Best time to visit Bermuda
Facts to know before you decide
Like most travel destinations, although Bermuda has its own tourist "season", the island is quite unique because it has its captivation throughout the year. Thus, once you know what the island has to offer and identify where your own interests lie, you can plan a trip in accordance to that.
The island is an amazing melting pot of attractions with a colorful pallet of pink beaches, turquoise waters and lush green fauna, great opportunities for water sports and activities like snorkeling and swimming, a warm camaraderie amongst the local population, a rich cultural heritage replete with ceremonies and traditions that lend an old world feel to it.
Most who plan a vacation on an island, naturally look forward to the warm weather, the beaches, sand and water. However the island has its own charm and there is something here for everyone all year around. So, you might be there for the weekend only and just looking forward to snorkeling or the vast golf courses might be your calling and that's all that might lure you to the island. The warm tropical weather might be what you want to get away to or you are planning your annual family holiday and are on a limited budget, so high season is not exactly your priority.
Bermuda weather can be broadly categorized into two: Summer and Winter, with brief spells of spring and fall which comprise of the "shoulder seasons". There is no specific rainy season here and it mostly receives rain in intermittent spurts. Below, is a detailed picture of what each season has on offer which you can take into account and zero in on the time of the year which suits you best.
Weather data sourced from Bermuda Weather Service (weather.bm)
85% of the tourists visiting Bermuda are from the USA. Rest are mostly from UK and Canada, while a small number visit from other countries. Over 680,000 tourists visit Bermuda every year out of which a large number (nearly two-third) by cruise. And when do you think they all come and swamp the island? Obviously when it's warm and sunny out there. But there are many who prefer the off season or the winter time as well, because the island is free of crowd and in its serene best then.
March to April
BEST OVERALL VALUE
March to April is actually a great time to visit Bermuda as the temperature starts to warm up from 60s to the 70s. Although water is not yet warm enough for a swim, beaches are beautiful for a sun-bath. There are sparse tourists, and you can enjoy the beaches and the island attractions without having to face a rush. Rates for hotels, sightseeing tours and flights are also lower during March and April compared to the summers. Some cruises to Bermuda also start operating from April.
So if you are looking for a balance on all aspects including lower rates, pleasant weather, low tourist rush and hence much lesser queues, then March to April is the best time to visit. However, if your main inspiration is water based activities like swimming, snorkeling or diving, then choose the summers.
May to October
BEST BEACH WEATHER
May to October is the summer season and the beach time in Bermuda. This is the time when the weather is at its best. The day temperature averages to high 80s (°F) and at night it comes down to high 60s. The mornings are great and warm, evenings are romantic and the nights are cool.
However, summer is also the high tourist season in Bermuda when most tourists arrive. Bermuda has a resident population of about 65,000, and during summers, tourists numbering well over 10 times this population arrive (mostly cruise passengers on short stays) and flood the island.
Although cruises and flights operate regularly during the entire summer season, June to September is usually the busiest time in summer. This is when water temperature rises to 80s and humidity remains at low 80s. Summers being the most popular time to visit the island, is also when prices (of tours, hotels etc) are at their peak.
The official summer season begins on
Bermuda Day (which is usually on May 24). During summer all the beaches in Bermuda get alive with a lot of beach activities. Numerous operators swing into play offering island and boating tours, water sport activities etc. And many festivals and night time entertainment take place in the island during this time. But remember that this tiny island gets flooded with visitors around this time. So most of the public places including the beaches will be quite crowded.
Why visit during the Summers
The warm waters of the Atlantic during the summer months is a great attraction for swimmers and snorkelers. Snorkeling in Bermuda is a very popular water activity. Its
beautiful beaches, bays, reefs and shipwrecks around the island, a thriving marine life and stunningly clear waters provide ample opportunity and allure to snorkelers for an underwater adventure. You have the option to do both beachside and offshore snorkeling. There are several boat tour operators and guides who can help you with the offshore snorkeling around the island. For more details visit
Snorkeling in Bermuda.
Cliff Jumping in Bermuda is another popular summer activity, although adequate safety measures need to be taken or this could prove quite dangerous. Some of the popular spots to pursue this is Admiralty House Park at Spanish Point Road (Hamilton), Castle Island, The Blue Hole Lake or The Diving Board island.
Rock Climbing is a lesser known summer activity in Bermuda. However it offers a thrilling avenue for rock climbers to venture out. Deep Water Soloing (DWS) is a popular form of climbing that experienced climbers can do here. Clarence Cove in Admiralty House Park is a great spot for rock climbing.
The copious abundance of marine life here means great catches for deep sea anglers. You can also try your hand at shore fishing and reef fishing. Fishing is pursued as a sport in Bermuda and a number of fishing tournaments and competitions also take place here. Visit
Bermuda fishing for complete details.
Bermuda Billfish Blast is a fishing sport which is held every year in Bermuda for anglers. It is stretched over three days and is a fun competition with exciting prizes to be won.
Sightseeing and Sunset Cruises also is a great way to make the most of the balmy summer days in Bermuda. There are several boat tours and catamaran sails to pick from. You can enjoy from here, the breathtaking view of the different hues of the Atlantic waters, the setting sun and the fiery streaked sky culminating in the horizon.
You can also go for the Happy Hour cruises that take place every Friday aboard a yacht where you can witness the beauteous sunset accompanied with signature island cocktails and DJ performances. Few of such options include the Uber Vida which is a yacht (#1 Dock, Front Street, Hamilton, +1 (441) 236-2222) or
Calico Jack's Pirate Ship Floating Bar at Royal Naval Dockyard which is a floating bar with an upbeat pirate themed party on board.
Watch the glow worms, a unique experience available only in the summertime in Bermuda. During the mating season, the glow worms who live on the ocean bed most of the time, come to the ocean surface exactly 56 minutes after sunset on the third night after full moon, and radiate an amazingly luminous green light to attract its mates. The unbelievable spectacle is something we would all want on our bucket list. Take your children to watch this magically beautiful sight from a glass bottomed boat.
There are various events/festivals in Bermuda which take place in the summertime and are often tourist attractions in themselves.
The
Bermuda Day parade which is usually held on May 24 every year, is a day of revelry and celebration among the islanders and make for a beautiful spectacle for tourists. You will get a glimpse of the island's tradition as the streets of Hamilton fills with traditional dancing, music and festivities.
Harbor nights in Hamilton is a great way to spend your summer evenings while in the capital. Held on Wednesday nights usually from April through to September, they close Front Street along the harbor to traffic. Local artisans, craftsmen, vendors, entertainers and performers take to the street from 7pm to 10pm exhibiting their wares and talents. About a half mile stretch is where you can enjoy some shopping for local wares and gifts to take back home, plenty of delicious local food to dig into, amazing performances of the
traditional Gombey Dance and indulge in the local drinks Rum Swizzle and Dark n’ Stormy.
Bermudians take their cricket very seriously.
Bermuda Cup Match is a two day summer event when the two arch rivals St. George’s and Somerset take to the cricket grounds for a face off. The first day of the cup match also coincides with Emancipation day which depicts a momentous event in the history of the island- the abolition of slavery here in 1834. The revelry and festivities extend over the weekend with special concerts and a raft-up party at Mangrove Bay.
November to February
GREAT TIME TO KNOW CULTURE
The low season in Bermuda is the winter time between November to February. The temperature varies between high 60s to low 60s. The day time is pleasantly cool although you will need jackets in early mornings and late evenings.
This time in Bermuda however has its own advantages. The first is that there are hardly any tourists, so there is so much space for you and whole Bermuda looks so much more attractive and serene. One thing though, most tours and several tourist attractions remain closed during winter time. However, winter is a great time to play golf and you will get reduced fees during this time.
Why visit during the winters
Several attractions continue to remain open in winter like the National Museum at the dockyard, Botanical Gardens in Paget, Bermuda Aquarium Museum and Zoo, Art Galleries, Crystal and Fantasy Caves complex and more. So there are still lot to see actually.
The beaches look so beautiful being spared of tourists. Although water temperature during winter may not be comfortable for a swim, you can wear a wetsuit and swim, snorkel or even dive. And water visibility during winter is far higher than summer.
The rates offered by hotels, tour operators and others during this time can be as low as 50% of the peak rates. Services are so much better everywhere during this time.
Bermuda is a golfer's paradise and golfing in Bermuda during winter is superb and it's that much easier to get tee times due to less visitors. Its golf culture is a big attraction to golf lovers from all over the world. The weather also at this time is favorable for a wonderful round of the sport. Visit
Golf in Bermuda for details on the several clubs and golf courses in Bermuda.
Cycling is another major attraction during the winter months in Bermuda. You can explore beautiful trails biking around the island and get up close with its exotic nature at your own pace. Trails with scenic landscapes or those with rocky ridges, the island has a vast variety to offer. The more difficult trails are mostly on the eastern side of the island. Visit
Cycling in Bermuda and Bike Rentals for details.
If you are in the
Town of St. George around this time, The National Trust Christmas Walkabout is something to lookout for. The enactors dressed in period clothing take to the streets with lit candles. There is carol singing on the road and you get a taste of its charming old world feel. Festivities begin in November and the whole town is lit up beautifully with entertainment and performances at King's Square. Christmas service is held at the beautiful St. Peter's Church and the New year is welcomed with the traditional onion drop ceremony.
The Bermuda Marathon weekend is an annual affair held in January. It is a weekend complete with the jogging/running, award ceremonies and festivities.
Bermuda World Rugby Classic is an event which ensnares the world's top rugby athletes here. The matches take place at the Bermuda National Sports Center in Devonshire, just outside the City of Hamilton. This is usually held in the month of November and is an attraction for those who are interested in the game and a little mingling with the players afterward and also those who are not much of a lover of the sport as the amazing party ambiance at the venue is reason enough to go.
The Annual Peppercorn Ceremony takes place in April in the town of St. George. This is a traditional affair attended by Bermuda's senior government officials and dignitaries. It has its roots embedded in the island's rich history with very British undertones and makes for an unique experience for tourists.
The Bermuda International Film Festival also takes place around March/April on the island. Various international films including documentaries and short films are screened across various theatres. Panel discussions and workshops are also held.
Shopping around this time in Bermuda is a great pleasure as most stores go empty being devoid of tourists. Go through
Bermuda shopping and the best stores for a detailed view on what Bermuda has to offer to its shoppers.
So if you like a little solitude, not so crowded beaches, better opportunity to enjoy Bermudian hospitality, quiet streets - then low season in Bermuda during the winter may just be the right time for you. Visit
Bermuda in Winter for more ideas.
Few things to keep in mind
Hurricanes
Hurricane season in Bermuda starts in June and lasts until November. Going by historical data, September and October are the months which are most prone to hurricanes. However, severe storms or hurricanes are only occasional and hit the island once in 6-7 years on an average.
Bermuda has also prepared itself well to minimize damages from hurricanes. Bermuda's buildings are designed to withstand most hurricanes and storms. These days with the advanced weather forecasting systems, hurricane warnings are issued several days in advance. However, if a strong storm or hurricane is forecasted, the flight and cruise schedules can get affected.
Rains in Bermuda
There is no specific rainy season in Bermuda. It can shower anytime but mostly in short spurts. While it rains in one part of the island, other areas may remain completely sunny. However if you are caught in a whole day of grey weather, there is still plenty that you can do and explore on the island.
A day at the
Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute is a great idea to view their amazing exhibits, underwater life, interesting displays relating to The Bermuda Triangle and the America's Cup sailing race and much more. Complete with a good restaurant and a gift and souvenir shop, you can spend a well rounded day under one roof.
The
Crystal and Fantasy caves make for a great visit. The beautiful formations out of limestone are a sight to behold. However if you are not physically fit, avoid going here as there are 88 steep steps to reach to the bottom. You can take a short walk from here and reach the famous pub
Swizzle Inn and indulge in local cocktails and fares. You can try the Rum Swizzle which is the island's famous drink and if you are in time for lunch, try the famous Fish sandwich or swizzleburger or even the amazing platter of seafood that they have on offer.
You can also visit the Bermuda Rum Cake Company in Sandys parish and spend the day sampling some of the famous
Bermuda rum cakes. The establishment also houses the
Bermuda Dockyard Glassworks which is a working studio that produces unique glass pieces which you can buy and also interact with the artistes. All in all, it would mean a rainy afternoon well spent!
The
Bermuda Perfumery in St. George is also a place to visit and have a day well spent attending the workshop here on creating your own unique fragrance. A one of a kind experience, the ingredients used are only the local flowers, corals etc which also in a sense is a memory of the island that you get to carry back home with you.
Recommended Resource
If you are visiting Bermuda, check out the
Bermuda eBooks... you can make a great vacation plan in Bermuda and know about the best attractions, guided and self-guided tours, water sports and other activities, great dining, shopping and nightlife options, vacation tips and lot more.
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I planned to surprise my 2 sisters with a Dec. trip to Bermuda, when the prices are so reasonable. One sister says that it's too cold and windy then to spend time at the beaches (we'd be sitting, enjoying the beauty, not swimming, anyway), and that things aren't open then, as they are in high season.
My question is: Is December a bad time to come? What attractions would be open/ closed Christmas week? Also, if it's a good time, any recommendations on hotels? I found what looks like a very good place to stay, in a package deal, including airfare, and 6 nights at the Grotto Bay Resort, between Christmas and New Year's Day. Any advice on these matters will be greatly appreciated. Thank you.
Karen Seymour
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Hi Karen,
December in Bermuda has its own charm. Beaches are empty for a change and they are all yours to enjoy. Sure the water will be a little too cold to swim. But if you love to lounge in the sun and enjoy the beauty, this is a great time. Take some warm clothes though.
While some attractions in Bermuda may remain closed and some tour operators may not work, there are enough for you to see and enjoy for 6 days. Most of the key attractions like the Aquariums, Caves, Dockyard Museum etc. should remain open (except on Christmas Day) and you will always find some tour operators working.
Winter is also the ideal time to walk and take self-guided tours that are often difficult to do in the summer humidity. I have discussed some of such great walking tours in my section under Bermuda Tours and Excursions. You will find that link on the left menu bar of my website.
Grotto Bay Beach Resort has been our personal favorite. This is one of the only remaining resorts that still offers all inclusive packages in the island. The resort has its own private beach and two of the great caves (Prosperos and Cathedral).
The only thing that you need to consider is its location which is in Hamilton Parish and next to the Causeway at the eastern side of the island. While this is quite close to the airport, it's quite some distance away from the great South Shore beaches like the Horseshoe Bay and Warwick Long Bay. If this doesn't bother you much, then go for it. In any case Bermuda is really small and no distance is a big distance. All the best.
Raj (bermuda-attractions.com)
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Hello,
I really enjoyed the wealth of information you provide on this site. We are considering a trip to Bermuda sometime between late January to mid-February. I am just not sure of what kind of weather we can count on AND if swimming in the ocean is possible. I read somewhere that it is too cold to swim at this time of year.
I also read that many of the rentals (re: water related rentals) and shops are closed during the winter season. We have a 4 year old son so I certainly want to make sure that we can swim and find enough activities to occupy him. Is any of this true? Any comments/advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks
Tracey
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Hi Tracey,
Jan/Feb is the time when there are hardly any tourists around and you can really enjoy Bermuda and its empty beaches. However, the water temperature during this time is quite low (averages around 65 degree F). So you may need some wet suits if you are planning long swims or snorkel.
Check out the links below for expected weather conditions in Jan and Feb.
Horseshoe Bay Beach rentals should remain open. That's the best beach to enjoy during the winter. Usually the concessions and beach facilities remain closed in the other beaches. Tobacco Bay Beach (in St. George's) is also another one you can try.
For shopping, the Clock Tower Mall at the dockyard remains open. All the major shops in Hamilton City also remain open during this time, however some may operate at reduced hours. Shops in St. George's generally remain closed during the winter time.
Hope this helps! Have a great time in Bermuda.
Raj (bermuda-attractions.com)
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Hi! I'm thinking about going to Bermuda from 26th March to 6th April. I'd be mostly on my own since I'd be staying at a friend's but he would be at work most of the time I'm there. I'd like to do some sightseeing, whale watching, diving or snorkeling (if possible for total beginners) and be able to spend a couple of hours at the beach every now and then without freezing, being able to swim for at least one warm hour a day would be great. So my question is if u think I can do these things - and on my own by foot and bus - in that time of the year. I've been reading and looking for the answer but the talk is always about winter or summer and I'd be going in spring I guess so,..help please? Thank u! :-) Greetings
Cibu
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Hello Cibu,
The reason you don't find much mention about the spring in Bermuda is because the temperature (both air and water) remains quite cold and more or less the same between December to April, and hovers around 60s (degree F). So March/April is considered an extended winter. If you carry a wet suite, you should be able to swim and snorkel. Remember, the water visibility is the best during the winter time (150 - 200 ft). So snorkeling can be a great experience. But your main options would be beachside snorkeling as most cruise operators offering offshore snorkeling would close their operations by then due to low tourist season.
You can easily get around the island on your own. While the ferry services would slow down, but bus services would remain the same and you can reach out to any point easily by bus. Just get hold of a Bus Route Map and a Bermuda Map from a Visitors Information Center (VIC). Or check out: Bermuda Bus Routes and Destinations
Buy a Bus/ferry pass (you get them for 1, 2, ... 7 days, month etc) and you get unlimited rides... this is the most economical way or getting around the island rather than buying point to point tickets. You will get it at any VIC or Post Office. You haven't mentioned the place/location of your stay. So I can't comment on how easy it would be to access the beaches. The bus #7 goes by all the best south shore beaches along Warwick, Southampton and Paget parishes. It operates between Hamilton City and the Dockyard (in Sandys). Have a great trip!
Raj (bermuda-attractions.com)
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I want to come to bermuda in early October. Is that too late in the season? Will you still offer Bell diving? Are there any reasons that is "too late" to come?
Erick Bothun
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Hi,
Early October is a good time. The low season starts only from early November when the cruise season also comes to an end. And virtually everything in the island (like tourist attractions, outfitters, operators etc) are aligned to the cruise season and stay open when the cruise ships are in port. So there is no reason for early October being too late to come. In fact the only Helmet Diving (i.e. Bell Diving) operation in the island Hartley's also operates regularly until early November. Regards,
Raj (bermuda-attractions.com)
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Hi My husband turns 40! (Yikes - big milestone )- this coming March. And, I'd like to do something very special by booking a holiday in Bermuda. Like some of the others who have written, I am concerned about the weather, because we would want to go to the beach. We are from New England so water temps in the 60s are better than we get in August. So, we are used to swimming in cold water. But, are the air temps during the day warm enough for us to dry-off and be laying out on the beach? You say March is an extended winter, but isn't it warming up a little bit compared to December - February? I have seen some estimates at nearly 70. An article that says March and April are the best months to go. US news wrote an article which says March is one of the best times to visit Bermuda because the weather is warming up. Would you agree with that? Thanks for writing this helpful blog.
Amanda
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I like Bermuda in March because it's still free of tourists and the temperature starts showing some signs of warming up. However it's still much cooler compared to summer. But you don't sweat in high humidity when you take the long nature or village walks. You will mostly find few local children on the beaches and very few tourists. Remember that Bermuda Day (which is usually on May 24th) marks the formal beginning of summer for the locals when many Bermudians take a dip into the water for the first time in the year.
Although water remains a bit cold in March, one can swim though (better with a swim suit if one is not used to such water temperature). The average water temperature remains in mid 60s and so does the air temperature. But on a sunny day (March is mostly sunny), it's quite comfortable actually to lay on the beach and dry off. So while March is by no means the best swimming season in the island, but it can still be a wonderful time to visit the island when you look at combination of things.
Raj (bermuda-attractions.com)
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Hi me and my partner are thinking of coming to Bermuda for our honeymoon around middle of Sept - beginning on October. Is this a good time to come for good weather and things going on. Many thanks
Kate
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Hi, high season in Bermuda continues until October. So yes mid September or early October is certainly a very good time to visit Bermuda as most attractions remain open and tours operate. However Harbor Nights festival usually end by 1st week of September as it requires substantial tourists (and therefore consumers) to operate. Weather is also quite comfortable around this time. It's warm at day time although cools down at night. Crowd would start thinning out in October. Overall a great time to visit.
Raj (bermuda-attractions.com)
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 By Raj Bhattacharya
Raj, a seasoned travel writer and Bermuda destination expert, has extensive global travel experience. This website reflects his profound insights, garnered over nearly two decades of dedicated findings and research on the island. Raj has assisted countless Bermuda-bound visitors by providing direct, personalized responses to their queries and imparting his wealth of knowledge through this platform. This site serves as an indispensable guide for those seeking informed and reliable insights into Bermuda's treasures.
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