When packing your Bermuda wardrobe, think smart-casual. The atmosphere of the island is still imbued with British reserve and decorous informality. Proper island style is the prevailing rule, whether you are swimming at the beach or walking through town. It’s this classic sense of light-hearted decorum that makes Bermuda different from many tropical destinations.
Beach Dress
Bathing suits, abbreviated tops and short shorts may be worn at our beaches and pools, but a cover-up is a good idea when off the beach. The beaches are relaxed, but there are no public nude or semi-nude beaches on the island.
Restaurant Dress
Casual sportswear may be worn at lunchtime, but many dining establishments and nightclubs ask gentlemen to wear button up shirts in the evenings. When making dinner reservations, it’s always wise to check on dress requirements.
What to Wear: Season by Season
It’s often said that Bermuda has just two seasons: summer and winter. This makes our seasons easier to define, but there’s some nuance, too.
Here’s a quick guide to seasons in Bermuda:
Summer
From May to October, the days are warm. Expect blue skies and white fluffy clouds. Occasional showers are typically brief (and welcome). The sun sets around 8-9 pm.
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Daywear: swimsuits, summer-weight sports clothes, light windbreaker/rain jacket, hats, flip-flops
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Eveningwear: smart-casual summer dresses, light sweaters, light sports jacket, light cotton pants
Fall
Fall brings the magical months of October and November – warm temperatures linger, making for perfect weather to extend your summer season. Pack for summer, but bring a pullover or light fleece, too.
Winter
While you may see some Bermudians sporting Uggs and hats, don’t let the "winter gear" fool you.
Winter is something of a misnomer, as temperatures from November to April average a balmy 70 degrees Fahrenheit, 21 degrees Celsius during the day and dip to the 60s (Fahrenheit) at night. Winds can blow from time to time, making the air feel cooler.
- Daywear: sweaters/fleeces, light woollens or fall-weight casuals, light rain jacket, coat, swimsuit, walking shoes or sneakers
- Eveningwear: dressy sweaters, long-sleeved dresses, suits, sports jacket
Spring
Much of Bermuda’s flora blossoms year-round, but there’s a noticeable spurt in the growth of many wildflowers, harbingers of the new season. Pack for summer, but toss a light windbreaker or fleece in the bag, too.
