Elbow Beach
A long, pristine sandy beach with calm turquoise waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling the nearby shipwreck.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beach rugby fun!
Elbow Beach
Best Time
Beach rugby fun!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A long, pristine sandy beach with calm turquoise waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling the nearby shipwreck.
"Possibly my favorite beach in Bermuda. Nice and long with wonderful water."
Bring your own gear! 🏖️
Pack chairs, umbrellas, food, and drinks as amenities are scarce unless at a resort.
Snorkel with caution 🐠
The shipwreck is ~200m offshore; assess water calm and swimming ability before going.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Elbow Beach Shipwreck
Offshore from Elbow Beach
Explore a sunken ship teeming with marine life, perfect for snorkeling adventures.
Expansive Sandy Shores
Elbow Beach
Enjoy the long stretch of soft, clean sand and calm, turquoise waters ideal for swimming.
Beach Rugby Sessions
Elbow Beach
Join fun, casual beach rugby games during the summer evenings for a unique local experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Pack Smart for Elbow Beach
Snorkeling Adventure Awaits
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring your own gear! 🏖️
Pack chairs, umbrellas, food, and drinks as amenities are scarce unless at a resort.
Snorkel with caution 🐠
The shipwreck is ~200m offshore; assess water calm and swimming ability before going.
Elbow Beach Public Access
Snorkeling shipwreck at Elbow Beach
Stair access is key 🚶♀️
Access involves stairs, so be prepared for the descent and ascent.
Summer rugby fun! 🏉
Check for beach rugby sessions, often held on Wednesdays in summer.
Getting from The Oxford House to Elbow Beach
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring your own gear! 🏖️
Pack chairs, umbrellas, food, and drinks as amenities are scarce unless at a resort.
Snorkel with caution 🐠
The shipwreck is ~200m offshore; assess water calm and swimming ability before going.
Stair access is key 🚶♀️
Access involves stairs, so be prepared for the descent and ascent.
Summer rugby fun! 🏉
Check for beach rugby sessions, often held on Wednesdays in summer.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Elbow Beach is widely praised for its beautiful, long stretch of clean sand and calm, clear turquoise waters, making it ideal for swimming and relaxation. Visitors appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and the unique snorkeling opportunity at the nearby shipwreck. However, many note the lack of amenities, requiring guests to bring their own chairs, umbrellas, food, and drinks unless staying at an adjacent resort.
"Possibly my favorite beach in Bermuda. Nice and long (for the island) with private clubs and resorts at either end. We walked along entire beach in front of resorts. Water was wonderful There is a portapotty just off beach."
Stephen Matthews
"Nice beach with one clean port a potty. No shade, chairs, umbrellas or food. Need to go to the hotel to get food."
MO
"Far better than my expectation, the acces has stairs but clean and not busy. Enjoy clear water"
Arash Ghashghaei
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Elbow Beach is accessible by public bus, taxi, or scooter. If driving, parking can be limited. Many visitors arrive via stairs from the road above.
Yes, Elbow Beach is a well-known landmark. Look for signs indicating beach access points.
It's a significant distance to walk from the cruise ship ports to Elbow Beach. Taking a taxi or bus is highly recommended for convenience.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Elbow Beach is a public beach and does not have an entrance fee. You can enjoy the sand and sea for free.
Elbow Beach is open to the public from sunrise to sunset. There are no specific closing times for general access.
No advance booking is required for general access to Elbow Beach. However, if you plan to use facilities at adjacent resorts, you may need to make arrangements with them.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Typically, chairs and umbrellas are not provided for free public use. You'll need to bring your own or rent them from the adjacent hotels if available.
Natural shade is limited at Elbow Beach. It's advisable to bring your own umbrella or seek shade from the resort areas if permitted.
Yes, there is a portapotty available near the beach access, which is generally kept clean.
Absolutely! Elbow Beach is known for its calm, turquoise waters, making it excellent for swimming.
Yes, Elbow Beach is popular for snorkeling, especially near the sunken ship offshore.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Direct food vendors on the public beach are rare. You'll likely need to go to one of the nearby hotels or resorts to purchase food and drinks.
Yes, bringing your own picnic is highly recommended as food options directly on the beach are limited.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and beautiful golden hues.
The clear turquoise water, the sandy expanse, and the shipwreck (if accessible and safe for viewing) are prime photo opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Snorkeling Fun: If your children are comfortable swimmers, the calm waters near the shore are ideal for introducing them to snorkeling. The shipwreck, while a bit further out, might be an option for older, more experienced young swimmers with adult supervision.
💰 Budget Travelers
Transportation Tip: Utilize Bermuda's efficient public bus system to reach Elbow Beach, which is significantly cheaper than taxis. Plan your meals and snacks in advance to avoid impulse purchases.
❤️ Couples
Sunset Strolls: Consider visiting in the late afternoon to enjoy a romantic walk along the shore as the sun begins to set, casting a warm glow over the sand and sea.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Snorkeling the Elbow Beach Shipwreck
Safety First: Always prioritize safety. If the water appears rough or you have any doubts about your swimming ability or that of your companions, it's best to admire the shipwreck from the shore or opt for a guided boat tour that visits the site. Wearing a life vest can provide extra security for those less confident in the water.
What to Expect: The shipwreck offers a glimpse into history and a chance to see colorful fish and other sea creatures. The visibility can be excellent on clear days, enhancing the underwater photography potential. It's a popular spot, so while it's not usually overcrowded, you might encounter other snorkelers.
Beach Amenities and Preparation
Access Points: Access to Elbow Beach typically involves descending a set of stairs from the road above. While generally clean and well-maintained, these stairs can be a consideration for those with mobility issues or heavy gear. Planning your arrival and departure with this in mind can make your visit smoother.
Resort Proximity: The beach is bordered by private clubs and resorts at either end. While these offer amenities like food, drinks, and rentals, access might be restricted to guests. However, walking along the entire beach in front of these resorts is often permitted, allowing you to appreciate the different sections of Elbow Beach.
Summer Beach Rugby
Community Vibe: The beach rugby events are a great example of community engagement, often partnering with local rugby clubs and police departments. They offer a unique blend of sport, social interaction, and enjoying the beautiful Bermuda sunset. It's a chance to connect with locals and fellow travelers in a relaxed setting.
Timing and Participation: Typically, these sessions run from late afternoon into the early evening. It's advisable to check local listings or social media for specific dates and times, as they are seasonal. Even if you don't play, the energy and camaraderie are infectious, making it an enjoyable spectacle.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit