With well-known miles of pink sandy beaches, the kind that incites jealously among friends when showing off your vacation pictures, you’re probably thinking that this list might be a waste. “Every beach is gorgeous! It’s Bermuda!” you might say. Although the beaches here are beautiful, there are a few that stand out for their extra amenities and accessibility. After living here for a few years, I have spent countless hours on the various beaches around the island. Here is my list of the best beaches that are worth your time in Bermuda.

John Smith's Bay

o   Horseshoe Bay (Southampton) – This is an obvious one as it is, hands down, the most popular beach in Bermuda. During high tourist season, it’s quite crowded but a short walk away from the crowds will yield you a little more peace and quiet. During Easter, this beach hosts Good Friday KiteFest, where locals come out to fly kites and mingle. It might seem a little old fashioned, but it’s still one of the most popular traditions holding true in Bermuda. Unlike most beaches here, this one has a lifeguard on duty from May to September. They also have a café (Horseshoe Bay Beach Café) that offers up a variety of choices. Next-door is a water sports rental facility where you can rent umbrellas and beach chairs. Take bus #7 to get here and take the 5-minute walk down a slightly steep hill, and you’re here.

Kite Fest

o   Warwick Long Bay (Warwick) – This popular beach has a half-mile stretch of sand that was ranked #29 in the World’s Best Beaches by CNN (June 2013). Despite the winds felt on your trek down to the beach from the lowlands and parks surrounding this beach, the reefs and rocks act as a barrier to keep the breeze pleasant. This beach does not feature amenities, so pack food and water to take with you. This is a great beach for snorkeling.

o   Elbow Beach (Paget) - Surrounded by three hotels, this mile long beach is protected by the coral reef that surrounds it and makes it one of the safest beaches for swimming. Due to its proximity to the hotels and private clubs, this is a very popular beach.

o   Church Bay (Southampton) – If you like to snorkel, look no further than Church Bay. Located in Warwick and Southampton Parishes, this southwestern beach is home to calm waters and abundant marine life. Previously, this beach had a shack to rent snorkel gear but that is no longer available. Renting from your hotel or guesthouse is your best bet.

o   Tobacco Bay (St. George’s) - The most popular beach in St. George’s Parish and is accessible from the public ferry in St. George’s. This beach offers facilities, including equipment rentals and a snack bar. This beach offers up one of the best chances at seeing marine life. Slowly wade out into the water for a glimpse of the beautiful fish, crustaceans, and other ocean life.

o   Clearwater Beach (St. David’s) - This is one of the best non-tourist beaches in Bermuda. It is located on the southeastern end of Bermuda in St. David’s and is located next to Cooper Island Nature Reserve. The best way to reach Clearwater is by taxi (if you are not renting a scooter) which can drop you much closer than the bus. If you plan to walk from the bus stop (a 15 minute walk), get off at St. David’s Lighthouse and walk along Ruth’s Bay Road heading west. This beach is quite shallow, so it’s safer for children. Lifeguards are on duty during the summer until sunset. There is also a park, a restaurant, and bar as well. You will encounter many families, as this is a popular beach for locals. The entire area of beach and park is 12 acres so there is plenty of room to spread out. If you’re willing to go off the beaten path, this is the beach for you.

o   John Smith’s Bay­ (Smith’s) - This is my favorite non-tourist beach that is easily accessible to the public. It is the only beach in Smith’s parish and seems to have the pinkest sand of any of the beaches. It’s also a favorite place, when a hurricane is coming, for locals to sit and watch the waves crash against the shoreline. There is a snack shack and a lifeguard on duty from May to September. There are also restrooms and changing facilities. The #1 or #3 bus gets you here easily.  

Lindsey Lehman is the Bermuda Editor for Wandering Educators

All photos courtesy and copyright Lindsey Lehman