Published 23 July 2025
Jersey is an island like no other. Its landscape constantly redrawn by one of the largest tidal ranges in the world. As the tide rises and falls, the island almost doubles in size each day, revealing a rich, ever-changing coastal playground. Whether you’re slipping beneath the waves, crossing ancient tidal paths or tracing clifftop trails with the ocean below, Jersey offers countless ways to connect with nature at its wildest.
For the ultimate coastal experience, step out on the Jersey Tidal Trail, a spectacular coastal walking route winding around the island’s circumference. It’s your invitation to explore Jersey step by step, tide by tide.
Here are 10 unforgettable ways to explore Jersey’s coastline, above, below and all around.
1. Kayaking
Kayaking in Jersey lets you get up close to the island’s rugged cliffs, sea caves and hard-to-reach coves, places you simply can’t reach on foot.
Join a guided tour and paddle through calm bays, around rocky headlands and into sheltered inlets carved by the tides. With expert local guides leading the way, you’ll discover the quieter, untouched corners of the island at your own pace.
It’s a low-impact adventure that takes you beyond the shoreline and into Jersey’s wilder, more remote coastal terrain.
@absoluteadventures | @fromoceantopeak | @jersey.kayak.adventures
2. Walking
Jersey’s cliff-edged heights and wide sandy bays are best seen on foot, with a breeze to keep you cool. You choose whether you want to explore on your own or join a walking tour. Whatever you decide, we can guarantee some breathtaking scenery along the way!
When the tide rolls out, seize your chance to visit some “far out” Jersey landmarks, only accessible at low tide. For spectacular cliff-top walks, head to the north coast where rugged paths wind along dramatic headlands, offering sweeping views over the Channel and perfect spots to soak up the sea air.
Put your best foot forward with some great local guides.
3. Jersey Tidal Trail
Follow the island’s edge step by step on the Jersey Tidal Trail – a self-guided, multi-day walking route stretching just over 48 miles. Hugging the island’s coastline, this immersive journey takes you along shifting sands, soaring cliffs, pretty harbours and ancient paths, uncovering Jersey’s constantly changing tidal landscapes.
An interactive map makes it simple to explore at your own pace, whether you choose to tackle the whole route, or enjoy it in smaller sections. From beachside cafés to ancient castles, the trail offers countless stops along the way to soak in Jersey’s rich charm and variety.
4. Sea swimming
Every summer, locals take the plunge and dive into the 30 Bays in 30 Days, a fun charity challenge that invites swimmers to explore 30 of Jersey’s stunning bays throughout July, all while raising money for local causes. Visiting the island? You don’t need the whole month, just grab the list and see how many you can tick off during your stay. It’s a brilliant (and refreshing) way to explore Jersey’s beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters.
Portelet Bay, Bel Val Bay
5. Stand-up paddle boarding
Look out over the horizon and glide across Jersey’s calm coastal waters on a stand-up paddleboard (SUP) with Absolute Adventures. Whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced paddler, SUP offers a fun and refreshing way to connect with the island’s coastline. Feel the sea breeze as you explore sheltered bays and clear waters, discovering hidden spots only accessible from the water. If you’re an experienced stand-up paddle boarder, rent your own and go exploring, or join an expert instructor to guide you and you’ll quickly gain confidence.
@rebeccatayloryoga | @outdoorsjersey
6. Coasteering
Get ready for an epic adventure exploring Jersey’s coastline like never before! Coasteering in Jersey is all about exploring hidden spots along the shore while getting a good dose of adrenaline. Whether you’re up for a chill swim or a heart-pumping jump, this is the ultimate outdoor fun on the island. Grab your crew and book a coasteering trip for an active, unforgettable day out!
7. Boat trips
Whether by sail, by speed or by charter, don’t miss your chance to see a different side to Jersey. Reach thrilling speeds on the water as you witness stunning scenery, pass historic landmarks and enjoy exciting wildlife such as dolphins and seals in their natural habitat, or unwind for a couple of hours and cruise off the coast of Jersey. Book your expedition now.
8. Scuba diving & snorkelling
Discover sea creatures hidden beneath the surface. Whether scuba diving off the north coast of Jersey around the small and scenic beach of Bouley Bay, or snorkelling above the reefs of Les Minquiers, or in the sheltered waters of Portelet Bay, you’ll resurface rebooted. Learn to scuba dive with the Bouley Bay Dive Centre during your island holiday.
Snorkel Portelet provides an opportunity for everyone to spark an interest and appreciation of our oceans. You’ll find self-guided snorkel trails, with information about the species and habitats, as well as how to do it safely with information on boards in the bay or online. Explore the beauty and diversity that lies beneath the waves.
9. Surfing
The Atlantic swell and tidal shifts, along miles of sand, make St. Ouen’s Bay the perfect place to try your hand at surfing. Whether a taster surf lesson, a one-to-one, or a family day with a difference, you’ll hit the water in confidence and have lots of fun. Rent a board and a wetsuit or book a lesson with Laneez, the Surf Yard or Splash Surf Centre.
If you want take things at a more leisurely pace, then why not pull up a pew, grab a drink and soak up island life. There’s no better way to while away some time than watching the surfers of St. Ouen’s Bay!
@ninebyfivephotography | @staxfordproductions
10. Low tide wanders
When the tide is out, Jersey transforms into a natural playground waiting to be explored. Wander across the sandy causeway to Elizabeth Castle from St. Helier’s shore, a journey through centuries of history which can also be accessed at a high tide using the boat bus. Head east for a guided walk out to Seymour Tower, where the seabed stretches for miles and reveals a moon-like landscape teeming with marine life. Over on the west coast, a guided trip to La Corbière Lighthouse lets you uncover dramatic rock formations and tidal pools rarely seen up close.
For a more unconventional journey, explore the reef around La Rocque Harbour or take a walk around Green Island, both perfect spots to see Jersey’s intertidal zone up close. And don’t miss L’Etacq, where low tide reveals winding paths through rockpools and secret beaches.
Just remember, Jersey’s tides are the third highest in the world, so check the tide times or head out with a guide. The sea gives you just enough time for an adventure… but you won’t want to be caught by its return!
Picture yourself here…
…floating, paddling or drifting away as you explore Jersey’s coastline your way.
