Looking for an exotic isle near England to spend your holiday? Jersey Channel Island is one of Europe’s top destinations for 2024.
This little island in the English Channel has something for everyone. Golden beaches and dramatic cliff path walks, gourmet restaurants and burger bars, nightclubs and pubs, and history galore from neolithic and medieval to World War II. And, if that’s not enough to whet your appetite, there are the world-famous Jersey Royals to sample, Jersey cows to photograph and Gerald Durrell’s Jersey Zoo to visit.
Jersey has some of the best beaches and holiday attractions in the British Isles. The hardest part will be deciding where to go, what to do and how to get there, so here are a few of the questions you’ll be asking yourself.
Best Beaches and Holiday Activities in Jersey Channel Island
Authored by Tina Langdon
The Isle of Jersey – Is it English or French?
Although the Channel Islands are self-governing, and not part of France or the UK, one of the first things you’ll notice is that many places and road names have a French name, or something that looks French. Being an island located so close to France (only 14 miles away), over the centuries Jersey acquired French influences and culture, including a Jersey patois or dialect known as Jèrriais which descends from the ancient Norman tongue. Most road names start with Rue or Route, Mont Orgueil is also known as Gorey Castle, St Ouen is a western parish, there are German gun turrets and a tower at Noirmont and a lighthouse at Corbière. Another interesting fact, is that the US State of New Jersey is named after the Isle of Jersey.
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How to See Jersey – Walks, Cycling and Boats
Walking the Trails
There are so many places that are only accessible by foot so one of the best ways to see the island is to simply walk. With so many places to see, there’s nothing better than slinging a rucksack on your back and heading out to stroll through the lanes and along the beaches. It’s similar to the coastal paths in Devon and Cornwall.
The trail of north coast cliff paths are more challenging with lots of steps and uneven surfaces. They lead you from bay to bay where there is usually the chance to grab refreshments or the bus back to town.
Cycle Routes
Like many places in the world, cycling is becoming more popular each year. The Island has a large network of cycle routes that are easy to follow. You can cycle from St Helier in the south, northwards to Les Platons/Bonne Nuit (approximately 5-6 miles depending on whether you do main roads or meander through the lanes), or you can do a full island circuit.
A word of warning – there are many hills and valleys, so unless you cycle along the south or north coasts, you will come across at least one. If you prefer a little battery-powered assistance, Jersey has a good selection of electric bikes run by Evie, which can be hired from the rack.
Dolphin Boat Trip
Fancy seeing dolphins?
Being surrounded by sea, it would be a mistake not to experience one of the many RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat) trips on offer, especially when there’s a strong chance of seeing dolphins up close and personal. When they’re in the mood, they love playing in front of the moving RIBs and will usually be in family pods that are getting bigger each year.
The excursions vary from north or south coast trips and round island voyages, to trips to France and some of the other islands (Guernsey, Sark and Herm). By far the most popular are those to the islets of Les Écréhous and Les Minquiers. Little bits of paradise just 6 miles north and 9 miles south of Jersey, respectively.
If you don’t have time for a longer holiday, the Channel Islands are great for a weekend break or even a day trip from London. Either fly directly to Jersey or Guernsey, or take the ferry.
Best Beaches in Jersey
Jersey is surrounded by beaches and just happens to be the sunniest place in the British Isles. It’s the ideal place to end an England, Scotland and Ireland itinerary if you’re touring from overseas! There are golden sandy beaches in the south, east and west of the island and pebbly coves and bays at the base of 300 feet cliffs in the north. Each one has its own USP, so one of your hardest decisions will be which one to visit. Here’s a sample.
East Coast of Jersey
Gorey Beach
Gorey Beach is also known as Long Beach.
The medieval Mont Orgueil towers over the harbour. It was built 800 years ago, around the time that Jersey pledged its allegiance to the English Crown in 1204. Entrance costs between £9.05-13.95 with family tickets available.
Gorey Harbour has a selection of places to eat and shops to look in. The number 1 or 1A bus routes take you from Liberation Station to the harbour.
The white sand beach stretches the length of Grouville Bay, from Gorey harbour to La Rocque.
Just over a mile from shore sits Seymour Tower. Jersey has one of the biggest tidal movements in the world and at low tide the tower can be reached by foot. However, it is not advised to attempt this without a guide, as many a visitor and local has been caught out by the exceptionally fast incoming tide.
West Coast of Jersey
St Ouen’s Bay
Also known as the Five Mile Road, St Ouen’s Bay is a surfers’ and sunset BBQers’ paradise.
Atlantic waves roll in and surfers enjoy them throughout the year. It’s arguably the most popular with locals, many of who light up BBQs (restrictions apply) and stay to watch the sunset. If you haven’t got a BBQ to hand the multiple beach ‘cafes’, spread the length of the bay, serving delicious food from breakfast to dinner.
Like several other beaches, this one is monitored by lifeguards during the summer months, and it is important to keep within the swimming flags, as there are very strong riptides that form.
Corbière lighthouse, the first one in the British Isles to be constructed of concrete and located at the southern tip of the beach, is a photo hotspot.
South Coast Of Jersey
St Aubin’s Bay (St Helier)
A long golden sand beach with a promenade that stretches from town to St Aubin’s harbour. Elizabeth Castle, built around 400 years ago, sits proudly in the bay and can be accessed by amphibious vehicles, fondly known as Ducks. Tickets for the duck and castle cost between £11.65-16.25 and family tickets can be purchased too.
The main port is located in St Aubin’s Bay, along with the old harbour and marinas where luxury boats are moored. Jet skis can be hired at La Haule slip, close to St Aubin’s village.
And the pièce de resistance is St Aubin’s harbour. This pretty old harbour is surrounded by eateries and boutiques and is busy at day and night. There are several bus routes from Liberation Station, the most frequent being the number 15.
St Brelade’s and Ouaisne Bay
There are no ancient castles here, just pure white sand and the odd Martello/Round tower dotted along the shoreline.
St Brelade’s Bay is one of the busiest summer beaches as it offers everything needed to enjoy a day at the beach. Cafés and restaurants, beach shops, hotels and water-sport facilities. At low tide both beaches are accessible, and many people walk between the two, along the beach and then back up over the cliff that separates them, a great place for photos. The 12A bus route travels from Liberation Station to the bay and in the summer an open top Beach Bus covers the route.
North Coast Of Jersey
Plemont Beach
All the bays north of the island are at the bottom of cliffs or steep hills, with some harder to get to than others. Plemont is a good mix, as the road leads most of the way down so the steps to the sandy beach are not too bad.
It can only be reached at certain tide times but once there is a great place to explore its caves, rock pools and waterfalls.
Greve de Lecq
No steps here. You can walk straight onto this popular sandy beach. As it’s north-facing sunbathers sometimes lie the ‘wrong way’ i.e. with their heads towards the sea and feet slopping upwards towards the sun. Like most other beaches there is a large café here and toilets.
Rozel Harbour
There are three similar small northern harbours -Bouley Bay, Bonne Nuit and Rozel- each with its own individuality.
The most popular is probably Rozel with its picturesque houses along the harbour, tea rooms and the nearby Chateau La Chaire hotel. Here too is an extremely popular beach kiosk serving sandwiches, burgers and bacon butties.
Looking for the best beach destinations in Spain? See our Travel Guide to the Costa Blanca or the Spanish Canary Islands Guide.
Things to Do in Jersey
Eager for more? Yes. Well, there’s still all these holiday activities to squeeze in.
Durrell Wildlife Park (Jersey Zoo)
This fabulous zoo was started by the late Gerald Durrell (author of My Friends and Other Animals) in 1959, and is one of Jersey’s best attractions. It is run by the Durrell Conservation Trust which does a huge amount of work around the world. It was home to the famous Jambo who saved a young boy when he fell into the gorilla enclosure.
Museums
For a small island, Jersey has a lot of museums covering a large variety of subject matter and historical events. A few of these are:
La Hougue Bie – A Neolithic ritual and burial site built in approximately 3500 BC
Jersey War Tunnels – An emotional exhibition that describes the German Occupation of Jersey
Jersey Museum – As you might expect, this has a lot of displays about Jersey culture
Maritime Museum – Exhibits about Jersey’s seafaring history
Spas
Several hotels have spas where you can enjoy luxurious treatments for the body and face. Some provide beauty treatments too, such as manicures and eyebrow shaping. Or you may prefer a whole day of being pampered and making the most of the facilities, like plunge pools, steam rooms and saunas (Covid restrictions may apply).
- Ayush Wellness Spa, Hotel de France – Huge spa pool complex
- The Grand Hotel Spa – Cosy and calming
- L’Horizon Hotel Spa – A pool with a view of St Brelade’s Bay
- Spa Sirene, The Royal Yacht Hotel – Tranquil with heated beds in the relaxation room
Golf Courses
- The Royal Jersey Golf Club, Grouville (18-hole)
- La Moye Golf Club, St. Brelade (18-hole)
- Les Ormes Golf Club & Holiday Village, St. Brelade (9-hole)
- Les Mielles Golf & Country Club, St. Peter (18 hole course)
- Wheatlands Golf Course, St Peter (9-hole)
- St. Clement’s Golf and Sports Centre, St. Clement (9-hole)
The six golf courses on Jersey have some of the best views on the island over parkland and the coast.
Best Views in Jersey
There are so many fabulous vantage points to capture gorgeous landscape and seascape photos, the best instagrammable spots in Jersey! Here are a few to choose from.
Corbière Lighthouse – Iconic Jersey in a single picture. Any time of day but the most dramatic are often during the golden hour after sunset.
Grosnez Castle – The ruins of a 14th-century castle. Looking through the arch that still stands. Any time of day but perfect to capture the stars if you’re into night photography.
Janvrin’s Tomb – A Martello tower built on a tiny islet in Portelet Bay. Be ready for lots of steps but the beach is worth it.
Archirondel Tower – Another Martello tower at Archirondel beach with views of St Catherine’s breakwater.
Sorel Point – On a clear day, the French coast of Normandy, several of the other islands and Les Écréhous can be seen.
Devil’s Hole – Stroll down to this natural blow hole with views of the northwest cliff faces.
St Ouen’s Beach – The whole of St Ouen’s Bay including La Rocco Tower can be seen from La Pulente Hill.
Noirmont Point – Standing on one of the many German Occupation relics there are views of St Helier to the east and Portelet Beach and Corbiere to the west.
Queen’s Valley Reservoir – Not just a lovely walk but the opportunity to see birds and squirrels.
Top Holiday Activities for Kids in Jersey
Kids still bored? They will love these holiday attractions.
Jump Jersey
The biggest indoor activity centre on the island is suitable for kids of all ages. Older children can exhaust themselves on the multiple trampolines, climbing wall and ‘Stairway to Heaven’ challenge. Whilst toddlers will have endless fun in the soft play area.
Valley Adventure Centre
This outdoor adventure centre is located close to Jump Jersey and has a whole host of fun and daring activities. These include aerial trekking, zip line, a climbing wall, archery and paintball, to name a few.
aMaizin! Adventure Park
This adventure park has both indoor and outdoor fun activities which will suit children aged between 1-12 years. There are swings and slides, a manual go-kart and tractor ride track and crazy golf, as well as the chance to feed the goats. Inside is a soft play area and interactive games.
Useful Info on Visiting Jersey
Still Unsure? To sum up, whether you’re a solo traveller, couple, group or young family, and whatever your budget, there’s something for you, no matter what time of year you visit.
The main Jersey.com website is jam packed with information about the island, including the latest Covid updates. Meanwhile, you can find out lots more about the island’s historical sites on Jersey Heritage.
Currency: Pound Sterling
Official Languages: English, French and Jèrriais
Best Month to Visit Jersey
There’s something to do or see in Jersey all year round but there are some key months when the Island looks its best or events are happening.
May – Early May is the prettiest time of year, when Spring is in full bloom and the colours are new and bright, and Jersey Royals are at their best.
August – The spectacular annual Battle of Flowers parade is held on the second Thursday of August. Islanders spend months preparing moving floats large and small decorated with real or paper flowers. There is an afternoon parade and moonlight parade the following evening, with a travelling funfair that stays for two weeks.
September – The sky above St Aubin’s Bay is brought alive by the International Air Display, usually held on the second Thursday of September. The event attracts aircraft and display teams from around the world, including the Red Arrows who have only missed the display three times.
December – Christmas lights and shopping. Enough said.
How to Get to Jersey (Channel Islands)
The two options for getting to Jersey, and the Channel Islands, are to fly or come by boat.
By Plane
Several airlines fly to Jersey from the UK, although direct options from elsewhere in Europe are extremely limited. Jersey Airport (JER) is 7 km from Saint Helier. The four companies listed below currently fly to the Island with some routes available all year round and others that are seasonal.
- Blue Islands – Norwich, East Midlands, North and South England
- British Airways – London
- EasyJet – Belfast, Glasgow, North England and London
- Jet2 – The Midlands, North England and London
By Ferry
Condor Ferries is currently the only company sailing to Jersey from the UK.
The UK departure ports are Poole and Portsmouth. There is a fast ferry which takes around 4 hours and the large Clipper which takes around 9 hours. These journey times can vary depending on routes and sea conditions. Both ferries take vehicles, have multiple seating options with the Clipper having plenty of cabins (with showers) for comfortable overnight sailing.
Condor also sails to and from St Malo in Brittany, France.
About the Author
Want to know what it’s like to live on Jersey?
Tina Langdon has lived on the beautiful island of Jersey all her life. She loves to travel which often includes her passion for live music and photography. When not working, Tina enjoys sharing her experiences of island life and her travels on her blog Tinky Tooky.
General Information
Isle of Jersey is the biggest and most southerly of the Channel Islands. Located in the sheltered Bay of St Malo, Jersey is some 137 kilometres (85 miles) from England’s south coast and only 22 km (14 miles) off the French coast. St Helier is the capital.
Jersey is known for its gorgeous beaches, great weather, and the famous dairy cows – 32 kilometres of beaches (12 main beaches and smaller coves), a rural landscape of meadows and valleys, and the historic villages, are Jersey’s main holiday attractions.
The Channel Islands belong to the British Isles, however, the States of Jersey and Guernsey are self-governing and not part of the UK.
Considered to be a tax haven with an important off-shore banking industry, Value Added Tax (VAT) is not charged on products in Jersey making it the ideal place to buy luxury goods.
Finally, don’t confuse Jersey Channel Island with New Jersey in the USA!
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