris in 1898, Spain ceded Puerto Rico to the USA.
Bermuda Vs Puerto Rico- Which Destination Has Better Nightlife
If enjoying a vibrant nightlife atmosphere is your priority, Puerto Rico is the more suitable destination.
La Placita de Santurce is a popular nightlife spot to meet locals on the island to eat relax and salsa dance in Puerto Rico.
Other spots to check out for nightlife in Puerto Rico include La Cubanita, VC Lounge and La Factoria.
On the other hand, Bermuda is a more laid back destination.
The island has a diverse expat community due to its robust offshore insurance sector.
There are a large number of bars, restaurants and upscale lounges.
Some of the popular nightlife spots on the island, Bermuda Bistro At The Beach, Blue Hole Hill and The Birdcage.
Bermuda Vs Puerto Rico- Which Destination Has Better Beaches
If you enjoy basking on pink sand beaches with turquoise waters, then Bermuda is the more suitable island.
Horseshoe Bay Beach is one of the most popular beaches on the island and is known for having powdery pink sand.
Bermuda has more than one pink sand beaches and this is due to the coral and calcium carbonate from red foraminifera.
Horse shoe beach is an excellent choice for swimming and snorkeling where one can see a variety of sea life.
Furthermore, for your convenience there are showers and changing room facilities.
Elbow beach is another gorgeous pink sand beach to visit in Bermuda.
Alternatively, if you are passionate about kitesurfing Puerto Rico is the better destination.
Isla Verde on the island has the perfect wind conditions that supports beginner to advanced skill kiteboarders.
Furthermore, Puerto Rico also has amazing beaches with Flamenco beach being one of the best on the island.
This location is gorgeous and calm which makes it perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
Bermuda Vs Puerto Rico- Things To Do In Both Destinations
Spittal Pond Nature Reserve, Bermuda– located in Smith’s parish, this attraction is a must visit for nature enthusiasts.
The reserve is home to various species of birds. Visitors can also enjoy stunning views.
There is a hiking trail which gives you the opportunity to enjoy splendid views from various locations.
Cayo Icacos, Puerto Rico- located off the coast of Fajardo, this uninhabited island is definitely an activity to add to your Puerto Rico Itinerary. It can be accessed via a fifteen minutes water taxi ride.
Individuals are drawn to the island due to its beautiful waters and tranquility. A visit to Cayo Icacos is the perfect activity to do as a day trip.
Also note that there are no amenities such as showers, changing rooms and cafes on the island.
Final Thoughts
On a whole, Bermuda is suitable for individuals who enjoy relaxing on pink sand beaches with turquoise waters and love tranquility. On the other hand, Puerto Rico is ideal for persons who love Spanish culture, white sand beaches and a bubbling nightlife experience.
Need More Information?
Our resources on this website are aimed at helping readers like you decide which destination best suits your vacation needs.
Feel free to continue exploring our content using the search bar located at the top of this page.
The following articles below on the Bermuda may also be valuable.
Bermuda Vs St Lucia (Which Destination Is Better)
Bermuda Vs Turks & Caicos (Which Destination Is Better)
Bermuda Vs Grand Cayman (Which Destination Is Better)