Church Bay

Ask any local which is the best place for snorkelling in Bermuda and they’ll inevitably say Church Bay. The reef is relatively close to the shore and provides shelter from the waves. Many colourful fish, such as parrotfish, gather here and before the reef meaning that snorkelling feels like swimming in a natural aquarium. The beach itself is small and rocky.

Boyd Vallis runs a concession here selling soda and chips and rents masks and fins for snorkelling. Although there’s no lifeguard on duty, you can take comfort knowing that Boyd has a bronze swimming medallion and keeps a first aid kit with him. He can also advise on where to snorkel and what types of fish you will see. He’ll also keep an eye on your gear while you’re in the water and will even sell you a bus ticket! The concession is open between May 1 and October 31 (10:00 – 17:00, Mon – Sat).

Church Bay is located in Church Bay Park, just off South Road and to the west of The Reefs hotel. There's also a park here with picnic tables, restrooms and adequate parking. A steep path leads down to the beach.

Reviews / Comments / Additional Information

Sam Cape Cod

I just returned from Bermuda and I love snorkeling. Naturally ever snorkeling question I asked led me to Church Beach from multiple sources. The access was easy from the #7 bus... a path down the hill to about fifty wooden steps brought you to the beach. It is a beautiful pink beach with wonderful clarity to the water that runs from shore out to some large outcroppings and boulder/coral formations. The water is in varied pools that run up to perhaps 20 feet deep. Wave action was moderate the day I was there. You need to be a solid swimmer to get the most out of this setting; but oh, is there a lot to be had!! Schools of parrot fish of great size and stunning colors... goat fish... brain coral... it is stunning. The swim was great and the hardest thing of the day was leaving!!
As good as the snorkeling was... and it was the best... Boyd was better! He was packing up for the day when I arrived (it had been a slow day) and when I said that I wanted to snorkel he unpacked, took out his book, and read for a couple hours while I had the water to myself. He first guided me to the best areas and told me what to look out for. After the swim I helped him pack up and we talked about world politics, Bermuda, the cruise industry (I was off a cruise boat) Bermuda history, and he gave me a tour of the neighbourhood ... Horseshoe Beach... a ride to the local lighthouse... and even offered me a cup of tea. The snorkeling was a joy and can't be beat, but the addition of time that Boyd was willing to share made the experience a most kind and authentic experience. It is wonderful to know that Bermuda has places like this and people like Boyd.

Theresa C N

I was way up on the cliff at the concession and I got some great shots of our friends who were in the water with several brightly coloured parrot fish. The guys at the concession and all of the locals who stopped by were very pleasant.

roger

We just went on a cruise, and tried snorkelling on Grand Turk, which is supposed to be good. We also stopped at Bermuda, and found many more big, colorful parrot fish,etc., at Church Bay than we found at Grand Turk. Thank God they re-opened it, 'cause 2 years ago it was closed due to storm damage. This spot rules for snorkelling!!!

Bill

Just got back from a early June 2007 trip to Bermuda. This was my 5th trip from the USA and always go snorkeling at Church Bay. Mid afternoon when the tide is down slightly seems like a good time to go. The clarity of the water and number of fish this year was outstanding. I believe I chatted with Boyd one day. Nice fellow and very talkative. yes, the water can be rough at times and it's usually a good idea to partner. I'll be back in Sept 2007 or June 2008.

The Cat

The water here can be pretty rough though. I wouldn't recommend it for young children.

Danny

The snorkeling here is really great. Lots of parrotfish to see.