For a small island, there is bags of personality with so much to see and plenty of things to do in Jersey. An island of adventure, Jersey is not short of exciting attractions, fascinating landmarks and thrilling activities. Jersey offers an eclectic melting point of different things to do from outdoor adventure to indoor amusement. With plenty of spectacular history and breath-taking nature thrown in for good measure, Jersey has something to offer every hobby, interest and passion with adventure and activities for all ages. Whether it is your first or hundredth time visiting the island, there are plenty of things to do in Jersey on every visit. Get to know the heart of the island by embracing a selection of these fun things to do in Jersey.
Blokarting in Jersey
Renowned for its breath-taking beaches, it is no surprise that Jersey’s beaches are a popular hub of activity. With golden sands covering large stretches of the coastline, you are never far from a magnificent Jersey beach and plenty of beachfront activity. Blokarting is one of Jersey’s most popular coastal activities with adrenaline junkies whizzing along the sands on hand-steered land yachts. In Jersey, Blokarting is most commonly found along St Aubin’s Bay and St Ouen’s Bay, two expanses of beachfront stretching for miles which is perfect for this activity. Whilst you can go it alone, the likelihood is you will not have access to your own blokart during a visit to the island but both Jersey Adventures and Absolute Adventures offer blokarting tours. Feel the wind rushing through your hair as you take in the breath-taking Mediterranean-esque views of Jersey’s coastline whilst satisfying your inner thrill seeker.
Coasteering in Jersey
Outdoor adventure is at the core of Jersey with the island having a strong reputation for adrenaline-fuelled activity. Jersey’s rugged and dramatic coastline makes the island a perfect destination to enjoy coasteering. The fusion of swimming, cliff jumping, rock climbing and scrambling embraces all the elements and is a unique way of exploring the island’s exquisite natural beauty. The rugged rock faces and irregular cliffs of the island provide an exciting element to the coasteering experience. Jersey also offers a unique level of challenge for coasteering, home to the world’s third largest tidal range providing treacherous waters to navigate. Coasteering is available to all abilities with different routes depending on ability level. Both Jersey Adventures and Absolute Adventures offer adventure day excursions taking in the coast of Greve de Lecq, St Brelade’s Bay or Gorselands. Join qualified instructors for a fun-filled day of exploring Jersey’s extremities, discovering hidden caves and testing your nerve.
Surfing in Jersey
With the waters surrounding Jersey offering one of the world’s largest tidal ranges, it is no surprise that surfing is one of the best things to do in Jersey. The island is a dream destination for avid surfers with plenty of beautiful beach fronts offering challenging waves. With the third biggest tidal range on the planet, there are many Jersey locations where you can enjoy surfing but St Ouen’s Bay is undoubtedly the best. The unique sand banks provide calmer swells for beginners whilst also boasting larger waves for more experienced surfers. There are also numerous surf schools available offering lessons to polish skills or for the complete novice. St Ouen’s Bay is also lined with incredible dining locations and cafes, perfect for surfing break.
Sea Kayaking in Jersey
Whilst Jersey may be famous for surfing, there is also plenty of opportunity to enjoy more relaxed watersports. Although the island features one of the world’s largest tidal ranges, there are also many tranquil bays where the waters are calm. These spots are perfect for kayaking and sea kayaking is an alternative popular watersport on the island. Kayaking tours are incredibly popular taking you around Jersey’s phenomenal coastline and searching for fascinating caves. Sea kayaking is also available at Les Ecrehous, Sark and Minier after a short journey by charter boat. If you do prefer the wilder side of things, sea kayaking tours are also offered on a more advanced level with ultimate thrill seekers tackling the waves and currents at some of Jersey’s most challenging spots.
Paddle Boarding in Jersey
Paddle boarding is one water sport that is truly having a moment. This activity is ever-increasing in popularity and Jersey is one of the best locations in Europe to try it out. The fastest-growing watersport of the last decade is an excellent way to navigate the Jersey coastline whilst taking in the incredible views. An alternative way to appreciate the beauty of the island, stand up paddle boarding offers a different view of Jersey whilst enjoying some water-based fun and testing your endurance. Paddle boarding is an easy independent activity to enjoy in Jersey with many beachfront based watersport companies offering board hire. Alternatively, the watersport is so popular that there are an incredible number of tour operators offering paddle boarding excursions across the island. This is a great way to explore the island from a unique perspective with a knowledgeable guide.
Abseiling in Jersey
Abseiling is a great introduction into adventure sports and with Jersey’s spectacular cliffs, the island is a phenomenal location for abseiling. Abseiling is the most unique way to discover the island with views that cannot be witnessed any other way. The sport also gives a great insight into Jersey’s adventurous lifestyle whilst taking in some of the island’s most iconic locations. The most common abseiling spot in Jersey is in St Catherine’s with a 27 metre descent. However, you can not only cruise down the island’s dramatic cliff faces, abseiling on the island can also be organised at some of Jersey’s most famous buildings. Mont Orgueil Castle, Val de la Mar Dam and Cyril Le Marquand House are also popular abseiling spots offering a dab of history and culture to your abseiling adventure.
Bushcraft in Jersey
The ultimate outdoor adventure activity, bushcraft is all about using skills and knowledge to survive in the wild. Learn about edible plant life, shelter building and how to start a fire through this fun-filled adventure. Teaching survival skills to all aged eight and over, bushcraft is an excellent way to get back to basics and embrace the wilderness. Jersey Adventures will take you foraging for edible plants before lessons in how to start a fire and a spot of wild cooking. Meanwhile, for a more in depth bushcraft experience, join Wild Adventures Jersey for an overnight bush camp with group shelter building and wild camping in one of Jersey’s most remote and captivating locations. As one of Europe’s leading destinations for outdoor adventure, there is no greater place to try bushcraft than in Jersey.
Cycling in Jersey
Cycling is arguably Jersey’s biggest outdoor activity and one of the best ways to explore the island. Not only does cycling around Jersey offer a free method of transportation, it is also a fun activity to enjoy with all the family and a great way to discover what Jersey has to offer. Cycling trails are scattered all across Jersey including a 50-mile network of Green Lanes dedicated to cyclists and pedestrians. The traffic-free cycling trails and safe ‘Green Lanes’ across the island allow a cycling adventure for all abilities and all the family. Maps and route information for both walking and cycling can be found online or available at the Jersey Tourist Information Centre. If you are travelling to Jersey by sea, Condor Ferries allow bicycles on board free of charge and some hotels rent bicycles for a refundable deposit. Alternatively, numerous shops can be found across the island offering both short term and long term bike hire with a variety of different bicycle options.
Become a Keeper for a Day at Jersey Zoo
One of the most fun things to do in Jersey is a visit to Jersey Zoo. This incredible 32-acre zoological park is home to over 130 different species including some of the world’s rarest and most endangered animals. At Jersey Zoo, you will find incredible primates, tropical birds, cheeky meerkats, beautiful flamingos, fascinating amphibians, magnificent bears and so much more. The park offers many animal encounter experiences with exciting animal interaction, however, there is one animal encounter that outshines them all. The ultimate experience at Jersey Zoo, the Keeper for a Day experience puts you in the shoes of the animal keepers. Work alongside the experienced keepers to clean animal enclosures, prepare meals, assist at feeding times and go behind the scenes. The most unique way to explore the zoo, becoming a Keeper for a Day is a great way to get to know the animals and learn about the exciting work the zookeepers carry out on a daily basis.
Glamping at Jersey Zoo
One of the most immersive experiences at Jersey Zoo is spending the night within the grounds and resting your head at Durrell Wildlife Camp. Durrell Wildlife Camp boasts 12 luxury glamping pods nestled within the grounds of the wildlife park complete with private bathroom, kitchen facilities and a cosy wood-burning stove. These safari-style tents are tucked away behind the zoo’s Lemur Lake keeping you close to the wildlife. Wake up to the sounds of the animals whilst enjoying a 5 star glamping experience. Glamping has never been more wild and camping has never been more luxurious than this incredible 5 star experience at Durrell Wildlife Camp.
Jersey War Tunnels
Jersey is rich in war history with World War II in particular playing a pivotal role in the island’s heritage and identity. During the German occupation of the island during WW2, an underground complex was built to shield the Germans from Allied air raids. Converted into an emergency hospital in 1943, the tunnels have played several roles since their creation and now play an important part in the documentation of Jersey’s history. Through heroic and heart-breaking exhibits and stories, the Jersey War Tunnels provide an exceptionally thought-provoking and educational tour into wartime Jersey and the effects the German occupation had on the island and its residents.
Occupation Trails in Jersey
Jersey is an island bursting with war history with many historical landmarks, monuments and sites peppered across the island. Whilst Jersey’s war history spans the centuries, the occupation-era is the most evident on the island. During World War II, the island was occupied by Germans who built and extended many of the island’s forts, tunnels and batteries. For those fascinated by war history, Jersey is a fascinating destination and many of the best sites can be explored on foot. The Geotourist app is a great way to explore Jersey’s war sites with numerous occupation trails helping you to navigate the island. You will explore a variety of both preserved and ruined war sites including Jersey’s famous batteries and many other points of interest.
The Sand Wizard in Jersey
A trip to St Catherine’s Bay will introduce you to The Sand Wizard, Jersey’s most iconic modern-day artist. The Sand Wizard builds sand castles that are purely works of art with exceptional design and intricate detailing. The sculptures are built without any protection from the elements requiring true hard work and determination from The Sand Wizard. You can meet The Sand Wizard, Simon, himself and discuss how he built the fascinating sand sculpture. The attraction is one of the most interesting on the island whilst also being exceptionally budget-friendly.
Le Petit Train in Jersey
A firm favourite with families, Le Petit Train is one of the best fun things to do in Jersey if you are travelling with little ones. Le Petit Train travels the promenade between St Helier and St Aubin providing a great transport option allowing little legs to take a break. On route, take in the breath-taking coastal views of St Aubin’s Bay with historic forts occupying either end. The land train welcomes riders on board throughout the summer months with the scenic route accompanied by historical commentary. Le Petit Train offers special edition rides at select times of year including Disney Rides offering a sing-a-long train ride. Le Petit Train also offers special sing-a-long rides for Liberation Day with songs from the era including Vera Lynn and Glen Miller.
Seafari in Jersey
Jersey Seafaris is the largest RIB operator in the Channel Islands and offers exciting excursions out to sea. Seafaris explore Jersey’s magnificent coastline and visit the island’s neighbouring islands whilst on the hunt for incredible sea life. Seafaris take in the north coast or south coast with options to visit beautiful local islands or Carteret in France. One of the most popular destinations for a seafari is Les Ecrehous, one of Jersey’s best kept secrets. Located 6 miles off the coast of the island and just 8 miles from France, Les Ecrehous is a stunning archipelago that is small in size but offers huge beauty. Les Ecrehous looks like paradise and is one of Jersey’s most picturesque landscapes with turquoise waters, white sands and rugged islets. The area is a popular home for Atlantic grey seals and bottlenose dolphins making it an excellent location on a seafari sailing.
Hamptonne Country Life Museum
To gain an insight into the rural Jersey of times gone by, you will not find a more immersive and authentic experience than a visit to Hamptonne Country Life Museum. Discover what it was like in the 1940’s with an exploration into family life, agricultural traditions and the German occupation. Visitors can also meet the animals in the stables, enjoy the play area and take part in the running of the grounds and day-to-day activities. In addition, Jersey has a rich cider history and you can wander through the beautiful orchard and try your hand at apple pressing. A series of walking trails lead on from Hamptonne Country Life Museum making it a great starting point for a day of exploring Jersey. Hamptonne Country Life Museum also hosts some of the island’s best events including La Faîs’sie d’Cidre, Jersey’s annual cider festival. This event is the largest food and drinks festival in the Channel Islands celebrating Jersey’s cider production, rich heritage and incredible community.
aMaizin! Adventure Park
Bursting with indoor fun and outdoor adventure, aMaizin! Adventure Park is a one stop shop of entertainment for all the family and Jersey’s number one family activity. If you are looking for an attraction to keep the children entertained during your visit to Jersey, this is it! Visit the farm animals, tee off with a game of mini golf, race down the toboggan hill or bounce around on the jumping pillow. In addition to family fun, there’s so much dedicated just to kids including tractor rides, pedal go-karts and an adventure playground. To top it off, during the summer months, the whole family can get lost exploring the themed maze and if the weather takes a turn making the outdoor attractions seem less appealing, head inside where the little ones can explore the indoor play barn.
Aquadome in Jersey
Located in St Helier, the Aquadome offers a fun-fuelled day out for all the family with facilities for all ages and abilities. For those looking for a splashtastic adventure, the Aquadome is calling your name. The Aquadome is a subtropical indoor paradise at the Merton Hotel. Take on the numerous adrenaline-fuelled slides, enjoy a relaxing float on the lazy river or relax in the sauna and steam rooms. Little ones can also join in the fun and explore the splash park. Whilst membership or a stay at the Merton Hotel is required to make use of the facilities, non-residents and members are also welcome to enjoy the water fun and conquer the thrills of the Aquadome by taking advantage of the Dip ‘n’ Dine. This package is available on Sunday’s offering unlimited access to the Aquadome followed by a carvery lunch at the hotel’s restaurant.
La Mare Wine Estate in Jersey
La Mare Wine Estate is one of Jersey’s most fun things to do, especially for adults. The estate is home to a spectacular vineyard and is a Genuine Jersey producer offering tours and tasting experiences. Explore the extensive grounds and breath-taking vineyards before visiting the winery and production areas including the Cognac-style distillery and chocolate kitchen. The fun and educational tours offer expert knowledge on wine production and the history of the estate before a delicious tasting session. Not only do you get to sample two of the exquisite La Mare Wine Estate’s productions, the tasting session also includes a tasting of apple brandy cream liqueur and a gin and tonic. All the family is welcome and if you are visiting Jersey with children, they can join the tour receiving a vineyard trail quiz, apple juice and a chocolate lolly whilst there is also an adventure playground onsite. After the tour, stay to enjoy lunch at The Vineyard Cafe where you can indulge in a delicious meal and try more of the estate’s wines.
La Rocque Harbour Glowworms in Jersey
When many think of La Rocque Harbour, they think of an idyllic fishing port with a small beach perfect for a relaxing day by the sea. What many do not know is that La Rocque Harbour is home to a natural wonder. Missed in daylight, glowworms light the bay up like a star-studded sky come nightfall. When lit by a UV torch, the insects remain illuminated for up to twenty seconds before switching off to recharge. Even scientists cannot discover the reasoning behind this natural phenomenon, it is one of Earth’s great mysteries. This sight of this natural wonder is rare in Europe as many of these beetles live in light-polluted areas making them difficult to spot, even at night. The light of the glowworms can be seen all year round as long as it is not a full moon. The less light pollution the better and the best experience is to be enjoyed close to the new moon. Witness the bay twinkling in the darkness, a sight that will take your breath away. This mystical wonder is one of Jersey’s most incredible experiences and a true secret of the island.
