Elbow Beach
Named because its gentle curve bears a similarity to an elbow, it’s one of the closest beaches to Hamilton and is divided into two sections. The eastern section has extensive facilities reserved for the use of guests of the Elbow Beach hotel, whilst the area to the west is public with fewer amenities. Guests of the hotel access their section directly, whilst the public should take Tribe Road # 4 which begins at the sharp bend on South Road just west of the Elbow Beach hotel entrance.
There are no lifeguards on duty at the public section, but the coral reefs lying just off the shoreline provide a certain degree of protection from dangerous currents. The wreck of the Pollockshields lies offshore opposite the Elbow Beach hotel and a good swimmer could easily snorkel out. For a more leisurely trip rent an underwater scooter from Blue Water Divers & Watersports. They have a concession at the hotel and can organise kayak tours and rentals, diving etc. for both guests and non-guests of the hotel.
The proximity of Elbow Beach to Hamilton means that it’s very popular with both locals and tourists. Although it’s good for swimming, many locals take a stroll or run along the beach after finishing work. Volleyball games are also held here in the early evening. There are no changing facilities at the public section but there are toilets.
In the summer Dinty’s Lunch Wagon parks at the bottom of Tribe Road # 4 serving fast food, snacks and cold drinks.