Things to Do in St Helier, Jersey
St Helier is Jersey’s capital and sits on the south coast of the island, facing St Aubin’s Bay. Most of what you can do here is linked to the sea, the markets or the countryside parishes a short bus ride away. Prices are in Jersey pounds, which are worth the same as sterling. Bank of England notes are also used, but Jersey notes are not legal tender in the UK, so spend them before you leave. Jersey has no VAT, only a 5% goods and services tax.
The tide shapes everything on this coast. The range on spring tides is over 10 m, so beaches, rock pools and reefs change completely within a few hours. Check tide times before any beach or sea activity.
Swim at Havre des Pas
The Havre des Pas bathing pool dates from 1895 and sits on the south-east shore of town. It fills at high tide and keeps its water as the sea drops, with terraces and a promenade around it. Entry has been free, and the operator changed on 1 April 2026, so check the current terms. Lifeguards are seasonal only: May half-term, weekends in June and July, and every day in the school summer holidays. Do not count on a lifeguard being present outside those times.
Eat and browse at the markets
The Central Market opened in 1882 and has cast-iron columns, a tiered fountain and stalls selling local produce, Jersey black butter, flowers and street food. It is open Monday to Saturday from 07:30 to 17:30, with an early close at 14:00 on Thursdays, and closed on Sundays. Across the street, the Beresford fish market has marble slabs of spider crab, sea bass, scallops and oysters.
Out on the water
Jersey Seafaris runs fast boat trips from St Catherine Breakwater in St Martin, reached on LibertyBus routes 2 and 2A. The best-known trip goes to Les Ecrehous, a reef of granite rocks and sand where you often see grey seals and common dolphins. Trips last between 1.5 and 3 hours, and adult prices have been listed from about £47.99 to £64.99, so check the current price before booking. Other trips visit Les Minquiers, the southernmost point of the British Isles. See Jersey Seafaris for the current schedule.
Jersey Kayak Adventures offers guided sea kayaking past granite caves, arches and shallow reefs. A tour lasts about 2.25 hours, with listed prices from about £35.50 to £48.50. Kayaking and coasteering here are guided only, because the tide decides where it is safe to go. Details are on the Jersey Kayak Adventures site .
Surf at St Ouen’s Bay
The west coast is one of Europe’s oldest surfing areas, and The Watersplash at St Ouen’s Bay has a surf centre with board hire, lessons, a bar and a restaurant. Check The Watersplash for lessons and hire.
Cider and black butter
La Mare Wine Estate in St Mary is a 20-acre working estate making wine, cider, apple brandy, Jersey Royal gin, chocolates and black butter, a spiced preserve cooked from cider and apples with liquorice. Tours and tastings run in the warmer months, from spring to the end of October. Check the price on the La Mare Wine Estate site before you go.
Practical tips
- LibertyBus runs all public routes, and most start at Liberation Station on the Esplanade. Check libertybus.je for fares and times.
- For ticketed sights, see attraction tours in St Helier .
To compare other options, browse GetYourGuide activities in St Helier .
Read more: sightseeing in St Helier , day trips from St Helier and walking tours in St Helier .