''Take me to the higher place." - Skip Marley
Sometimes, the beauty of Jamaica lies in the places less traveled. Spring Bank, a little-known community in the parish of St. Thomas, is one of those hidden gems. While many are familiar with popular destinations across the island, it’s the small, quiet places like Spring Bank that truly capture the essence of Jamaica’s natural beauty.
My journey to Spring Bank was inspired by Emilio, whose photographs revealed the breathtaking beauty hidden deep in this overlooked region. Emilio’s first visit to the area stirred something within me. Seeing the raw beauty he found in Spring Bank, a place not many people know about, made me a little envious. The untouched landscapes, the serenity, and the history that envelops the area quickly made it clear: I had to visit St. Thomas and experience it for myself.
The journey to Spring Bank is an adventure in itself, filled with twists and turns.I started my trip by taking a coaster bus from Kingston to Morant Bay. From there, I hopped on a Bath Fountain taxi heading to the well-known Bath community. Bath is famous for its mineral hot springs and the lush Botanical Garden, both of which hold a unique place in the island’s history and culture.
Once I arrived in Bath, I sat patiently by the gully banks. I declined offers from local bikers who were charging JMD1,000 for transportation—a steep price for the brief journey ahead.
As I waited, I enjoyed an insightful conversation with a local resident, discussing Jamaican politics and sharing my experiences from previous explorations across the island.
Eventually, a taxi arrived, and after speaking with the driver, he eagerly connected me with local guides who could accompany me into the lush hills in search of elusive waterfalls.
Upon arriving in Spring Bank, my intentions were initially met with suspicion, a natural response from a community not accustomed to outsiders. After some discussion, two men and a woman graciously offered to guide me—albeit at a cost, but a fair one that I'd anticipated and readily agreed upon.
We trekked along a narrow, winding trail before arriving at a serene river. I paused to capture photographs of this tranquil scene, with my guides reassuring me that I had chosen the perfect time to visit, as recent rains had rejuvenated the river beautifully.
As we ventured further down the river, we stumbled upon a waterfall unlike any I had ever seen before. It was mesmerizing—a sheer wall of water cascading down, surrounded by lush greenery.
What made this waterfall even more special was a large tree trunk lying nearby, perfectly positioned for a photo session. I sat on the trunk, capturing several shots as I soaked in the beauty of the moment.
I couldn’t help but fall in love with this place. The waterfall, which I later named "Waterfall Number One," became my new favorite hidden gem. But my adventure didn’t stop there. With my guides by my side, we continued searching for more waterfalls in the area. The more we explored, the more I felt connected to the community and the untouched beauty it offered.
Spring Bank is a special community that reminds me of the Rio Grande Valley in Portland. It has the same tranquil vibe, with waterfalls that only come to life after heavy rainfall. Like other hidden gems such as Tacky, Kwame, and Johnny Waterfalls in St. Mary, the waterfalls here are not always flowing, but when they do, they’re breathtaking.
What makes Spring Bank so remarkable is the sense of peace that permeates the area. It feels like a safe haven, a place where nature reigns supreme and the pace of life is slow and deliberate. The community may not be widely known, but to those who take the time to visit, it offers an unparalleled experience.
For anyone seeking an authentic Jamaican adventure off the beaten path, I highly recommend a visit to Spring Bank. The journey to discover its waterfalls is not just a physical adventure but a spiritual one as well. The serenity and beauty of this community are waiting to be explored, and I’m so grateful I was able to experience it firsthand.
If you’re looking for a place to connect with nature and escape the crowds, Spring Bank should be at the top of your list. It may not be on every tourist map, but it’s a spot that will leave a lasting impression on anyone who dares to venture there.
Simone, my trusted researcher on hidden gems across Jamaica, needs no introduction. Recently, her dedicated exploration unearthed a treasure in a rarely discussed community called Spring Bank, nestled within the lush, green parish of St. Thomas. Located approximately 12.7 kilometers (7.9 miles) from the bustling parish capital, Morant Bay, Spring Bank is steeped in history and natural beauty.
Spring Bank was once the site of colonial-era plantation activities.
Historical records reveal a striking chapter from 1835 when James Sproull, owner of the Spring Bank estate, sought compensation following the emancipation of 50 enslaved persons.
He was awarded £1,028 10s 8d, marking a significant historical reference for this quiet community.
Would you try solo traveling to St Thomas, searching for hidden gems? I'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!
See you on the next adventure!
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Whatta Gwaan!
You've discovered my blog. I'm delighted you're here. Maybe it's destiny. I'm Doreen Lillian Scarlett welcome to Nature's Sweet Escapes where I go on the far side of Instagram to document and share my adventures.