St. Helier Beach is a charming crescent of soft sand with a long pier stretching into the town’s marina. Dramatic tides and rock pools characterize the strand, which offers an unobstructed vista of Elizabeth Castle. Stroll along the waterfront with your family and stop at one of the hotels and restaurants overlooking the sea.
Notice how the tide changes the landscape throughout the day. At low tide, you can follow a causeway to l’Islet, the tiny island hosting Elizabeth Castle. Let your kids frolic in the swimming pool that captures seawater as it drains from the bay.
At high tide, amphibious ferries take passengers to the islet. Witness re-enactments and browse exhibits to learn the history of the castle, which sheltered Charles II during the English Civil War.
Back on St. Helier Beach, try homemade soups, seafood or a traditional English breakfast of sausages, bacon and eggs in the Fregate Café. It has a nautical theme and an intriguing architectural design, shaped like an upturned boat. Appreciate the airy, white interior and view the castle from the café’s terrace.
Put together a picnic from local produce from nearby St. Helier Central Market. Enclosing the beach are idyllic picnic spots at the People’s Park, Victoria Park and Les Jardins de la Mer. Walk west to St. Aubin and enjoy the views of its namesake fort. You can also rent bicycles for the trip.
Access the beach for free. It is open at all times. If you drive here, leave your car in the parking lot, which charges a fee in summer only.
St. Helier Beach is in the southwestern corner of the town, between St. Aubin’s Bay and St. Helier Marina. It is a 10-minute walk west from the town’s central district.
Explore the surrounding area for the Maritime Museum, the Waterfront Gardens and the Jersey Museum & Art Gallery.