South Shore view with Longtail

Bermuda's beaches are noted for their soft-pink sand. A tiny single-celled animal called Red Forams living under the coral reefs are responsible for the Island’s pink beaches. Their red skeletons mix with the broken shells, pieces of coral and the calcium carbonate remains of other marine invertebrates.

Most of the beaches listed below do not have public facilities and some are not suitable for swimming. For additional comfort, sneakers or water-surface shoes such as TEVA sandals are advised, especially when climbing those rocky edges. And don’t forget the sun block!

You might want to bring your binoculars to catch the white Longtails flying aloft or the sanderlings and ruddy turnstones skittering along the beach. Of course, bring the snorkeling equipment for wonderful underwater peeks at Bermuda’s colorful sea creatures. In April, whales often can be sighted from the South Shore beaches as they migrate north.

Astwood Cove

Tucked away in a steep cliff located in Warwick Parish, this beach is so remote that it’s rarely crowded.

Black Bay

About three tiny beaches come and go here with the tide. Located on Ireland Island, this is a perfect spot for picnicking.

Chaplin Bay

At the southern extremity of South Shore Park, straddling Warwick and Southampton Parishes, this small, but secluded, beach almost completely disappears during storms or particularly high tides.

Church Bay

This southwestern beach located in Southampton Parish is for you if you’re into snorkeling. The relatively calm waters, sheltered by offshore reefs, harbor a variety of marine life.

Clarence Cove

Two fairly secluded little beaches tucked around a part of the North Shore in Pembroke. Swimming is safe here year-round. View Map

Clearwater Beach and Turtle Bay

Consists of two sandy beaches, both of which were artificially made for use by army personnel. Located in St. David’s, the spaciousness makes it ideal for families and parties. There are lifeguards on duty on these beaches from May 24 to Labor Day.

Daniel's Head Beach Park

Located on Somerset Long Bay, here you’ll find two beaches where the water is always calm and shallow. Snorkellers love to come here for parrot and angel fish, sergeant majors, and wrasse.

Elbow Beach

Pale pink sand stretches almost a mile at this beach in Paget Parish. And because of the protective coral reefs that surround it, Elbow Beach is one of the calmest shores on the Island.

Horseshoe Bay

Located in Southampton Parish, this is Bermuda’s most famous beach. There are lifeguards on duty on this beach from May 1 to October 31 and the Beach House offers complete facilities, including rental equipment, to beachgoers.

Jobson's Cove

A tiny sheltered cove that’s surrounded by rocks. Located in Warwick Parish, this is arguably one of the best beaches on the South Shore.

John Smith's Bay

This beach, within Smith’s Parish, is long, flat, and boasts the pale pink sand for which the South Shore is famous. Toilets and changing facilities are on site. There's a lifeguard on duty on this beach from May 24 to October.

Mangrove Bay

This bay in Sandys Parish is a favorite for fishing, sailing, and swimming. The mangroves and the gentle curve of the shoreline give the bay a serene, picturesque quality.

Parson's Bay

It’s sheltered, with coarse white sand and shallow, calm water that’s ideal for children. Located in south Ireland Island.

Shelly Bay

Located on the North Shore in Hamilton Parish, you’ll discover calm waters and soft pink sand. Good for young children.

Somerset Long Bay

The isolation of this beach in Sandys Parish will appeal to anyone who wants to escape from the maddening crowd. With about a quarter-mile of sand, the crescent-shaped beach is ideal for beach-walking.

Stonehole Bay

Located in Warwick Parish, here you’ll find a stunning combination of water, sand, and rocks. Listen to the swishing sounds of the ocean against the limestone rock formations.

Tobacco Bay Beach

A popular stretch of pale pink sand, this is the most popular beach on St. George’s Island. Its calm waters are good for young children.  It offers a lot of facilities, including equipment rentals and a snack bar.

Warwick Long Bay

Also located in Warwick Parish, this beach features a half-mile stretch of sand against a backdrop of scrubland and low grasses. Less than 200 feet offshore, a jagged coral island appears to float above the water.

West Whale Bay

The name is appropriate because in March and April you just might see whales migrating north to their summer feeding grounds. Located in Southampton Parish.