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Falkland Islands🇫🇰 | beachesBertha’s BeachGentoo colony, Ramsar tidal flats, Commerson’s dolphins, two-kilometer arc | things to do and best time to go

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Backpacking in Bertha’s Beach
🌟 Highlightbeach ranked #1
By Johan Kruseman 🇳🇱 | Updated October 19, 2026

Bertha’s Beach is a Ramsar-listed wetland site, so the sand is protected habitat, not a place for a beach day. It sits on the coast of East Falkland, southwest of Stanley, and the white arc of sand runs for a couple of kilometers beside shallow tidal flats. The scenery is open and bright, with turquoise shallows that look tropical until you put a hand in the water. Swimming and surfing are poor, because the sea is cold and the swell is not shaped for riding. There are no snorkel shops, no bars and no hostel. What it has instead is gentoo and Magellanic penguins within easy view, and Commerson’s dolphins that often work the surf line. Crowds are rare, mostly a few vehicles from cruise and Stanley tours. It is worth a half day for the wildlife and the empty shoreline, and not worth a long stay. Bring food from Stanley, since nothing is sold nearby. Before going, arrange a 4x4 or a guided trip, as there is no public transport.

Discover everything you want to know in the 📖 Falkland Islands Travel Guide.


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✨ Why go?
Ranked #1 beach in Falkland IslandsWhy visitors keep coming back

Bertha’s Beach earns its stop because the penguins here live on ordinary sand, not behind a rope and a ticket gate. A gentoo colony sits just back from the high-tide line, and you can watch birds porpoise through the shallows, waddle up, and squabble over nest sites. That alone is more access than most places in the world give you.

The second reason is the dolphins. Commerson’s dolphins, small, black and white, and quick, come close to shore and play in the breaking waves. Sit still on the dunes and they often put on a show.

The third is the pause it offers. Stanley is a tidy, quiet town, and a day out here resets your pace completely. With no facilities, no soundtrack and a wide horizon, the beach suits people who like their travel low on schedule. It is a cheap day if you carry your own … read more 👉
Bertha’s Beach earns its stop because the penguins here live on ordinary sand, not behind a rope and a ticket gate. A gentoo colony sits just back from the high-tide line, and you can watch birds porpoise through the shallows, waddle up, and squabble over nest sites. That alone is more access than most places in the world give you.

The second reason is the dolphins. Commerson’s dolphins, small, black and white, and quick, come close to shore and play in the breaking waves. Sit still on the dunes and they often put on a show.

The third is the pause it offers. Stanley is a tidy, quiet town, and a day out here resets your pace completely. With no facilities, no soundtrack and a wide horizon, the beach suits people who like their travel low on schedule. It is a cheap day if you carry your own lunch and share a ride with other travelers. The wind does most of the talking.

💡 HighlightsPlaces and moments you shouldn't skip

  1. Gentoo penguin colony: This is what Bertha’s Beach is known for. The birds nest in the grass and sand above the tideline, and you can see them crossing the beach to the sea in small groups. Chicks are visible in the warmer months. Stay a few meters back and let them decide how close to come.
  2. Magellanic penguin burrows: In the tussock and dunes behind the sand, Magellanic penguins dig burrows from spring to early autumn. They are shy and often sit at the entrance, making a donkey-like bray that gives them the local nickname “jackass” penguin. Walk on marked tracks so you do not collapse a nest.
  3. Commerson’s dolphins in the surf: These compact black and white dolphins often swim just beyond the break, sometimes riding the waves. Park yourself on the sand near the water and wait. Binoculars help,
… read more 👉
  1. Gentoo penguin colony: This is what Bertha’s Beach is known for. The birds nest in the grass and sand above the tideline, and you can see them crossing the beach to the sea in small groups. Chicks are visible in the warmer months. Stay a few meters back and let them decide how close to come.
  2. Magellanic penguin burrows: In the tussock and dunes behind the sand, Magellanic penguins dig burrows from spring to early autumn. They are shy and often sit at the entrance, making a donkey-like bray that gives them the local nickname “jackass” penguin. Walk on marked tracks so you do not collapse a nest.
  3. Commerson’s dolphins in the surf: These compact black and white dolphins often swim just beyond the break, sometimes riding the waves. Park yourself on the sand near the water and wait. Binoculars help, but you often do not need them.
  4. The long sand walk: The beach runs for roughly two kilometers, and walking it end to end takes you from the penguin area to wide empty stretches with only oystercatchers and gulls for company. The sand is firm near the waterline, and the wind and surf cover your footsteps.
  5. Tidal flats and shorebirds: The shallows and wetlands behind the beach are the reason for the Ramsar listing. At low water, look for upland geese, kelp gulls, oystercatchers and other waders feeding in the mud. It is quiet birdwatching with no hide required, and early morning is calmest.
Start with the gentoo colony, because the birds are most active crossing the sand in the cooler hours of morning or late afternoon, and you want that time before the wind rises and tour vehicles arrive.
Spotted a mistake or missing something? Contact us.

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

  • Summer (November to February): Gentoo and Magellanic penguins are on land, chicks hatch from late November, and elephant seals haul out along the sand. Highs run 12 to 16°C (54 to 61°F), nights drop to 5 to 7°C (41 to 45°F), and daylight lasts roughly 16 to 17 hours. Cruise ship days bring the biggest crowds, and tour prices peak.
  • Autumn (March to May): Penguin chicks fledge and adults molt, so the colony is busy and noisy. Highs are 6 to 11°C (43 to 52°F), light fades fast, and the crowds are gone.
  • Winter (June to August): Most Magellanic penguins have left, though some gentoos stay. Highs are 2 to 5°C (36 to 41°F), frost and snow are common, and days shrink to 7 or 8 hours. Lodging and tours are quieter, but some operators close.
  • Spring (September to October): Penguins return from sea in October,
… read more 👉
  • Summer (November to February): Gentoo and Magellanic penguins are on land, chicks hatch from late November, and elephant seals haul out along the sand. Highs run 12 to 16°C (54 to 61°F), nights drop to 5 to 7°C (41 to 45°F), and daylight lasts roughly 16 to 17 hours. Cruise ship days bring the biggest crowds, and tour prices peak.
  • Autumn (March to May): Penguin chicks fledge and adults molt, so the colony is busy and noisy. Highs are 6 to 11°C (43 to 52°F), light fades fast, and the crowds are gone.
  • Winter (June to August): Most Magellanic penguins have left, though some gentoos stay. Highs are 2 to 5°C (36 to 41°F), frost and snow are common, and days shrink to 7 or 8 hours. Lodging and tours are quieter, but some operators close.
  • Spring (September to October): Penguins return from sea in October, the air is cold at 5 to 9°C (41 to 48°F), and wind is strong.
Aim for late November to early January for chicks, and book Stanley transport a week ahead.


source: climatestotravel.comJANJanuary: excellent for travelingFEBFebruary: excellent for travelingMARMarch: highly recommended for travelingAPRApril: highly recommended for travelingMAYMay: fair for travelingJUNJune: below average for travelingJULJuly: below average for travelingAUGAugust: below average for travelingSEPSeptember: good for travelingOCTOctober: highly recommended for travelingNOVNovember: highly recommended for travelingDECDecember: excellent for traveling
when-to-go

✈️ The backpacker research shortcutFalkland Islands Travel Guide

An offline-friendly backpacking guide with optimized travel routes, ranked highlights, transport advice, and the best areas to stay.
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🛏️ Where to stay?Where staying makes the most sense

Stanley is the place to stay, a little over an hour by road from Bertha’s Beach, and it is the only base with real choice for backpackers. The beach sits on Fitzroy Farm on the shore of Choiseul Sound, with no accommodation directly on the sand.

Within Stanley, the streets along the harbor waterfront, from the Falkland Islands Museum toward the Cathedral, put you near the pubs, the supermarket and the tour operators, so you can meet other travelers and arrange a ride to the beach. This is where nearly every budget bed is found, from dorm-style rooms to self-catering guesthouses with shared kitchens. … read more 👉
Stanley is the place to stay, a little over an hour by road from Bertha’s Beach, and it is the only base with real choice for backpackers. The beach sits on Fitzroy Farm on the shore of Choiseul Sound, with no accommodation directly on the sand.

Within Stanley, the streets along the harbor waterfront, from the Falkland Islands Museum toward the Cathedral, put you near the pubs, the supermarket and the tour operators, so you can meet other travelers and arrange a ride to the beach. This is where nearly every budget bed is found, from dorm-style rooms to self-catering guesthouses with shared kitchens. Cooking yourself saves a lot, since eating out is pricey. Expect roughly US$30 to 60 a night for a shared or basic room in high season, with prices rising sharply in summer when cruise ships are in port.

The east end of town near Ross Road is quieter and a short walk from the shops, a good choice if you want sleep over pub noise. A few farm stays and cottages sit closer to the peninsula for those with a car, but they cost more and fill up early.

Book early for December to February, because Stanley has limited beds and no cheap alternatives nearby.


Best quality hotels in Falkland Islands

👛 Costs (as of 19 October 2026)What things cost and how to budget

Visiting Bertha’s Beach in the Falkland Islands can be a rewarding experience, but it’s essential to be aware of the costs involved to avoid surprises.

First, getting to the Falkland Islands is a significant part of your budget. Flights from the UK typically range from $1,500 to $2,500 round-trip. If you’re coming from South America, expect prices to be slightly lower, around $800 to $1,500.

Once you arrive, transportation to Bertha’s Beach is crucial. If you’re renting a vehicle, daily rates can vary from $50 to $100, depending on the type of vehicle. Public transport options are limited, so plan accordingly.

Accommodation is another key factor. Basic guesthouses or hostels can cost between $50 and $100 per night. If you prefer more comfort, hotels may range from $150 to $300 per night. … read more 👉
Visiting Bertha’s Beach in the Falkland Islands can be a rewarding experience, but it’s essential to be aware of the costs involved to avoid surprises.

First, getting to the Falkland Islands is a significant part of your budget. Flights from the UK typically range from $1,500 to $2,500 round-trip. If you’re coming from South America, expect prices to be slightly lower, around $800 to $1,500.

Once you arrive, transportation to Bertha’s Beach is crucial. If you’re renting a vehicle, daily rates can vary from $50 to $100, depending on the type of vehicle. Public transport options are limited, so plan accordingly.

Accommodation is another key factor. Basic guesthouses or hostels can cost between $50 and $100 per night. If you prefer more comfort, hotels may range from $150 to $300 per night. Booking in advance can help secure better rates.

Food costs can add up quickly. Expect to spend around $15 to $30 per meal at local restaurants. If you opt for self-catering, groceries will be more economical, but prices can be higher than on the mainland.

Lastly, consider any additional activities or tours. Guided tours to explore the area can range from $50 to $200, depending on the length and inclusions.

Being aware of these costs will help you manage your budget effectively, allowing you to focus on enjoying the natural beauty of Bertha’s Beach without financial stress.


source: falklandislands.com
⚠️ Prices can change and everyone travels differently, so take this as a rough guide. Hope it helps you plan your adventure!

🛡️ SafetySafety Tips and Common Scams in Bertha’s Beach

Bertha’s Beach is a calm, low-risk stretch of white sand, and the main hazards are cold water and wind. The South Atlantic stays around 6 to 10°C (43 to 50°F) even in summer, so swimming is brief and most visitors just paddle. Waves can be strong when the wind turns, and there are no lifeguards or flag systems, so stay out of the surf if it looks heavy.

Weather shifts fast. Sun can feel mild while UV is surprisingly high, so bring sunscreen and sunglasses, along with windproof layers and a hat that stays on.

The real consideration is wildlife. Gentoo and Magellanic penguins and elephant seals use the beach, so keep a few meters back, never block their path to the water, and give seals more room, since they can bite. Dogs are not allowed on the reserve. Petty theft is rare here, though keep … read more 👉
Bertha’s Beach is a calm, low-risk stretch of white sand, and the main hazards are cold water and wind. The South Atlantic stays around 6 to 10°C (43 to 50°F) even in summer, so swimming is brief and most visitors just paddle. Waves can be strong when the wind turns, and there are no lifeguards or flag systems, so stay out of the surf if it looks heavy.

Weather shifts fast. Sun can feel mild while UV is surprisingly high, so bring sunscreen and sunglasses, along with windproof layers and a hat that stays on.

The real consideration is wildlife. Gentoo and Magellanic penguins and elephant seals use the beach, so keep a few meters back, never block their path to the water, and give seals more room, since they can bite. Dogs are not allowed on the reserve. Petty theft is rare here, though keep valuables out of sight in a parked car. Mobile coverage is patchy, so tell someone your plans.
Check Country Safety

FAQTraveler FAQ

Most travelers reach Bertha’s Beach from Stanley by guided tour or rental car. The drive takes a little over an hour, with the final stretch off-road across Fitzroy Farm, and 4x4 rental runs about US$70 to 120 a day. Tour operators in Stanley run half-day trips, often priced around US$60 to 100 per person, and there is no public bus.
Bertha’s Beach is best for wildlife watching and walking rather than swimming, surfing or snorkeling. The water stays around 6 to 10°C (43 to 50°F), so a dip is short and there are no lifeguards or rental shops. Surf breaks occasionally on the open beach but no surf scene exists, and snorkeling is uncommon because of cold water and limited visibility.
Bertha’s Beach is free to visit, with no entrance fee or ticket booth at the reserve. Your costs come from getting there, either a rental car at around US$70 to 120 a day or a Stanley tour at roughly US$60 to 100. Bring your own food and water, as there are no shops on site, and follow the posted guidance on keeping distance from penguins and seals.
⚠️ Things can change over time, so always validate details locally before you go.

Other Falkland Islander beaches near Bertha’s Beach

Explore more nearby:

  • Gypsy Cove—Magellanic burrows, boardwalk path, near Stanley, Ordnance Point guns| 46 km away
  • Surf Bay—Rolling Atlantic swell, low dunes, wetsuit surfers, Milky Way| 47 km away
  • Elephant Beach—Elephant seals, Falkland Sound shore, farmland access, night sky| 67 km away

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We 💚 feedbackKey takeaways before you go

Travelers often rush Bertha’s Beach, treating it as a photo stop between other sights. Give it at least two unhurried hours at the water’s edge. Sit low on the sand, stay still, and the penguins and dolphins come to you. I would pack a windproof shell, gloves and a packed lunch, and leave the swimsuit in Stanley.

✍️ Help improve this page!
The information on this page is based on in-depth research, insights shared by experienced travelers, and feedback from the local travel community in Falkland Islands. 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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This site is built on a combination of firsthand travel experience and carefully curated insights from other backpackers. Many guides are based on places I’ve personally visited, while others bring together tips, observations, and practical advice shared by trusted travelers I’ve met along the way.

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