The 14 Most Breathtaking Beaches in Bermuda

Situated north of the Caribbean and nestled away from other shores in the North Atlantic, Bermuda embodies a laid-back, joyful lifestyle that will make you want to stay forever.

Surrounded by the serene Sargasso Sea—unique as the only sea in the world without a land border—these islands feature an array of beautiful sandy beaches, rugged coastlines, crystal-clear waters, and charming pastel houses adorned with fragrant frangipani and bougainvillea.

Don’t overlook those famous pink-sand beaches. Visit for the intimate secluded coves and expansive sandy stretches bordered by dramatic cliffs, and enjoy a tropical paradise that feels straight out of a fairy tale. Here are the must-visit beaches in Bermuda.

1. Elbow Beach, Paget Parish

A mile-long expanse of pristine white sand fringed by palm trees, Elbow Beach is home to three of Bermuda’s most exclusive resorts and is the nearest beach to the bustling cruise ship port.

Just a quick ride from Hamilton, this beach is understandably popular, featuring numerous spots to enjoy a Dark ‘n’ Stormy cocktail, a beloved Bermuda classic.

A natural barrier created by offshore reefs keeps the waters tranquil, making it a hotspot for spontaneous beach parties during the busy spring break season.

Planning tip: Elbow Beach is a haven for active travelers, offering a variety of water sports, including snorkeling, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. Divers can explore the wreck of the cargo steamer Pollokshields, which sank offshore in 1915.

2. Astwood Cove, Warwick Parish

Accessible via a steep, winding path from Astwood Park, this secluded sandy cove is nestled among rugged limestone cliffs, making it a perfect spot for solitude.

Eroded boulders rise from the sand, and you can find good snorkeling opportunities around the rocks just offshore. Enjoy panoramic ocean views from the park above the cove, which offers parking and picnic tables shaded by trees for convenience.

3. Warwick Long Bay, Warwick Parish

As the highlight of Bermuda’s South Shore, Warwick Long Bay is the island's longest beach, featuring a half-mile stretch of pink sand bordered by sand dunes and cedar trees, protected from the Atlantic waves by an offshore reef.

Come here to swim alongside blue angelfish, parrotfish, trumpetfish, and other reef residents. Snorkeling gear is available for rent from beachside concession stands throughout the summer.

Planning tip: Warwick Long Bay tends to get busy on weekends; for a more tranquil visit, explore the numerous coves just west of the beach, reachable via a coastal trail through the dunes.

4. Horseshoe Bay, Southampton Parish

If a perfect beach exists, this expansive stretch of pink and white sand might just be it.

Considered one of the best beaches in the world and undoubtedly one of Bermuda's most visited spots, Horseshoe Bay is best experienced early in the morning, before crowds arrive, to witness a stunning sunrise from the surrounding rock formations.

The northern end of the beach tends to fill up with sun loungers and cruise ship visitors, while the southern end offers a more tranquil experience.

Snorkeling gear and beach umbrellas are available for rent, and lifeguards are typically on duty during the peak season from May to October. A beachside bar serves up burgers and other light snacks.

Planning tip: If the main beach is crowded, the sheltered Horseshoe Bay Cove just south of the main beach features exceptionally calm waters, making it perfect for small children. The caves in the limestone cliffs also provide a natural playground for older kids.

5. Jobson’s Cove, Warwick Parish

If you were to propose to your loved one in Bermuda, this would likely be the spot, known as the most picturesque of the island’s pink-sand coves.

Enclosed by a ring of rugged volcanic rock formations, the waters at Jobson's Cove are deep, clear, and calm, making it ideal for both snorkelers and sunbathers. The nearest amenities are a short walk east through the dunes at Warwick Long Bay.

6. Church Bay, Southampton Parish

Recognized as the best beach in Bermuda for underwater adventures, this intimate pink-sand beach and its aquarium-like waters draw snorkelers by the numbers.

Feel free to bring your own snorkeling equipment or rent a mask and snorkel from the beachside concession stands, then head out to the reef to discover why Bermuda is celebrated as the parrotfish capital of the world. The deep waters here may not be the best fit for younger children.

7. West Whale Bay, Southampton Parish

Seeking solitude? This quaint pink-sand beach on Bermuda’s western shore, just below Whale Bay Park, is the perfect escape for romantic seclusion. West Whale Bay is bordered by coastal pines, and relatively few visitors find their way here.

From March to April, it’s also a prime location for spotting pods of humpback whales migrating from the Caribbean to their summer feeding grounds near Greenland and Iceland. Bring binoculars and look out from the cliffs for breaching giants.

8. Somerset Long Bay Beach & Daniel’s Head Beach, Sandy’s Parish

Located just north of Somerset town, these two crescent-shaped beaches provide a peaceful retreat away from the crowds. While the waters can be a bit rough for swimming, they are a favorite spot for kitesurfers when the winds are favorable.

Daniel’s Head Beach features water sports centers that offer snorkeling equipment, glass-bottom kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards for rent.

Planning tip: For an adventurous snorkeling experience, explore the wreck of the HMS Vixen, a former British navy ship that lies just offshore and is best accessed by boat.

9. Shelly Bay Beach, Hamilton Parish

Along with Smith’s Parish, Hamilton Parish encircles the saltwater lagoon of Harrington Sound. Shelly Bay Beach is the sole beach in the parish, offering partial shade from palm trees and making it an excellent stop for families.

While it remains tranquil during weekdays, it fills with families on weekends due to its shallow, calm waters that are safe even at high tide.

Adjacent to the beach is a park equipped with a playground and picnic tables, perfect for outdoor lunches and games of football and cricket. You can also access one of Bermuda's best hikes, the Railway Trail, from Shelly Bay.

Planning tip: If you're visiting with children, consider stopping by the Bermuda Aquarium, Museum and Zoo in Flatt's Village, or take a guided tour of the impressive stalactites and stalagmites at the Crystal and Fantasy Caves, both just a short drive from Hamilton Parish.

10. Tobacco Bay, St George’s Parish

Situated on the northern shore of St George’s Island and reachable on foot or by bus from the UNESCO World Heritage-listed town of St George's, this charming, sheltered bay is one of Bermuda’s prime snorkeling destinations.

The offshore reefs between Tobacco Bay and Achilles Bay are alive with vibrant reef fish, making it a popular spot for paddleboarding and kayaking as well.

Planning tip: Make a day of your visit to Tobacco Bay. The waterfront kiosks offer rentals for paddleboards, kayaks, and snorkeling gear, while the bay's namesake restaurant serves burgers and light snacks. Join us during summer evenings for live music.

11. St Catherine’s Beach, St George’s Parish

Nestled at Bermuda’s northernmost point and lined with palm trees, this tranquil beach offers a perfect blend of sunbathing and local history, thanks to its proximity to Fort St Catherine, established in the early 17th century.

As Bermuda’s largest naval fortress, the site features a fascinating museum showcasing artifacts dating back to the 1600s, along with towers to climb and tunnels to explore, providing a glimpse into the island's maritime history.

12. Clearwater Beach, St George’s Parish

Located just south of the international airport, Clearwater Beach features a lengthy expanse of soft white sand and shares a peninsula with Cooper’s Island Nature Reserve.

With shallow, gentle waters, this beach is perfect for families, and the park behind it includes a playground for kids, several nature trails, and views of Castle Island.

Planning tip: Just over the headland, Turtle Bay offers a smaller sandy cove with a lifeguard present during the summer months. A short walk south leads to the nature reserve, home to nesting loggerhead turtles and a variety of tropical bird species.

13. Long Bay Beach, St George’s Parish

Nestled within Cooper’s Island Nature Reserve at the tip of the peninsula, this tranquil sandy beach can be reached by a dirt path from the Clearwater Beach parking area.

Here, you'll find no amenities—just crystal-clear waters, minimal shade, and pink-white sand that you can relish in total peace and quiet.

A short walk to the south leads you to the Cooper’s Island Wildlife Observation Tower. Climb it for breathtaking coastal views, possible whale sightings, and insights into the former US Air Force and NASA base that once occupied this area.

14. John Smith’s Bay, Smith’s Parish

Beloved by local families for its clear, shallow blue waters and available restroom and changing facilities, John Smith’s Bay features a cozy crescent of soft pink sand.

From May to September, a lifeguard is on duty, providing added peace of mind for families, while the adjacent park offers a perfect spot for picnics.

Planning tip: Nature enthusiasts should not miss Spittal Pond Nature Reserve, just a 10-minute walk west along the shoreline. Its trails wind through marshlands, freshwater ponds, and woodlands, perfect for spotting herons, hawks, and various wading birds.