Is Bermuda safe? An honest guide for visitors
Short answer
Bermuda is a safe, orderly island with low crime against visitors. The realistic risks are road safety (narrow, winding roads, scooters and driving on the left), petty theft from beaches and scooters, sun and sea conditions, and hurricanes from June to November. Gang-related violence that occasionally makes local news rarely involves visitors.
The real risks
Road safety
Roads are narrow and winding with no shoulders; scooter accidents are the most common cause of injury to visitors. If you rent a scooter or electric car, drive on the left, keep to the 35 km/h limit and avoid riding at night or in rain.
Petty theft
Bags left on beaches and items on rented scooters are occasionally stolen. Keep valuables with you or in your room safe.
Sea conditions
Quieter coves along the south shore trail have no lifeguards; swim only in calm water and watch for rip currents.
Portuguese man o' war
Can wash onto beaches in spring and summer; do not touch the blue floats even on the sand.
Hurricanes
June to November, peaking August to October. Follow official warnings; the island is well prepared, but flights can be cancelled.
Sun
Strong sun even on breezy days; use sun cream and drink water on beach and trail walks.
Areas and times to take care
Hamilton, St George's, the Dockyard and the south shore beaches are safe and busy by day. As anywhere, be more aware late at night in quiet streets and around bars on Front Street at closing time, and do not walk unlit roads with no pavements after dark, which is more a traffic risk than a crime one.
Getting around safely
Public buses and ferries are safe and reliable but finish relatively early in the evening; check the last departure. Taxis are metered and licensed; book one through your hotel or restaurant for late nights. A local taxi-booking app operates on the island; ask your hotel which one works best.
Solo and women travellers
Bermuda is a comfortable destination for solo women, with friendly, formal manners and low crime. Normal precautions apply: take a taxi rather than walking unlit roads at night, keep an eye on your drink in bars, and choose well-reviewed guesthouses.
Health, water and heat
Most homes collect rainwater on white stepped roofs; hotels supply treated water, and bottled water is widely sold. The main health issues are sun, dehydration and scooter injuries. Healthcare is good but very expensive, so travel insurance is essential.
Official travel advice
Check your government's advice before you travel — it is updated when things change.
Some links on this page are partner links. If you book through them TonyPlan earns a small commission — the price you pay is exactly the same.
Common questions
Is Bermuda safe for tourists?
Yes, crime against visitors is low. The main risks are road accidents (especially on scooters), petty theft from beaches and sea conditions.
Can tourists rent a car in Bermuda?
No standard cars. You can rent small two-seater electric cars or scooters, or use the buses, ferries and taxis.
Is it safe to ride a scooter in Bermuda?
Scooter accidents are the most common injury for visitors. If you ride, drive on the left, keep to 35 km/h and avoid night and wet roads.