Spittal Pond is a large coastal nature reserve on the south shore of Smith's Parish, run by the Bermuda National Trust and free to wander. The tourism board gives the reserve as roughly sixty acres of wetlands and calls it one of the island's largest and most untouched open spaces, which on an island this small is a real distinction. Winding walking trails cross the reserve, passing the brackish pond itself, belts of native Bermuda cedar, olivewood and spice trees, and open ground running down to the Atlantic. The birdlife is the draw for many visitors: resident species are joined by migrating shorebirds and waterfowl, and the cooler months are the best time to look. There are also two notable curiosities. The Checkerboard is an unusual limestone formation with a distinct pattern of cracks, where whalers once hauled out their catch, and Portuguese Rock carries an inscription, now replaced on the site by a bronze casting, that is thought to be the oldest evidence of humans on the island. The reserve sits beside South Road, so it is easy to add to a south shore day, and it suits anyone who wants a quiet, green change of pace from the beaches.
What to see on a walk
Start with the pond and follow the trail around its edge, where the water is brackish and the margins attract herons, egrets and, in winter, flocks of ducks and shorebirds. Bring binoculars if you have them, because the birds are often at a distance. The trail then crosses open ground toward the shore, where the sea has carved the limestone into ledges and the Checkerboard shows the polygons of cracks that give it its name.
Portuguese Rock is a short walk from the main paths, and the bronze casting is worth a look as a reminder of how little is known about the island's earliest visitors. Allow an hour and a half for a relaxed circuit, and longer if you like to stop for birds.
Practical points
The trails are natural paths with rock, roots and uneven ground, so wear closed shoes with grip rather than flip-flops, and bring water, a hat and insect repellent in warm months. There is little shade on the open stretches. The tourism profile does not give opening hours or facilities, so check the Bermuda National Trust before you go, and do not expect a cafe or a visitor centre on site.
Stay on the marked paths, keep dogs and drones away from the birds, and do not pick plants or move stones, because the reserve exists to protect them. The sea on this stretch of coast is exposed and rough, so admire it from the cliffs rather than trying to swim.
Fitting it in
Spittal Pond lies between Hamilton and the east end, along South Road, so it works as a stop on the way to the Crystal and Fantasy Caves or the aquarium at Flatts, or as a quiet half-day after a south shore beach morning. Buses along the south side of the island stop near the entrance, and taxis are easy to arrange.
Winter and early spring are good for birds and comfortable for walking, while summer brings heat and humidity, so start early. It is an easy, low-cost addition to a trip, and a good wet-feet-free alternative on a day when the sea is too rough for boats.
What to expect
The experience
A free, self-guided walk on natural trails around a brackish pond and down to the south shore, with a limestone checkerboard and an old carved rock.
Best time
Morning or late afternoon in the cooler months, when the birds are most active and the walking is comfortable.
How long
About an hour and a half for a circuit; up to three hours with birdwatching and a picnic.
Tips
Wear closed shoes with grip, bring water and sun protection, and check with the Bermuda National Trust for current access and hours.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Walkers, birdwatchers and anyone who wants a green, uncrowded change from the beaches.
- Families
- Older children enjoy the shore and the curiosities, but the paths are uneven and the sea is rough, so keep them back from the cliffs.
- Couples
- A quiet stroll to the shore at golden hour, followed by dinner in Hamilton or at Flatts.
- Pair with
- The Crystal and Fantasy Caves, the aquarium at Flatts and a south shore beach.
- Time needed
- Two hours, or half a day with a beach stop.
Good questions
Is Spittal Pond free?+
Yes. The reserve is free to walk, and it is looked after by the Bermuda National Trust.
What is there to see?+
The brackish pond and its birdlife, native Bermuda cedar and olivewood, the limestone Checkerboard where whalers once hauled out their catch, and Portuguese Rock with its old inscription.
When is the best time for birdwatching?+
The cooler months bring migrating shorebirds and waterfowl, so winter and early spring are best. Go early or late in the day.
Are there facilities?+
The tourism profile lists none, so bring water and expect natural paths rather than a cafe or visitor centre.
How long should I allow?+
About an hour and a half for a relaxed circuit. Allow more if you plan to watch birds or picnic.
