Bermuda Weather in March: Temperatures, What to Pack and Whale Watching Season

 

 

March in Bermuda is a true transition month. The winter chill starts lifting, but you are not quite in summer territory yet. If you are flying in expecting blistering tropical heat, you will be disappointed. 

 

However, if you want perfect weather for hiking, golfing, and watching 40-ton humpback whales breach offshore, March is spectacular. 

 

Typical Bermuda weather in March 

 

 

At a Glance: Bermuda in March

 

 

 

Quick Answers for March

 

 

Is it warm enough to swim? Only if you are very brave or wearing a wetsuit. 

 

What should I pack? Layers are mandatory. Bring a windbreaker, light sweaters for the evening, and long pants. 

 

Where are the whales? Humpback whales migrate past the South Shore in March. Book a whale watching boat tour early, as they sell out fast. 

 

Who This is For, and Who Should Skip

 

March is great for active travelers. Golfers love the cool, dry fairways at Port Royal Golf Course. Hikers get perfect mid-60s temperatures for walking the scenic trails. 

 

It is also a great time for budget-conscious travelers. Hotel rates are noticeably lower before the summer peak season begins in May. 

 

You should skip March if you want a classic, hot beach vacation. You will not be lounging in a bikini all day. If your main goal is swimming in warm ocean water, delay your trip until June. 

 

Is it Warm Enough for the Beach and Swimming?

 

The short answer is no. The Atlantic Ocean water temperature hovers around 67 F in March. Most locals will not even look at the water until late May. 

 

However, the beaches are still stunning and entirely empty. You can walk the sands of South Shore Park Trail without seeing another soul. 

 

If you plan to scuba dive or snorkel, the water visibility in March is incredible, often exceeding 150 feet. You will absolutely need a 5mm to 7mm wetsuit to stay comfortable. 

 

The Wildlife Highlight: Peak Whale Watching Season

 

March brings the greatest natural show of the year. Thousands of humpback whales migrate directly past the southern coast. They travel from their Caribbean breeding grounds up to feeding grounds in the North Atlantic. 

 

You can sometimes spot them from the cliffs near South Shore Park. Look for the white splashes of breaching whales on the horizon. 

 

For the best experience, you need to get on a boat. Local operators run dedicated whale watching tours throughout March. These trips are highly weather-dependent, so book them for the first few days of your vacation. 

 

What Surprised Me the Most

 

The wind is the biggest wildcard in March. The island experiences its highest average wind speeds of the year, hitting around 15 knots. 

 

When the air temperature is 68 F, a 15-knot wind makes it feel much colder. This is especially true if you rent a scooter. 

 

Always check the wind direction before planning your day. If the wind is blowing hard from the south, head to the sheltered beaches on the North Shore, like Shelly Bay. 

 

Common Mistakes Visitors Make in March

 

The most common mistake is packing only summer clothes. Do not fill your suitcase with just shorts and t-shirts. 

 

Another mistake is assuming all beach facilities are open. Most beach rental concessions, including chair and umbrella rentals, do not open until May. You will need to bring your own towel and snacks to the beach. 

 

Finally, do not wait until you arrive to book a whale watching tour. The spring season is busy, and boats have strict capacity limits. 

 

Pro-Tip: 

Keep an eye on the calendar. Daylight Saving Time typically begins on the second Sunday in March. You will lose an hour of sleep, but you gain an extra hour of precious evening daylight. 

Also, be aware of ongoing infrastructure projects, such as the Swing Bridge replacement in St. George's. If you are driving a mini-car to the East End, follow the temporary signs carefully. The detour adds about 15 minutes to your travel time. 

 

What to Pack for a March Trip

 

Layering is the secret to staying comfortable. The mornings start cool, the afternoons warm up in the sun, and the evenings drop back down to 60 F. 

 

Pack a high-quality windbreaker to block the ocean breeze. Bring light sweaters, jeans, and long-sleeved shirts for dinner at local spots like the Swizzle Inn. 

 

Do not forget comfortable walking shoes. March is the perfect time to explore the island on foot. 

 

Best Weather-Dependent Activities in March

 

When the weather is too cool for swimming, head underground. The Crystal Caves stay at a constant, comfortable temperature year-round. 

 

March is also ideal for walking the Bermuda Railway Trail. You can hike miles of this paved, car-free trail without breaking a sweat. 

 

For a complete list of events, festivals, and specific itineraries, check out our full guide on What to do in Bermuda in March. 

 

March Weather Data (For the Detailed Planner)

 

The weather warms up slowly as the month progresses. Here is a breakdown of how the temperatures shift from the beginning to the end of March. 

 

How March Compares to the Rest of the Year

 

March sits right at the end of the winter season. The data below shows exactly how it stacks up against the warmer summer months. 

 

Practical Details and Alternatives

 

March offers excellent value for money. Because it is considered the shoulder season, luxury resorts often drop their nightly rates significantly. You can experience high-end properties for a fraction of the July cost. 

 

Public transportation is reliable year-round. The pink and blue public buses run on their standard winter schedule. Remember that exact change in coins or a transport pass is required. 

 

If reading this makes you realize March is too cold for your dream vacation, you have alternatives. Look at booking your trip in late May or June instead. You will pay higher summer rates, but you will get the guaranteed beach weather you want. 

 

Related Articles

 

 

1) What to do in Bermuda in March 

 

2) What can you do in Bermuda during Winter? 

 

3) Check out Bermuda Weather and Climate to know all about weather and climate in Bermuda. 

 

Visitors' Reviews and Comments

 

Write Your Review