Situated in the British Channel, Jersey is a tiny little island with a lot to offer.
Just 45 square miles big, the island is a haven of beautiful beaches, great country walks, fascinating history and fantastic wildlife.
Jersey’s location, between the south coast of England and the north coast of France, gives it a unique character and identity, which although now largely anglicised, maintains a distinctly French flair.
Small and safe, Jersey’s countryside of fields, meadows and hedgerow lanes make it a great place to get lost, while its busy central hub of St Helier gives it a vibrancy people are often surprised to find.
As the most southerly and sunniest corner of Britain, and the place where I grew up (so I am a little biased!), the island makes a great place to getaway from it all.
Here are my top 7 reasons to visit Jersey in the Channel Islands…
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#1 Stunning Beaches & Coastline
Jersey’s beaches have won multiple awards and are some of the cleanest in Britain.
Swimming is safe and several of the popular spots even have lifeguards during the summer.
Water sports such as stand-up paddle boarding or surfing abound, or for the less energetic there are plenty of beachside cafes to test out!
In the summer, there’s plenty of places to tan, as Jersey receives the most hours of sunshine anywhere in Britain.
My favourite thing about the beaches on Jersey is their variety (check out my list of the 11 best Jersey beaches for more ideas!)
Making up the large majority of the Island’s coastline, there really is a beach for every occasion here as, due to the Island’s topography, and each one varies in size and appearance.
For long stretches of yellow sand try St Ouen’s or St Brelade’s Bay, which have sweeping views and a good range of activities that normally attract families.
For something a little quieter, why not sample the small harbour beaches of Rozel or Bonne Nuit on the north coast, where you can watch the fisherman and the ebbing tide.
My favourite beaches are Beauport or Portelet Bays on the south coast, which only accessible by sets of steep steps, yet blessed with wonderful views and turquoise waters.
One idea for finding the perfect beach for you is to research the wind direction and head to a beach on the opposite side of the island – this guarantees you’ll be as sheltered as possible from any sea breezes!
If you want to enjoy the view of the beaches, rather than lie on them, then RIB tours across the island are a great way to take in Jersey coastline.
Jersey Seafaris RIB tours along the north coast offer an exhilarating ride!
All in all Jersey’s beaches are beautiful and free, which is why it’s one of my top reasons to visit the island.
#2 Unlimited Outdoor Adventures
Walking is a huge hit in Jersey, with everything from wood walks to heritage trails, tasting tracks and country lane ambles on offer.
The main walking event of the year in Jersey happens on the weekend nearest to Midsummer’s Day (21st June), where hundreds of people from across the island and beyond, madly attempt to circumnavigate the island’s 48 miles in one gruelling day, step after step!
If you’re after something more sedate however, don’t fear, as Jersey has all number of walks available for different ages and fitness levels, with a whole network of clearly signed routes across and around the island.
My personal favourite walks are along the north coast, where the undulating cliff paths are both a great workout for the thighs, as well as a treat for the eyes.
Glorious views of the island’s coastline await you, as well as those of France too.
Heather, foxgloves and other wild flowers dot these paths and if you’re lucky you might well spot dolphins and red squirrels as you make your way along.
The hardest, but most enjoyable stretch of the north coast is between Bonne Nuit and Rozel – allow a good few hours to make this trek, and then treat yourself to one of the cafes or pubs (The Rozel Bay Pub is a fav!) at either end.
For something more sedate, or child-friendly, the Railway Track from Corbiere Lighthouse to the harbour village of St Aubin is a great option, otherwise lovely footpaths round some of the island’s reservoirs – like Queen’s Valley or Val de la Mare – are also great options.
If you’re looking for outdoor activities beyond walking, the island also offers excellent surfing opportunities at St Ouen’s Bay, (with lessons available from Jersey Surf School), stand-up paddle boarding (at St Brelade’s Bay and Ouasine), and plenty of cycling routes, with bikes and eBikes available to hire – check out the range from Jersey Bike Hire.
There’s also more adrenaline-fuelled sports, such as coasteering, abseiling, blokarting and kayaking available too – Absolute Adventures come recommended here.
#3 Heaps of History & Heritage
Awash with stories from the past, Jersey is a traditional place, proud of its unique heritage and ancestry.
Testimony to this, are 2 island organisations that do a lot of work to preserve and maintain the Island’s past.
Both the National Trust for Jersey and Jersey Heritage, work hard to make sure that historical attractions here remain accessible and attractive.
From lovingly maintaining old cottages, to keeping areas of significance open to the public, excavating sacred Neolithic stone monuments, to restoring medieval castles, both organisations really do ensure there is something to interest everyone here.
Many of the attractions are set among lovely grounds and boast interactive features that children enjoy.
Or for those that like to dig a bit deeper, the island’s various museums provide a rich interpretative layer to the community’s historical tapestry.
My favourite museum is the Jersey War Tunnels which, set within a former underground hospital built using forced labour during WWII, details the Nazi occupation of the Island between 1940-45.
It’s an era that my grandparents lived through on Jersey and is therefore an issue still very close to many islanders’ hearts.
Going further back in time, there are a number of older castles you can visit for the day, such as tidal-access Elizabeth Castle or medieval Mont Orgueil, as well many free attractions including Neolithic dolmens, ruins and country cottages that can be explored in an afternoon.
For those looking for a bit more adventure, there are also a number of historical properties that you are able to rent as accommodation for a unique stay on the island.
#4 Delicious Local Cuisine
With a rich farming and fishing industry in days gone by, Jersey is understandable fanatic about its food!
Local produce still abounds and can easily be bought from wonderful farm shops and roadside stalls, known as honesty boxes, that add character and colour to the island experience.
The Genuine Jersey label denotes anything that has been locally produced, and is a great way of ensuring you taste the best of what is available, as well as support valuable local economies.
In addition, Jersey’s world famous milk-producing cows still churn out a load of the white stuff that gets pasteurised in theiIsland dairy and drunk by the gallon in locals’ tea!
In its distinct Tetrapak carton, you can’t miss it!
From Jersey Royals to exquisite seafood, Jersey is a foodie paradise.
Catering to those who want to indulge, a number of great restaurant’s can also be found across the island, including the Michelin starred Bohemia in St Helier, as well as Ocean Restaurant at the Atlantic Hotel in St Brelade.
For something a bit more casual, there are plenty of beachside eateries turning out great local dishes – I really recommend Le Braye Cafe, El Tico or Stacks , which are all situated along picturesque St Ouen’s Bay.
Both the Fish Market and the Central Market in Jersey’s capital, St Helier, also make good foodie destinations.
And there’s an increasing number of great coffee spots in the capital too, like Locke’s or The Yard, and don’t forget to try a local Liberation Ale and a wine-tasting experience at La Mare Vineyards while you’re here too!
#5 Quaint, French Atmosphere
If you’re looking for a British break, in a small destination that boasts big on unique, then I can’t recommend Jersey enough!
Despite being well connected, this small island feels like a world away – a one-of-a-kind cultural experience, in part due to its rural geography, but also thanks to its clear French influences.
An identity woven from both French and British influences, historically, Jersey was part of the Duchy of Normandy before aligning with the British Crown.
This dual heritage is still felt today across the island’s street names (think Rue de la Liberation or La Grande Route de St. Ouen) and Norman-style farmhouses.
While the locals speak English, the island’s traditional language, Jèrriais, can still be heard among older generations – my grandparents included!
Festivals and traditions also nod to both cultures.
Jersey’s Battle of Flowers, a vibrant parade held every August, feels reminiscent of French carnivals, while the island celebrates unique holidays like Liberation Day on May 9th, marking the end of German occupation during WWII.
There’s also La Fête dé Noué in December – a charming Christmas festival combining British festive cheer with French-style Christmas markets, twinkling lights, and local crafts.
This mix of French flair and British charm gives Jersey an unforgettable character – it’s like visiting two countries in one!
#6 Compact & Easy to Explore
I touched on it in the point above, but one of the great reasons I love to visit Jersey, and I’m sure you will too, is the ease of the whole thing!
There’s no need to think about things like driving on a different side of the road, worrying about language barriers, or even changing currency, instead you can hop over from one of 17 UK airports and find yourself in Jersey in less than an hour.
Regular ferry crossings from Poole and Portsmouth, also make getting over to the island with furry friends or families, a doddle.
Learn more about these ferry services here.
Once you arrive in Jersey, this small island is easy to navigate by car, bike, bus or 2 feet – with great public transport and a 15mph Green Lane system the prioritises non-motorised vehicles.
The island is also very safe and child-friendly, which means you rarely have to worry about security – beyond perhaps a pesky seagull stealing your chips!
Lifeguards patrol beaches in the summer season, and low light and noise pollution, plus lashings of clean, seaside air, make Jersey an all round relaxing and rejuvenating spot for a stress-free getaway.
#7 Mild Climate
And last but not least, one of the best reasons to visit Jersey is its mild climate.
As the most southerly part of the British Isles, only 14 miles from the French coast, Jersey boasts a temperate maritime climate, meaning it rarely gets too cold in winter or too hot in summer.
In fact, the island enjoys more sunshine hours than most of the UK!
Spring arrives early, with blooming wildflowers and comfortable temperatures perfect for coastal walks.
Summers are warm, but not sweltering, ideal for beach days and alfresco dining.
Autumn keeps a pleasant warmth, with vibrant countryside colours, while winters are relatively mild, making it great for quieter, cosy escapes.
This year-round appeal means you can visit Jersey anytime — whether you’re chasing summer sun, springtime adventures, or a peaceful winter retreat.
Plus, fewer crowds in the shoulder seasons give you a more relaxed, authentic feel of the island.
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Top Jersey Travel Tips
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, and taxis are expensive, 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, and most major banks have branches here.
You can pay by card or contactless almost everywhere (including some of the small farm stalls!)
I always travel with my Wise card, which makes spending abroad cheaper with real exchange rates and no sneaky transaction or ATM fees.
Wise cards works just like a debit card and link easily with Google and Apple pay.
Grab yours here.
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So those are my top 7 reasons to visit Jersey in the Channel Islands.
Have you been to this unique little place?
Let me know about your experiences!
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Just looking for advise> My family of 7 persons would like to visit Jersey and Gersney if possible and practical. We looking for resort type accommodation with pool for the two younger children.
The one family is in Dublin and the other in London. can you advise on flights .
Any visa requirements to visit. 4 persons have EURO passports but other 3 have South Africa passports, they will probably need visas.
look fwd to your suggestions
Hi Fernando, you can fly direct from London Gatwick, Heathrow and Luton to Jersey. Flights from Dublin run in the summer months. In the winter, I’d advise connecting through London. For a resort that’s kid-friendly with a pool, check out the Merton Hotel or L’Horizon in Jersey. In terms of visas, whatever you require for the UK applies to Jersey and Guernsey, as they are part of the Common UK Travel area, so there’s no separate or different requirements. Hope that helps. Best wishes, Steph 🙂
need advise- an international student (Nigerian) in the UK can i visit Jersey on holidays and what are the requirements ? looking at the summer time there…
Hi Augustine, after passing immigration to enter the UK, you don’t need to pass it again for entrance to Jersey, because the island is within the UK’s common travel area. Hope that answers your question. Best wishes, Steph 🙂