Channel Islands with Kids
Jersey and Guernsey - beautiful beaches and easy access for British families
The Channel Islands offer something special for families: British ease combined with a taste of France, stunning beaches that rival anywhere in Europe, and a pace of life that feels instantly relaxing. Just an hour flight from most UK airports (or a scenic ferry crossing), Jersey and Guernsey deliver genuine holiday escapism without the hassle of overseas travel. No currency exchange needed, English spoken everywhere, and the same plugs as home. Yet the seafood, the sunshine hours, and the Norman-French heritage make it feel delightfully foreign.
Jersey or Guernsey: Which to Choose?
Both islands make excellent family destinations, but they have different characters. Many families visit one, fall in love, and return year after year. Others island-hop to compare.
Jersey
- Larger island with more attractions and variety
- Better beaches for families, including St Brelade Bay and St Ouen
- Jersey Zoo (Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust) is world-famous
- More restaurants, shops, and entertainment options
- Easier to fill a full week without running out of activities
- More developed and busier than Guernsey
Guernsey
- Smaller, quieter, more relaxed pace
- St Peter Port is charming with harbour views and cafes
- Excellent for walking and cycling with children
- Slightly cheaper than Jersey overall
- Easier to explore the whole island
- Better for families seeking peace rather than activities
First Visit Recommendation
For families with younger children who want beaches and activities, choose Jersey. For families with older children who enjoy walking, cycling, and a slower pace, Guernsey edges it. Both are fantastic - you cannot really go wrong.
Getting There
The Channel Islands are remarkably accessible from the UK, making them ideal for families who want the holiday feeling without long-haul travel stress.
By Air
Flights take 45-90 minutes depending on your departure airport. EasyJet, British Airways, and Blue Islands serve both Jersey and Guernsey from multiple UK airports. Jersey has more frequent connections; Guernsey flights can require more planning.
Flights are short enough that even toddlers manage easily. The compact airport sizes mean quick security and boarding - a welcome change from major hub chaos.
By Ferry
Condor Ferries run from Poole to both islands (around 4-5 hours) and from Portsmouth (longer crossing). The ferry makes an adventure in itself - children love watching the English coast disappear and can run around on deck. Bring car or travel as foot passengers.
Ferry crossings can be rough in bad weather. Check forecasts and pack seasickness remedies. Cabin upgrades available for longer crossings, useful for nap-needing little ones.
Flight vs Ferry Costs
Compare total costs carefully. Flights are often cheaper than ferry, especially without a car. However, having a car gives freedom once on the island. Consider flying and hiring a car locally - Jersey and Guernsey have good rental options.
Jersey Best Family Beaches
Jersey boasts some of Europe finest beaches, and the variety means you can find the perfect spot whatever the weather or tide conditions.
- St Brelade Bay - The classic family beach. Golden sand, calm water, cafes and restaurants along the promenade. Gets busy in summer but deservedly popular
- St Ouen Bay - Five miles of sand on the west coast. Excellent for surfing and bodyboarding but can have strong currents - stick to lifeguarded areas with small children
- Grouville Bay - Vast expanse of sand at low tide, perfect for kite flying and beach games. The Royal Jersey golf course backdrop adds character
- Plemont Bay - Dramatic cove reached by steps. Rock pools, caves to explore, and beautiful scenery. Best at low tide when the beach appears
- Green Island - Sheltered bay ideal for small children. Walk to the tidal island at low tide and paddle in calm, clear water
- Beauport Bay - Hidden gem reached by cliff path. Quieter than main beaches, stunning setting, rewards families willing to walk
Tidal Range
Jersey has one of the world largest tidal ranges - the difference between high and low tide can be 12 metres. This creates vast beaches at low tide but some beaches disappear completely when the tide is in. Always check tide times before visiting.
Jersey Family Attractions
Jersey Zoo (Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust)
Founded by Gerald Durrell, this conservation-focused zoo houses endangered species from around the world. Gorillas, orangutans, lemurs, and Andean bears live in naturalistic enclosures. The focus on conservation gives older children meaningful context beyond simply seeing animals.
Allow a full day. The grounds are extensive with plenty of walking. Restaurant on site, or bring a picnic for the designated areas.
More Jersey Activities
- Jersey War Tunnels - Underground hospital built during German occupation. Moving history suitable for children 8+, perhaps too much for younger ones
- Elizabeth Castle - Reached by amphibious vehicle or causeway at low tide. Explore fortifications and enjoy harbour views
- aMaizin Adventure Park - Maize maze, go-karts, and playground. Good half-day option for younger children
- Mont Orgueil Castle - Medieval fortress overlooking Gorey harbour. Excellent for exploring with towers, dungeons, and sea views
- Kayaking and paddleboarding - Multiple operators offer lessons and hire around the coast
- Jersey Seafaris - Wildlife boat trips to see seals, puffins (seasonal), and possibly dolphins
Rainy Day Options
Jersey has limited indoor attractions compared to mainland UK. Plan beach and outdoor activities for good weather days, saving Jersey Zoo (partly covered) and War Tunnels for grey days. The cinema in St Helier provides backup.
Exploring Guernsey with Children
Guernsey smaller size means you can explore the whole island easily. The capital St Peter Port is one of the Channel Islands most charming towns, with a harbour, castle, and steep cobbled streets.
Guernsey Beaches
- Cobo Bay - Popular west coast beach with a beach kiosk and good facilities. Sunset views are spectacular
- Pembroke Bay - Large L-shaped beach with lifeguards in summer. Good for swimming and body boarding
- Petit Bot Bay - Scenic cove reached by steps through woodland. German fortifications add interest
- Saints Bay - Tiny but beautiful cove in the south. Steep access but worth it for the setting
- Vazon Bay - Long sandy beach popular with surfers. Rock pools at the northern end
Guernsey Activities
- Castle Cornet - St Peter Port harbour castle with museums, gardens, and daily noon gun firing
- Little Chapel - Tiny church decorated entirely with shells, pebbles, and broken china. Children love finding details
- Oatlands Village - Craft centre with pottery, candles, and chocolate making. Good rainy day option
- German Occupation Museum - Similar to Jersey War Tunnels, exploring WWII history. Suitable for older children
- Cycling - Guernsey quieter roads and bike hire make it ideal for family cycling
- Island hopping - Day trips to Herm (15 minutes by boat) for car-free beaches and walking
Herm Day Trip
The tiny island of Herm, reached by short ferry from Guernsey, offers perfect family day trip. No cars, stunning Shell Beach, gentle walks, and the sense of real island adventure. Bring everything you need as facilities are limited.
Food and Eating Out
Channel Islands food reflects the French influence combined with exceptional local seafood. Families will find plenty of child-friendly options alongside more sophisticated dining.
- Seafood - Fresh crab, lobster, and fish feature on most menus. Children often enjoy fish fingers made from locally caught fish
- Jersey Royals - The famous potatoes are genuinely special. In season (April-July), order them wherever possible
- Cream teas - The Channel Islands version rivals Devon and Cornwall
- French influence - Crepes, patisseries, and French-style cafes give continental flavour
- Beach cafes - Both islands have excellent beach cafes serving casual food with sea views
Prices are slightly higher than mainland UK, reflecting island import costs. Self-catering with supermarket shops offers savings for families on a budget.
Eating Tips
Lunch specials and early evening menus offer better value than peak dinner prices. Beach cafe lunches are often excellent value with unbeatable settings. Supermarkets stock local products for picnics and self-catering.
Practical Information
- Currency - Pound sterling used, but both islands issue their own notes and coins. Channel Islands currency spends freely on the islands but is not accepted in UK shops - spend it before leaving or exchange at the bank
- Weather - More sunshine hours than mainland UK, but still unpredictable. Pack layers and waterproofs alongside beach gear
- Getting around - Both islands have bus services but a hire car gives much more flexibility with children. Roads are quiet and well-maintained
- Tides - Essential to understand, especially in Jersey. Consult tide tables daily for beach planning and castle visits
- Accommodation - Mix of hotels, self-catering, and holiday parks. Book well ahead for school holidays
When to Visit
May, June, and September offer the best combination of weather and smaller crowds. July and August are busy and more expensive but guarantee the warmest sea temperatures for swimming.
Budget Guide
Channel Islands holidays cost more than equivalent UK destinations, but less than many European alternatives when you factor in flights and car hire.
- Flights - 50-150 GBP per person each way depending on timing and route
- Ferry with car - 300-500 GBP return for a family car
- Accommodation - 100-200 GBP/night for family-suitable options
- Car hire - 40-60 GBP/day
- Meals out - 60-100 GBP/day for a family of four eating out
- Activities - Jersey Zoo around 80 GBP family ticket; beaches free
Cost Savings
Self-catering apartments reduce food costs significantly. Many beaches have no parking charges. Herm day trip costs around 15 GBP per person return. Free activities like beach time, walking, and rock pooling can fill happy days without spending.
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