We recently returned from an anniversary trip to Bermuda on Memorial Day weekend. The weekend was dominated by the Bermuda Day Festival in Hamilton, but we did not attend just to avoid crowds. The hotel and grounds were well-kept and lovely with landscaped gardens and staired hillsides overlooking the blue bay. Grotto Bay was a 10 minute ride from the airport but not so close as to affect the quiet ambiance. The blue waters and exotic grottos and coves on the small but private and secluded beach as well as a large waterfront park with extensive walking path just down the street made for some interesting exploration. Only negative was need for more attention to housekeeping with dishes and debris not removed from around the grounds for several days. The hotel is located on the hub of several local bus lines, so transport to Hamilton, St George, Botanical Garden, aquarium...or anywhere was typically within a 15-30 minute wait at the bus stop right in front of the hotel. Highly recommend a multi-day bus pass for convenient travel. We stayed in an upgraded ocean-front room (within 20 yards of the beach) that was newly renovated. Many rooms were much farther up the hillside and may not be renovated (check with the hotel directly). We did not get the inclusive food plan so were free to sample the many restaurants on the island. The 2 restaurants at the hotel were nice and service at reception and the concierge was excellent. Swizzle Inn and Baily's Ice Cream were just a walk up the street and popular for a mid-end meal or snack with locals and tourists alike. Teatime at ~4PM was very relaxed and included scones, biscuits, and cookies sampled on the porch or in the cafe. Have stayed farther out on the island on other stays, but cannot say enough about the great location of Grotto Bay that makes it so easy to get around the island. A Great and Memorable anniversary spot.

My husband had won a work related reward to Bermuda (South Hampton Princess) and we decided to extend our trip with 5 nights prior at the Grotto. We were so glad we did! We were celebrating our 25th anniversary. It would have been smart of them to recognize this event in some way but it didn't diminish our celebration. Having been to Bermuda many times, this was our first time in the Grotto Bay. We were not dissappointed. We paid extra for an oceanfront room and got exactly what was promised. We also chose the all inclusive plan and found all meals were great. Much better than many all inclusive food plans we had experienced on other islands. There were 2 nights with dinner entertainment music which were outstanding. I do agree with some of the reviews that the pool bar staff were not very attentive. The bar was not open regularly and to be honest the staff usually was pre-occupied even though they weren't very busy. I don't want to focus on the negative. We expected and received a relaxing, safe, clean and enjoyable stay at The Grotto. Our 2nd half of the trip at the Princess may have been more luxurious but it lacked the local charactor we found at Grotto. I understand that the Grotto is the last locally owned resort on the island. Building upon the local aspects and culture is clearly the best bet in Bermuda.

Just returned from a week in Bermuda, 4 of us travelled, wife and myself, with parents attending a friends wedding. Grotto Bay was a good experience. Why?

Booked half board - food was excellent, with good choice and service. Dinner in Hibiscus room is recommended, but ensure you book. (Try the beef medallion, it was melt in your mouth tender) Breakfast is excellent with everything you could ask for.

Resort was ideal for families. The protected beach is safe for young kids and for mum and dad to chill out on the lounges. Snorkelling great for those new to it, however if you are wanting a huge array of fish and sights, take a day out snorkelling. You can go swimming in one of the caves - a little cold at first and absolutely worth the experience. Just be aware that the pool is 9ft deep at one end.

Grotto is opposite the airport, but you would not even realise. Noise is minimal due to infrequent flights in and out of Bermuda.

Rooms are a straight forward hotel room. Rather non-descript. It does what it says on the tin. If you plan on spending your time in your hotel room, then either don't go to Bermuda (it's too beautiful to miss) or book into Mid Ocean or Elbow Beach. The rooms were clean, tidy and perfect for what we needed.

Scooter hire is available on site and imperative if you want to explore the island. Cost is reasonable - cheaper than taxis. You can get cheaper hire if you are desperate to save $10 or so.

Bermuda was stunning. Trips along the south shore are worth doing. Horseshoe Bay, Chaplin Bay and Warwick Long Bay are all picturesque. If you get a chance, take the ferry or a boat trip from Hamilton. The homes on the water are certainly worth viewing.

Just be aware that Bermuda Taxis operate at a slower pace than us Londoner's. Probably a good thing to get us to slow down and star being polite to people!

Dolphin Quest is at the Dockyard (at the other end of the island). Fantastic experience and they sometimes offer half price deals. for Grotto Guests. Keep an eye out in the foyer of the hotel.

Our family (my husband and myself and 2 adult daughters) visited Grotto Bay from June 27-July 4. We had the most pleasant experience! Our rooms were on the ground floor of Smiths Lodge - looking out on the pool and beach. The rooms were more than adequate - clean and comfortable. We were so happy with all the staff members from the front desk staff to the wait staff. Everyone was great. One of our daughters has multiple food allergies and the restaurant staff went out of their way to accommodate her. We especially loved Ramoo and Christian.
The entire island was wonderful. I was so impressed when the bus drivers actually got off the bus to help people with small children. One gentleman held the child in his lap while the mom got on with the other youngster. I know I never see that in my part of the country!
I am sure we will go back to Grotto Bay. It was the best!