Three of our favorite seaside escapes
Bermuda has some of the loveliest beaches in the world. Perched above some of these pink and cream-colored strands are grand resorts that provide striking vistas and pleasant ocean breezes. Three of the island’s most venerable properties not only bring in the big view, but also provide the traditions of hospitality that Bermuda is known for. All have a storied past yet each has added fresh additions and upgrades bringing them up to contemporary standards and expectations.
Cambridge Beaches Resort & Spa, Sandys Parish
To really get away from any hustle & bustle head to Somerset, the quiet western end of Bermuda. Here on a peninsula surrounded by two bodies of water sits Cambridge Beaches, a collection of individual cottages. For more than 100 years this gracious retreat has received its share of visiting luminaires and extended families.
Tucked away between ocean and bay, the grounds of the Cambridge Beaches Resort & Spa offer water views from many of the 96 cottages scattered across this historic property. Photo: Debbie Snow
One-of-a-kind cottages are spread out on 30 rolling acres of green lawns punctuated by flowering gardens, statues and benches. Many of the 96 cottages are named after guests who have been coming for generations. Amenities and activities include a fitness center, yoga on the beach, tennis, and a spa with pools, baths and steam areas, three restaurants and an infinity pool with several layers of sun decks. There are four beaches to choose from, each with a different vibe. Long Bay Beach is the main stretch of sand and the hub of water sports activities. The sea is typically calm here, making it the perfect setting for an intro to paddle boarding. After a full day, you can also take in the sunset at the beachside Breezes restaurant. Turtle Cove Beach is more secluded, perfect for a private day at the beach or a romantic candlelight dinner on the sand. Morning Beach and Pegem Beach are two small coves that provide an oasis of tranquility.
Elbow Beach Resort, Paget Parish
Steeped in history, Elbow Beach Resort dates back to 1908, when it was the first guest cottage to be built along the beaches of the famous South Shore. Overlooking one of Bermuda’s renown pink sand beaches, the enclave sits on lush green lawns that slope gently to the shore. Guest rooms and suites provide intimate hideaways and are scattered about the 50 acres of tropical gardens, all an easy stroll to the beach. Buildings follow Bermuda’s traditional architectural style of pastel walls topped with white-tiered roofs. Many of the 98 cottage-inspired rooms offer direct sea views from the bedroom and patio, while others are tucked away in private gardens.
A view from the bedroom at the Bird of Paradise cottage at the Elbow Beach Resort. Named after it’s mile-long pink sand beach, this resort sits on 50 acres of landscaped grounds that slope to the sea. Photo: Elbow Beach Resort
The resort’s pale pink namesake beach stretches for almost a mile, curving like a bent elbow. A line of protective coral reefs fronts the sands, keeping the waters calm and perfect for a swim. Beach attendants are on hand with chilled towels and food service delivered right to your chaise lounge, or you can dine at a table on the sand at Mickey’s Beach Bistro & Bar. A favorite indulgence is a private candlelight dinner.
The Reefs Hotel & Club, Southampton Parish
Set on a limestone cliff that towers over a pink sand beach, the salmon-colored-toned walls of this south coast resort mirror the beachfront setting. A favored perch at the resort is the Coconut Bar, where the deck is best enjoyed at sunset with a signature cocktail such as the Dark & Stormy in hand. Below, the pink sands are dotted with swirls of pink and white beach umbrellas, and each end of the beach is flanked by wave-washed boulders that create a private setting. Beachside food and drink service is on hand, and for guests feeling a bit more energetic there are kayaks, paddle boards and snorkeling gear ready and waiting for a day of exploration.
The landmark salmon-tinted structures of The Reefs Hotel & Club perch on a seaside cliff in Bermuda’s Southampton Parish. Rocky escarpments create privacy at the resort’s pink sand beach. Photo: The Reefs
Family owned and run, The Reefs is the sort of place where guests return year after year, and are known by the attentive staff. Built on the ruins of a 1680 farmhouse the resort offers three cottages overlooking the private beach, 62 rooms, each with an ocean view and 19 club style condos. True to Bermuda’s tradition, guests are greeted with a warm smile and a Rum Swizzle as they are escorted to their room.
