Pro Tip
Pro Tip
Pro Tip
Pro Tip
By Raj Bhattacharya
Visitors' Reviews and Comments
S. Stahr (April 2022)
Our family is coming to Bermuda in August on a cruise ship. There will be 12 children between the ages of six and 15. I'm looking for the best family friendly beach. What do you suggest and how much would it be for a taxi ride from the dockyard. Thanks
Raj (bermuda-attractions.com) April 2022
Horseshoe Bay Beach in Southampton has always had the best amenities and is quite family-friendly. It's a beautiful beach and also has an adjacent cove (Port Royal Cove) which is ideal for kids. However, presently the beach cafe is closed because there is a change in the franchise.
Whether the new set-up will be in place by August, is not known yet. But there are separate changing rooms and showers. While a 4-passenger taxi fare from dockyard to Horseshoe will be around $38, there are many minibus shuttles with usual capacity of 15 persons that operate between Dockyard and Horseshoe... that would be less expensive (fare is $7 per person each way).
If the beach cafe doesn't open, then you can also visit Snorkel Park which is located within the Dockyard itself and has all amenities including a cafe, beach rentals, snorkel rentals etc... it's only a 5-minute walk from the cruise pier. You can go through family-friendly beaches in Bermuda to see my complete list of beaches for families and kids.
Jingle Millete (September 2019)
We are group in the crusie ship will arrived next week and looking for a nearby beach place to have a night swimming venue.
Raj (bermuda-attractions.com) September 2019
All public beaches in Bermuda are closed after sunset and swimming not allowed (although there won't be anybody to stop you visiting the beaches, but not recommended due to safety and other reasons).
There are several hotels with private beaches where the hotel guests can use the beaches. Snorkel Park located at dockyard (5 minute walk from the cruise piers) runs a nightclub on its beach (music and dance) until late night, but no swimming. There is an admission fee for Snorkel Park.
Lisa (July 2019)
I will dock in Kings Wharf on Royal Caribbean on Sept. 30th. Can you tell me which beaches have facilities and chair, umbrella rentals. Cruise shore excursions are pricey.
Raj (bermuda-attractions.com) July 2019
There are essentially three beaches in Bermuda that have proper facilities including beach rentals, food, drinks, showers, changing rooms etc. Nearest to the cruise pier is Snorkel Beach... 5-7 minute walk from the cruise pier... it has an admission fee of $5 per person.
Next is Horseshoe Bay Beach in Southampton... you need to take a transport (bus, shuttle or taxi), there is no entry fee though. The third is Tobacco Bay Beach in St. George... you need to take a ferry, then walk (25 minutes) or take a shuttle/taxi. No entry fee.
Deborah E White (February 2019)
To single out Jobson Cove as superb is without doubt, but all the beaches in Bermuda are absolutely magnificent; each offers something different. I began visiting the island when I was 14 (56 years ago), fell in love with its beauty and a sailor or two (Navy base), and at 18 moved there for about a year.
Each day was filled with new experiences, new unspoiled beauty and a great deal of serenity. 56 years later nothing has changed. I have traveled to many countries, but Bermuda will always be the most beautiful, friendly and romantic of them all. If you haven't been as yet, do so. Fill your heart with memories and perfection.
Wendy Bell (May 2018)
Hello Raj, considering how busy you are I'm not sure you'll get to this request. We are visiting in 2 weeks with our only grandson who is 14. His wish list is to visit and snorkel at as many beaches as we can manage within the 3 days we are there. We arrive at Royal Naval Dockyard and we are wondering best mode of transportation from there to some of these beaches. One of the beaches we're interested in is Horseshoe Bay. Any recommendations and or suggestions would be most welcomed. Thank you for your time.
Raj (bermuda-attractions.com) May 2018
Hello, Horseshoe bay beach is in Southampton... you can take a bus or minibus from the cruise port and get to the beach. From Horseshoe there is a beach trail which takes you to several great coves and beaches on south shore including Jobson's Cove, Warwick Long Bay Beach etc some of which are excellent for snorkeling. The beach trail is about 1.25 miles.
There is another beach called Church Bay Beach (not on the trail though) which is particularly great for snorkeling (bus #7 goes there). On one of the days you can visit st. George (take Orange Ferry from the dockyard) and get to Tobacco Bay Beach (beach minibuses are available at St. George).
Lori Ortiz (December 2017)
Hello, I have an odd question, but are the public bathrooms at the Horseshoe Bay and Tobacco Bay open in February? I know the concession stands and umbrella rentals are closed, but what about the actual bathrooms? I've searched the forums, but can't find the answer. Thanks!
Raj (bermuda-attractions.com) December 2017
Hi, you should be able to use the bathroom at Horseshoe bay beach. The bathroom in Tobacco Bay is part of the beach house and would be closed in winter.
Amanda H. (June 2017)
Hi! My family of 6 and I will be there in a week! I saw a youtube video where people were at a beach and were in a rock tunnel or bridge. It didn't show the top, but did show the water passing through and they were in it. Which beach would this have been? Thank you!
Raj (bermuda-attractions.com) June 2017
One possibility is the beach (Clarence Cove) at Admiralty House Park located at the outskirts of Hamilton.
Tina C. (September 2016)
My oldest really wants to visit a pink sand beach. Which in your opinion is the go to beach for this? Thank you for your help and keeping your site updated. I've referred to it quite a bit since I booked this vacation.
Raj (bermuda-attractions.com) September 2016
Beaches along south shore (between and including Horseshoe and Warwick Long Bay) have pinkest sand. Warwick Long Bay beach is a good one to visit first for pink sand and then you can walk towards west along the trail or shoreline and reach several other great pink beaches and coves. You can walk all the way up to Horseshoe beach.
Debbie Gallo (July 2016)
We will be arriving to your beautiful country by cruise ship on September 7th. I may be looking for the impossible ... a pink sand beach that doesn't require a cliff side hike to get to it ... with a beach bar and snorkeling. Does that exist in Bermuda? Thank you so much for your reply!
Raj (bermuda-attractions.com) July 2016
A taxi can drop you at the car park of Horseshoe bay beach. The beach is a short walk from there on compact sand and there is a beach cafe (also selling alcoholic beverages) and beach rental.
Jeff Sega (April 2016)
We walked from Warwick long bay past rocks towards Astwood. Is it possible to get there by walking on the beach or were we between Warwick and Astwood? Thanks for your help. I compiled a list of beaches we were on and didn't know about Astwood. We did enjoy Tabacco, St Catherines, Horseshoe (and the tiny beach/cove on the right), Warwick, Jobson's, Stonehole, Chaplin, Elbow and Coral in the two times (4 days) we visited your beautiful Island.
Raj (bermuda-attractions.com) April 2016
Hi, it's not possible to reach Astwood cove from Warwick long bay by walking along the beach. You were somewhere in-between.
Benjamin (September 2015)
Year 1988 my family lived there for Canadian army purpose. It was called the Canadian beach. Me and my brother used to throw at each other this floating translucid gello-like matter. Would like to know could it be dead jelly fish or some corral residue. It was always about size of soccer ball. And just for fun: does :-) the beach with huge waves still exist? Vacation next year. Thank you.
Raj (bermuda-attractions.com) September 2015
It was likely the creature named Portuguese-Man-of-War that looks like jellyfish. Sometimes they get washed up ashore during storms or strong waves. Although they look dead, often they are not and you would be lucky not to get a painful sting. Visit this page for some more info and picture. The Chaplin Bay Beach on South Shore is often called the Canadian Beach because this is where the annual Canada Day is usually celebrated.
Pastor Rick Powers, Jr. (July 2015)
Hi.....my wife and I are leaving for Bermuda on a cruise in a couple days. We are celebrating our 20th wedding anniversary. If you had your choice as a married couple wanting to see a beautiful beach but also have some privacy would you go to Warwick Longbay beach or Horseshoe Bay Beach? We only have one day to go to the beach, so what would be time well spent? Would taking Bus #7 be the best option or take a ferry to Hamilton first and then catching bus #7? Our ship will be in King's Wharf dockyard.....thanks so much for your great site on Bermuda by the way!
Raj (bermuda-attractions.com) July 2015
Hi, Warwick long bay would be certainly much quieter than Horseshoe. But if you had never seen horseshoe before, you can't miss that either. Take bus #7 from dockyard and get off at Warwick long bay entrance, come down to the beach and start walking towards west (i.e. right as you face the water).
While Warwick long bay itself is a beautiful beach and you can find a secluded piece of sandy area to lounge, there are several other lovely coves like Jobson's Cove, Stonehole bay etc along the way. Lounge wherever you like but continue to stroll.
You will need to wade around rocky formations (which may not be possible in high tide) and water areas if you walk along the beaches. However, there is also a separate trail. You will finally reach Horseshoe Bay beach... a total of about 1.25miles walk. Once you come up to the main road, take bus #7 back to the dockyard.
Tom Corrente (August 2014)
My family and I will be in Bermuda last week in august we will be docked for two days. We would like to go to at least one maybe two of the beaches. We are not into the crowds and after reading we are thinking of going to Hog Bay, West Whale Bay and or possibly somerset long bay. A little off the beaten path but much less time to get to and from the dockyard.
I have read at least Hog Bay and Whale Bay are only accessible at low tide which I believe will be right around 3:30pm bermuda time. Which if any do you recommend of the three. Do you have any suggestions as well. Any tips or information is much appreciated!!!!
Raj (bermuda-attractions.com) August 2014
You can visit Daniel's Head Beach. It's a fairly long walk though from Somerset bus stop ... it can be a bit tiring in the heat. Scooter or taxi would be ideal. There is a small snack and beverages bar there and the operator SurfSup offering kayaks, paddle boards etc. Otherwise you could choose any of the ones you mentioned. Hog Bay requires a hike through the park. You should note the low tide timings.
Larry (June 2014)
Is Alcohol allowed on the beach at horseshoe bay? If so can you buy it on the beach?
Raj (bermuda-attractions.com) June 2014
Hi, Alcohol in general is allowed on public beaches in Bermuda. You can carry your own bottles if you want. But you are required to stay at one place on the beach and not walk around while drinking. There is no alcohol available at the beach cafe of Horseshoe bay.
Neil Buckley (February 2014)
Are there parking areas for scooters at most of the beaches, both the bigger public ones as well as those somewhat off the beaten track.
Raj (bermuda-attractions.com) February 2014
Yes, you can park your scooter at most beaches.
Karen Revis (September 2013)
I love your website! I am curious what beach you would recommend for us? We are arriving by cruise ship at kings wharf. In our party is me and my husband (in our 40's), my 72 yr old mother, and my children ages 21 down to 11.... A scooter is out of the question as I have 3 kids under 16. We are interested in pink sand, swimming, hopefully some snorkeling plus would like restrooms and maybe a place near to grab lunch? Thank you so much!
Raj (bermuda-attractions.com) September 2013
Hi, While Horseshoe Bay Beach is undoubtedly the best beach in the island and has all the amenities you require, the only down side is it's likely to be very crowded, particularly so during the high season. Another great option is Tobacco Bay Beach in St George which has concession stand renting snorkels, chairs, umbrellas etc and also a cafe offering nice food and drinks.
This beach is great for snorkeling as well. However you won't get pink sands in Tobacco bay beach though. You can take the orange ferry from the dockyard for St George (35 minutes) and then a minibus from St George (Kings Square) to the beach (5-6 minutes). Note the timing of the Orange ferry which does not have frequent services like the other ferry routes.
Another good option is Elbow Beach in Paget. You will get bus #7 and also private mini buses serving the beach. Mickey's Bistro is a beach bar and restaurant located right on the beach. A concession stand rents snorkel gears as well (in summer). Regards,
Karen Oresto (June 2013)
We are arriving in Bermuda on 6/26/13 on the breakaway. Our first trip to Bermuda was with another couple last July and we loved the island so much we wanted to come back with our children and grandchildren. Three days sounds like so much; but, it really isn't. My grand daughters are 22 months, 3 and almost 11.
Then my children are 29 and 24. told my children they have to see the caves with the oldest and my husband and i would take the youngest to the beach. With these ages in mind what would be the top 2 beaches after horseshoe bay which is a definite. My cousin twisted my arm to try a pub she likes-swizzle.... I'm so excited and can't wait. Please help. Thanks.
Raj (bermuda-attractions.com) June 2013
Hi, Here are the two other beaches that I suggest keeping in mind your age and the accompanying kids plus proximity to dockyard where Breakaway docks (Heritage Wharf). Both beaches are in Warwick Parish.
Take a taxi or a bus (#7) and come down to Warwick Long Bay Beach along South Road. By bus it takes about 40 minutes (by taxi about 35 minutes) from the dockyard. From the South Road a sandy pathway (about 25 meters) leads down to the beach.
If you don't want to walk, there is also a paved road from the western end of the beach (towards right as you face the water). Taxis can access this road and drop you right at the beach. This is one of the most beautiful and relatively secluded beaches in the island with a half a mile long stretch of lovely sand.
The reefs on the water and the rocks along the shore make it look picturesque. Often you can see parrot fish feeding along the shore. Although this beach is great for swimming and snorkeling, the water here is not very calm. In fact there is a sharpish drop off close to the beach, so I would not recommend that small kids are let loose for swims here.
At one end of the beach is the Warwick Long Bay Playground, an excellent children's park which the kids will thoroughly enjoy. The park has slides, swings, ropes and even wooden forts. You can see many different types of birds here as well. Warwick long bay beach has a concession stall and toilet facilities.
From Warwick Beach there is a sandy trail towards west that leads to the adjacent Jobson's Cove. It's only a short 200 meters walk. The cove and the beach here is picture perfect. In fact if you had taken the taxi down the paved road, Jobson's cove is at a short distance from the car park towards west.
The cove is 70% covered by high rocks around its boundary and the remaining is the sandy beach. The water here is shallow, calm with soft sandy bottom. This is ideal for swimming and the kids would love it.
If you plan to take Rum Swizzle, the famous island drink of Bermuda, then Swizzle Inn is the best place who invented the drink. They have a branch in Warwick Parish (Swizzle inn South Shore, 87 South Road). It's a short bus/taxi ride from the beaches.
Sylvia Gordon (June 2012)
I love Turtle Beach, an escape from the cruise passengers! Would you have any better ideas for 2 seniors at a nice beach nearer to Kings port where our ship will be docked in September.
Raj (bermuda-attractions.com) June 2013
Hi, there are several beaches close to Kings wharf. The closest is Snorkel Park located within the dockyard complex and about 5 minutes walk from the cruise pier. But this is a commercialized man made beach (with an entry fee) and certainly not one of the most beautiful ones.
If you take bus #7, then you can easily reach one of the several pink south shore beaches within 35-40 minutes like the horseshoe bay beach.
But if you like to avoid tourists, then visit Daniels Head Beach. It's a small and lovely secluded beach in the same parish (Sandys) where your cruise ship would dock, but very few tourists know about it. They all head for Horseshoe. Daniel's Head is about 10 minutes by bus and then a short walk. Here is the link for more information: Daniels' Head Beach
Melody Fontaine
Just wanted to thank you for all the wonderful information and pictures of the beaches in Bermuda. My husband and I are going on a cruise in late April with our family and found your information to be a big help.
I'm planning on taking the family to a bunch of different beaches and your descriptions helped me to narrow my choices so I could pick the best beaches to suit our needs. Thank you again for your amazing site!! I'll let you know how the research worked out once I get back from our cruise. Sincerely,
Michael
Hello Raj, Please point to walking distance beaches from Dockyard. I know about Snorkel Park. Is there anything else? Thanks,
Raj (bermuda-attractions.com)
Hi Michael, There is no other beach within a short walking distance. But if you love to walk, then try Somerset Long Bay and our favorite Daniel's Head (beware, there are no side-walks for most part of the road).
Best is to take a short (10 minutes) bus ride to Somerset (bus #7 or 8) and then both beaches are at easy walking distance.
Another one is Black Bay and Sea Glass Beach which is well known for its sea glasses. It's at a shorter distance from the dockyard... about 20 minutes walk.
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