Horseshoe Bay beach
Horseshoe Bay, nestled in Southampton Parish, stands as Bermuda's most celebrated beach. It epitomizes the quintessential Bermuda beach experience - effortlessly laid-back, timeless, yet pulsating with life. In 2016, Condé Nast Traveler honored it with a place among the top 20 best beaches in the world.
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Beach description
Horseshoe Bay Beach resembles a pale pink horseshoe (hence the name), which contrasts strikingly against the clear blue waters of the Atlantic. Even during the peak of summer, the soft pink sand remains pleasantly cool. This is due to its unique composition, which includes tiny particles of corals and shell dust that do not retain heat excessively.
For enthusiasts of underwater exploration, there are several excellent spots off the eastern part of the bay amidst limestone rock formations. Diving into these depths will reveal a kaleidoscope of colorful fish - such as parrotfish, angelfish, wrasses, and golden perches - alongside vibrant coral reefs, mysterious underwater caves, and intriguing shipwrecks.
However, divers should be aware that ocean waters can pose dangers due to rip currents, and lifeguards are on duty only during the summer - the high bathing season. As such, snorkeling and diving are recommended for experienced swimmers only. Families with children may prefer the western part of the beach, where the little ones can frolic in a natural shallow pool.
From May to October, when cruise liners begin to deliver thousands of visitors, Horseshoe Bay becomes a bustling hub of activity. It's a must-visit destination for every Bermuda traveler. For those seeking a more tranquil beach experience, early morning is the ideal time. Visitors will be delighted by the beautiful, secluded coves that are just a short stroll from Horseshoe Bay Beach.
Optimal Visiting Times
The best time to visit Bermuda for a beach vacation is typically between the months of May and October. This period aligns with Bermuda's peak season, offering the most ideal conditions for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. Here are a few reasons why:
- Warm Temperatures: During these months, the average temperature ranges from 75°F to 85°F (24°C to 29°C), perfect for beach activities.
- Water Clarity: The Atlantic Ocean is at its clearest, providing excellent visibility for snorkeling and diving.
- Less Rainfall: Although Bermuda has a sub-tropical climate with a chance of rain year-round, the summer and early fall months tend to be drier.
- Festivals and Events: This period also coincides with numerous local festivals and events, adding to the vacation experience.
However, it's worth noting that this is also the most popular time to visit, so expect higher prices and more crowded beaches. For those looking to avoid the crowds, the shoulder season—April and November—might be a better option, though the water may be slightly cooler.
Video: Beach Horseshoe Bay
Infrastructure
At the entrance to the beach, there is a large parking lot and a scooter park. The following amenities are available to vacationers:
- Free locker rooms with toilets and showers for the feet;
- A café;
- A bar with Wi-Fi access;
- A summer kiosk selling refreshments;
- A gift shop;
- A rescue service;
- Rental offices where sun loungers, umbrellas, snorkeling equipment, and water ski equipment are available.
Where to Stay
Horseshoe Bay Beach is located within walking distance of many luxury hotels featuring landscaped pools, restaurant complexes, tennis courts, and access to golf clubs.
Where to Eat
The assortment of beach café treats includes:
- Burgers;
- Hot dogs;
- Chicken and fish dishes;
- Ice cream;
- Mineral water, juice, and alcohol.
The nearest Italian restaurant serves:
- Pizza;
- Panini (buns with ham, cheese, or other fillings);
- Fresh seafood;
- Various international cuisine dishes.
You can stock up on fresh food - vegetables, meat, and poultry - at a special farm store in Southampton.
What to Do
Horseshoe Bay is an ideal place for sunbathing, swimming, and various sports:
- Water activities (diving, snorkeling, sailing, jet skiing, water skiing, sport fishing);
- Team games (volleyball, football, cricket);
- Golf (many people attend the nearby Port Royal Golf Club);
- Rock climbing.
In the courtyard of the café, picnics are often held at tables under shelters. In the evenings, vacationers gather in the cozy patio of the bar, where live music is played. Fans of night adventures can visit the nightclub 'Light'.
Cultural tourism enthusiasts might be interested in Southampton's attractions:
- The oldest cast-iron lighthouse in the world, Gibbs Hill;
- The 18th-century Church of St. Anne, with an observation deck;
- The fort and Whale Bay Park;
- Nature reserves Seymour's Pond and Vesey, with endemic plants;
- Great Sound, an area with many sailing boats.
Every year, exciting beach events are held:
- Sand sculpture contest (in August);
- Kite festival (on Good Friday);
- Beachfest - the largest beach party in Bermuda, featuring the Cup Match (on August 3);
- Valentine's Day celebrations.
Weather in Horseshoe Bay
Best hotels of Horseshoe Bay
All hotels of Horseshoe BayUseful information
- Horseshoe Bay is near bus route No. 7 that runs between the shipyard and Hamilton City. It takes about 35 minutes by bus from the shipyard to the beach and 30 minutes to Hamilton.
- From the bus stop to the beach you need to walk 400 m down the access road and then a few meters along the boardwalk. If the descent down the slope is not difficult, then the return trip for an elderly person or child can be tiring. To avoid a steep climb, you should take a taxi or take a minibus, approaching the entrance to the beach.