West Whale Bay Beach: Southampton Parish’s Secluded Gem
It’s one of Bermuda’s smaller beaches, but West Whale Bay Beach has some big appeal: a secluded setting, pink sands, turquoise waters and, every spring, some very special guests.
- Natural Wonders
Located at the western end of Southampton Parish, West Whale Beach offers a calm, scenic escape with craggy cliffs surrounding a stretch of Bermuda’s classic pink sand. The beach got its name as it was near the island’s whaling grounds in the 18th century. Happily, whaling is long gone from these shores – but the whales themselves are still drawn to Bermuda each spring.
West Whale Bay Beach’s shallow waters make it a good option for younger kids to splash about in the gentle surf, and during low tide, you can wade out to discover colourful coral reefs teeming with marine life.
It is also prized for its shore fishing: bring a rod and reel and you might land bonefish, pompano and great barracuda. See more on fishing in Bermuda.
Whale Watching at West Whale Bay
It might be one of the best-kept secrets in travel: In late winter and early spring, a parade of humpback whales passes through the waters near Bermuda on the way to their northern feeding grounds. As you might guess, West Whale Bay Beach is one of the best places to spot these magnificent mammals from dry land.
Bring a pair of binoculars in the early morning or early evening, pick a spot in West Whale Bay Park or on the cliffs surrounding the beach and watch for the telltale spout of water – or even a humpback leaping out of the water in a playful activity known as “breaching.” These 50-foot-long, 40-ton creatures are some of Mother Nature’s most awe-inspiring sights, and this beach is an easy way to see them in action.
Find out more about whale watching in Bermuda.
Whale Bay Fort & Battery
Bermuda is home to many historic forts, and you’ll find the remains of Whale Bay Fort & Battery overlooking West Whale Bay Beach. Originally built in the mid-1700s, the fortress once featured powerful, 12-ton cannons to protect the island from invaders. The cannons are long gone, but you can still explore the fort and battery, including sturdy stone walls, troop barracks and underground storage rooms. With sweeping views of the Atlantic and grassy lawns, it’s a perfect picnic destination.
