Smith's Parish: An Insider's Guide to Get Outside

There's a reason John Smith's Bay is loved by the locals. With soft pink sand, clear water, and seasonal lifeguards, it's a family favourite. The offshore reefs create excellent snorkelling for all experience levels, while the beach's amenities, including changing facilities, a BBQ Grill and easy parking, make it a place where visitors and locals happily spend the entire day.

On top of the hill, BQ Beach Grill has become part of the John Smith's Bay experience. The smell of burgers sizzling on the grill drifts across the beach as visitors line up for grilled favourites, fresh salads, tasty libations, and homemade specials. Grab a picnic table, enjoy the sea breeze, and settle into the relaxed atmosphere. 

For nature lovers, Spittal Pond Nature Reserve is one of Bermuda's most spectacular outdoor spaces. As the island's largest nature reserve, it offers 2.1km of walking trails through rocky coastline and native woodland. It's a favourite spot for runners, walkers, and birdwatchers, particularly during migration season when dozens of bird species stop here.

Keep an eye out for the reserve's dramatic tide pools, where tiny marine creatures become trapped between the rocks at low tide, creating natural aquariums for curious explorers. 

Discover Harrington Sound

While Bermuda's South Shore often steals the spotlight, Harrington Sound offers a completely different kind of beauty. This sheltered inland body of water is surrounded by limestone cliffs, hidden coves, and calm waters that create a peaceful contrast to the south share waves. 

Harrington Sound Dock is a public space where you can go swimming or just sit and admire the view. The Sound is known for its Spotted Eagle Rays and if you are lucky you might just spot one in the shallows. The best time to spot these gentle giants is early morning or dusk.  

Local tip: Early morning is the perfect time to explore the roads around Harrington Sound, when the water is glassy and the island feels wonderfully still. 

History lovers shouldn't miss Verdmont Museum. Built around 1710, this beautifully preserved historic home offers a glimpse into Bermuda's colonial past, complete with antique furnishings, period gardens, and sweeping views across the island.  

Located in a quiet neighborhood, Verdmont feels personal than larger museums, allowing visitors to get away from the hustle and bustle and imagine what everyday life looked like more than 300 years ago. 

Local tip: Spend a little time in the gardens. They are often overlooked but provide some of the property's most peaceful corners. 

Smith's Parish blends casual local favourites with luxury dining experiences. For authentic island comfort food, stop by D&C Grill, a local favourite known for generous portions and friendly service located at the famous Devil’s Hole. While in the area, pop across the and step through the old Devil’s Hole aquarium, where you can see the turtles that still live there.  

A stop at Collector’s Hill provides a wealth of options from traditional cuisine at Speciality Inn diner, to seasonal menus at 10 South and a premium wine and spirits Tasting Room.  

For something more refined, The Loren at Pink Beach offers several exceptional dining experiences overlooking the ocean. Beyond the restaurants, The Loren has become known for its calendar of wine dinners, live music, wellness experiences, and seasonal events, making it a destination even for visitors who aren't staying at the hotel. 

Local tip: Check The Loren's events calendar before your visit. You might discover a full moon BBQ, wine tasting, or celebrity chef dining event during your stay. 

Experience the Quiet Side of Bermuda