John Smith's Bay Beach - a sandy beach with people walking on it
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John Smith's Bay Beach

4.7
·228 reviews·, Bermuda

Discover John Smith's Bay Beach, a serene paradise with breathtaking pink sand, excellent snorkeling, and convenient amenities.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Morning

Fewer crowds, best light for photos

CrowdLow
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John Smith's Bay Beach - a sandy beach with people walking on it

John Smith's Bay Beach

Best Time

Morning

Fewer crowds, best light for photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover John Smith's Bay Beach, a serene paradise with breathtaking pink sand, excellent snorkeling, and convenient amenities.

4.7
(228 reviews)

"Fantastic beach, much better and far less crowded than Horseshoe Bay."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Easy Public Transport Access

The bus stops right at the entrance, making it super convenient to reach. :bus:

🤿 Snorkel Gear Recommended

Bring your own snorkel gear to explore the reefs, often better than renting. :diving_mask:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Glistening Pink Sand

Glistening Pink Sand

Experience the unique, soft pink and orange hues of the sand, a truly picturesque sight.

Reddit
Reef Snorkeling Opportunities

Reef Snorkeling Opportunities

Discover vibrant underwater life just offshore, making it a prime spot for snorkelers.

Reddit
BQ's Beach Grill

BQ's Beach Grill

Enjoy delicious fresh food and refreshing smoothies with beautiful ocean views.

Reddit
Volcanic Rock Outcrops

Volcanic Rock Outcrops

Explore interesting volcanic formations that add to the beach's natural beauty.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Pink Sand

John Smith's Bay Beach is famed for its stunning pink sand, a unique geological feature. While it can get busy, it's often less crowded than other popular spots like Horseshoe Bay, offering a more relaxed experience. Arrive early to secure a good spot and enjoy the tranquil morning atmosphere. Reddit

Snorkeling & Amenities

This beach is a great spot for reef snorkeling, especially compared to some other well-known locations. The water is generally calm, perfect for wading and wave riding. You'll find convenient public restrooms, outdoor showers, and a snack shack for refreshments. Reddit

Best Times

When
Morning
Why
Fewer crowds, best light for photos
Crowd
Low
When
Late Afternoon
Why
Golden hour glow on sand
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Best Beach to go to with limited walking

🚗 Easy Public Transport Access

The bus stops right at the entrance, making it super convenient to reach. Reddit :bus:

🤿 Snorkel Gear Recommended

Bring your own snorkel gear to explore the reefs, often better than renting. Reddit :diving_mask:

reddit.com

The beach @ John Smiths Bay | Bermuda [HD Aerial Video]

reddit.com

Best beaches for reef snorkeling besides Church Bay and Warwick Long Bay?

🍔 Snack Shack Delights

Try the burgers and smoothies at the snack shack for a quick, tasty bite. Reddit :hamburger:

☀️ Sun Protection is Key

The sun is strong; bring sunscreen, a hat, and consider renting an umbrella. Reddit :sunwithface:

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Easy Public Transport Access

The bus stops right at the entrance, making it super convenient to reach. Reddit :bus:

🤿 Snorkel Gear Recommended

Bring your own snorkel gear to explore the reefs, often better than renting. Reddit :diving_mask:

🍔 Snack Shack Delights

Try the burgers and smoothies at the snack shack for a quick, tasty bite. Reddit :hamburger:

☀️ Sun Protection is Key

The sun is strong; bring sunscreen, a hat, and consider renting an umbrella. Reddit :sunwithface:

🌊 Watch for Man o' War

Be aware of Man o' War jellyfish, especially in late June. Reddit :jellyfish:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(228 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about John Smith's Bay Beach for its stunning pink sand, often comparing it favorably to more crowded alternatives. The beach offers excellent snorkeling opportunities and convenient amenities like restrooms and a popular beach grill. While customer service at the snack shack could be improved, the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive, with many planning return visits.

"One of the most gorgeous beaches with glistening pink/ orange hues throughout the sand. It's definitely worth the time to visit, sit, walk, or swim."

Tina Rodwilk

"Small beach, quiet, mild surf. Nice volcanic rock outcrops. Snack shack has burgers, grilled cxn sandwiches etc. Public restrooms, free parking. Customer service could be nicer."

Kris sty

"Fantastic beach. Much better and far less crowded than Horseshoe Bay. Chairs and umbrellas for rent. Restrooms and shower. Beach boogaloo serving food and drinks."

Peter Finkle

What People Like

Beautiful pink sand
Less crowded than Horseshoe Bay
Great for snorkeling

What People Dislike

Customer service could be nicer

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

John Smith's Bay Beach is easily accessible by public transport. The bus stops directly at the entrance, making it a convenient option for visitors. Reddit If driving, there is free parking available. Reddit

Yes, the beach is well-marked and the bus stop is conveniently located right at the entrance, ensuring you won't miss it. Reddit

The local bus service is the primary public transport option. Routes that pass by John Smith's Bay Beach are frequent and reliable. Reddit

Yes, there is free public parking available at John Smith's Bay Beach, which is a great convenience for those arriving by car. Reddit

Depending on your starting point, walking might be an option, but it's generally recommended to use the bus or a taxi for efficiency, especially if coming from further afield. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, John Smith's Bay Beach is a public beach and does not have an entrance fee. You can enjoy its beauty and amenities for free. Reddit

As a public beach, John Smith's Bay is generally accessible from sunrise to sunset. The snack shack and restrooms may have specific operating hours. Reddit

No advance booking is required for John Smith's Bay Beach as it is a public access area. You can visit anytime during daylight hours. Reddit

Yes, chairs and umbrellas are available for rent at John Smith's Bay Beach, providing comfort and shade during your visit. Reddit

The beach offers public restrooms, outdoor showers, a footbath, and a snack shack (BQ's Beach Grill) serving food and drinks. Reddit

🎫 🏊 Onsite Experience

Yes, John Smith's Bay Beach is great for swimming, especially in the shallows. The surf can be a bit choppy for swimming out deep, but it's perfect for wave riding and wading. Reddit

The sand at John Smith's Bay Beach is famously pink, with glistening hues of pink and orange, making it a visually stunning destination. Reddit

Absolutely! John Smith's Bay Beach is highly recommended for reef snorkeling, offering a great experience with a nice reef to explore. Reddit

Information regarding lifeguards at John Smith's Bay Beach can vary. It's advisable to check local advisories or observe if flags are present. Reddit

You can enjoy swimming, wave riding, wading, sunbathing, snorkeling, and relaxing on the beautiful pink sand. There are also food and drink options available. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

BQ's Beach Grill offers tasty meals like burgers and chicken sandwiches, along with fruit smoothies and other cold drinks. There's also a smaller snack stand with brownies and frozen treats. Reddit

Yes, BQ's Beach Grill and the smaller snack stand offer a good selection of cold drinks, including fruit smoothies. Reddit

While specific vegetarian options aren't detailed, the grill offers items like smoothies and potentially sides that could cater to vegetarians. It's best to inquire directly. Reddit

Reviews suggest the food is fresh and tasty, with prices typical for beachside dining. It's considered good value for the quality and location. Reddit

Generally, bringing your own picnic is allowed at public beaches, but it's always good practice to be mindful of waste and clean up after yourself. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography, with the golden hour casting a beautiful glow on the pink sand. Reddit

The pink sand itself is incredibly photogenic. The volcanic rock outcrops and the vibrant blue water also make for stunning shots. Reddit

Drone usage regulations can vary. It's essential to check local rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone over the beach. Reddit

Any camera, from a smartphone to a DSLR, can capture the beauty. A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, and a polarizing filter can enhance the colors. Reddit

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, be mindful of other beachgoers' privacy and check for any specific signage regarding commercial photography. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

John Smith's Bay Beach is a wonderful choice for families. The sand is soft and perfect for building sandcastles, and the shallow waters are ideal for young children to splash and play safely. Reddit The presence of public restrooms, outdoor showers, and a footbath makes managing sandy little ones much easier. Reddit BQ's Beach Grill offers kid-friendly food options like burgers and nuggets, ensuring happy tummies after a day of fun. The easy bus access also means less hassle getting to and from the beach with strollers and gear. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, John Smith's Bay Beach is a gem. Entry to the beach is free, and there's also free parking available if you're renting a scooter or car. Reddit While chairs and umbrellas can be rented, bringing your own or finding a natural shady spot can save money. Packing a picnic lunch and snacks from a local grocery store is a great way to keep food costs down, though the snack shack offers reasonably priced options. Reddit The convenience of public bus transport also makes it an economical choice for getting around the island. Reddit

🐠 Snorkel Enthusiasts

Snorkelers will find John Smith's Bay Beach particularly rewarding. It's frequently recommended for its accessible reef system, offering a chance to see a good variety of marine life without needing to venture far offshore. Reddit Bringing your own mask and snorkel is highly advised to maximize your exploration time. The clear, calm waters in the shallows are perfect for observing fish and coral formations. Reddit While not as famous as some other snorkeling spots, its quality and convenience make it a top pick for many visitors. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Allure of Pink Sand

John Smith's Bay Beach, like many of Bermuda's famous shores, owes its distinctive pink hue to microscopic, shelled organisms called foraminifera. These tiny creatures, with their vibrant red or pink shells, are crushed into fine particles by the waves and mix with the white coral sand. The result is a breathtakingly beautiful, soft pink or orange-tinged sand that is a signature of the island's beaches. Reddit The intensity of the pink can vary depending on the time of day, the angle of the sun, and the amount of crushed foraminifera present, making each visit a unique visual experience. It's a natural phenomenon that truly sets these beaches apart.

Snorkeling and Marine Life

For snorkel enthusiasts, John Smith's Bay Beach is a fantastic choice. It's often cited as a superior snorkeling spot compared to some other popular beaches, offering a good reef system close to shore. Reddit Visitors can expect to see a variety of colorful fish and marine life in the clear, turquoise waters. The mild surf makes it ideal for both beginners and experienced snorkelers to explore the underwater world. Remember to bring your own gear to make the most of this natural aquarium. Reddit Be aware of potential Man o' War jellyfish, especially in warmer months like June, and take necessary precautions. Reddit

Dining Delights at BQ's Beach Grill

A significant part of the John Smith's Bay Beach experience is the on-site dining at BQ's Beach Grill. This popular spot is praised for its friendly staff, genuine smiles, and good vibes, creating a welcoming atmosphere. Reddit They serve delicious meals made with fresh ingredients, including real fried potatoes instead of standard fries, and fresh meats. Their fruit smoothies are also a highlight, perfect for cooling down on a sunny day. Reddit In addition to BQ's, a smaller snack stand offers quick bites like brownie sundaes, chicken nuggets, and hamburgers, ensuring there's something for everyone. Reddit The combination of great food and beautiful beach views makes dining here a memorable part of the visit.

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