Expert: Michael - 3/24/2005

Question
Dear Michael,
I will be cruising to Bermuda in May. I would like to ask which public beaches would you recommend?  Ones with less crowded "secret" coves would be great! Also, what and where is "Sea Glass Beach"?  I have read a few posts on other web sites and it sounds interesting.

Thanks a lot!

Answer
Hi Ria,

A quiet and most picturesque pink beach is John Smith's Bay.  It may be the most painted beach scene in Bermuda.  And if you go, other than the painter sitting undet a tree you may be the only one there.

The most famed beaches are those of the Southshore. Horseshow in particular.  My suggestion would be to jump on a bus and tell the driver you want off at Warwick Long.  From there you can trek down the incline finding paths and come to the beginning of pristine beaches.  Walking west you will pass Jobson's cove, Stonehole, walk pink sand paths lined with grape tress and walk over great outcrops of volcaninc rock (they call it coral).  Eventually you will find your self at Horseshoe Bay.  From Horseshoe you can take a bus back to your destination.  Do bring towels and a small soft cooler with your favorite libations for sitting at Jobson's or wherever speaks to you.  The entire trek along the beach may be one half to three quarter mile and worth every step.

Although these are not secret, most people tend to go to Horseshoe Bay as it has facilities and is most easily accessible.  When you trek down to Warrwick Long you be the only ones for quite some way.

I will tell you that the sea glass beach that Lind and I visit is next to Alexander Battry, an old Fort.  This in St. George, so if dock in St. George this is the ticket.  A long walk or a four minute moped ride up Cut Road to Gates Fort, turning left becomes Barry Road.  Alexander Battery is a short way down on the right.  The glass beach is just to the left of the old fort. Call me crazy but I can here right now the tinkle of the glass as the gentle sea gently washes the glass up on the seashore.  Lots of green, brown, milk, less red and the big find is blue.

Continuig down Barry Road will bring you to Fort St. Catherine, Archillies Bay, accross the golf course to Tobacco Bay where most boat people will go when docked in St. George.  Do immediately upon entering Bermuda pick up a Handy Visitor's Map and Bus Guide.  These are essential.  Or you could even call (1.800.BERMUDA) and ask for them to be mailed to you.

Another glass beach is down by the dockyard and very near what is called Convict's Cemetary.  I've never been there so couldn't tell you much of it, or how to find it.

Happy planning!
Michael