Expert: Michael - 6/5/2006

Question
Will dock at West End in September for one day. Could you recommend a good beach and a way to get there? Should we attempt getting there by moped? What about renting a small boat (four of us) from the west end to tour the beaches on our own?  

Answer
Hi John,

The West End will have lots of tourist shops for you.  The best beaches will be on the southshore.  They are accessible from the bus #7 and your best selection of beaches will run from Horseshoe Bay to Warwick Long.  Matter of fact, get off the bus at Warrwick Long and walk to Horseshoe Bay.  It is not really that long a trek but most beautiful.  Perhaps a half mile of pink beaches and coral/volcanic outcrops.  You will pass Warwick Long, Stonehole Bay, Jobson's cove and end up at Horseshoe.  From Horseshoe it is much easier to access the main roadway.  Do pick up a Handy Reference Map at a visitors kiosk to get your bearings.

I would not bother with a moped for just the beaches.  The bus system is very functional.  They take change, tokens, tickets (purched in booklets) or a one, three day or pass priced accordingly.  The booklets may work best for your group of four.

As for a Boston Whaler I don't think so.  The ocean may be a bit rough and reefs abound all over.  The Whalers are more suitable for inside the Great Sound and would be a day rental with lots of precious time alloted here.

Happy planning!
Michael