Saint Helier Travel Guide: Things to Do & Best Time to Visit

Saint Helier is a compact town, and the whole island is small enough to explore in a few days.

• Elizabeth Castle — A fortress on a tidal islet in St Aubin’s Bay, reached on foot across the causeway at low tide or by amphibious vehicle.
• Jersey War Tunnels — Tunnels built during the German occupation of the Second World War, telling the story of island life at the time.
• Mont Orgueil Castle — A medieval castle towering above the harbour at Gorey on the east coast.
• Central Market — A Victorian covered market in town, selling local produce, flowers and Jersey dairy.
• Jersey Museum and Art Gallery — An introduction to the island’s history, culture and art in the heart of Saint Helier.
• Jersey Zoo — Founded by Gerald Durrell and dedicated to endangered species conservation.
• St Aubin’s Bay — A long sweep of sand with a promenade linking Saint Helier with the pretty harbour of St Aubin.

Jersey has a mild maritime climate and is one of the sunniest places in the British Isles. Summers are pleasantly warm rather than hot, and winters are mild but can be windy and wet.

May to September is the best time to visit, with long days for beaches, coastal walks and castle visits. August is the busiest month and hosts the long-established Battle of Flowers carnival. Spring brings wildflowers along the cliff paths, while autumn is quieter and still mild. The island has one of the largest tidal ranges in the world, so check tide times before walking out to Elizabeth Castle or across the beaches.

Jersey Airport is in the parish of St Peter, about 7 km north-west of Saint Helier, so the journey into town is short.

Public buses connect the airport with the town’s bus station, and taxis wait outside the terminal. Car hire desks are located at the airport and are a popular way to explore the island’s coastline and country lanes. Many hotels also offer transfers on request. The drive to Saint Helier typically takes a short time, even in busier periods.

Jersey is small, so wherever you stay, the whole island is within easy reach.

• Saint Helier — Hotels close to shops, restaurants, the market and the harbour; practical for first-time visitors and business.
• St Aubin — A charming harbour village along the bay, with seafood restaurants and a relaxed feel.
• Gorey — Pretty east-coast harbour below Mont Orgueil Castle, ideal for a peaceful stay.
• St Brelade’s Bay — A sheltered sandy bay in the south-west, popular with families and beach lovers.

• Money: Jersey uses the pound sterling; Jersey notes are not always accepted in the UK, so spend or exchange them before leaving. Cards are widely accepted.
• Getting around: Buses cover the island, and car hire is popular; note the island’s narrow lanes and low speed limits.
• Tides: Tides rise quickly and far; always check tide tables before walking on beaches or causeways.
• Food: Try local specialities such as Jersey Royal potatoes, seafood and Jersey dairy products.
• Connectivity: Jersey has its own mobile networks, so check roaming arrangements with your provider before you travel.