Things To Do
in Saint Helier

Saint Helier is the vibrant capital of Jersey, the largest of the Channel Islands, known for its unique blend of British and French culture. The town is characterized by its beautiful waterfront, historic sites, and a bustling market scene. Visitors can enjoy stunning coastal views, engaging local history, and a lively community atmosphere.

With a variety of shops, restaurants, and outdoor activities, Saint Helier offers something for everyone.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Saint Helier
morning
:

Start your day at the Central Market, where you can sample local produce and artisanal goods. Then, take a stroll down to Liberation Square to enjoy the coastal views.

afternoon
:

Visit the Jersey Museum to learn about the island's history, followed by lunch at a local café. Spend the afternoon exploring the picturesque Elizabeth Castle, accessible by a causeway during low tide.

evening
:

Dine at a seafood restaurant on the waterfront, enjoying fresh local catches, and then take a leisurely walk along the promenade.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin with a bike ride along the St. Aubin's Bay cycle path, taking in the beautiful scenery. Stop for a coffee at one of the beachside cafés.

afternoon
:

Explore the beautiful gardens at the Government House, then head to the La Corbière lighthouse for stunning views and perfect photo opportunities.

evening
:

Experience Jersey's nightlife at a local pub or bar, enjoying live music or a quiet drink while mingling with locals.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Restaurant Meal$20 - $40
Coffee$3 - $5
🍕Takeaway Pizza$15 - $25
🚌Public Transport Ticket$2 - $4
🏨Hotel Night$100 - $250

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Stunning coastal scenery and outdoor activities.
  • Delicious local cuisine and vibrant markets.
  • Can be expensive compared to other destinations.
  • Limited public transport options outside the town.
  • Seasonal weather variations may affect outdoor plans.
  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "S'il vous plaît" - Please
  • "Excusez-moi" - Excuse me
  • "Au revoir" - Goodbye

Places to Visit in Saint Helier

Visit one of these nice places.

Elizabeth Castle

A historic castle on its own island, perfect for capturing both landscape and architectural photography.

La Corbière Lighthouse

An iconic lighthouse that is particularly striking during sunrise and sunset.

St. Helier Waterfront

The charming harbor area offers vibrant views of boats and the town, ideal for sunset photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Saint Helier

Saint Helier offers a delightful culinary experience, blending local produce with influences from British and French cuisine. Visitors can indulge in fresh seafood, traditional dishes, and vibrant market offerings.

Saint Helier Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Jersey Royal Potatoes

These unique potatoes are grown in Jersey's rich soil and are known for their nutty flavor.

Must-Try!

Seafood Chowder

A hearty soup made with local seafood, potatoes, and seasonal vegetables.

Jersey Cream

Rich and thick cream produced on the island, often used in desserts.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Saint Helier Market

A bustling market offering fresh produce, local cheeses, and artisanal products.

Food Festival

An annual event showcasing local street food vendors, offering a variety of cuisines.

Climate Guide

Weather

Saint Helier experiences a temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild winters and cool summers. Average summer temperatures range from 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F), while winter temperatures typically range from 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F). Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with slightly wetter months in autumn and winter. The island enjoys a good amount of sunshine, particularly in the summer months.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Being on time for meetings or social events is highly valued.

Politeness

Using 'please' and 'thank you' is important in all interactions.

Respect for Nature

Visitors are encouraged to respect the natural environment, especially in conservation areas.

Safety Guide

Safety

Saint Helier is generally a safe destination for visitors, with low crime rates. However, standard safety precautions should be taken, such as safeguarding personal belongings and being aware of surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 999, and there are local healthcare facilities available for urgent care.

Tipping in Saint Helier

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Practices

It's customary to tip around 10-15% in restaurants if service isn't included.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; however, having some cash for markets and smaller establishments is advisable.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild weather with blooming flowers; ideal for outdoor activities and exploring gardens.

Summer

Warm and sunny, perfect for beach activities and outdoor festivals; however, it can be busy with tourists.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage; great for hiking and enjoying local food festivals.

Winter

Mild but wet; fewer crowds, making it a good time for quieter exploration and enjoying local indoor attractions.

Nightlife Guide

Saint Helier at Night

Saint Helier boasts a vibrant nightlife scene with a variety of bars, pubs, and clubs. From cozy pubs with live music to stylish cocktail bars, there's something for everyone. The area around the waterfront and Liberation Square is particularly lively, offering a mix of entertainment options. Many venues cater to a range of tastes, ensuring a fun night out for locals and visitors alike.

Hiking in Saint Helier

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Corbière Coastal Path

A scenic trail offering breathtaking views of the coastline and La Corbière lighthouse, perfect for walkers of all levels.

Les Mielles Nature Reserve

A well-maintained trail that winds through diverse habitats, ideal for spotting local wildlife and enjoying the natural landscape.

Airports

How to reach Saint Helier by plane.

Jersey Airport (JER)

The main airport serving Jersey, located just a short drive from Saint Helier, offering regular flights to and from the UK and Europe.

Getting Around

Walkability

Saint Helier is a very walkable town, with most attractions, shops, and restaurants within a short distance of each other. The waterfront promenade provides a scenic route for pedestrians, while well-maintained sidewalks make walking safe and enjoyable. There are also plenty of benches and public areas for relaxation, making it easy to explore at a leisurely pace.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The local population consists primarily of British and French descendants, with a strong sense of community and cultural pride.

Tourists

Visitors come from various countries, particularly the UK, drawn by the island's natural beauty and cultural offerings.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Rugby

Rugby is a popular sport on the island, with local teams competing at various levels.

Cricket

Cricket enjoys a strong following in Jersey, with many clubs and leagues active throughout the summer months.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Saint Helier can be busy, particularly during peak tourist season. However, the town's compact size makes it easy to navigate on foot or by bicycle. Public transport options include buses that connect to various parts of the island, although services may be less frequent in the evenings and on weekends.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Saint Helier.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, but it’s best to inquire about specific menu items.

Gluten-Free Options

Several establishments provide gluten-free meals, particularly in larger restaurants.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Jersey is of high quality, with both public and private healthcare systems in place. Visitors can access medical services through local hospitals and clinics, though it's advisable to have travel insurance. Emergency services can be reached easily, and pharmacies are widely available for minor health issues.

Discover Jersey

Read more in our Jersey 2025 Travel Guide.

Jersey Travel Guide