Portelet Bay

This beautiful bay on Jersey’s south coast is saved from the summer crowds by the steep climb down.

The beach here is sheltered between high cliffs and south facing which makes it a veritable suntrap. The sand here is fine and golden but there are also plenty of rocky features and pools to keep everybody occupied.

Portelet’s most recognisable feature though is the tower on the little island just of the beach. This island (L’Île au Guerdain) is home to “Janvrin’s Tomb”, a circular tower dating back to the 1720s. Philippe Janvrin was a local sea captain but when he returned in 1721 his ship was carrying the plague. The authorities would not let him land and soon after he died on his ship. The body was not allowed to be brought ashore so he was buried on the island and this is his tomb.

If you do visit the island make sure you don’t get cut off by the incoming tide although swimming at Portelet is generally considered safe.

Whilst this is a great family beach the difficult access means there are no facilities on the beach itself. The closest amenities are at the Portelet Inn, back up the cliff.