The Complete Guide to Where to Go Coasteering in Jersey
An exhilarating coastal activity, coasteering offers one of the most thrilling and scenic adventures on the Channel Islands. An activity where the excitement just keeps coming, there is something new around every corner, with a requirement to jump, swim and climb around the coastline. Heading out with a guide, coasteering in Jersey is open to all abilities, with routes and trips to suit the abilities of your group. Trips are usually two to three hours, perfect for a morning or afternoon Jersey excursion; however, full-day trips can also be organised if you fancy a little more adventure. A fusion of swimming, jumping and rock climbing, coasteering in Jersey is the ultimate thrill on the island, and adrenaline junkies need to book onto a coasteering trip during their Jersey holiday.
What is Coasteering?
With Jersey home to one of the most impressive intertidal zones in the world, the adrenaline-fuelled activity of coasteering is extremely popular with thrillseekers. The idea of coasteering is to move around the coast, either by navigating the rocks or swimming sections that are not passable by foot. It involves walking, climbing, swimming and jumping for a unique exploration of the coastline with an added thrill. The 48-mile coastline of Jersey offers excellent coasteering opportunities and is perfect for an active holiday on the island.
Adventure Jersey
An island that thrives on adventure and activity, there are multiple adventure-based companies on the island that offer a wide range of activities. From kayaking to paddleboarding, these companies provide guided activities, bursting with both fun and knowledge. Safety is the most important aspect of coasteering, and with expert local guides, you can enjoy a coasteering adventure with peace of mind. Due to the island’s intertidal location, coasteering is one of the most popular activities on the island. The following companies currently offer coasteering opportunities on the island:
- Absolute Adventures
- Le Port Surf and Adventure
- Valley Adventure Centre
- Wild Adventures Jersey
Absolute Adventures and Le Port Surf & Adventure have a regular schedule of coasteering tours available. Valley Adventure Centre and Wild Adventures Jersey specialise in groups and require a custom booking.
Best Coasteering Locations in Jersey
Gorey
The perfect location for coasteering first-timers to explore, the charming harbour of Gorey provides an easy experience that retains the adrenaline. With jumping, swimming and scrambling opportunities, you can discover this idyllic stretch of coastline in a more adventurous way. The scenic views here are also unrivalled, with the imposing Mont Orgueil Castle overlooking Gorey Harbour as your backdrop.
Greve de Lecq
Considered to be one of the top coasteering locations in all of the UK, Greve de Lecq is a seriously impressive adventure. In addition to the jumping, swimming and climbing that come with most coasteering adventures on the island, Greve de Lecq has so much more to offer. The phenomenal north coast cave system provides some fascinating explorations, while the secret, remote beach that can only be accessed through a swim and a rock scramble is highly rewarding. Coasteering at Greve de Lecq also boasts the infamous rhino jump, a jump into the sea that is not for the faint-hearted. With the coastline having so much to offer, there are multiple routes to explore, making Greve de Lecq a destination that is suitable for both beginners and those with coasteering experience.
The Gorselands
Located on the northwestern coast of Jersey, The Gorselands is a rugged and untouched corner of the island that is an incredible coasteering experience for those of an advanced level. Exposed to the drama of the Atlantic Ocean and Jersey, home to the third largest tidal range in the world, The Gorselands is a coasteering destination that requires bravery and expertise. An extreme challenge for even coasteering experts, you will need stamina and a strong level of swimming. Experience the majestic beauty of this stretch of coastline with the magnificence of La Corbiere Lighthouse in the distance.
St Brelade’s Bay
Coasteering at St Brelade’s Bay often starts with a RIB ride dropping adventure seekers off further along the coast. Taking you to the best locations that can only be accessed by boat, you will explore corners of Jersey that are rarely seen. Usually a two-hour excursion, participants will spend time swimming and jumping in the water and navigating the rock face of Jersey’s southern coastline. There are many jump points along this section of the coastline, as well as caves to explore along the route. A great option for those who want a secret look at the unseen Jersey coastline, coasteering at St Brelade’s Bay is a captivating experience.
Rookie Route
An alternative St Brelade’s Bay coasteering experience, the Rookie Route, operated by Absolute Adventures is a great way to introduce children to the activity. Perfect for beginners, this coasteering excursion receives an extremely thorough safety briefing and just an hour of exploration for a taste of the jumping, swimming and climbing experience. A challenging opportunity for newbies, the Rookie Route is a phenomenal introduction with incredible scenery without the commitment of a longer route.
Tips for Coasteering in Jersey
While most coasteering experiences are accompanied by an expert guide to assist your experience and ensure your safety, there are still some tips to consider when coasteering in Jersey.
Book with professional guides to ensure safety and local expertise.
Choose the experience that best suits your ability level.
If you do opt to venture out alone, check tides and conditions, as Jersey has one of the highest tidal ranges globally.
Participants must be able to swim at least 25m unassisted.
Wear correct gear for the safest experience. Wetsuits, buoyancy aids and helmets are usually provided but a pair of either water-friendly or old trainers should be worn for climbing.
