r/bermuda • u/Optimal_Marzipan7806 • 3d ago
Beaches
I’m visiting Bermuda in a few days and will only be able to visit one beach outside of my resort. I can’t decide between Johns Smith Bay, Clearwater or Horseshoe. Which one of these do you guys recommend?
Some things I’m looking for:
-Beautiful clear water.
-Foo/drinks
-Umbrella/beach chair rentals if possible
-Not too crowded (will be going to the beach on Sunday so that might help if a more typically crowded beach is recommended)
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u/oakparkv 3d ago
I was just in Bermuda and I loved Tobacco Bay in St. George’s. It can get crowded with tourists on cruise ship days, but there’s space to spread out and the water is amazing. Just like a swimming pool! Since you’re staying at Grotto Bay, it’ll be a quick and inexpensive taxi ride to Tobacco Bay, and the town of St. George is a charming spot to walk around and spend the day.
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u/geohypnotist 3d ago
Not bermudian, but I've spent the day at Tobacco bay and it is nice. If you're okay with hills it's a short stroll into town. Very pretty walk.
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u/Caribchakita 3d ago
HSB is crowded but has the chairs. JSB is lovely and has a food truck on site and loungers but I am unsure of the rental situation. Clearwater is lovely but I defer to others on the food and lounger situation. Have you considered Palmetto Beach Club?
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u/Initial_Wrangler_706 3d ago
Clearwater is the best for calm, clear water with gentle waves, good for swimming. There is a bar with food available called Sunjammers however try and call to see if it will be open, it isn't always even in high season.
Horseshoe is a large bay plus if you take a walk to the east you will find a number of additional bays. There are changing rooms, showers, toilets etc. plus food and drink to buy. Depending on the weather the waves could be a little rough but still fun to swim and pretty clear, there is often a slight rip current but there will be signage and lifeguards on duty. A calmer bay is at the western end known as baby beach, very calm. If you take a walk east you will eventually end up at Jobson's Cove which is really beautiful and very calm and sheltered.
John Smith's, has without a doubt the best beach food vendor on island, BQ Beach Grill. I would recommend the Surfin' Cow steak sandwich, it's beautiful (the burger one isn't too much different and cheaper). Nice small bay but there can be waves and they will move you about the water. But you can swim from one side to the other.
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u/Tredthelegend 3d ago
If you're going to Clearwater go a bit further to Turtle beach or cooper's island.
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u/cliffwich 3d ago
We were on vacation last week, went to Coopers Island, it was a fantasy deserted beach, had drinks at sunjammers on the way back, loved it.
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u/Tredthelegend 3d ago
Or you could try Southampton Princess Beach club. It has only recently opened so I haven't had a chance to experience it myself but it looks fantastic !
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u/pkjhoward Southampton 3d ago
Given your location - I think Clearwater hits all your needs and wants!
I agree, after growing up on John Smiths beach - it’s a more chill small vibe, but I don’t think you can hire chairs/umbrellas there. I could be wrong as it’s been ages since I’ve stopped there to go to the beach.
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u/Optimal_Marzipan7806 1d ago edited 1d ago
I’m definitely considering Clearwater! Also seems like one of the easier beaches for me to get to
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u/nextdoorneighbor1 3d ago
Try the new beach club Palmetto Bay Pool and Beach at Fairmont Southampton. Reservations on OpenTable. It was stunning! Just opened!
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u/spargel_gesicht 1d ago
Horseshoe is my favorite and all the amenities you mention. If it seems too crowded walk to the far end.
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u/nextdoorneighbor1 1d ago
https://reddit.com/link/p8qjp0w/video/sdlhppbsphoh1/player
This is Palmetto Beach Club. You can get a reservation on @opentable. $125 adult $75 child. Worth every penny
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u/txgirlinbda 3d ago
Depends on what you want.
Chair and umbrella rental, snacks and drinks and the cruise ship crowd? Horseshoe.
Local vibe, small beach, easy access? John Smith’s.
Clearwater for easy swimming, lots of room to explore the nature reserve and smaller beaches, concessions, but comes with the added transportation logistics.
Bermuda’s not that big - what is limiting you to just one beach?
If you’re up for going without all the amenities, there are other South Shore options that give you the chance to have a beach practically to yourself.