14 Things Tourists Always Get Wrong About Bermuda

Cotton-candy beaches, turquoise water, and pastel cottages under a bright sun are dazzling in photos; however, you might think you know Bermuda until you arrive and realize it’s so much better than you imagined.

Bermuda has its own rhythm, quirks, and quiet beauty. In this article you’ll discover the 14 most common misunderstandings tourists have about Bermuda.

The Bermuda Triangle Is a Big Deal Here

To locals, the Bermuda Triangle is barely a footnote. While its mystery draws plenty of tourist intrigue, it’s not something you’ll find mentioned much on the island. It’s more of a pop-culture myth than a cultural reference. If you’re hoping for themed tours or haunted museums, you might be disappointed.

Bermuda Is in the Caribbean

This is hands down the biggest myth. Bermuda is not in the Caribbean; it’s in the North Atlantic Ocean, roughly 600 miles east of North Carolina. It shares a tropical vibe but has a completely different climate, culture, and history. Mistaking its location leads to mismatched packing, false expectations about the weather, and even confusion at the airport.

It’s Always Warm Enough to Swim

That picture-perfect ocean may look inviting year-round, but the water doesn’t always match the image. Winter in Bermuda (December to March) brings cooler temperatures, often ranging from 68 Fahrenheit to 70 Fahrenheit. You’ll still get sun, but the breeze can be brisk. Most locals avoid the beach during this time; even hotel pools might be too cold for comfort.

You Can Rent a Car to Explore

Tourists aren’t permitted to rent standard cars in Bermuda. The island has strict limits on private vehicles to avoid congestion and protect its narrow, winding roads. Instead, you’ll get around via electric minicars, scooters or mopeds, taxis, or public buses.

You’ll Need to Exchange Your U.S. Dollars

U.S. dollars are accepted everywhere in Bermuda at equal value to the Bermudian dollar. Both currencies are used interchangeably, although your change might come in local bills and coins. Just note that while the dollars are equal, the island itself is not cheap.

Bermuda Is a Shopper’s Paradise

Almost everything on the island is imported and taxed heavily. This drives up the cost of goods, including clothes, electronics, and toiletries. While you might find unique souvenirs or handmade items, Bermuda is not the place to score outlet deals or duty-free shopping.

Bermuda Shorts Are a Joke

Bermuda shorts are a formal dress code here. They’re not only real, they’re respected. Local businessmen wear them with tailored jackets, crisp shirts, and knee-high socks. It’s not a tourist gimmick but a symbol of national style and pride. So if you see someone in a blazer and shorts, know you’re looking at a professional, not a beach bum.

The Island Is So Small, You Can See It in a Day

It’s only 21 miles long, but that doesn’t mean it’s quick to conquer. Bermuda is made up of seven parishes, each with its own character. Traveling between them takes time due to winding roads and slower speed limits. If you try to rush it, you’ll miss out on hidden gems like local art galleries, coastal trails, and centuries-old churches.

Every Beach Has That Famous Pink Sand

The pink color comes from tiny crushed coral and shells. It’s stunning, but rare. Only a few selected beaches have pink sand. You’ll find it at places like Horseshoe Bay, Warwick Long Bay, and Elbow Beach, but many others are simply white or golden. Beautiful, yes, but not Instagram’s favorite shade.

All There Is to do Is Sit on The Beach

You might think Bermuda begins and ends with its famous pink-sand beaches, but there’s a lot more happening onshore. The island is home to historic towns, underground caves, botanical gardens, art museums, and centuries-old fortresses. You can wander through cobblestone streets in St. George’s, tour old naval dockyards, or explore underground pools in the Crystal Caves. Bermuda offers more than a sun lounger and ocean breeze; it invites you into its story.

You Can Swim with Dolphins or Stingrays Like in Other Islands

Bermuda takes a different, more conservation-minded approach. Interactive marine experiences are tightly controlled here. You won’t find dolphin shows or stingray feeding stations like on cruise-heavy islands. Instead, Bermuda offers snorkeling tours, eco-boat excursions, and protected reserves where marine life thrives naturally, without constant human contact.

It’s Only for Retirees and Couples

Bermuda attracts more solo travelers, digital nomads, and active adventurers than ever. Whether you’re into sailing, cliff jumping, hiking, or underground cave tours, there’s something beyond the beach towel. Even the local food scene has evolved with a burst of new chefs and small-batch rum producers.

Driving Around Will Be a Breeze

Think again. Driving in Bermuda means adjusting to the left side of the road, maneuvering through tight turns and blind corners, and watching for scooters, schoolchildren, and the occasional roaming chicken. With speed limits rarely exceeding 25 mph, the pace stays slow, and even locals drive with care.

Locals Are Always Happy to Share Their Island

Hospitality doesn’t mean tolerance for tourist oversteps. Bermudians are warm, but they value privacy and respect. Don’t blast music on public beaches, fly drones near neighborhoods, or take photos without asking. Small courtesies go a long way in making real connections.

Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.

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