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Bermuda🇧🇲 | attractionsGibbs Hill Lighthouse185 iron steps, lantern gallery, south shore reefs | things to do and best time to go

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Backpacking in Gibbs Hill Lighthouse
👍 Recommendedattraction ranked #3
By Johan Kruseman 🇳🇱 | Updated October 20, 2026

The view is why everyone comes: climb the 185 steps of this cast-iron tower and Bermuda lies flat beneath you, turquoise reef water on one side, pastel roofs and cedar-dark hills on the other. What gets overlooked is the setting. The lighthouse sits inside a small park with a gift shop, a cafe and a lawn, so the visit stretches past the climb. It stands in Southampton Parish, on the southwest side of Bermuda, a short bus or taxi ride from Hamilton. Here is how it works: the lantern gallery is narrow, so crowds back up on the stairs when cruise-ship groups arrive. Experienced travelers go early in the day or late in the afternoon, when the wait thins and the light flatters the reefs. Entry is modest, and the view outdoes most paid lookouts on the island. For a first day, climb in the morning, linger over coffee on the grounds, then walk down toward the south shore beaches.

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✨ Why go?
Ranked #3 attraction in BermudaWhat makes this attraction worth visiting

Gibbs Hill Lighthouse is one of the oldest cast-iron lighthouses in the world, and it still works. That alone sets it apart from the many viewpoints on the island. You climb the tower itself, rung by rung, rather than riding a lift to a platform. The reward is a wide 360-degree view from the gallery, taking in the reef-ringed water, the south shore and much of the island's length. On a clear day you understand why ships needed a light here, because the reefs show up as dark brown patches in the blue.

The second reason is how little effort it asks. The 185 steps are steady rather than punishing, and nearly anyone with average fitness can manage them with a pause or two at the windows. Few backpacker stops in Bermuda cost so little and give so much orientation. If you arrive on the island not … read more 👉
Gibbs Hill Lighthouse is one of the oldest cast-iron lighthouses in the world, and it still works. That alone sets it apart from the many viewpoints on the island. You climb the tower itself, rung by rung, rather than riding a lift to a platform. The reward is a wide 360-degree view from the gallery, taking in the reef-ringed water, the south shore and much of the island's length. On a clear day you understand why ships needed a light here, because the reefs show up as dark brown patches in the blue.

The second reason is how little effort it asks. The 185 steps are steady rather than punishing, and nearly anyone with average fitness can manage them with a pause or two at the windows. Few backpacker stops in Bermuda cost so little and give so much orientation. If you arrive on the island not knowing which bay is which, an hour up here sorts out the map in your head before you set off exploring.

It also fits a southwest loop easily, pairing with the beaches and the Royal Naval Dockyard end of the island.

💡 HighlightsThe experiences that define the visit

  1. The Lantern Gallery View: The reason to climb. The outdoor walkway wraps the top of the tower and gives you the whole island, with reefs, bays and the long ribbon of South Road laid out below.
  2. The 185-Step Climb: A spiral of iron stairs with landings and small windows. Each one frames a slightly higher slice of the coast, so the climb has its own pacing.
  3. The Cast-Iron Tower Itself: Look closely at the ironwork and the white-and-red painted exterior. The tower was built from prefabricated sections, which is unusual and worth a few minutes outside before you go in.
  4. The Fresnel Lens Light: The beam still operates as a navigation aid. Seeing the lantern room up close gives you a feel for how mariners relied on it to avoid the reefs.
  5. The Keeper's Cottage Grounds: The park around the base has lawns,
… read more 👉
  1. The Lantern Gallery View: The reason to climb. The outdoor walkway wraps the top of the tower and gives you the whole island, with reefs, bays and the long ribbon of South Road laid out below.
  2. The 185-Step Climb: A spiral of iron stairs with landings and small windows. Each one frames a slightly higher slice of the coast, so the climb has its own pacing.
  3. The Cast-Iron Tower Itself: Look closely at the ironwork and the white-and-red painted exterior. The tower was built from prefabricated sections, which is unusual and worth a few minutes outside before you go in.
  4. The Fresnel Lens Light: The beam still operates as a navigation aid. Seeing the lantern room up close gives you a feel for how mariners relied on it to avoid the reefs.
  5. The Keeper's Cottage Grounds: The park around the base has lawns, benches and shaded corners. It is a good place to rest your legs after the stairs.
  6. The Gift Shop and Cafe: A small shop sells local crafts and souvenirs, and the cafe nearby is handy for a drink before or after the climb.
  7. South Shore Reef Views: From the top, pick out the shallow reef lines that explain the lighthouse's purpose. They also help you choose which beach to visit next.
For a first visit, the lantern gallery view is the one to prioritize, ideally on a clear morning.
Spotted a mistake or missing something? Contact us.

🌤️ When to go?Weather, crowds, and seasonal trade-offs

The best time to climb Gibbs Hill Lighthouse is April to June or September to November, when days are warm, the sea is clear below and crowds are thinner than midsummer.
  • Spring (March to May): Highs run 20 to 25°C (68 to 77°F). Breezes are brisk on the gallery, visibility is excellent, and the island’s gardens are in bloom around Southampton.
  • Summer (June to August): Highs reach 29 to 31°C (84 to 88°F) with high humidity. Cruise ships fill Bermuda, so the 185 steps and the gallery can be busy by late morning. Daylight stretches longest now, and the Atlantic views glow turquoise.
  • Autumn (September to November): Highs sit around 24 to 29°C (75 to 84°F). Hurricane season peaks into October, so storms can close the tower briefly, but crowds and accommodation prices ease off.
  • Winter (December to February):
… read more 👉
The best time to climb Gibbs Hill Lighthouse is April to June or September to November, when days are warm, the sea is clear below and crowds are thinner than midsummer.
  • Spring (March to May): Highs run 20 to 25°C (68 to 77°F). Breezes are brisk on the gallery, visibility is excellent, and the island’s gardens are in bloom around Southampton.
  • Summer (June to August): Highs reach 29 to 31°C (84 to 88°F) with high humidity. Cruise ships fill Bermuda, so the 185 steps and the gallery can be busy by late morning. Daylight stretches longest now, and the Atlantic views glow turquoise.
  • Autumn (September to November): Highs sit around 24 to 29°C (75 to 84°F). Hurricane season peaks into October, so storms can close the tower briefly, but crowds and accommodation prices ease off.
  • Winter (December to February): Highs are 17 to 20°C (63 to 68°F), with gusty wind and short days. Rain showers come through, but queues are the shortest and lodging is cheapest.
Go early on a clear weekday morning, since cruise ship days bring the biggest crowds.


source: climatestotravel.comJANJanuary: fair for travelingFEBFebruary: fair for travelingMARMarch: highly recommended for travelingAPRApril: excellent for travelingMAYMay: excellent for travelingJUNJune: highly recommended for travelingJULJuly: good for travelingAUGAugust: good for travelingSEPSeptember: highly recommended for travelingOCTOctober: good for travelingNOVNovember: highly recommended for travelingDECDecember: fair for traveling
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🛏️ Where to stay?Where staying makes the most sense

The best base for backpackers is Southampton Parish, within walking or a short bus ride of the lighthouse, with Hamilton as the livelier alternative.
Southampton Parish puts you on the quiet south shore side of the island. Bus routes run along South Shore Road, and Horseshoe Bay Beach is a short ride away, so you can pair a lighthouse climb with a swim. Options here are mostly small guesthouses and cottages, which feel calm and safe at night but have little nightlife. Self-catering helps since eating out on the island is pricey.
Hamilton is the better choice if you want other travelers, cheaper … read more 👉
The best base for backpackers is Southampton Parish, within walking or a short bus ride of the lighthouse, with Hamilton as the livelier alternative.
Southampton Parish puts you on the quiet south shore side of the island. Bus routes run along South Shore Road, and Horseshoe Bay Beach is a short ride away, so you can pair a lighthouse climb with a swim. Options here are mostly small guesthouses and cottages, which feel calm and safe at night but have little nightlife. Self-catering helps since eating out on the island is pricey.
Hamilton is the better choice if you want other travelers, cheaper food options and the ferry and bus hub. Buses to the lighthouse area take roughly 30 to 40 minutes, and the capital has the most pubs, cafes and supermarkets for stocking up. It is generally safe, though quiet after the offices empty on weeknights.
Sandys Parish, to the west near the Royal Naval Dockyard, suits those who want a social ferry-linked base with more places to meet people. The ferry to Hamilton is a scenic way to travel, and from Sandys you can reach the lighthouse by bus in about 30 minutes.
Book early in summer, when beds are scarce and expensive, and expect lower rates from November through March.


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👛 Costs (as of 20 October 2026)How expensive it really is

Expect to spend about US$167.50 to 259 a day visiting Gibbs Hill Lighthouse as a backpacker on Bermuda, including the climb, food, transport and a bed in high season.
CategoryBudget RangeLocal Reality
Lighthouse entryUS$2.50 to 5Adults pay a small fee to climb the 185 steps. Children and seniors usually pay less.
Accommodation (high season)US$110 to 160Small guesthouses and cottages in Southampton or Hamilton. Dorm-style beds are rare, so a private room is the norm.
Accommodation (low season)US$80 to 120November to March brings noticeably lower rates.
FoodUS$40 to 60Supermarket groceries and takeaway sandwiches keep costs down. Restaurant mains often run US$25 to 40.
Local transportUS$10 to 19A day pass covers buses and ferries, and a single bus ride costs about US$5. Pay in exact change or with
… read more 👉
Expect to spend about US$167.50 to 259 a day visiting Gibbs Hill Lighthouse as a backpacker on Bermuda, including the climb, food, transport and a bed in high season.
CategoryBudget RangeLocal Reality
Lighthouse entryUS$2.50 to 5Adults pay a small fee to climb the 185 steps. Children and seniors usually pay less.
Accommodation (high season)US$110 to 160Small guesthouses and cottages in Southampton or Hamilton. Dorm-style beds are rare, so a private room is the norm.
Accommodation (low season)US$80 to 120November to March brings noticeably lower rates.
FoodUS$40 to 60Supermarket groceries and takeaway sandwiches keep costs down. Restaurant mains often run US$25 to 40.
Local transportUS$10 to 19A day pass covers buses and ferries, and a single bus ride costs about US$5. Pay in exact change or with a pass.
ExtrasUS$5 to 15Snacks at the lighthouse tea room or a gift from the shop. Horseshoe Bay Beach is free to enter.
Total Daily BudgetUS$167.50 to 259Bermuda is among the priciest destinations anywhere, so most of your money goes to the bed and food. Travelers pay in Bermudian dollars, though US dollars are accepted at par.
⚠️ Prices can change and everyone travels differently, so take this as a rough guide. Hope it helps you plan your adventure!

FAQTraveler FAQ

Allow about 1 to 2 hours at Gibbs Hill Lighthouse. The climb up 185 steps takes 10 to 15 minutes, and you will want time on the gallery for views of the reefs and Southampton coastline. Add another hour if you plan to visit the nearby tea room or walk down to the South Shore beaches.
Yes, Gibbs Hill Lighthouse is worth the entrance fee of roughly US$2.50 to 5. For that price you get one of the best panoramic views on Bermuda, from a cast-iron tower built in 1846 and standing about 117 meters (384 feet) above sea level. Few other attractions on the island cost so little for such a payoff.
Gibbs Hill Lighthouse sits in Southampton Parish and is reached by public bus from Hamilton in about 30 to 40 minutes on routes along South Shore Road. Taxis from Hamilton cost roughly US$30 to 45 one way. Rental cars are not available to tourists, but you can hire a scooter or e-bike, and the final approach is a short uphill walk.
⚠️ Things can change over time, so always validate details locally before you go.

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We 💚 feedbackSumming up the experience

Give Gibbs Hill Lighthouse about one to two hours: the climb takes under half an hour, and the rest goes to the grounds and a drink at the cafe. Stay longer only if you want to pair it with a beach afternoon nearby. I would go on a clear morning and carry water for the stairs.

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The information on this page is based on in-depth research, insights shared by experienced travelers, and feedback from the local travel community in Bermuda. While every effort is made to keep the information accurate and current, conditions can change — so if you spot anything incorrect or outdated, please get in touch.



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