
Cooper's Island Nature Reserve
A tranquil nature reserve with stunning beaches, scenic trails, and an observation tower offering breathtaking island views.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more tranquility

Cooper's Island Nature Reserve
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more tranquility

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tranquil nature reserve with stunning beaches, scenic trails, and an observation tower offering breathtaking island views.
"Cooper's Island is a hidden gem that includes a great trail connecting several beaches, all with their own attractiveness."

🚶♀️ Trail Exploration
Take the loop trail to discover multiple beaches and the observation tower.
🐦 Birdwatching Spot
Visit in the morning for the best chance to see White-tailed Tropicbirds.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Well Bay
Southeastern tip of Cooper's Island
A secluded beach perfect for a peaceful swim and soaking up the sun.

Cooper's Observation Tower
Highest point of the reserve
Offers panoramic views of the island and ocean, ideal for birdwatching.

Clearwater Beach
Adjacent to Cooper's Island
A beautiful stretch of sand with calm waters, great for families and finding seashells.
Nature Trails
Throughout the reserve
Explore diverse flora and fauna on well-maintained paths connecting various beaches.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Island Pace
Pack for Adventure
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Trail Exploration
Take the loop trail to discover multiple beaches and the observation tower.
🐦 Birdwatching Spot
Visit in the morning for the best chance to see White-tailed Tropicbirds.
🏖️ Beach Hopping
Explore Well Bay, Turtle Bay, and Clearwater Beach for different vibes.
🚗 Accessing the Reserve
Consider renting a scooter or taking a taxi for easy access.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Trail Exploration
Take the loop trail to discover multiple beaches and the observation tower.
🐦 Birdwatching Spot
Visit in the morning for the best chance to see White-tailed Tropicbirds.
🏖️ Beach Hopping
Explore Well Bay, Turtle Bay, and Clearwater Beach for different vibes.
🚗 Accessing the Reserve
Consider renting a scooter or taking a taxi for easy access.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water, especially for longer walks.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Cooper's Island Nature Reserve as a hidden gem offering stunning natural beauty and a peaceful escape. The diverse beaches, scenic trails, and the rewarding observation tower are frequently highlighted as must-see attractions. While some note limited amenities, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with many recommending it as a top spot in Bermuda.
"Our one day visit and we had stop In here but it’s worth visiting and give our one hour to this location…..
Cooper's Island is a hidden gem that includes a great trail connecting several beaches, all with their own attractiveness. It is a great way to see gorgeous views, take a pleasant walk on the short trail around the island to the secluded Long Bay Beach to as far as the Cooper's Observation Tower. Then, relax on the perfect Turtle Bay sand beach before finishing by enjoying a walk along Clearwater Beach...looking for turtles and seashells.
Very beautiful and definitely worth visiting either through one of the many excursions or by car. It was very quiet, but I can imagine it getting fairly busy at other times pf the year. Take the trail and enjoy the views!"
Alpesh Patel
"Absolutely the very best beach in all of Bermuda. I have visited a lot of beaches in my life and Coopers Island are by far the best."
Buz Hillman
"It was a beautiful walk with amazing views! The lookout tower was very cool. A must see if you're visiting! The beaches near by are all great for swimming and snorkeling too!"
Ellyssa Brooks
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cooper's Island Nature Reserve is located on the southeastern tip of Bermuda. You can reach it by renting a scooter, taking a taxi, or by bus. If you're coming from St. George's, it's a relatively short ride.
Yes, there is parking available near the entrance of the nature reserve, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car or scooter.
While direct bus routes might be limited, you can often combine bus travel with a short taxi or scooter ride. Check local bus schedules for the most convenient options.
Cooper's Island is on the eastern end of Bermuda, so it's a bit of a journey from Hamilton, the capital. Plan for a scenic drive of about 30-45 minutes by car or scooter.
Many visitors enjoy exploring the reserve by foot, utilizing the network of trails that connect the different beaches and viewpoints.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Cooper's Island Nature Reserve is generally free to enter, allowing everyone to enjoy its natural beauty without an admission fee.
The reserve is typically open from sunrise to sunset, offering ample time to explore throughout the day. It's always a good idea to check local listings for any seasonal changes.
The beaches within Cooper's Island Nature Reserve are also free to access, making it a wonderful spot for a day of sun and sand without any cost.
While there aren't typically official guided tours for the reserve itself, many local excursion operators include Cooper's Island as part of their island tours.
Visitors are asked to respect the natural environment, stay on marked trails, and avoid disturbing wildlife. Pack out everything you pack in.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy hiking on the trails, swimming and sunbathing on the beautiful beaches, birdwatching from the observation tower, and picnicking in scenic spots.
Yes, the beaches like Well Bay and Clearwater Beach offer calm, clear waters that are excellent for swimming and snorkeling.
The reserve is known for its diverse birdlife, including White-tailed Tropicbirds. You might also spot sea turtles and various marine life in the surrounding waters.
The observation tower offers fantastic views, but it involves climbing stairs. Visitors should be able to navigate stairs to reach the top.
Basic facilities like restrooms are usually available, particularly near Clearwater Beach. It's advisable to bring your own snacks and drinks as amenities can be limited.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are limited dining options directly within the reserve. Clearwater Beach, which is adjacent, sometimes has food and drink vendors, especially during peak season.
Absolutely! Cooper's Island is a perfect spot for a picnic. Bringing your own food and drinks is highly recommended to enjoy a full day at the reserve.
The nearest dining options are typically found in the St. George's area or along the route back towards more populated parts of the island.
While not directly in the reserve, you might find small shops or vendors near Clearwater Beach or in nearby towns like St. George's.
Vendors at Clearwater Beach often offer casual beach fare like sandwiches, snacks, and refreshing drinks.
📸 📸 Photography
The observation tower offers stunning panoramic views, while the diverse beaches like Well Bay and the rocky coastlines provide dramatic backdrops.
Yes, it's an excellent location for bird photography, especially for White-tailed Tropicbirds. The clear waters also offer opportunities for marine life shots.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones.
Drone usage regulations can vary in Bermuda. It's essential to check current local laws and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone in the reserve.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens is useful for capturing wildlife. A polarizing filter can enhance the vibrant blues of the ocean.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The nature trails are generally easy to walk, making them manageable for little legs, and the observation tower offers an exciting adventure with rewarding views. It's a great place to introduce children to Bermuda's natural beauty and wildlife in a safe and engaging environment. Remember to pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as facilities can be limited.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
Pack sturdy walking shoes, water, and perhaps binoculars for an enhanced experience. The reserve offers a peaceful retreat from busier tourist spots, allowing for quiet contemplation and a deep appreciation of Bermuda's natural wonders.
📸 Photographers
Wildlife photography is also a strong suit here, with opportunities to capture seabirds in flight and marine life in the clear waters. Consider bringing a range of lenses to capture both sweeping landscapes and detailed wildlife shots. The natural beauty and tranquility of the reserve provide a serene backdrop for any photographic endeavor.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Diverse Beaches
These beaches are interconnected by a scenic loop trail, allowing visitors to easily hop between them and discover their individual charms. The trails themselves are relatively easy to navigate, making it accessible for most visitors. Remember to bring your swimwear and a towel to fully enjoy the refreshing Bermudian waters.
The Cooper's Observation Tower Experience
Beyond the views, the tower is also a prime spot for wildlife spotting, particularly for birdwatchers. During migration seasons, and even year-round, you have a good chance of seeing various seabirds, including the iconic White-tailed Tropicbirds, soaring gracefully in the sky. While the climb to the top involves stairs, the rewarding vistas make the effort well worthwhile for most visitors.
Nature Trails and Wildlife
Beyond the birds, the trails provide opportunities to discover various plant species native to Bermuda. The reserve is also a critical habitat for other wildlife, and the clear waters surrounding the island are teeming with marine life, making it a fantastic spot for nature lovers. Remember to wear comfortable walking shoes and stay on the marked paths to protect the delicate ecosystem.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit