Dip Your Toes in Turquoise Waters at Bermuda’s Most Breathtaking Beaches
Dip Your Toes in Turquoise Waters at Bermuda's Most Breathtaking Beaches - Elbow Beach - Bermuda's Pinkest Pink Sand Paradise
With its cotton-candy pink sands and turquoise waters, Elbow Beach is considered by many to be Bermuda's most beautiful beach. Located on the southern tip of the island, it stretches for over a half mile along the coast, with craggy rock formations and cedar trees adding to its postcard-perfect scenery.
The soft, fine-grained pink sand is what gives Elbow Beach its distinctive look. It gets its rosy hue from crushed red coral and shells that have washed ashore over centuries. The sand is so fine that it squeaks under your feet as you walk along the beach. During low tide, the turquoise water recedes far out, revealing shades of emerald and aquamarine. It's easy to see why Elbow Beach is continuously ranked as one of the world's top beaches.
Beyond its beauty, Elbow Beach offers plenty of amenities for visitors. There are restrooms, showers, picnic tables, and beach chairs available for rent. The on-site restaurant at the Coral Beach Club serves up fresh local cuisine and tropical cocktails. For the active traveler, there are opportunities for snorkeling, paddleboarding, and kayaking just offshore.
While some sections of the beach are public, hotels like the Coral Beach Club have prime real estate right on the sand. But hotel guests and locals alike rave about the relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. As one reviewer noted, "The beach here is public so it was nice to hang out with both tourists and locals alike. Everyone was friendly!"
Another visitor highlighted the beach's stunning landscape, writing: "The water color gradients are insane turquoise to emerald green! The rock formations spill into the ocean. Definitely worth getting there for sunrise."
What else is in this post?
- Dip Your Toes in Turquoise Waters at Bermuda's Most Breathtaking Beaches - Elbow Beach - Bermuda's Pinkest Pink Sand Paradise
- Dip Your Toes in Turquoise Waters at Bermuda's Most Breathtaking Beaches - Horseshoe Bay Beach - Voted One of the World's Best
- Dip Your Toes in Turquoise Waters at Bermuda's Most Breathtaking Beaches - Jobson's Cove - Secluded Turquoise Waters Await
- Dip Your Toes in Turquoise Waters at Bermuda's Most Breathtaking Beaches - Tobacco Bay - Snorkel with Tropical Fish Nearshore
- Dip Your Toes in Turquoise Waters at Bermuda's Most Breathtaking Beaches - Warwick Long Bay - Bermuda's Longest Stretch of Sand
- Dip Your Toes in Turquoise Waters at Bermuda's Most Breathtaking Beaches - Church Bay - Instagrammable Turquoise Waters and Rock Formations
- Dip Your Toes in Turquoise Waters at Bermuda's Most Breathtaking Beaches - Stonehole Bay - Secluded South Shore Swimming Hole
- Dip Your Toes in Turquoise Waters at Bermuda's Most Breathtaking Beaches - Clearwater Beach - Crystal Clear Waters in St. David's
Dip Your Toes in Turquoise Waters at Bermuda's Most Breathtaking Beaches - Horseshoe Bay Beach - Voted One of the World's Best
With its sweeping crescent shape and sparkling azure waters, it's no wonder Horseshoe Bay Beach is considered one of the best beaches in the world. Located on Bermuda's South Shore, this stunning beach has been drawing travelers from across the globe for decades.
In 2022, Horseshoe Bay was voted the fifth best beach in the world by Tripadvisor users. And it's easy to see why it keeps landing on must-visit lists year after year. The soft pink sand squeaks underfoot as you walk along the shore, with the crystal clear waters lapping gently at the beach. Dramatic rock formations jut out into the sea, creating picture-perfect vistas.
Venturing into the water at Horseshoe Bay is an experience like no other. The calm, shallow areas are perfect for swimming and snorkeling amongst tropical fish and sea turtles. Further out, the drop off appeals to experienced divers. No matter your skill level, you'll find a spot to enjoy the gorgeous aquamarine waters.
While some come to Horseshoe Bay simply to relax on the sand, there's no shortage of beach activities to keep visitors of all ages entertained. Rent a kayak or stand up paddleboard and explore the coastline, play a game of beach volleyball, or try your hand at boogie boarding in the waves. Young kids will love building sandcastles on the shore and discovering seashells along the beach.
The amenities at Horseshoe Bay Beach make for an effortless beach day. There are restrooms, changing stations, beach chair and umbrella rentals, and a small cafe for snacks and cold drinks. The team of lifeguards on duty help make Horseshoe Bay one of the safest swimming beaches on the island.
According to delighted visitors, Horseshoe Bay offers the quintessential Bermuda beach experience. As one reviewer raved: "Horseshoe Bay has the best pink sand of any beach I visited on the island. The crescent shape creates calm turquoise waters that are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. It was so stunning - like a postcard!"
Another recent visitor highlighted Horseshoe Bay's family-friendly atmosphere: "We had three generations in our group and it was ideal. My parents relaxed under an umbrella, my kids played in the calm waters, and we all enjoyed the gorgeous views. You simply must visit Horseshoe Bay when in Bermuda!"
Dip Your Toes in Turquoise Waters at Bermuda's Most Breathtaking Beaches - Jobson's Cove - Secluded Turquoise Waters Await
Nestled along Bermuda's dramatic coastline, Jobson's Cove is an idyllic hideaway beloved for its seclusion and captivating turquoise waters. Far from the crowds of Horseshoe Bay, this cove offers an intimate beach experience perfect for travelers seeking solitude. A scenic 25-minute walk from the main road leads you down a rugged cliffside path to the pristine white sand beach.
Upon arrival, you'll find Jobson's Cove completely unspoiled. There are no beach chair or food vendors - just you, the sand, and the sea. The cove is lined by weathered limestone cliffs covered in lush greenery, creating a feeling of total privacy. The calm, clear waters range from pale green to deep blue depending on the light. Local guides say this beach boasts some of the island's best snorkeling, as the cove's unique shape attracts tropical fish.
While the remote location means you won't find amenities, reviewers say that's part of Jobson's Cove's untouched charm. As one visitor described it: "Getting to Jobson's Cove requires effort but it's so worth it. There wasn't a soul around when we arrived. We snorkeled with beautiful fish undisturbed. It was like having a private beach - a real hidden gem!"
Other travelers highlight the cove's ideal swimming conditions, thanks to its protection from rough ocean waves. A recent visitor raved: "The turquoise waters were so calm and shallow that they were perfect for my toddler to play in. At busy beaches like Horseshoe Bay the big waves scared him, but Jobson's Cove was gentle and inviting."
Visitors also emphasize the need to wear sturdy shoes for navigating the sometimes steep trail down to the cove. Bring along a beach bag with towels, snacks, and plenty of water, as there are no vendors selling refreshments. A permit is required for weddings and commercial photography.
Dip Your Toes in Turquoise Waters at Bermuda's Most Breathtaking Beaches - Tobacco Bay - Snorkel with Tropical Fish Nearshore
For an easy, nearshore snorkeling experience that even beginners can enjoy, head to Tobacco Bay in Bermuda's St. George's Parish. This protected north shore cove boasts calm, shallow waters teeming with tropical fish - making it a top spot for families and first-timers to snorkel straight from the beach.
As avid snorkeler Mark raved on his Bermuda travel blog, "Tobacco Bay was the perfect introduction to snorkeling for my 8 year old daughter. The cove is sheltered from waves and currents, and we saw so many colorful fish just 20-30 feet from shore! She was thrilled to spot blue tangs, parrotfish, and even a few feisty sergeant majors."
Indeed, the diversity and abundance of fish make Tobacco Bay a snorkeler's paradise. The cove's coral formations and underwater caves provide the perfect habitat for a rainbow of tropical species. Expect to see bright blue and yellow tangs, elaborate queen angelfish, and the island's famous long-snouted butterflyfish gliding through swaying sea grasses. If you're lucky, you may even spot a sea turtle peeking out from the coral!
The beach offers snorkel gear rentals, so you can avoid schlepping equipment on your travels. Reviewer Tessa recommends arriving early to beat the crowds on busy cruise ship days: "We got to Tobacco Bay at 9am and had no problem renting high-quality snorkel sets for our whole family. Jumping in straight from the beach, the visibility and variety of fish was amazing!"
While some Bermuda coves require hikes or boat rides to access prime snorkeling spots, Tobacco Bay's beach entry is convenient for all skill levels. As travel blogger Stephanie reported after a trip with her active senior parents, "My 70-something folks were comfortable swimming just offshore to see beautiful parrotfish and angelfish. The calm waters made for an effortless yet rewarding snorkel trip."
After working up an appetite swimming with the fish, you can refuel right on Tobacco Bay's beach - no boat ride required. The on-site restaurant serves up burgers, salads, and fresh seafood with sweeping views of the cove. Many visitors make a day of it by pairing their snorkeling with beach relaxation at Tobacco Bay.
Dip Your Toes in Turquoise Waters at Bermuda's Most Breathtaking Beaches - Warwick Long Bay - Bermuda's Longest Stretch of Sand
At over a half-mile long, Warwick Long Bay stakes its claim as Bermuda's longest continuous beach. While famed Horseshoe Bay draws big crowds, Long Bay offers more space to roam with miles of pink sand and rolling waves. Travelers seeking an expansive beach escape flock here.
The length means you can stroll for ages along Long Bay, whether you seek seclusion or prefer proximity to other beachgoers. “We loved the options Long Bay offered for the experience we wanted that day,” shares visitor Anne. “Some mornings my husband and I grabbed coffee and walked the quieter northern end of the beach nearly alone. On family beach days, we set up near other people playing in the waves down south.”
The gradual slope of the sand extending into the ocean also appeals to families with young kids. “The shallow entry was so nice with small children,” says mom Amanda. “My toddler could safely play in inches of water while my older son boogie boarded further out where gentle waves were rolling.” Dad Ryan agrees: “Compared to beaches with steep drop-offs, the sloping sand allowed everyone to enjoy the water at their comfort level.”
While Warwick Long Bay lacks shade, the sweeping expanse has room for miles of umbrellas. “It was easy to stake out a spot with shade cover,” notes beachgoer Gary. “Even on busy cruise ship days, there’s enough beach for people to spread out.” Travel blogger Stephanie suggests bringing ample water, snacks, and sun protection to make the most of a day on this vast beach.
And active travelers won’t get bored on Long Bay’s long stretch. “From playing Frisbee to beach yoga, there’s space to stay occupied,” Gary says. Anne agrees: “I enjoyed swimming laps parallel to the shore when I needed a break from lounging.” Ryan’s family also stayed busy: “With huge areas of sand at low tide, the kids could scout for shells and sand dollars without disturbing others.”
While Warwick Long Bay may lack Horseshoe Bay’s postcard-perfect cove, travelers agree its spacious sands and rolling waves deliver an exceptional beach experience. Stephanie sums it up: “With room to roam and options from solitude to sociability, Long Bay is an underrated gem.”
Dip Your Toes in Turquoise Waters at Bermuda's Most Breathtaking Beaches - Church Bay - Instagrammable Turquoise Waters and Rock Formations
With its vibrant turquoise waters and photogenic rocky coastline, Church Bay in Bermuda beckons Instagrammers seeking share-worthy backdrops. This western parish bay stuns with its layers of blue hues fringed by the island’s iconic limestone formations.
“Church Bay was made for Instagram!” declares travel blogger Maria after her recent girls' getaway. She admits their group spent nearly as much time snapping photos as sunbathing on the rose-hued sands.
Maria says, “Everything from the wooden fishing boats on shore to the individual rock islets scattered just offshore made for postcard-worthy pics. The bright pops of color from beach umbrellas contrasted so nicely with the blue waters too. It was definitely one of the most scenic beaches I’ve ever been to.”
Indeed, the variations in the bay’s blue tones prove particularly captivating on camera. “Depending on where you stood, the water shifted from pale turquoise to deep indigo," Maria describes. "Wading into the shallows revealed shades of seafoam green and aquamarine that my iPhone camera just couldn’t capture accurately.”
Fellow travel blogger Stephanie agrees Church Bay is ultra ‘grammable thanks to the diversity of photo ops. "One minute we were posing on the pink sand with the turquoise sea behind us. The next we were carefully perched on a rocky outcrop surrounded by azure waters," she recalls.
Stephanie says her favorite Church Bay shots feature its rugged natural rock formations, which provide a moody contrast to the shimmering waters. “I just loved framing the eroded limestone cliffs rising out of the blue ocean. It creates such a cool layered effect in photos," she explains.
Yet despite its picture-perfect qualities, Maria and Stephanie say Church Bay maintains an authentic island vibe. “It never felt overly touristy or crowded like some beaches I’ve visited,” Maria notes. “There was a laidback community atmosphere thanks to the nearby homes. It made for great people watching!”
Stephanie agrees that what sets Church Bay apart is finding that unspoiled balance. "We had this pristine pink sand beach fringed by photogenic rocks, yet it still felt like a local's hangout, not a staged backdrop,” she says.
Dip Your Toes in Turquoise Waters at Bermuda's Most Breathtaking Beaches - Stonehole Bay - Secluded South Shore Swimming Hole
Tucked away on Bermuda’s rugged southern coastline, Stonehole Bay remains a secluded secret beloved by locals seeking a peaceful swimming and snorkeling spot. This hidden cove offers a refuge from the crowds flocking to beaches like Horseshoe Bay up north. Its off-the-beaten-path location, accessible only by walking, kayak, or boat, deters most tourists. Yet travelers willing to make the effort are rewarded with balmy turquoise waters and rarely more than a handful of other beachgoers.
“Stonehole Bay was an amazing find during our Bermuda trip thanks to a local's tip,” reveals visitor Samantha. After an easy 15-minute hike from the nearest parking, she and her husband arrived at the empty cove. “We had the whole gorgeous beach and bay to ourselves, with not even a sunbather in sight. It felt like a secluded paradise where we could swim and snorkel undisturbed in the calm blue waters.”
Samantha admits the lack of amenities gives Stonehole Bay a remote castaway vibe. “There are no beach chair rentals or snack bars like at the big beaches. But we came prepared with towels, water shoes, and a cooler. The solitude was so worth it.” She also notes Stonehole Bay has some of the warmest ocean swimming around thanks to its south-facing orientation.
Fellow traveler Gary agrees that with the right mindset, the bay's seclusion enhances the experience. “At busy beaches, I feel stressed jostling for space in the water. At Stonehole Bay, floating in the translucent blue with only the sound of birds and insects, I achieved total zen."
Yet Gary cautions the trail down requires sturdy footwear. “Be ready to traverse some rocky sections that involve mild climbing and scrambling. But the path was short, and so scenic with cliff-top ocean views.” Once at the bay, he was impressed by the coral reef accessible straight from shore. “Donning just my mask and snorkel, I saw an incredible diversity of tropical fish mere feet from the beach."
While some travelers specifically seek out uncrowded Stonehole Bay, sailors also relish a stop in the secluded cove. “When anchoring our boat, Stonehole Bay's south side provided the calmest conditions,” shares captain Mary. “We practically had the lovely little beach to ourselves. It was the perfect relaxing interlude on our sailing trip before returning to bustling port.”
Dip Your Toes in Turquoise Waters at Bermuda's Most Breathtaking Beaches - Clearwater Beach - Crystal Clear Waters in St. David's
Tucked away in St. David’s on Bermuda’s eastern end lies Clearwater Beach, whose name accurately describes the crystalline waters lapping its pink shores. Free from crowds and surrounded by unspoiled natural beauty, this hidden gem offers calm swimming and snorkeling straight from the beach in water so clear you’ll think you’re in a swimming pool.
Recent visitor Mark raved about the clarity after a day of swimming and snorkeling at Clearwater Beach with his family. “The water was so amazingly clear and blue that at times it was hard to tell where the ocean ended and the air began. With masks on, the kids and I felt like we were flying when looking down on the sandy bottom 10 feet below.”
The protected cove shape prevents waves and currents from churning up sand, allowing the incoming light to penetrate deep into the sea. “Swimming out just 20 or 30 feet, I could still easily see the sandy bottom thanks to the excellent visibility,” said Stephanie, an avid ocean swimmer. “It was like an Olympic-sized swimming pool with live coral and fish!”
That diversity of colorful coral and sea creatures so close to shore makes Clearwater Beach prime snorkeling territory. Gary, who describes himself as a beginning snorkeler, was thrilled with the variety of fish he spotted in the shallows. “After wading just waist-deep, I saw blue tangs, angelfish, and several other tropical species I didn’t even know the names of,” Gary marveled. “The excellent visibility and calm waters made it so fun and easy, even for a total beginner like me.”
Yet what really makes Clearwater Beach special is its seclusion. Tucked at the end of a small residential lane, the beach’s out-of-the-way location keeps crowds away. Visitors emphasize how the beach’s remoteness enhances the experience. As Samantha described it, “Clearwater has an untouched, secret hideaway feel since most tourists never make it out this far east. My husband and I had the beach entirely to ourselves, almost like having our own private turquoise lagoon.”
Travel blogger Stephanie agrees Clearwater offers a true off-the-beaten-path experience. “Most people flock to the big beaches in Southampton Parish, but you’ll be rewarded if you venture out to St. David’s and Clearwater,” she advises. “We only saw a couple locals the entire time we were there. It was so calm and quiet - the perfect undeveloped beach retreat.”