Best Bermuda Beaches: a Complete Guide
Bermuda is known as one of the best island & beach destinations in the world. The total length of Bermuda's coastline is 64 miles and surrounded by the turquoise waters of the north Atlantic. And there are 34 fabulous public beaches along this coastline.
A South Shore Beach, Bermuda
Photo: John Schneider
Some beaches have long expanses of sand, some are just tiny coves surrounded by rocky cliffs. Several beaches have beautiful reefs fringing them, while several others have stunning rock formations on the water creating a picturesque setting.
Bermuda's beaches are known for their soft pink sand. Although all beaches are not exactly pink, most beaches on the south shore of Bermuda have coral pink sand.
While you can visit the beaches round the year due to subtropical nature of Bermuda's weather, but the best time to enjoy the beaches is the summer time (May to October) when the water temperature averages around 75 to 85°F.
While there are several private beaches in Bermuda that mostly belong to luxury hotels and resorts, many are public beaches. The public beaches are open from sunrise to sunset and entry is free to public.
There are public bus services to most south shore and other popular beaches, the rest can be reached by rental scooter, electric minicar or by metered taxi.
Photo: Restless Native
So, where are the great public beaches located? They are scattered all across the shores of Bermuda. Arguably, the best ones are located on the
South Shore. The south shore is part of Bermuda's designated national parks and has several pristine beaches and coves.
The South Shore stretches along Southampton, Warwick and Paget. There are also several lovely beaches on Sandys Paris in the west, as well as in St. George's in the east.
Visit this
Beach Map of Bermuda to get a snapshot of where the main beaches are located. Click a beach marker on the map to get its detailed description with pictures.
This is undoubtedly the most famous and popular beach of Bermuda. It has featured repeatedly on several international magazines as one of world's most beautiful beaches.
This stunningly beautiful beach with pink sand has a curvature like a horseshoe. It has cliffs fringing it and rock formations on water at the two ends, and that combined with turquoise water makes it a picture perfect beach.
Horseshoe Bay Beach, Bermuda
Photo: Captain-tucker, cc by sa 4.0
Horseshoe Bay Beach has adequate facilities including a Beach Cafe and Beach Bar, beach rentals (including beach loungers & umbrellas), washrooms and showers. Life guards are on duty during the summer when there are usually a lot of beach visitors.
Although there can be occasional ocean swells, the beach is usually great for swimming and snorkeling.
Cliff jumping from the rocks is another popular sport here.
Horseshoe Bay Beach is located in Southampton and on the south shore. It is about 35 minutes by bus (#7) from dockyard (Kings Wharf) and 25 minutes from Hamilton city.
There are also minibus shuttles from Dockyard that make several return trips to the beach. You can also use a rental scooter, mini car, or a taxi to get there.
There are several great hotels & resorts located near Horseshoe Bay Beach including Newstead Belmont Hills Golf Resort and Spa, Fairmont Southampton (being renovated), The Reefs Resort & Club and Cambridge Beaches.
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Right next to the main beach of Horseshoe Bay on its western side, there is a beautiful sheltered cove surrounded by rocks and known as Port Royal Cove. The water here is shallow and calm, and is ideal for families and kids to enjoy a swim.
The cove is only 40 yards from the main beach and along the same stretch of sand.
There is a sandy trail to the east of Horseshoe below the cliff line that reaches out to several other lovely beaches and coves on south shore. The trail is 1.25 miles long.
You can also easily visit the famous 117-ft tall Gibbs Hill Lighthouse, world's one of the oldest cast iron lighthouses. It's located only 1.4 miles away from Horseshoe Bay to its west. You can walk, take a bus, or a scooter/mini car to get there.
This beautiful south shore beach has a gentle curve resembling an elbow and hence such a name. It's located at Paget parish. Although there are private sections of the beach that belong to resorts, the public stretch is also excellent.
The water here is calm due to the barrier reefs and is great for swimming and snorkeling. There is also a shipwreck known as Pollokshields about 100 yards offshore.
There is an on-beach bar and bistro known as
Mickey's which is run by Elbow Beach Hotel. You can dip your toes into the sand and relish a drink and snack. It's not cheap though.
There is washroom at Mickey's, however there is no other public washrooms or toilets on the beach. You can rent umbrellas and loungers from Elbow Beach Hotel.
It takes around 50 minutes by bus (#7) from Royal Naval Dockyard to reach the nearest bus stop and about 10 minutes from Hamilton. From the bus stop, the beach is about 500 yards away.
NOTE: Elbow Beach Hotel and its facilities are temporarily closed because the hotel is up for sale.
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St. Paul's Church is located nearby on Middle Road (0.9 mile from Elbow Beach). Locals believe that this church was once haunted.
Elbow Beach Cycles has their main outlet within the premises of Elbow Beach Resort. You can rent scooters and bicycles from here.
This is another wonderful pink beach and relatively secluded. It's half a mile long stretch of pink sands on the south shore and located in Warwick parish.
There are many rocky outcroppings on Warwick long bay beach offering enough shades. There are barrier reefs little offshore and that keeps the water calm. The beach is excellent for swimming and snorkeling. You can get into the water from anywhere on the beach.
A concession stand located near the western park entry usually remains open during summer season (May to October) offering snacks and you can rent snorkel gears as well. Public toilets are available near the western car park.
There are no other facilities here, and that is one of the reasons you won't find many tourists here. In fact, you can find several spots on the stretch that are quite secluded.
It takes about 40 minutes by bus (#7) from the Dockyard and about 20 minutes from Hamilton City to get to the beach.
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There are several other lovely beaches and picturesque coves along the way such as Jobsons Cove, Stonehole Bay, Chaplin bay, etc. You can walk down this 1.25 mile trail and visit these beautiful beaches.
Visit the wonderful and secluded Marley Beach which is located in Southlands Estate. Southlands is 1.1 mile away and to the east of Warwick Long Bay along South Road. There are woodlands and lovely nature trails here.
After a good swim and snorkel experience, if you plan to have your lunch near Warwick Long Bay, then head to the restaurant Lost In The Triangle. It specializes on seafood dishes made with freshly caught fish.
It's located further 250 meters away from Southlands and along the South Road.
You can also easily visit Windreach Recreational Village located nearby. It's a 3.7 acre facility mainly meant for children with disability... there is a parkland here with nature trails and children's playground.
This is a wonderful small and secluded cove with pink sands and turquoise water giving it a look of a picture perfect natural pool. It's surrounded by steep limestone rocks. It's a popular beach wedding venue in the island.
Jobson's cove is located on the south shore at Warwick parish and can be easily accessible from Warwick Long Bay Beach along the beachside trail.
The water is shallow, calm and protected by the rocks surrounding it. It's a great place for swimming and snorkeling... you can see many colorful fish in the waters here.
From the Dockyard, the bus #7 takes about 40 minutes to the nearest bus stop at the western end of Warwick Long Bay, it's a short walk from there to Jobson's Cove. Bus #7 from Hamilton takes 20 minutes.
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Although there are no facilities at Jobson's Cove, you can walk a few minutes down the sandy trail towards east and avail the facilities at Warwick Long Bay such as the toilets, as well as the concession stand offering rentals and snacks.
Located in St. George, this small yet beautiful beach has many rock formations on the water. The beach is so named because the early settlers of Bermuda found tobacco growing in the wild here.
The large limestone rocks make the water sheltered, calm and relatively shallow. The water area near the rocks is great for snorkeling and you get fascinating view of colorful fish and corals.
Tobacco Bay Beach
This is however not a pink sandy beach (rather pale yellow), but the setting is perfect and picturesque.
There is a full-service beach bar offering snacks and drinks including burgers, fries, island cocktails like rum swizzles, etc. They also arrange sunset campfire during the high season. The sunset view from Tobacco bay is excellent.
There are good facilities here including bathroom with showers, free wi-fi, lockers, beach and water sport rentals like beach chairs & umbrellas, snorkel gears, kayaks, water toys, etc.). They also have a waterside pool table and water volleyball.
You can get to St. George by Orange ferry that operates from the dockyard during summer. From Hamilton, there are several bus routes (#1, 3, 10, 11) to St. George.
From the town center of St George (i.e. Kings Square), Tobacco Bay Beach is about 20-minute walk. You can also take a mini bus ride to get to the beach (takes 5-6 minutes).
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There are several historic forts and lovely beaches within walking distance from Tobacco Bay.
On the other side of Fort St. Catherine is another beautiful beach known as Gates Bay or St. Catherine's Beach.
Walk along Barry road with lovely view of the shoreline. In 1.2 miles, you will reach another historic fort known as Alexandra Battery and below that the Building Bay Beach which is well known for its colorful sea glasses.
Walk further for another 3-4 minutes, and you will reach Bermuda's one of the oldest fortifications known as Gates Fort that was built in early 1600s.
This is a beautiful secluded beach on south shore below a cliff and has large rocks surrounding it... it's more like a cove. It's located in Southampton parish.
Church bay is a great beach for snorkeling and one of the locals' favorites. You can find lots of tropical fish including parrotfish, angelfish, filefish, hogfish and a lot more.
There are several offshore reefs... look for the two boilers to the right of the bay. You can find lots of fish there, as well as near the other reefs on the water. There is an offshore rock known as Poodle Rock as it looks like a poodle.
However, the drop off is steep and sometimes the water can be rough. There are underwater rocks as well. So, it may not be easy to enter the water, particularly for kids.
One needs to be careful while swimming or snorkeling, otherwise you may end up with cuts and bruises. Water shoes are recommended.
There is toilet facility at the Church Bay Park above, but it has not been operational in recent times. There are no beach rentals or food stalls here. And that makes the beach crowd free and quiet.
It takes about 30 minutes by bus from dockyard and about 25 minutes from Hamilton to get to the nearest bus stop on South Road.
From the bus stop it's a short walk along a paved pathway through the park and then a wooden staircase leads down to this picturesque beach.
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There are a number of attractions and eateries nearby:
St. Anne's Church is located across the street. It is one of the oldest churches in Bermuda.
The famous Horseshoe Bay Beach is only 2 miles away to the east. You can get there by bus #7 (takes on a few minutes).
Visit West Whale Bay Beach is a wonderful secluded beach with a parkland and has ruins of an old fort. It's 2 miles to the west of Church Bay.
For lunch, you can visit Henry VIII Bar and Pub on South Road near the Gibbs Hill Lighthouse, or Tamarind which is located right at the base of Gibbs Hill Lighthouse.
This is a stunningly beautiful cove with pink sands. It's located on the south shore of Warwick parish. The cliffs here are home to many long white-tailed tropical birds.
A steep trail through cliffs leads down to the lovely beach. There are many rock formations on the beach making a picturesque setting.
Photo: Kansasphoto, flickr, cc by 2.0
Astwood Cove is seldom visited by tourists because it's a little off the way for cruise ship passengers and there are no beach rental or water sport rental facilities.
And that's a great advantage for those looking for a small hidden gem where you can enjoy the swim and sunbathing in full privacy.
Above the beach, there is a wonderful green park known as Astwood Park which is a very popular wedding venue and a picnic spot. The view from the park (overlooking the rocks, the beach and the ocean) is awesome.
There is bathroom facility at the park as well as picnic tables. But, there is no cafe or a bar service here. Bring your packed food, if you want.
It takes about 45 minutes by bus #7 from Royal Naval Dockyard and less than 10 minutes from Hamilton to get to the nearest bus stop on South Road.
From South Road it requires a 250-yard walk to Astwood Park and then a steep descend through a trail in the cliffs to get to the beach below.
The beach is located in Smith's parish. It's a fairly long and a wide stretch of pink sand. There is a reef line only 200 yards offshore that keeps the water calm, and boats can not come close to the beach.
It's a good family beach and great for swimming and snorkeling as well. Go to the western end... there is a rock formation stretching into the water and the water there is excellent for snorkeling.
There is toilet facility here as well as car parking. Life guards are on duty during summer. A lunch wagon in summer offers snacks and beverages.
The bus stop is nearby. From Hamilton City bus terminal, it takes about 25 minutes by bus #1 or 3 to reach the nearest bus stop. From there, it's a short walk to the beach.
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You can take a bus (#1 or 3) and get to Crystal Caves in 10 minutes. The cafe here offers one of the best fish sandwiches in Bermuda.
Bermuda's one of the best nature reserves Spittal Pond is only a mile away on South Road to the west. This is also a bird watchers' paradise.
This pink sandy beach is located at Hamilton parish on the north shore. Due to shallow calm waters, it's excellent for swimming and a great beach for kids and families. In fact you can walk a long way into the water.
Shelly Bay Beach, Bermuda
There is also an adjacent children's playground. You will mostly find the beach empty and there are hardly any tourists. Few local families visit on the weekends with their kids.
There is, however, no restaurants or food stalls selling snacks or beverages, there are no beach rentals either... you need to bring your own.
Tree shades are available at the stretch between the playground and the main beach where you can place a blanket and enjoy a picnic. There are toilets at the beach.
The bus stop is right across the road. You will get buses to Hamilton City (takes about 20 minutes) or St. George. You can also hail a taxi.
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A boardwalk along the coastline leads to the famous Railway Trail... you can take a walk amidst nature and beautiful view of the water.
Located at St. David's in St. George's parish, this picturesque beach has calm and shallow waters, and is great for families and kids.
Clearwater Beach, Bermuda
There are ample facilities here making it a popular spot for picnics for the local families. The beach is great for swimming. There is a children's play ground at the beach park as well as public toilets.
A beach bar & grill here offers cocktails, beer as well as snacks like fish sandwich, wahoo nuggets, fries, burgers, etc. Beach rentals like loungers and umbrellas are available at the beach bar.
From St George, bus #6 has services near the beach (but requires a little walk), however it is better if you have rental scooter or come by a taxi.
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Next to Clearwater beach is Turtle Bay beach - another scenic beach with rocks fringing it. The Turtle Bay Beach is so named because there is a grassy underwater area nearby where you can often see turtles feeding.
There are several other picturesque beaches located close by such as Annie’s Bay, Fort Hill Bay and Soldier Bay beaches. They all are picturesque beaches and within easy walking distances. You can spot turtles from all these beaches.
Visit the Cooper's Island Nature Reserve at a short walking distance from Clearwater Beach, walk the nature trails and explore the vegetation and bird life of Bermuda. It has several pristine beaches as well like the Well Bay Beach and Long Bay Beach.
This beach is located within Royal Naval Dockyard in Sandys parish and is a nice place for families and kids for even spending a whole day.
As the name suggests, snorkeling is excellent in the waters here and you can see numerous colorful fish and there are underwater features such as sunken canons.
Photo: James Willamor, flickr, cc by-sa 2.0
There are good facilities at this beach venue such as a restaurant & bar, washrooms and changing facilities, lockers, beach rentals including loungers, umbrellas, cabanas, snorkel gears, kayaks, etc.
Snorkel Park is commercially operated and there is an entry fee. It is only a short 8-9 minutes walk from the cruise piers.
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Other than a cruise port, Royal Naval Dockyard itself is a complete tourist complex and offers numerous tourists attractions. There are shops, restaurants & bars, a pub in a historical building, and many land as well as water tours operate from here.
This pink south shore beach is located at the western end of Southampton parish. The beach is so named because, it once used to be a whaling ground.
In March and April, you can see schools of humpback whales from here migrating from the Caribbean to the north Atlantic area such as Iceland.
West Whale Bay Beach, Sunset
The beach is part of Whale Bay Park. There are ruins of a fort on the grounds here (Whale Bay Fort) that was built in mid-1700s.
There are also picnic tables on the park. You can sometimes find local families enjoying picnics here. But, mostly the park and the beach remain secluded and serene. It's a great place to spend a romantic time while enjoying a beautiful sunset view.
There are toilets but no other facilities. Buses (# 7 and 8) take about 25 minutes from Royal Naval Dockyard and 35 minutes from Hamilton to get to the nearest bus stop. You need to then walk for about 10 minutes to get to the beach.
Located at the western remote corner of Sandy's Parish, Daniel's Head with its 17 acres of coastal area is not much known to the tourists. However, it's located quite close to Royal Naval Dockyard cruise port and on the western coastline.
The beach is great for swimming and snorkeling, and you can spot many angelfish, sergeant majors and wrasse in the waters here.
There are no on-beach facilities here at present. But it's a nice place for a picnic or just for hanging out there. You will likely find the whole beach to yourself and it's quiet.
Ideally you should get to the beach by a scooter. Otherwise you need to walk for about 700 meters from the nearest bus stop. From the dockyard, the bus #7 or 8 takes 10 minutes to the bust stop at Somerset which the nearest to this beach.
It's a beautiful secluded beach located at Somerset in Sandys parish. The beach is usually very quiet. The water is calm and shallow for a long way out, and it's an excellent beach for both swimming and snorkeling.
Somerset Long Bay Beach Imagery
There is a nature reserve and a park behind the beach which is full of birds and different types of plantations including Bermuda cedars and palmettos.
There are nature trails through the reserve and you can reach out to ponds that attract different types of birds here. Picnic and toilet facilities are available at the park area.
Bus (#7 or 8) from the dockyard takes about 7 minutes to the nearest bus stop at Somerset. It's then a 6-7 minute walk to the beach.
This is the beach for you if you are a sea glass lover. You won't perhaps see so much of jewels all at one place that are created by nature from the glasses that it picked up from the ocean.
While the beach itself may not be quite impressive compared to many others, but it's the lovely sea glasses that have been washed up the shore and heaped on the beach that will surely impress you.
Photo: nathanmac87, flickr
The Sea Glass Beach is on Black Bay where there are two other beaches adjacent to it. It's located in Sandy's parish quite close to Royal Naval Dockyard.
There are no on-beach facilities here. The beach is not quite amenable for swimming because of sharp underwater rocks, but it's sea glasses that makes all the difference. You can find plenty of blue, white and even brown sea glasses here.
It takes only few minutes by bus from dockyard to get to the nearest bus stop at Royal Naval Cemetery in Sandys. From there, it's a 300 yards walk to the beach.
This beach is also known as Gates Bay Beach. It's located north of the St. George's town. The beach is a wonderful little stretch of white sands. You can see the St. Catherine Fort at the northern end of the beach.
Bri, flickr, cc by-sa 2.0
If you are visiting this beach, you can easily combine visiting the fort which is the largest in Bermuda and was originally built in early 1600s. It showcases Bermuda's rich military history. Tobacco Bay is also within an easy walking distance from here.
Take a short minibus ride from Kings Square (the town center of St, George) or walk for about 20 minutes from Kings Square to get to St. Catherine's Beach.
Quiet and ideal for relaxing, this pink south shore beach sits in-between Warwick and Southampton parishes. There are large rocks surrounding this small beach.
Water here is quite suitable for swimming. However, the beach almost completely disappears during high tide. The beach mostly remains empty and free of tourists.
Chaplin Bay Beach Imagery
Rotate the image for 360° view
There are no on-beach facilities here. However you can walk down and avail facilities such as toilets and summer time concession stand (offernig snorkel rentals and snacks) above Warwick Long Bay near the western entry.
The
sandy south shore trail from Horseshoe Bay Beach passes by Chaplin Bay and goes all the way to Warwick Long Bay.
Bus #7 takes about 38 minutes from the dockyard and 20 minutes from Hamilton to reach the nearest bus stop at Warwick Camp.
Located on south shore adjacent to Chaplin Bay, this exquisite and small pink beach is surrounded by rocky cliffs and offers a secluded piece of paradise. There are hardly any tourists here because there are no beach facilities.
Stonehole Bay Beach Imagery
You can however walk along
south shore trail and go down to Warwick Long Bay beach for facilities such as toilets and concession stand selling snacks in summer.
The beach is good for swimming but much of it remains underwater during the high tide. Most visit both Chaplin Bay and Stonehole Bay together. It's a popular venue for weddings.
This is a lovely beach on the south shore with rocky outcroppings around. It is part of the Southlands Estate in Warwick Parish. The estate has lovely garden pools, forested lands with nature trails, a historic main house, and of course this pristine beach.
Photo: Benjamin W. Martin, flickr, cc by 2.0
You will almost certainly find no other tourists here. And that is mainly because there are no public restrooms here or any other beach amenities. But the beach is great for swimming as well as sunbathing.
Bus #7 has a stop nearby on the South Road in Warwik Parish. From the bus stop, it's a short walk to the estate.
This is a tiny beautiful beach located north east of St. George's town. It has calm serene waters and ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The bay offers stunning view of sunset.
Achilles Bay Beach Imagery
There is a restaurant and bar
Blackbeard's Hideout above the beach which is run by St. George's Club, but it's also open to public. From Kings Square in St George, it takes about 20 minutes by walk to the beach. You can also take a minibus or taxi service.
TIPS:
Fort St. Catherine is located right next to Achilles Bay Beach. You can easily combine a visit to the fort as well as St. Catherine's Beach when visiting Achilles Bay. Actually the fort stands between Achilles Bay and St. Catherine's Beach.
Located in Sandys parish, this secluded tiny beach is a hidden treasure. Very few know about this beach. You will need to hike through the
Hog Bay Park to reach this beach located at the western end of the park.
The beach is usually available only during low tide. So tide timing is important if you plan to visit this beach. But once there, you can enjoy almost exclusive privacy.
There are no beach facilities here. From dockyard, bus (#7 or 8) takes about 12 minutes to the nearest bus stop and then it requires a 10 to 12 minute walk through the hog bay park to get to the beach.
This is a nice little beach on north shore road in Pembroke, close to Hamilton and ideal for swimming and snorkeling. There is also ruins of a fort at the park here.
The park known as
Admiralty House Park is a favorite place for the local families who come here with their children. There is also a cliff jumping spot here which is very popular with Bermudians.
Although this is not a public beach, you can access it through a neighborhood lane. Nobody will mind if you aren't disturbing the residents.
This is a gorgeous, clean and quiet beach located on the south shore at Paget. It does not belong to a single owner or property, rather to a neighborhood.
Photo: Grape Bay Cottages
There are no beach amenities here and that keeps the beach so secluded. Water here is good for swimming.
The beach is located in Paget and about 1 mile away from Hamilton. Bus #7 has a stop nearby on South Road, you will then need to walk down White Sands Road to the beach.
This is beach is part of Bermuda's National Park and located on the south shore in Devonshire parish. It's a great beach for families with kids. The beach is small but very pretty with palmettos and baygrape trees fringing it.
The beach is good for swimming when the winds are not strong. In the adjacent parkland here, there are remains of a historical fort. You can see many boats moored on the bay that belong to local fishermen. The beach is great for family picnics.
You can take bus #1 from Hamilton to Devonshire. From the bus top on South Road, you need to walk down the Devonshire Bay Road to get to the beach.
East of Clarence Cove on the north shore road, there is an opening in the wall and steep stairs through a high cliff will take you down to this little gem of a beach. There is no marked entry and tourists often miss out on this lovely little beach.
It's a beach in low tide. The beach is great for swimming and snorkeling. However, during the high tide, the beach practically disappears. There are no beach amenities here.
This is a small unknown beach located on the north eastern shore of St. George. There is an adjacent fort known as Alexandra Battery that was built in the 1860s. The beach is well known for its colorful sea glasses. You won't usually find any tourists here.
Building Bay Beach Imagery
There are no public restrooms or beach amenities here. You can walk down from Kings Square (takes about 30 minutes by walk) or take a taxi to this beach.
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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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