Channel Islands

Beaches in the Channel Islands

Best Beaches

The Channel Islands offer a diverse range of coastal landscapes, from the expansive Atlantic swells of Jersey’s St Ouen’s Bay to the sheltered, shell-filled shores of Herm. Guernsey’s west coast features granite-fringed bays like Cobo and Vazon, known for surfing and sunsets, while Sark’s Derrible Bay is characterized by steep cliffs and natural sea caves. These locations showcase unique geological features, including pink granite outcrops and tidal ranges that drastically transform the shoreline twice daily.

Best Beaches — Map

A

Saint Ouen's Bay

Five-mile stretch of sand on Jersey’s west coast. It is a premier surfing destination and forms part of the Jersey National Park, featuring the La Rocco Tower and a system of coastal dunes known as Les Mielles.

B

St.Brelade's

South-facing bay in Jersey known for its soft sand and palm trees. The site includes the historic Fisherman’s Chapel, featuring medieval wall paintings, located at the western end of the beach.

C

Cobo Beach

Located on Guernsey’s west coast, this beach is characterized by its white sand and distinctive pink granite rocks. It is a notable spot for viewing sunsets and exploring rock pools at low tide.

D

Shell Beach

Situated on the island of Herm, this beach is composed of millions of tiny shell fragments washed up from the Gulf Stream. At low tide, the sand extends significantly toward the neighboring island of Jethou.

E

Plemont

A sandy cove on Jersey’s north coast, accessible via a long flight of steps. It features numerous sea caves and a waterfall, though the beach completely disappears at high tide.

F

Vazon

Guernsey’s largest beach, providing a wide expanse of sand popular for surfing and kite surfing. The Fort Hommet headland sits at its northern end, housing a restored Napoleonic-era fortification.

G

L'Ancresse Beach

A large bay on Guernsey’s northern tip, flanked by common land. The area is home to several archaeological sites, including the La Varde dolmen, a prehistoric burial chamber overlooking the water.

H

Belvoir Bay

A small, secluded sandy cove on the eastern side of Herm. It is sheltered from prevailing winds by high cliffs, creating a calm environment with views toward Sark.

I

Derrible Bay

Located on Sark, this beach is accessible via a steep path and features high cliffs and the Creux Derrible, a natural vertical shaft or blowhole formed by a collapsed cave.

J

Port Soif

A horseshoe-shaped bay on Guernsey’s west coast, almost completely enclosed by sand dunes. The shallow waters and surrounding dunes provide significant shelter from the wind.

K

Grandes Rocques

Features white sand and large pink granite boulders on Guernsey’s northwest coast. The headland contains remains of Napoleonic-era fortifications and offers views across the offshore reefs.

L

Bordeaux Harbour

Bordeaux Harbour is a fishing port and bay in the parish of Vale in the northeast of Guernsey, about 2 miles north of Saint Peter Port.

Other Lists

Channel Islands Essentials Coastal Fortifications Historic Castles & Forts Museums & Galleries