Discover the Best of Portelet Bay
About Portelet Bay
A breathtaking, secluded cove on the south-west coast of Jersey, Portelet Bay is an idyllic haven with crystal clear waters and soft sands. Surrounded by dramatic cliffs, the scenery here is simply breathtaking and as one of the island’s few marine conservation sites, it is one of the cleanest and clearest beaches in Jersey. With plenty to discover including heritage sites and historic monuments, a visit to Portelet is more than just a day at the beach. Visitors can also navigate the coastal trails and nearby common to soak up the beauty of Jersey while also admiring the captivating coastal views. With two different dining outlets, it is easy to spend the day exploring Portelet and experience one of Jersey’s most magnificent locations.
Portelet Bay Historic Sites
Portelet Tower
Located on a tidal islet just off the coast of Portelet Bay, Portelet Tower looks back at the island. Known locally as Janvrin’s Tomb, the tower and islet are steeped in both history and folklore, named after Philippe Janvrin, a local seafarer who was quarantined on the islet during the plaque en route back from France. After passing on his second day of quarantine, the tower marks his resting place. Completed in 1808, the tower is styled on the Martello design that the island is known for but is more of a guardhouse than a Martello tower. At low tide, a short causeway is revealed allowing visitors to head up to discover the tower close up, admiring the rock pools along the way.
La Hougue de Vinde
A Neolithic monument located on the headland above Portelet Bay, La Hougue de Vinde is a ritual site dating back to between 2850-2250 BC. Featuring two circular rubble walls, the site has no central burial chamber like most of the island’s neolithic sites indicating that it was one of the few used exclusively for ceremonies and rituals rather than burials. Excavations in the late 19th and early 20th century revealed flint tools and polishers identifying its time period. Although the monument has suffered damage over time, more recent excavations and exploration revealed further artifacts and helped to create a 3D replica model of the original design and construction.
Portelet Bay Other Points of Interest and Things To Do
Designated as a Site of Special Interest since 2007, Portelet Common is a protected nature reserve located between Portelet Bay and Ouaisne Bay. The coastal heathland spans 31 hectares and has ecological significance on the island. A rare Atlantic maritime habitat that is home to over 125 plant species, 30 of which are restricted in the British Isles, Portelet Common is a unique nature spot to explore. History also has a presence here with German bunkers and searchlight emplacements that remain from the German occupation during World War II. As part of Jersey National Park, it is crucial to stick to the well-marked footpaths while exploring the common.
If you are interested in exploring the local area on foot, the Portelet Loop is a great trail to navigate. This coastal route, which is roughly 3 miles long, explores the shoreline and dramatic cliffs while taking in the ocean views that include Janvrin’s Tomb. The route is considered to be an easy to moderate difficulty that is suitable for most explorers, showcasing both the ecology and heritage of the area.
Whether you want a break from the intense heat of summer or the rain of the shoulder seasons, Pirate Pete’s at Portelet Inn is a great way to entertain the kids indoors. Located within the local pub, this soft play offers a fun way for little ones to burn some energy while parents can enjoy a quiet drink or bite to eat.
Portelet Bay Shopping, Dining and Nightlife
For a small bay, Portelet Bay has a number of dining options to choose from. On the beachfront, you will find Portelet Bay Cafe. This family-run cafe is open 7 days a week between March and October. Specialising in wood-fired pizza while also serving salads and seasonal seafood, you can enjoy great food during your beach visit at Portelet Bay Cafe. For alternative dining, the Portelet Inn is available on the clifftop serving traditional pub grub, providing sweeping views of the bay and also offering Pirate Pete’s soft play to entertain the children.
There are no shopping or nightlife opportunities close to Portelet Bay, however, the thriving capital of St Helier is located just a short drive from this southern beachfront.
Portelet Bay Sport and Events
Snorkel Portelet
As a protected marine zone on the island, marine life thrives at Portelet Bay while the lack of boats entering the area creates crystal clear waters, perfect for exploring. The shallow marine habitats here are ideal for snorkelling and the snorkel trail created by the Blue Marine Foundation navigates kelp forests and introduces snorkelers to unique sealife and vibrant anemones.
No Take Zone
An island renowned for its incredible variety and quality of fresh seafood, fishing is one of Jersey’s most popular maritime activities. However, as the island’s first ‘No Take Zone’, fishing is prohibited at Portelet Bay. State members voted in 2022 to create the island’s first protected marine zone banning sea fishing and aquatic activities in this area. It is an office for any sealife to be taken from the area or to use a fishing boat within Portelet Bay. This allows marine life in the area to thrive, enabling this corner of Jersey to become a natural lab for researchers.
Visiting Portelet Bay
The best time to visit Portelet Bay is during the peak summer period that lasts between late spring and early autumn. During this time, the weather is warm, the sea is calmer and the Snorkel Trail is fully accessible. For the most peaceful experience, head there early in themorning or late in the afternoon, preferably during weekdays, to avoid the summer crowds that gather during school holidays and weekends. Parking can be a little tricky so again, it is best to get there early morning if possible.
Mid-morning is ideal for sunbathing after the sun climbs above the cliffs that initially shade the bay. With the beach facing south-west, it enjoys glorious afternoon sun and offers spectacular sunset views, particularly in July and August.
Another important thing to note is that tides change the landscape dramatically, and checking tide times can help you make the most of the sandy beach and safe swimming conditions. If crossing to Janvrin’s Tomb, it is also important to be aware of the tide times to avoid being stranded on the islet.
Portelet Bay Facilities
Parking
At Portelet Bay, while car parking is available, it is very limited and located at the top of the bay with beach access via a long, steep pathway of steps. It is advised to arrive early or use alternative transportation methods to visit Portelet. Alternatively, there are two large car parks, one at Ouaisne and one at Noirmont, that are a 15-20 minute walk to Portelet Bay across the headland.
Public Transport
From Liberation Station, LibertyBus Route 12A services Portelet Bay in the direction of Corbiere. The bus stops close to the car park at the top of the cliff with beach access via the stepped path.
Toilets
There are no public toilets available at Portelet Bay. Toilets are available at the Portelet Bay Cafe when open, but are for patron use only.
Changing and showers
There are no changing facilities or showers available at Portelet Bay.
Accessibility
Portelet Bay is limited in accessibility. There is no disabled parking and access to the bay involves navigating a long, steep pathway of steps, restricting wheelchair access.
Lifeguards
There are no lifeguards on duty at Portelet Bay. Make sure to consider safe swimming, including staying close to the shore, swimming in groups and checking tide times. With Jersey home to the third-largest tidal range in the world, it is also important to be aware of strong currents.
Food and Drink
Portelet Bay Cafe is available for food and drink. The cafe is open 7 days a week between March and October. For alternative dining, the Portelet Inn is available on the cliff top along the route to the beach
Shops
There are no shops or kiosks located close to the beach or the immediate village close to Portelet Bay.
