Saint David's Island

Saint David's Island

St. Davids Island is one of the main islands of Bermuda, situated in the north of the archipelago. The island's unique location has played a significant role in its rich history, which dates back to the early 17th century when it was first inhabited by British colonizers. The original size of the island was 2.04 square kilometers. It was enlarged during World War II, in 1942, to 2.63 square kilometers through land reclamation and the incorporation of Long Bird Island and Cooper's Island to make room for a United States military base. This base, which occupied more than half of the island under a 99-year lease, was later renamed Kindley Air Force Base and USNAS Bermuda. In 1995, the base was closed and returned to Bermuda. Geographically, St. Davids Island is characterized by its rugged terrain, with numerous hills and valleys that provide a stunning backdrop to its picturesque villages and pristine beaches. The island's landscape is dotted with historic landmarks, including the iconic St. Davids Lighthouse, which has been guiding mariners safely into Bermuda's waters since 1879. Other island attractions include St. David's Head, Bermuda's easternmost point, and the adjacent St. David's Battery on Great Head, L.F. Wade International Airport, as well as Annie's Bay on Cooper's Island. The British colonists named the island in honor of Saint David, the patron saint of Wales, as the equally sized Saint George's Island to the north was named after the patron saint of England.