Looking for something a bit different? Embark on an island-hopping adventure to Jersey’s neighbouring islands or take a quick trip over to France. Explore the unique charm of each Channel Island, from the peaceful shores of Herm to the rugged beauty of Sark, and soak in the local culture, history, and scenery. With easy access from Jersey, these day trips offer a chance to experience the diversity of the Channel Islands all in just a day!
Jersey’s Archipelago
Home to one of the largest tidal ranges in the world, Jersey’s archipelago is a mesmerising seascape where the ocean ebbs away to reveal a secret world of sandbanks, reefs and rocky islets. A short RIB ride will whisk you to Les Écréhous or Les Minquiers, where the only sounds are of seabirds calling and the whispers of the salt-laden wind. It’s a place of solitude and discovery, where nature unveils its secrets for just a fleeting moment.
Jersey’s Archipelago
Visiting Les Écréhous
Just six miles off Jersey’s east coast, a swift 15-minute RIB ride whisks you to Les Écréhous – a breathtaking cluster of reefs and islets adrift in the shimmering sea. With France on the horizon, you might momentarily believe you’ve crossed into foreign waters, but these wild and windswept outposts are unmistakably Jersey.
“The Écréhous is paradise right on Jersey’s doorstep. You have it all, dolphins, seals, crystal clear water and beautiful golden sandbanks. The bottlenose dolphins, which are resident to the Channel Island area, can be seen on over a third of our trips. These highly intelligent mammals will often approach and interact with the boat, an experience for all onboard to marvel at. With such a spectacular natural environment, it won’t surprise you that the Écréhous is a protected area and needs to be treated with the utmost respect.”
Jersey Seafaris
Jersey’s Archipelago
Visiting Les Minquiers
Just nine miles south of Jersey, the vast sandbanks of Les Minquiers stretch farther than the island itself, curving around crystal-clear lagoons. On a bright day, with the warm sand between your toes and the endless blue horizon, you’d be forgiven for thinking you’d washed up on a tropical shore. But this is Jersey’s wild frontier – a remote, untamed paradise where the only footprints in the sand might be your own.
“Experience the breathtaking beauty of Les Minquiers by sail boat, a stunning archipelago renowned for its dramatic landscape and remarkable tidal range. This hidden gem, with its expansive sandbars and crystal-clear waters, offers an unparalleled sense of remoteness, making it the perfect destination for a day of adventure. On our competent crew and day skipper sailing courses, we often sail to this idyllic spot on our way to or from France, anchoring for a delightful lunch and a refreshing swim. When the tides are favourable, we also offer full-day sailing charters, ensuring you make the most of your time at this enchanting offshore reef. For those seeking the freedom to explore at their own pace, our boat club provides bareboat charters with our RIB or sailing yacht. Join us at Go-Sail.je to create unforgettable memories in the magical setting of Les Minquiers!”
Go Sail
Getting to Jersey’s Archipelago
Jersey’s archipelago is easy to reach and thrilling to explore. Hop on a fast RIB with local adventure guides or meet a kayak expert to take your journey to the next level. Choose from a range of tours and discover this iconic Jersey experience.
Trips to the islands of Guernsey
The islands of Guernsey
Guernsey
Hop over to Guernsey and discover an island brimming with charm, rich history and stunning scenery. A short ferry ride from Jersey, or a quick flight from the island, will land you in St. Peter Port, where cobbled streets, lively markets and historical sites, like Castle Cornet, await.
Please note: As of the 28 March 2025, DFDS will be taking over from Condor Ferries as Jersey’s ferry provider. The ferry operators are working with both Jersey and Guernsey to establish inter-island routes and more information will be available soon.
From Guernsey, set sail to nearby islands like Herm, Sark and Alderney. Each island offers its own unique allure. Whether you choose to ferry or fly, Guernsey is great for exploring the Channel Islands.
Photo Credit: Visit Guernsey
The islands of Guernsey
Sark
Stepping onto Sark is like slipping back in time. Here, the only traffic jams involve hooves and tails, and life moves at a charmingly unhurried pace. Explore the island’s wild beauty on foot, by bike or by horse and cart, with sweeping sea views at every turn. Start your day with a peaceful swim in Dixcart Bay, cycle through winding lanes and then feast on fresh seafood. As night falls, lay back and stargaze beneath some of Europe’s darkest skies. Reach this timeless escape by boat, directly from Jersey or via Guernsey.
Photo Credit: Visit Guernsey
Jersey to Sark
Manche Iles Express runs direct ferries from Jersey to Sark several times a week in summer, making day trips a breeze. Departing from Elizabeth Terminal, the journey takes around 1 hour 10 minutes.
Water Taxi CI offers direct trips to Sark, providing a quick and scenic journey from Jersey. Enjoy a smooth ride across the water and explore Sark’s timeless charm at your own pace.
Guernsey to Sark
The Isle of Sark Shipping Company Ltd. operates a year-round passenger and freight service between Sark and Guernsey, with a journey time of about 55 minutes.
The islands of Guernsey
Herm
Herm is a small island, at just 1.5 miles long and half a mile wide, but its beauty is anything but small. With no cars or even bikes, it’s a place where time slows down and you can explore at your own pace. Stroll along windswept coastlines, discover hidden beaches and enjoy a drink at the charming Mermaid Tavern. It’s the perfect spot for a peaceful day trip.
Located three miles from Guernsey, Herm is only accessible by boat. From Jersey, you’ll need to travel via Guernsey or travel with Water Taxi CI for a boat directly from Jersey. The Herm Island passenger ferry takes just 15 minutes from St. Peter Port in Guernsey, with tickets available at the harbour or online.
Photo Credit: Visit Guernsey
The islands of Guernsey
Alderney
Alderney is a haven of history, golden beaches and vibrant wildlife. With 30 miles of winding lanes and scenic trails, you can explore its award-winning museum, ride the Channel Islands’ only railway, and enjoy world-class birdwatching. The capital, St. Anne, is packed with excellent restaurants showcasing fresh, local produce.
Just a stone’s throw from the French coast, Alderney is easily accessible by air and sea from the UK and France. You can travel directly from Jersey to Alderney with Water Taxi Ci.
Photo Credit: Visit Guernsey
The islands of Guernsey
Lihou
Just across a cobbled causeway from Guernsey lies Lihou Island, a true adventure waiting to be discovered. You’ll need to travel to Guernsey first from Jersey, as there are no direct connections, but once there, you can easily reach Lihou. Explore ancient ruins, the tidal Venus Pool, and the stunning RAMSAR wetlands and marine reserves.
Lihou is a birdwatcher’s haven, home to over 150 species and offers fantastic rock pooling opportunities. Whether you’re visiting for a day trip from Guernsey or staying overnight at Lihou House with a group, it’s the perfect escape into nature.
Photo Credit: Visit Guernsey
Trips to France
France
St. Malo
For a taste of France, why not hop on a ferry to Saint-Malo, just over an hour from Jersey. This historic walled city is a charming maze of cobbled streets and medieval ramparts, brimming with restaurants, shops and boutiques. Enjoy some delicious Breton crêpes and Moules à la Crème, all under the French sun. Afterwards, wander through quirky souvenir shops or discover something effortlessly stylish in a French boutique – ah, la vie en rose! Then, as the day draws to a close, sail back to Jersey and soak in the evening calm, with the island’s familiar charm waiting to welcome you home.
France
Carteret
Where else can you pop over to France for lunch in the time it takes to cook a fry-up? A quick 30-minute RIB ride will whisk you to the charming market town of Carteret, where you can indulge in everything from cosy Breton crêperies to Michelin-starred bistros serving fresh local seafood. While you’re there, why not visit the Cotentin Tourist Information Centre to uncover hidden gems and local secrets? Book a day trip to Carteret with Island RIB Voyages or Manche Iles Express, soak up the authentic French atmosphere, and then return to Jersey for a laid-back afternoon—c’est magnifique!
Photo Credit: Aymeric Picot | Cotentin Unique
France
Granville
In just over an hour, Manche Iles Express will whisk you across the Channel to the historic port town of Granville – Normandy’s answer to Saint-Malo, with a dash of Parisian flair. Wander the cobbled streets of the old town, browse chic boutiques, or tuck into a seafood platter piled high with oysters, mussels, and prawns fresh from the morning’s catch. Fancy a splash of culture? Visit the Christian Dior Museum, perched on the clifftops with sweeping sea views. Then, hop back on board and be home in Jersey before sunset. Très bien, non?
FAQs
Will there be a ferry to Guernsey?
Can I visit multiple islands in one day?
Do I need a passport to visit France for the day?
What is an archipelago?
Do Les Minquiers and Les Écréhous belong to Jersey?
What should I bring for a day trip to the islands?
