Top 36 Things to Do in Jersey, inc 9 that are Free!

Jersey, in the Channel Islands, is the most southerly part of Great Britain and also, officially, the sunniest!

Known for its rural heritage, delightful, clean beaches, beautiful walking and fascinating history, the island has a quirky mix of English and French influences, which render it quite unique.

Jersey also happens to be my “home” … well the place where I grew up and lived until I was 18 and where my family still lives today.

Fair to say, therefore, that I know this island pretty well and so, in homage to my homeland, here’s my list of the 36 best things to do in Jersey, including 9 that are absolutely free… well, you didn’t think I’d forget you budget travellers did you?!

 

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Outdoors & Nature

When looking for things to do in Jersey you would be mad not to take advantage of the huge variety of natural beauty spots and fresh-air activities that the island has to offer.

Here are just some of the wonderful ways you can get back to nature…

 

#1 Hit the Beach – FREE

It is said that Jersey has over 30 beaches and even as a local, I’m not sure that I’ve been to them all!

But whatever the exact number, it’s true the island has an abundance of sandy stretches and beautiful bays, which are perfect for relaxing on, walking along, swimming from or eating at.

This definitely makes heading to a few beaches one of the best free things to do in Jersey.

You can check out my list of the top 11 beaches in Jersey for the full lowdown, or else just head off exploring yourself; you’re sure to stumble upon at least one before too long!

While the north coast of Jersey has some pretty little harbour bays, if you want to surf you need to head west!

Otherwise, St Brelade’s Bay on the south coast is a perennial, tourist friendly favourite, with lots of activities, water sports, cafes and restaurants on offer, while the Royal Bay of Grouville in the east of the island is well known for its sandy stretches and impressive castle backdrop.

For those explorers amongst you, the sea-caves and fresh-water waterfall at Plemont Bay would be perfect for a day’s adventure – you can even visit the giant puffin sculptures on the Plemont headland whilst you are exploring.

And my favourite beach? It has to be the hidden cove of Beauport (pictured above) – I dare you to find it!

 

#2 Rent a Paddle Board

There’s nothing quite like paddle-boarding around Jersey’s crystal-clear waters on a wonderful sunny day and luckily, with a huge amount of shoreline to choose from, you’ll can easily escape the crowds if this is your plan.

My top tip for paddleboarding in Jersey is to assess where the wind is coming from on the day you want to head out, and then choose the opposing coast.

If the wind is coming from the south or west, I’d head to the northern beach of Bouley Bay where you can rent paddle-boards, as well as snorkelling and even scuba-diving gear, from the Adventure and Dive Centre.

To take your paddle boarding a step further, why not try Stand Up Paddleboard Yoga, also available at Bouley Bay. It’s a fun way to get fit and improve flexibility whilst surrounded by beautiful scenery.

If the wind is blowing from the north or east, then head to St Brelade’s Bay or Ouasine, where board rentals and beautiful sandy shores can be found.

But whichever you head to, I know you’re going to love it; because when it comes to stuff to do in Jersey, this is definitely up there with my favs!

 

#3 Take a Surf Lesson

We covered paddle boards and it’s probably worth mentioning at this stage that you can also enjoy some brilliant kayaking in Jersey too (St Catherine’s is the best spot!).

However, if you really want to get immersed in the Atlantic Ocean that laps Jersey’s west coast, it’s really worth trying your hand at, or improving your existing skills, by taking a surf lesson.

The long stretch of St Ouen’s Bay has several surf schools to choose from, as well as board rentals shacks.

The best waves are generally to be had in September / October time, but you can also enjoy the surf in the warmer summer months, which absolutely makes this one of the best things to do with the family in Jersey.

So what are you waiting for?

Pull on a wetsuit and get out there!

 

#4 Bird Watch at Jersey Wetland Centre – FREE

A wonderful National Trust project, the Jersey Wetland Centre is an amazing bird hide located near St Ouen’s Pond Nature Reserve.

With some great educational material, bird identification charts and free binoculars, the centre sits within a dune mound and gives you the perfect place to observe the many local bird species.

With 16 viewing windows situated at a range of different heights, adults, children and visitors with disabilities alike, are able to enjoy a unique perspective out over this incredible wetland area… all for free!

 

#5 Enjoy a Round of Golf

Sport fans needn’t miss out in Jersey with water sports, tennis courts and gyms aplenty.

Perhaps a favourite for those on holiday however, is a spot of golf, which you can certainly enjoy on the island thanks to the several courses here.

With most boasting fabulous backgrounds, and the fresh sea air all around, enjoying a round of golf is a way to take in Jersey’s beautiful views too.

 

#6 Hike the Northern Cliff Paths – FREE

The island of Jersey really does have some excellent walking trails, across many different landscapes, which makes hiking one of the best free things to do here.

You can circumnavigate the whole island via walking tracks, but if you’re not feeling that energetic, I’d stick to the northern cliff paths that provide the best views and trails, in my opinion.

As the path undulates between quaint little bays, you’ll get sweeping coastline views all the way over to nearby France, and pass beautiful flora and fauna along the way.

The stretch between Bonne Nuit and Bouley Bay is probably my favourite, although if you can, walking all the way on to Rozel is also worth it for your chance to spot native red squirrels in the nearby woods.

 

#7 See the Orchids – FREE

Rare wild orchids bloom in Jersey during the month of May, and seeing them in the fields is a wonderful treat.

Head to Le Noir Pre, in the parish of St Ouen, as it is the only place to spot them.

Otherwise, at all other times of the year you can visit the world-famous Eric Young Orchid Foundation.

Here they create and develop fine new orchid hybrids, so it’s the perfect place to get your flower fix.

 

#8 Picnic in Howard Davis Park – FREE

One of Jersey’s most beautiful parks, Howard Davis, is situated in St Helier and is a delight to walk around or enjoy a picnic in.

With stunning rose gardens, a children’s playground, a little cafe and a formal bandstand, you can also catch some free live music here during the summer months.

Howard Davis Park is well worth a visit for that leisurely stroll, or to sit on one of the many benches and take it all in.

 

#9 Adventure Out on a Rib Ride

Enjoying an adventure afternoon out on a RIB is one my top picks for things to do in Jersey.

When friends come to visit me here, this is something I always try to arrange for us.

With several companies offering packages to spot dolphins, duck into sheltered coves, visit off-shore islets and wildlife-rich coastlines, it’s Jersey Seafaris that get my vote every time.

A wild old bumpy ride, this is one way to get your adrenaline fix when on the island.

 

#10 Wonder around Samares Manor

For a relaxing morning surrounded by beauty, head over to the distinctive botanic gardens of Samares Manor in the easterly parish of St Clement.

The Manor boasts one of the most spectacular herb gardens in the British Isles, as well as a breathtaking Japanese garden and charming walled garden.

There is plenty here to keep the kids amused as well, with a willow labyrinth to explore and a brilliant children’s playground.

Also offering a gift shop and a delightful café, Samares Manor is a wonderful way to spend a sunny morning.

Fun fact: My brother got married in the beautiful gardens here!

 

#11 Follow a Cycle Trail – FREE

Jersey has a great network of local cycle trails that cover the whole island, and are easy to follow due to their numbered routes and clear signage.

This is a great way to get off the island’s beaten track and explore some country views or peace and quiet in some rather narrow back lanes.

Many of the trails utilise the Island’s Green Lane system, which are roads that give priority to cyclists, horse-riders and pedestrians, with speed limits for vehicles capped at 15 mph.

 

#12 Snap a Sunset at the Splash – FREE

The Splash aka The Watersplash is a real Jersey institution – a surf club, bar, restaurant and nightclub that sits on top of one of Jersey’s best beaches.

Located in the west of the island, it is famous for its Sunday sessions, often accompanied by free music, and is the perfect place to watch a sensational Jersey sunset where a glowing sky sits above the vast and expansive views of the Atlantic Ocean.

 

Relaxation & Wellbeing

If you are looking for things to do in Jersey that will reset and recalibrate you both mentally and physically, there are loads of different experiences on offer – here are my top five…

 

#13 Steam Away your Worries with a Sea-Side Sauna

Following the growing popularity of beach/lakeside saunas in the UK, Jersey hopped on the bandwagon and now boasts two saunas, right next to the beach!

If you enjoy a refreshing dip in the sea, then the sauna at St Catherine’s breakwater is the perfect spot for some hot/cold therapy!

Book your sauna session here.

A second sauna has recently opened on the beach at West Park.

This one boasts a cold water plunge pod (for those who are brave enough), as often the tide goes out so far here it is not possibly to swim in the sea.

Hot/cold therapy has been proven to have a beneficial impact on both physical and mental health, so give it a try in one of the two most scenic saunas out there!

 

#14 Treat Yourself to a Spa Day

For a super-indulgent day filled with self-care, why not treat yourself to a spa day at the very gorgeous L’Horizon Beach Hotel & Spa?

Nestled on the edge of St Brelade’s sandy stretch of beach, the L’Horizon is the perfect place to enjoy a day to yourself, a couples day or a special day with friends.

The spa boasts a heated indoor pool, sauna and steam rooms, as well as treatment rooms and a relaxation room.

With several different spa day packages to choose from (some including meals, champagne or afternoon tea) you will be spoilt for choice in ways to unwind.

Other island options include spas at The Royal Yacht Hotel, Hotel D’France and St Brelade’s Bay hotel.

 

#15 Get Away From it All in the Intertidal Zone

One of my absolute favourite unique Jersey experiences is escaping into the Intertidal Zone with the incredibly knowledgeable Lou Wagstaffe.

Lou runs day and night safaris into the intertidal zone on the south east coast of Jersey, and aims to ‘educate and inspire others to protect and preserve this precious ecology.’

Put simply, this is the most interesting, inspiring and somehow therapeutic rockpooling trip you can possibly imagine.

Lou argues that “spending time in raw nature is healing, and the rocky intertidal is a fabulous environment to recharge”… and she is not wrong!

For the most magical experience I recommend booking one of her bioluminescence (night) safaris when they are available.

Watching rock pools glow with life, under an awe-inspiring canopy of stars is something you won’t forget in a hurry!

 

#16 Strengthen your Connection to Mother Nature with Wild Edgewalker

The brains behind Wild Edgewalker is Amanda.

She offers sensory-sessions designed to help you slow down and engage with nature, all whilst tucked away in the beautiful landscapes of Jersey.

She also leads hikes and walks to secret scenic locations, teaches foraging, and gives information about the local medicinal plants that can be found in Jersey’s hedgerows and wild areas.

 

#17 Ceramics Taster Session with Land and Moon Ceramics

Why not let your artistic side take over with a taster session from Shelley at Land and Moon Ceramics?

She believes in the “therapeutic magic of clay”, letting you slow down and escape the hectic reality of the modern world for a while.

Shelley offers individual and group sessions lasting around one and a half hours…a fabulous way to let go of your tension, (and your phone!) and relax into the slower pace of island life.

 

Family-Friendly

As an incredibly safe place to holiday with children, it is not difficult to find plenty of things to do in Jersey to keep every member of your family entertained.

Here’s my pick of the bunch…

 

#18 Visit Jersey Zoo

Founded by world-famous conservationist, Gerald Durrell, Jersey Zoo is a world leader in managing endangered animal breeding programmes for release back to the wild.

With its base in Jersey, the organisation helps many other teams globally develop the skills and tools they need conserve species in the wild around the world.

Jersey Zoo also communicates important conservation messages to their visitors through ground-breaking preservation and research projects.

All this really does show how Jersey Zoo is much more than a zoo (in the traditional sense), and the beautiful grounds and wonderful wildlife collection in the park make it well worth a visit.

You can spend a whole day here and, either bring a picnic, or lunch in one of the two welcoming cafes (the Café Dodo houses a soft play area, perfect for younger children).

For a relatively small zoo, the range of animals (along with its emphasis on conservation) is seriously impressive.

From orangutang to giant tortoises, sloths to lemurs and even flamingos, there is something for everyone.

My personal favourites are the butterflies in the Butterfly Kaleidoscope.

As you walk through the tropical wonderland, you are surrounded by butterflies of all shapes and sizes – if you are lucky, they may even land on you…a magical experience!

Jersey Zoo is undoubtably one of the most fun things to do in Jersey – great for kids and adults alike; a day out not to be missed!

 

#19 Tire Them Out at Jump Jersey

Jump Jersey is the island’s biggest indoor activity centre, situated at the Les Ormes self-catering resort in the westerly parish of St Brelade.

Kids will love the 40 trampolines, ninja warrior course, total wipeout machine and dodge ball courts.

If that is not enough exercise for one day, then why not let them embark on an ‘adrenaline-pumping adventure’ with Jump Jersey’s 18 climbing walls and terrifying ‘Stairway to Heaven’.

After all that exercise, the kids are bound to be hungry, so pop next door to the Les Ormes Bar and Restaurant; it boasts delicious lunches and dinners, and has a fantastic kids menu!

 

#20 Treat the Kids to a Day at The Amaizin’ Adventure Park

If you are travelling to Jersey with children aged 3-12, then the Amaizin’ Adventure Park in the west of the island is a must visit.

Another place where you can spend an entire day; there is something here for children of all ages and abilities to enjoy.

The massive indoor Play Barn is home to the first indoor play area to be built in wood in the Channel Islands.

Beautifully designed, the area encourages imagination and exploration, as well as developing confidence and new skills.

A perfect way to spend a rainy afternoon!

Outside, there are a host of different activities for families to enjoy.

The giant jumping pillow and towering toboggan are firm favourites, with mini golf, climbing frames, go-karts and mud kitchens also on offer.

Not forgetting the famous tractor rides – watch out, you may just get splashed!

My personal favourite has to be the Barnyard where you can meet goats, Shetland ponies, sheep and pigs, as well as the ever-popular guinea pigs and rabbits.

During the summer months the park almost doubles in size, as the annual Maize Maze is opened to the public.

With a fresh new design every year, this is so much fun and a challenge to even the most experienced explorer!

 

#21 Travel Back in Time

Jersey’s rich history means that you are spoilt for choice for museums and heritage sites to visit on the island.

For families with children, my top 3 places to visit to get that history fix would be the Maritime Museum, Mont Orgueil Castle (also known as Gorey Castle) and Hamptonne Country Life Museum.

All of these are described in more detail in the History & Heritage section below.

 

History & Heritage

From ancient dolmens to soaring castles and World War II museums, there is something to do in Jersey for every amateur historian out there!

Here are some of my history highlights…

 

#22 Dig into History at Jersey War Tunnels

During the summer season (March – October) history buffs should head to the Jersey War Tunnels.

Formerly an underground Nazi hospital, during the years the island was occupied during WWII, the exhibitions and immersive experience at this award-winning museum bring the story of Jersey’s people living under German occupation to life.

The detail and atmosphere created is seriously impressive and makes the War Tunnels a museum not to be missed!

If you fancy giving your brain a workout, the War Tunnels offer two occupation themed Escape Room experiences.

As a team you will need to work together to find clues, break codes and solve puzzles in order to escape.

An hour of brain-teasing fun in a unique historic location!

 

#23 Get Interactive at the Maritime Museum

If you’re travelling with children, then Jersey’s Maritime Museum, with its interactive displays, is a brilliant way to learn all about the Island’s shipbuilding and seafaring past.

With loads of hands-on exhibitions, kids and adults alike can have fun investigating tides, ship design, Jersey pirates, and maritime legends.

 

#24 Climb to the Top of Mont Orgueil (Gorey Castle)

At over 800 years old, Mont Orgueil Castle tells the Island’s story from the Norman conquest, through French invasion and into WWII.

If you are brave enough to climb the nearly 200 steps to the top, you will be rewarded with some of the most breath-taking views in Jersey.

As you explore the castles many staircases, towers, secret rooms, great halls and gardens, you will discover its story through the ages and learn about castle life.

Mont Orgueil is a perfect ‘storybook’ castle to spark children’s imagination.

During the summer season treasure hunts, quizzes and activities are available to keep them entertained, as well as the most picturesquely situated playgrounds out there!

Tiny wall lizards bask in the sun on the castle walls and skitter about delighting small people and the young at heart.

There is also the firm favourite – the dressing up room – which means you will encounter tiny princesses, knights and dragons a plenty as you explore this fantastic historical site.

 

#25 Meet the Animals at Hamptonne Country Life Museum

Nestled in the heart of the island, Hamptonne, a traditional 15^thcentury house and working farm, is one of Jersey’s hidden gems.

As you walk around the picturesque, thatched farm buildings, it honestly feels as though you have stepped back in time.

This is also the perfect safe-haven for kids to explore and let off some steam.

With plenty of open green spaces, a wonderful play area and often extra activities for families, Hamptonne is as fun as it is interesting.

A family favourite is meeting the farm animals (Jersey calves, pigs, sheep, ducks, rabbits….) make sure you grab a £1 bag of chicken food as you enter.

The chickens roam free over the whole site and are used to human interaction, so watch out – once they spot that bag they are not shy!

If historical knowledge is more your thing, take a tour of the farm with one of the knowledgeable volunteer guides to learn all about Hamptonne’s past and Jersey’s cider making traditions.

 

#26 Take the Duck to Elizabeth Castle

Built on a tidal island in St Aubin’s Bay, the 16^th century fortress of Elizabeth Castle defended Jersey for over 400 years.

To get out to the castle (even for those keen walkers amongst you), you absolutely need to take a trip on the amphibious Castle Ferry (affectionately known by locals as The Duck).

In itself, this crossing, which is pretty bumpy at low tide, is an experience not to be missed!

Once at the castle you can spend hours discovering the 15-acre site.

Explore the grounds that gave refuge to King Charles II during the English Civil War, climb the extensive battlements and visit the oldest part of the fortress, including the Hermitage, where Saint Helier is thought to have lived around 550 AD.

During the summer season you may be lucky enough to bump into the Castle Gunner.

This hilarious re-enactor tells the story of the Battle of Jersey, hosts an interactive Midday Parade, and gives a demonstration of firing both muskets and cannons – remember to cover your ears!

 

#27 Explore the Neolithic Passage Grave & Find Treasure at La Hougue Bie

Older even than Ancient Egypt’s pyramids, the Neolithic passage grave at La Hougue Bie is one of the 10 oldest buildings in the world!

You will need to crouch to explore the passage grave, but it is well worth it – deep under the mound, sound disappears.

The atmosphere inside is calm and somehow spiritual; you can absolutely tell that it was once a sacred space.

Climbing to the top of La Hougue Bie mound may be hard work, but you will be rewarded with some of the most spectacular views in Jersey, as well as the chance to look around the tiny, 16^th century chapel perched at its top.

My absolute favourite part of La Hougue Bie is looking around the replica Neolithic Longhouse.

Built entirely using original techniques by a group of historians, enthusiasts and volunteers, it really gives you a feel for how Neolithic people lived.

In 2012, 2 metal detectorists discovered the world’s largest Celtic coin hoard buried in a field in Grouville.

Named Le Câtillon II, the hoard is now housed at La Hougue Bie.

The exhibition ‘Searching for Jersey’s Celts’ tells the story of Le Câtillon II and explores what led Jersey people to bury 70,000 coins and jewellery 2,000 years ago.

Don’t miss this opportunity for the whole family to get up close and personal with real buried treasure!

 

When it comes to historical attractions in Jersey, there is also the Jersey Museum and the Steam & Motor Museum to choose from.

 

BUDGET TIP: If you plan to explore several of the Jersey Heritage sites, it is well worth buying a Heritage 4 for 3 Pass.

The pass is great value for money, giving you access to 4 sites for the price of 3, and is valid for 7 days.

Passes are available to buy at all Jersey Heritage sites.

 

#28 Explore the Historic Town Squares & Picturesque Villages – FREE

Jersey has a fascinating history of battles, independence and occupation, and 2 of the best places to discover more (for free) are Liberation Square and the Royal Square, both situated in St Helier.

The Royal Square boasts the local parliament building, courthouse and has been a central meeting point of island life for centuries.

It was also the scene of the dramatic Battle of Jersey fought in 1781.

Bordered by some lovely restaurants and pubs, this is a great place to feed the pigeons or relax alfresco.

Liberation Square is much newer and was created in 1995 to commemorate the 50^th anniversary of the island’s liberation from occupying Nazi German forces during WWII.

It features a beautiful fountain and a super statue, depicting the momentous occasion of freedom, which was officially marked by the flying of the British flag from the nearby Pomme D’Or Hotel.

Otherwise, escaping the hustle and bustle of St Helier; a leisurely stroll around the quaint cobbled harbour village of St Aubin is always a pleasure.

Situated at the western end of St Aubin’s Bay on the south coast of Jersey, St Aubin was originally a fishing village and the historic economic centre of the island.

A large array of restaurants cluster around this small harbour, and gift shops, ice-cream stalls and lovely landscaping give the village a truly holiday feel.

When in St Aubin I never miss a chance to stop for a coffee at the small but perfectly formed Little Gem Beach Café.

In reality it should be called the ‘Hidden Gem’ café, tucked away as it is behind some public toilets.

Once you find it and are sitting outside however, you are treated to an expansive view over the whole of St Aubin’s Bay; St Aubin’s Fort, Elizabeth Castle and across to St Helier – it really is a fabulous place to sit and watch the world go by, or the tide come in!

 

#29 Discover a Dolmen – FREE

Having been populated since Neolithic times, when Jersey was not an island, rather a high piece of land connected to France, evidence of early human civilisations is scattered everywhere.

Never is this more apparent than in the dolmens, which are stone monuments, built in the Neolithic times, and remaining intact until this day.

Similar to a mini Stonehenge, these passage graves dot the island and provide a fascinating insight into life in this pre-history era.

Extensive excavations across the sites have helped archaeologists, the world over, piece together an extensive knowledge of this period in human history, and visiting such ancient structures today, for free, is absolutely one of the best Jersey things to do.

 

Food and Drink

With a strong farming and fishing heritage (think Jersey Royal potatoes and Jersey cows), the island is a foodie’s paradise.

Here are some of the best ways to enjoy it…

 

#30 Sample the Local Produce

There are lots of great restaurants where you can sample locally foraged foods and delicious seafood, but if you’re on a budget I recommend sticking to the farm shops.

These small local businesses are often great places just to wander around for free and view all the locally grown and produced treats – just look out for the Genuine Jersey logo!

Holme Grown, Rondels, and Homefields are all excellent farm shops examples.

Otherwise, the Central Market and the Fish Market in St Helier are also great for getting some goodies, and don’t forget the honesty boxes!

These quaint roadside stands sell produce direct from the field – often the one right behind the stall – and you simply pick up your veggies and drop your money in the box!

Doesn’t get fresher than that!

 

#31 Taste a Local Ale

Jersey being part of Britain, there’s plenty of pubs to choose from and many sell the island’s own beers too.

From the lovely Liberation Ale to the delicious craft Stinky Bay IPA, there’s several to choose from, and many local watering holes that sell them.

All you need to do is order one, support the local industries by doing so, and enjoy!

If you fancy indulging surrounded by some old-island charm, then The Smugglers Inn at Ouaisne, Les Fontaines Tavern in St John and The Cock and Bottle in the Royal Square in St Helier all exude true Jersey character (and have gorgeous log-fires in the winter).

 

#32 Hit Up a Traditional Beach Cafe

And following on from the local beer tasting, no trip to Jersey would be complete without heading to a traditional beach cafe to taste the island’s fresh fish or milk in your coffee.

Eternally popular with locals is the traditional Hungry Man, situated at Rozel Bay it is a true island institution, but El Tico along St Ouens, The Lookout in St Helier or Driftwood Café at Archirondel also have their loyal customers!

 

#33 Book an Oyster and Champagne Experience

For a completely different experience, journey into the depths of the Grouville Oyster beds with Seymour Oyster Tours.

During this 2-hour guided tour you will meet some of their 14 million oysters and see how they are cultivated in this incredibly scenic tidal environment.

The tours include sampling some of the delicious oysters with some champagne to wash them down – what’s not to love?

 

#34 Enjoy Wine Tasting at La Mare Vineyard

For an interesting few hours surrounded by a gorgeous landscape of countryside and vines; give the guided vineyard tours and wine tastings at La Mare Vineyard a try!

These relaxed tours run several times daily, and include tastings of La Mare wines, cider and Jersey Cream Liqueur, as well as some sweet treats and traditional Jersey preservers to accompany them.

You may even want to treat yourself to lunch in the popular Vineyard Café once your tour is complete, and visit the Estate Shop on your way out for some extra special gifts and souvenirs to take home.

 

#35 Dine Out in Style or on a Budget

With hundreds of great eateries to choose from across Jersey it is difficult to narrow it down to just a few.

The island really does have something to offer all tastes, dietary needs and budgets.

These are some of my top picks…

 

Budget Dining – Pizza Express!

Now hear me out – I know that this is hardly a ‘Jersey’ eating experience, however the Pizza Express situated directly next to the beach in St Brelade’s Bay has to be the most picturesque one out there!

As part of the UK chain, you know what you are going to get here – and the family friendly nature of the restaurant is a massive plus.

But it is the views from its many windows that set it apart; looking directly out over the bay, it has a uniquely ‘holiday’ feel, and all for a very reasonable price – wins all round!

 

Mid-Range – Staks La Pulente

Situated at the southern end of St Ouen’s Bay, Staks (La Pulente) is another eatery boasting fantastic coastal views (ask to sit upstairs, or on the balcony on a warm summers evening, and you can watch the sun go down over the surfers in the bay).

Offering casual dining for all tastes, Staks is a step up from traditional ‘pub grub’, priding themselves in the use of local ingredients to provide the finest flavours.

Your welcome here will always be a warm one, and the atmosphere and service mean it is a place that people return to time and again.

 

Something Special – The Bass & Lobster

The Bass & Lobster in Gorey Village is fast becoming a Jersey institution and is many locals’ ‘go to’ restaurant if they are after a bit of a treat.

Quality local produce is the order of the day here with seafood being a specialty.

The Bass & Lobster offers creative cuisine at its finest with the specials changing daily, and the menu as a whole moving with the rhythm of seasons, reflecting their use of local, seasonal ingredients.

You can watch the island meats, vegetables and seafood being prepared through a window into the kitchen.

As is often the case, there is a reason that this restaurant is so popular with the locals; it really is one not to miss!

 

Luxurious Fine Dining – Bohemia

For an extra special fine dining experience Bohemia, a Michelin Starred restaurant in the heart of St Helier is the place to go.

Named in the top 1000 restaurants in the world, Bohemia blends a ‘relaxed yet sophisticated dining experience’ with the use of local produce.

As stylish as it is chilled, Bohemia purports to offer ‘one of the leading dining experiences in the UK’.

The food here is honestly a work of art; with unique flavours and combinations meaning this would be a meal that you would not forget in a hurry.

 

Exploring Further Afield

#36 Day Trip to Another Channel Island

Much as I love Jersey, there’s no denying that one of the best things to do while here is to day trip to one of the other Channel Islands.

From Guernsey to Herm and my favourite, Sark, there’s a few good ones to choose from.

If you want to venture further afield, you can also take the boat to the French historic walled-city of St Malo for the day.

RIB companies like Seafaris visit some of these destinations, otherwise local ferry company Manche Iles ply the routes, more regularly in the summer.

 

 

Mini Travel Guide to Jersey

When to Visit

May through September are the best months to visit the island in my opinion.

 

How Long to Spend There

3-7 days is a great amount of time to get a feel for all Jersey has to offer.

 

Getting Around Jersey

Walking is free and easy across this small island, or there is a good local bus service – Liberty Bus – which has a very cost-effective set of Hop-On Hop-Off passes, perfect for visitors.

You can also rent bikes.

Sadly Uber hasn’t reached Jersey yet, so you’d be better to hire a car if you’re looking for some independence when it comes to transport.

 

Where to Stay

Check out my top pick for places to stay in Jersey here.

 

Eating in Jersey

Supermarkets such as Waitrose, Marks & Spencer and the CoOp are found across the island, but if you want to buy local for your picnic, then look out for roadside stalls and farm shops as more ethical options.

Or why not check out Jersey’s Central Market and Fresh Fish Market in St Helier?

Great restaurants can also be found across the island – St Helier, St Aubin and Gorey are the best areas to head for when dining out.

 

Packing Essentials for Jersey

• Comfy Travel Pillow
• Go Water Filter Bottle
• Floating Dry Bag
• Waterproof Walking Shoes
• Windproof Breathable Jacket

 

eSIM for Jersey

Most UK phone plans count Jersey as a roaming destination

Check out aloSIM for easy, eSIM connections that won’t incur hefting roaming fees.

 

Travel Insurance

World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while travelling and claim online from anywhere in the world.

Alternatively, if you’re a long-term traveller, digital nomad or frequent remote worker seeking travel health cover, check out Safetywing’s Nomad Insurance policies.

 

Travel Money

Jersey uses the British pound (although notes differ and the island still has £1 notes!).

Free ATMs can be found across the island, most major banks have branches here, and you can pay by card or contactless almost everywhere (including some of the small farm stalls!)

 

SAVE THIS ARTICLE TO PINTEREST!

 

Hope you’ve enjoyed my list of the top 36 things to do in Jersey, including 9 that are free!

Have you visited this tiny island?

What did you enjoy doing there?

Tell me all in the comments box below…

 

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