As Bermuda prepares to observe Emancipation Day and Mary Prince Day, the Department of Parks is reminding residents and visitors to help preserve the Island’s parks and beaches throughout the busy Cup Match holiday period. To support a safe and enjoyable experience for all, the Department encourages the public to follow the guidelines below regarding camping, park use, and beach activities.
Cupmatch Camping Period and Guidelines
The Cup Match holiday is traditionally one of the busiest periods for outdoor activity across Government parks and beaches. In addition to the designated sites, camping will be allowed in general park areas from Wednesday, 29 July to Sunday, 2 August 2026.
To manage demand and ensure safety, the Department of Parks and the Ministry of Public Works and Environment are reminding the public of these guidelines:
- No camping is permitted at Coney Island (which remains open for picnicking only), Blue Hole Park, Cooper’s Island Nature Reserve, or the dune area directly behind Jobson’s Cove, where sensitive vegetation must be protected.
- Absolutely no graffiti or markings (e.g. spray paint or markers) may be used to claim camping spots or mark trees.
- Tents and ropes must not be erected before Wednesday, 29 July. Any found in place on Monday, 27 July will be removed by Parks personnel.
- Park gates will be open throughout the day on Wednesday, 29 July for setup. Park Rangers will be on site until 10:00 AM and begin locking gates from 9:30 PM.
- All vehicles must be removed from within parks and placed in the designated car parks to maintain clear and safe pedestrian areas.
Horseshoe Bay Beach Notice
On Thursday, 30 July 2026, Horseshoe Bay Beach will be open to the public from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
At closing time, the Bermuda Police Service will assist the park ranger service in ushering people off the beach to begin clean up.
Park Services and Staffing
Park Rangers will be stationed at various sites to assist the public during the following times:
- Thursday, 30 July – 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM
- Friday, 31 July – 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM
- Saturday, 1 August & Sunday, 2 August – 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM
Lifeguards
Lifeguards will be on duty at Clearwater Beach, John Smith's Bay, Horseshoe Bay Beach and Turtle Bay, from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday 30 July and Friday 31 July 2026. Lifeguards will be on duty at these beaches Monday through Wednesday, between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.
Additional Reminders
Beach Restrictions for Horses and Dogs:
From 1 April to 31 October, dogs are not permitted on public beaches, and owners are reminded to observe all posted signs and restrictions. From 1 May to 31 October, horses are also prohibited from public beaches, including those at South Shore Park, John Smith’s Bay, Elbow Beach, and Shelly Bay. Horses may continue to access designated dune areas and the Railway Trail.
Bonfires & Special Events
Groups or individuals planning bonfires and organised events on public parks land must contact the Parks Office to apply for special permission ahead of time. Bonfires and events in national parks must comply with the regulations prescribed under the Bermuda National Parks Act 1986.
The Department of Parks is committed to maintaining a safe and enjoyable environment for all park users. Park Rangers and authorised officers will be on hand throughout the weekend to assist visitors and support compliance with park regulations.
For further details about camping, rules, or enforcement, visit www.gov.bm/department/parks or call 236-5902.
