Vacationing in Jersey

Jersey is a small island between England and France and, although it is only 9 miles by 5 miles, it is actually the largest of the Channel Islands. It is an independent territory with a mix of British and French cultures that has resulted in a cosmopolitan and refined atmosphere with a continental flair. It is well known for its pristine beaches and natural beauty, and there are walking trails to enjoy along the coast and through hidden valleys inland.

It is a good choice for families looking for entertaining, child-friendly activities as in Jersey you’ll find castles to explore, the Jersey War Tunnels, Durrell Wildlife Park (where you can also enjoy camping) and several museums. It is also the perfect spot to enjoy a romantic getaway as Jersey is home to many luxury hotels, Michelin-starred restaurants, beautiful scenery and sandy beaches. If you’re thinking about a vacation in Jersey, here is our guide on where to stay and what to do.

For a beach break

Jersey’s coast is rich in vast sandy beaches and rock-bound coves, making it an excellent choice for a beach vacation. Being a small island, many of the hotels are situated on the coast, meaning you can wake to beautiful ocean views and fresh sea air, and you can choose from luxury 5 star hotels to cozy self-catering lodges as there is plenty of choice when it comes to accommodation. There are also Michelin-starred restaurants for special meals, as well as beach-side restaurants offering tasty snacks.

One of the best resorts to choose if you would like to relax on a beach vacation in Jersey is St Brelade’s Bay, which features magnificent seascapes. Many of the hotels close to this bay offer rooms with balconies and also have their own well-regarded restaurants. The beach has golden sand and there are lots of water activities on offer, including entertainment for children.

If you would prefer to be in a village setting then we recommend either St Aubin or Gorey as they have plenty of choice when it comes to accommodation and there are also plenty of bars and restaurants. Another option, if you would prefer a more vibrant atmosphere, is Jersey’s capital: St Helier, which spans out into the sea and offers lovely views of the bay of St Aubin. Here you’ll find cocktail lounges, spas, local amenities and fine-dining restaurants.

For an escape to the country

Jersey has some glorious countryside and is very safe for walking and cycling as it has 50 miles of tracks known as “Green Lanes”, where there is a strict speed limit and priority is given to walkers, cyclists and horses.

To discover the natural beauty, agriculture, heritage, history and traditions of Jersey, it is best to stay in one of its stunning country hotels. We love Greenhills Country Hotel in St Peter, which has delightful gardens that provide a tranquil setting. It also has a small pool, a restaurant, a newly refurbished bar and a herb garden. For something very special, there’s Longueville Manor, which is the only Five Red Star Accommodation in the Channel Islands. It has vast grounds, with formal gardens and rustic woodland and is not far from St Clements Golf and Sports Centre, making it a good choice for a golf vacation. It also features an acclaimed boutique spa, comprehensive leisure facilities and private luxury yacht charters.

While in the Jersey’s countryside, be sure to seek out “The Nun’s Walk”, which is a woodland trail through the heart of Jersey that features exquisite wildlife, including squirrels, woodpeckers and barn owls.

For a luxury retreat

The turquoise seas, luxury hotels, Michelin-starred restaurants, sandy beaches and natural beauty make Jersey an excellent choice for a luxury vacation. Most of the high-end hotels offer spa facilities and have their own bars and restaurants, and you can request a room with a balcony or sea view. Many hotels also offer additional modern comforts, including Wi-Fi, mood lighting and TVs with international channels. On the coast, we recommend Grand Jersey Hotel and Spa, which overlooks St Aubin’s Bay. It features a Champagne Lounge and an award-winning spa. Meanwhile, those looking to stay in the countryside will fall in love with the magic of Longueville Manor.

Those who would like to be based in the capital, St Helier, will surely enjoy staying at the Royal Yacht Hotel, which has its own spa. St Helier also offers a large leisure complex, and there are golf courses to enjoy, as well as water-based activities on the beaches. You’ll also find jewelry shops in St Helier’s center selling rare pearls, and you can enjoy a day trip to the Eric Young Orchid Foundation, where a purpose-built nursery displays a wonderful array of stunning and precious orchids.

If you’re on a budget

You can still enjoy a wonderful vacation in Jersey if you are on a limited budget and we recommend opting for cheaper accommodation so that you can save your money to enjoy meals out and activities. While St Helier offers some luxury hotels, it also offers a range of budget accommodation, including self-catering lodges that can help you save money. Choosing a central hotel, rather than seafront accommodation, will help you save money and there are two beaches just a 10-minute walk from the town center, meaning you don’t miss out!

We also recommend renting bicycles (your hotel may even offer bicycle hire for free) and exploring the island at your own pace rather than relying on pre-arranged tours – the concierge or reception staff at your hotel will be very happy to advise you on the best trails to enjoy.

If this blog has inspired you to consider a vacation to Jersey or one of the other Channel Islands and you would like us to put together a personalized vacation package for you, including pre-arranged tours, activities and day trips, contact a member of our dedicated team on 1-347-594-5500 or click here to send an online inquiry. You can also visit this page to find out more about our customized tours of Jersey or click here to see an overview of some of the holidays we offer.