Whether you’re visiting Jersey for a weekend break or here for a longer visit, you’ll never be short of things to see and do. Here’s a quick guide to just a few of our favourite highlights on this beautiful island.
A place in the sun
From discreet coastal hideaways to bustling seaside resorts, Jersey’s beaches have something to please every visitor. The most popular is St Brelade’s Bay on the south-west coast, which boasts palm trees, clean sand and calm waters that are ideal for swimming and kayaking. With many cafés and restaurants dotted along the coast, it’s also a great place to sample some of the island’s famous seafood cuisine.
If you’re a keen surfer, head for St Ouen’s Bay on the west coast, where you will find some of the island’s most renowned watersports facilities. The strong currents mean the sea is not always safe for swimming, but it’s still a picturesque spot for coastal walks.
For something more laidback, head north to explore quiet coves and rocky bays, with stunning ocean views and plenty of wildlife. There are some spectacular clifftop walking paths with car parks located at the start and end points, making this a great way to take in the scenery during your stay.
Underground adventures
Jersey might be home to stunning medieval castles, including Mont Orgueil in Gorey. But take a short drive out of Saint Helier to the parish of St Lawrence and you will find a very different attraction that gives you a glimpse into the island’s past.
The Jersey War Tunnels were built during the German occupation of World War II and today stand as testament to one of the darkest times in the island’s history.
Carved deep into the hillside using slave labour, the unfinished tunnels now house an interactive exhibition where you can find out what life was like for the island’s residents during the years of occupation. A must-see for any visitor, the tunnels are open from March to November with free parking available.
Island retreats
Renting a car in Jersey gives you the chance to head for the north-east coast and experience a day trip to Les Ecréhous. These tiny, uninhabited islands are mostly submerged at high tide and were once an infamous haven for smugglers. Today they offer wonderful wildlife spotting opportunities and beautiful, otherworldly scenery.
Book tickets for a boat tour to see Atlantic grey seals and even bottle-nosed dolphins, plus a huge variety of seabirds that call this protected site home.
Jersey Seafaris runs regular day trips to Les Ecréhous from St Catherine’s Breakwater – check the company’s website for schedules, as dates and times vary throughout the year. The company also offers trips to Les Minquiers off the south coast of the island, a perfect spot to swim, paddleboard or simply sit back with a picnic and enjoy the view. Renting a car in Jersey gives you the chance to enjoy all this and more during your stay.