Bermuda Weather in November: Temperatures and What to Pack

 

 

November in Bermuda marks a distinct transition from the humid, sticky summer to a much crisper, breezier fall. The intense heat of August and September is gone, leaving behind comfortable daytime temperatures in the mid-70s. 

 

Hurricane season officially wraps up at the end of the month, bringing more predictable weather patterns. 

 

You will notice a massive drop in humidity, making it the most comfortable time of year to explore the island on foot. The beaches empty out as the peak season crowds depart. This is not the time for a sizzling tropical holiday, but rather a relaxed, outdoor-focused escape. 

 

At a Glance

 

 

Quick Answers for November

 

 

Can I still swim? Yes, but the water is brisk. It feels refreshing to some and too chilly for others. 

 

Is Thanksgiving a good time to visit? Absolutely. It is a highly popular week for US travelers looking to escape freezing temperatures back home. 

 

Do I need a wet suit? If you plan to snorkel for more than 20 minutes, a 2mm or 3mm shorty wet suit is highly recommended. 

 

What should I pack? Bring layers. Pack t-shirts and shorts for the daytime, and long pants with a windproof fleece for the evenings. 

 

Who This is For, and Who Should Skip

 

November is the absolute best time for active travelers. Golfers, hikers, and cyclists will love the cool breezes and sunny skies. Scuba divers specifically target November because the cooling waters cause summer algae to die off, resulting in incredible underwater visibility. Travelers looking for lower hotel rates and empty beaches will also find great value. 

 

Skip November if you are looking for a lively, peak-summer party atmosphere. If your dream vacation involves wading into bathwater-warm ocean temperatures for hours, this month will disappoint you. Travelers who rely heavily on beachside rental kiosks for chairs and umbrellas should also look to earlier months, as many vendors pack up for the winter. 

 

Is it Still Warm Enough for the Beach?

 

The short answer is yes, but you need to time it right. The air temperature hovers in the mid-70s, which is perfectly warm for sunbathing at Horseshoe Bay Beach or Warwick Long Bay during the peak afternoon hours. However, the water temperature drops to around 74F. 

 

Many visitors ask me if Thanksgiving is a viable time for a beach vacation in Bermuda. It is a fantastic escape, but you have to adjust your expectations. You can absolutely spend Thanksgiving morning walking the pink sand in shorts. 

 

By late afternoon, the wind picks up and you will want a light sweater. Instead of a traditional turkey dinner, you might find yourself warming up with a bowl of local fish chowder, generously dashed with black rum and sherry peppers. 

 

What Surprised Me the Most

 

The sheer clarity of the ocean in November is staggering. Because the water cools down, the summer algae blooms disappear. If you book a diving trip or head out snorkeling at Church Bay, you can expect visibility to reach 100 to 120 feet. 

 

The overall vibe of the island also shifts dramatically. The massive influx of cruise ships slows down significantly. You can walk through the streets of the City of Hamilton or the historic alleys of St. George's without feeling crowded. The pace of life slows down, giving you a much more authentic local experience. 

 

Common Mistakes Visitors Make in November

 

The biggest mistake is misjudging the daylight. Daylight Saving Time ends in early November, pushing sunset back to around 5:15 PM. If you plan a beach day at 3:00 PM, you will be packing up in the dark very quickly. 

 

Another frequent error is expecting full summer amenities. Concession stands and beach rentals at spots like Church Bay or Tobacco Bay often operate on reduced hours or close entirely for the season. 

 

Always bring your own towels, water, and snacks. Do not assume you can rent a beach lounger on a Tuesday afternoon in late November. 

 

Pro-Tip: Practical Details and Micro-Frictions

 

Public transport schedules change in the fall. The Sea Express ferry system switches to its winter schedule, which means fewer runs on the Pink Route and the complete suspension of the Orange Route to St. George's. For complete details on ferry routes and schedule, check out my guide on Bermuda Ferry Services. 

 

Because of the reduced public transport, renting a micro-car is highly recommended for November trips. 

 

Finally, watch your step on the limestone stairs leading down to the South Shore beaches; the frequent, brief November rain showers make them incredibly slippery. 

 

What to Pack for a November Trip

 

Layering is the only way to pack for Bermuda in November. The mornings start crisp, the afternoons get warm enough for shorts, and the evenings require a jacket. 

 

Pack breathable t-shirts, a few pairs of shorts, and your swimsuit for the daytime. For the evening, bring long pants, a light sweater, and a windproof rain jacket. Passing showers are common, and the wind coming off the Atlantic can cut through a thin cotton shirt easily. If you plan to rent a scooter or a micro-car, a windbreaker is absolutely essential. 

 

Best Weather-Dependent Activities in November

 

With the oppressive humidity gone, this is the premier month for terrestrial activities. Golfing is spectacular, with easier tee times at the Port Royal Golf Course. 

 

Walking or cycling the Bermuda Railway Trail is finally comfortable, allowing you to explore miles of shaded, scenic paths without overheating. 

 

November is also a massive month for international sports. The annual World Rugby Classic takes place in November, drawing huge crowds and creating a fantastic, festive atmosphere. 

 

For a complete list of events, check out my guide on What to do in Bermuda in November. 

 

November Weather Data

 

If you are trying to decide exactly which week to visit, here is how the temperature trends throughout the month. 

 

How November Compares to the Rest of the Year

 

To give you a better idea of how November fits into the broader climate, here is a look at the sea temperatures and humidity levels compared to the peak summer and deep winter months. 

 

Alternatives

 

If November does not sound like the right fit for your travel style, you have other options. If you want guaranteed hot beach weather and warm ocean water for swimming, look at visiting in September or October. 

 

If you do not care about the beach at all and just want to play golf, hike, and score the absolute lowest hotel rates of the year, push your trip back to January or February. For a full breakdown of the island's climate, visit my main Bermuda Weather and Climate hub. 

 

Related Articles

 

 

1) What to do in Bermuda in November 

 

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     Adina (October 2016)  Hi, I was looking into going to Bermuda for Thanksgiving weekend, the end of November. How is the weather during this time of the year? Is it cold or we would be able to enjoy the sun and beaches?    Raj (bermuda-attractions.com) October 2016  Hi, you can surely enjoy the sun and the beaches for lounging. But for swimming, the water can be a bit cold, but many can still manage.

 

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