When to visit Bermuda? Best seasons of the year to visit Bermuda

ArabiaWeather - Bermuda has stunning beaches bathed in clear blue waters, and it is the place where people come for the sun, sea and tranquility.

However, this small island in the middle of the Atlantic is more seasonal than many of its Caribbean counterparts. While summers are warm and dry, hurricane season and cooler weather keep many visitors away in the fall and winter. However, this is an ideal time for visitors on a budget, as prices drop significantly.

Whether you're coming for the sun, sports, local festivals or culture, here's a guide to the best times to visit Bermuda.

May to October is high season and the best time for a beach holiday

Air and ocean temperatures rise rapidly in the spring months in Bermuda, signaling the arrival of a warm summer. Highs range around 76°F in May before rising to above 80°F from June to October.

Although this may not seem overly high, you should not forget to check the UV index and humidity levels during your trip. The sun is strong during the height of summer, and you'll need to apply sunscreen every time you go outside. High humidity—typically 80 to nearly 100% from June to September—can make even short walks on the beach an effort.

This period of exceptionally warm and dry weather attracts crowds of tourists, so expect high hotel prices and crowded beaches. In peak summer, sea temperatures are similar to bath water – not only will you enjoy a cool, refreshing dip in July and August, but rather a thermal bath-like experience.

Tourism in Bermuda during March and April

Although the shoulder season is short and unpredictable, it runs from March to April. There is a lot on the cultural calendar but anything can happen in terms of weather. Average daytime temperatures range in the low 70s F, making it ideal for a quiet day at the beach when the sun shines, but may be less pleasant on a cloudy day.

If you've traveled to Bermuda in high season previously, the end of March or beginning of April is worth venturing out for a quiet island experience.

Possibly the beaches to yourself and the opportunity to stay at Bermuda's most popular resorts at a discounted price. However, for a first trip it is best to stick to high season for those perfect sunny days that Bermuda is famous for.

Tourism costs to Bermuda decline in November and December

Bermuda has low season! This often surprises people who have never visited before. Yes, Bermuda has a low season, characterized by low temperatures and regularly rainy and stormy days.

Visitors from the northern regions may not consider temperatures this time of year to be at all cold — on average, daytime highs are between 60°F and 70°F, sometimes dipping into the high 50s — but locals make do with heavy jackets and sweaters. You may smell smoke coming from the chimneys of island homes at this time of year.

The sun is still strong, but if you catch a warm front, you can enjoy Rum Swizzles (rum, juice, pomegranate syrup and bitters) on the waterfront, out on a boat or take a stroll on the beach. The biggest advantage of the fall season is the prices. Hotel prices fall from peak season levels, so you may be able to get a good deal.

The crowds are thinning out, but most businesses inside are operating their regular hours, including restaurants and bars. You might have a hard time finding something open on the beach, but the weather isn't ideal for spending time at the beach anyway.

Enjoy indoor activities, explore central Hamilton (or “the town” as residents like to call it) and enjoy the off-season and local atmosphere.

Hurricane season officially runs from June to November

The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30. Although Bermuda officially lies within the hurricane corridor, the island is usually affected by storms late in September and October, if at all.

Thanks to Bermuda's northern location and small size, head-on collisions are rare, so if you're on the island during a storm, you'll usually just need to prepare for heavy rain and strong winds. Of course, this varies each hurricane season, so stay tuned to National Weather Service updates for the latest information.

If the thought of a hurricane makes you nervous, try traveling at the beginning of peak season instead. Storms are very unlikely in May, June and July.

January is for undisturbed strolls on the beach

January can be so quiet that sometimes even locals don't know what to do. This is the month to wind down and take a walk on quiet beaches, enjoy one of the island's typical English pubs or tour some of the historic forts and museums. Athletic people come to challenge the Bermuda Triangle – a series of marathons that attracts athletes from all over the world.
Important events: Bermuda Triangle Challenge, start of Bermuda Restaurant Week.

February for food lovers

This is typically a rainy month with weather patterns similar to January. Fortunately, Bermuda Restaurant Week is in full swing, so you can have a great time sampling delicious dishes at Bermuda's most popular restaurants. Don't miss the fish soup with an extra splash of rum and sherry pepper at Harry's, the fish sandwich at Art Mills, or the fish and chips at the Astwood Arms.

Main Event: Bermuda Restaurant Week.

March is whale watching time

The cold of winter usually fades during the first two weeks of March, just in time for the start of the annual bustard whale migration. Take a cruise to watch from the sea as these huge creatures leap so close they can get splashed. Alternatively, set up a picnic on the beach and look up at the horizon – you can usually see whales jumping very close to shore with the naked eye.

April brings Easter celebrations

Whatever the timing of Easter, the island is lively with crispy cakes and pastel-coloured papers lined up in the shops. Follow the local leader and make a colorful kite to fly on Good Friday. The festival atmosphere is usually amplified thanks to the warm, sunny weather.
Main Events: Easter, annual Pepper Party.

May is the official start of summer

May 24 (Bermuda Day) is the official start of summer, and many locals won't be diving in the ocean before this date. As for tourists, May 1 is considered the beginning of the high season. There are plenty of outdoor activities available, and 'Hamilton Harbor Nights' runs through October with booths and live entertainment every Wednesday evening on Front Street.
Key events: International Racing Week, Bermuda Day, start of “Port Nights” in Hamilton.

June sees peak sun hours and prices

Expect warm, dry days from now on with humidity gradually rising to 80% or more during the rest of the summer.

Hotel prices rise, beaches get crowded, and the harbors empty on weekends as locals and tourists take to the water for boating activities, from stopping on tubes to diving and drinking on “clusters of boats tied together or anchored in a line on the sand beach.”

Sailors gather for the annual Newport Bermuda Race, while landers participate in the Bermuda Carnival.
Key Events: Bermuda Champions Holiday, Newport Bermuda Race, Bermuda Carnival.

July is dedicated to beaches and fishing

Summer celebrations continue with locals and visitors spending as much time outdoors as possible. The sun is warm during these months, but nothing can cool things off like an iced Rum Swizzle. Sports fishermen come for the three-part Bermuda Triple Crown Billfish Tournament, beginning with the Bermuda Billfish Blast Championship.
Main Events: Match Cup (if not in August), Bermuda Billfish Blast Championship.

August is the liberation of Bermuda

Bermuda's Emancipation features a four-day holiday that is the culmination of summer festivities. The annual Match Cup cricket match attracts fans of all ages, while beach trips and boat parties such as the 'Mangrove Bay House Float' attract those more keen on taking a break from work. If you are visiting during the holiday, buy groceries early as most stores and businesses are closed for the festivities.
Main events: Bermuda Cup match, Emancipation Day (sometimes late July), barge float, sand sculpting competition.

September is the time to celebrate gombe culture

While Labor Day is the end of summer in the United States, Bermuda is still burning hot in September. This month is a good option for visitors looking for smaller gatherings. Tourism tends to subside, although locals remain enthusiastic and enjoying every last moment of the sunny weather. The island celebrates Gombe culture this month with dances, boot walks, festival food and music from Gombe bands.
Main Events: Bermuda Gumby Festival.

October is great for quiet beaches

Beach monitors are still on duty through October, which means beach days are still quite possible, although beach visitors begin to taper off toward the end of the month. While there is a threat of storms, you will still find some sunny days if you come during the peak period.
Important Events: City Food Festival, End of Harbor Nights.

November is a good month for bargains and golfers

You may experience a nice, sunny November, or you may have a rainy and wet vacation. The weather is always up for grabs in November, but low flight and hotel prices make this month ideal for affordable trips. Check the weather a week in advance, and if things look good, see if you can find a last-minute deal. For golf enthusiasts, the Butterfield Championship is held in town.
Main Events: Butterfield Championship, World Rugby Classic.

December sees low temperatures and low prices

If you're visiting in December, prepare for cooler weather and a fun and festive atmosphere. Christmas lights decorate the palms and rubber Santas decorate the boat sticks. The weather is usually sunny and pleasant, although there are some cool breezes in the evening.
Key Events: National Assembly Christmas Walking Tour, Christmas Boat Parade, Golf for Good Tournament (sometimes held in November).

Source: lonelyplanet