While Bermuda has a general tolerance for homosexuality on a grassroots level, politically, the island lags far behind North American and European societies. Until 1994, it was actually illegal to be gay in Bermuda; the House of Parliament finally decriminalized sexual relations between consenting gay men after a private bill was introduced that year (no former law had outlawed lesbians). But the island’s gay community is still battling for basic human rights legislation that would prevent discrimination based on sexual orientation.

Gay tourists will probably not experience any overt discrimination, but bear in mind the island is a very conservative society and even open displays of affection among heterosexuals are frowned upon, so subtlety is valued.

There is not a true “gay scene” in Bermuda compared to livelier urban centers, but Hamilton has a number of gay-friendly venues. These include Café Cairo and Casey’s Lounge. Funky coffeehouse Rock Island Coffee is also gay-friendly, with a very mixed crowd. The new Little Venice Wine Bar and nearby LV’s nightclub on Bermudiana Road also attract a mixed crowd.