Highlight • Viewpoint
Hiking
5.0
(49)
The View of Portelet Beach offers a stunning perspective of one of Jersey's most picturesque and tranquil bays. Situated on the island's south coast, near St. Brelade's Bay, this viewpoint at an elevation of 26 metres overlooks a crescent of fine golden sand, framed by dramatic granite cliffs. A distinctive feature of the bay is L'Île au Guerdain, a small tidal island just offshore, crowned by a historic circular tower often referred to as Janvrin's Tomb.
Visitors are consistently drawn…
This Highlight is in a protected area
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Tips
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Best routes to View of Portelet Beach
4.9
(44)
182
hikers
20.1km
05:27
280m
280m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.9
(12)
83
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(9)
48
hikers
23.7km
06:16
220m
220m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 30 m
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Friday 27 February
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9°C
45 %
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Max wind speed: 37.0 km/h
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No, there are no specific permits or fees required to access the Portelet Beach viewpoint or the beach. Both are freely accessible to the public.
Portelet Beach viewpoint can be visited in winter, offering a different, often more dramatic, perspective of the bay. While the views remain stunning, be prepared for potentially colder and windier conditions. The steep stairway down to the beach may be slippery in wet or icy weather, so appropriate footwear is essential. Services like the beachfront cafe might have reduced hours or be closed during the off-season.
Portelet Beach is generally less crowded than other more accessible beaches, even during peak seasons, due to its steep access via a long stairway. However, on sunny summer weekends, the viewpoint and the beach can see a moderate number of visitors. Arriving earlier in the day is recommended if you prefer a quieter experience.
Yes, when exploring L'Île au Guerdain or the rock pools, always be mindful of the tides. The causeway to the island is only accessible at low tide, and it's crucial to check tide times to avoid being cut off. The rocks can be slippery, so wear appropriate footwear with good grip. Supervise children closely, especially around the rock pools and the water's edge.
Dogs are generally welcome on the clifftop trails around Portelet Beach, but it's advisable to keep them on a lead, especially near cliff edges and when other hikers are present. Regarding the beach itself, local regulations often restrict dogs during certain hours or seasons. It's best to check current signage at the beach access points for specific rules.
While the historic Old Portelet Inn at the clifftop and the family-run Portelet Bay Cafe on the beachfront are excellent choices, for more options, you would need to venture slightly further. St. Brelade's Bay, a short drive or bus ride away, offers a wider selection of restaurants, cafes, and pubs catering to various tastes.
Yes, several circular walking routes incorporate the Portelet Beach viewpoint. These typically follow the South West Coast Path, offering stunning clifftop vistas. You can often combine sections of the coastal path with inland tracks to create loops of varying lengths and difficulties, passing through areas like St. Brelade's Bay or towards Beauport Bay. Exploring route options on komoot can help you find the perfect circular walk.
Portelet Beach is recognized as a marine conservation site, and its rock pools are teeming with diverse marine life. At low tide, you can often spot small crabs, anemones, limpets, periwinkles, and various types of seaweed. Occasionally, you might even find small fish or shrimp. It's a fantastic spot for children and adults alike to explore and discover the local ecosystem.
The viewpoint at the top of the cliffs offers good views and is generally accessible. However, the path down to Portelet Beach involves a long, steep stairway. This makes the beach itself, and the descent, unsuitable for wheelchairs or most strollers. Visitors with mobility issues may find the descent challenging.
Beyond the main beach and L'Île au Guerdain, a notable hidden gem is La Hougue de Vinde, a Neolithic monument dating back to 2850-2250 BC, located on the headland above the bay. This ancient burial site offers a glimpse into the area's deep history. Exploring the various clifftop paths can also lead to secluded benches or viewpoints offering unique perspectives away from the main crowds.
Portelet Beach viewpoint is served by bus routes 12 and 12a. These routes connect the area with St. Helier and other parts of the island. The frequency varies depending on the season and day of the week, but generally, buses run regularly throughout the day. It's advisable to check the latest bus schedules for accurate timings before your visit.