Southampton, Bermuda

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When you think of Bermuda's famous pink sand beaches, you're thinking of the island's south shore.

The most famous beach areas are generally in Paget, Warwick, and Southampton parishes. Among the best places to visit are:

Elbow Beach, in Paget's Parish. The Elbow Beach hotel "claims" the east end of Elbow Beach, but the rest of the 1/2 mile stretch is public. There is a shower house in the area for beachgoers' use. Elbow is the closest beach to the city of Hamilton. Take bus #7.

Warwick Long Bay Beach in both Warwick and Southampton Parish. The great PLUS for Warwick Long Bay is that it's kind of deserted. There are no lifeguards or true beach support items in the area. And another issue are the riptides. Our b&b hosts say that the rips at Warwick Long Bay are notoriously strong, so if you visit the area to soak up some rays, don't venture far into the surf. Again, bus #7 is your ticket.

Horseshoe Bay Beach is probably THE most beautiful stretch of pink beach on Bermuda's south coast. Located in Southampton, Horseshoe Bay offers crystal clear waters, beautiful fine sand, basic beach area supports such as lifeguards and beach rental merchants, and even a small cafe. There is a public shower here as well. Bus #7 gets you to Horseshoe as well. IF POSSIBLE, try to pick a day to visit Horseshoe when there are few or hopefully ZERO cruise ships docked in Bermuda. You'll enjoy the space. At beach end is Port Royal cove, a snorkeler's lair.

There is also Church Bay beach, an attractive beach a little further west of Horseshoe. Church Bay is supposedly a very good choice for snorkelers. Once again, use bus #7.

On a point of land high above 'The Hook' of southern Bermuda is the Gov'nors' House. It was being restored when I was there, and I'm sure, if you go to Dockyards, you'll want to see this. Surreal surroundings and beautiful appointments. Definitely see this.

The original prison on the Island is Casemates, and it's still there. The new prison is Westgate, but, imagine, being a prisoner with views of the Great Sound, Ireland Island, and passing boats on the water coming from Dockyards. It is a breathtaking structure, with amazing history.

We took a cruise ship on Norwegian to Bermuda. One of the excursions was a Eco-tour along the shoreline. This was the most interesting and fun excursion. We learned so much about the ocean life. We rode a kayak around the shoreline of Bermuda and held jelly fishes, a few other types of eco life. They explained to us about the seaweed life. It was such a informational experience. Well worth the time and money.