Saints Bay

Nestled amongst the south coast cliffs, is Saints Bay, a pretty sheltered cove with a mix of sand and pebble and crystal-clear water. If you’re a keen photographer, then the fisherman’s landing, which is situated a short walk to the right of bay, gives a great photo opportunity.

Location

Saints Bay is situated at the end of Saints Bay road, a winding country lane in St Martin’s. It can also be accessed from the coastal path which gives you the benefit of amazing views of the bay as you approach it. On the coastal path it sits between Moulin Huet and Icart point.

There is no parking at the beach and vehicle access is restricted beyond a certain point, however, it is possible to park on the road before the restricted area. If you are heading to Saints Harbour and the Fisherman’s Landing, follow the lane to the right as you get to the restricted notice and this will take you down a small winding road to a parking area at the end. Note that the road is only wide enough for 1 car and there are a few passing places, however, the last time we on the lane there was a serious traffic situation with a lady having to reverse back down the road to the end (glad it wasn’t me!).

The Beach

Saints Bay is a sheltered sandy cove with a shingle bank at the top of the beach. Access to the beach is via a wide slipway that leads to the pebbled section.

Low Tide

At low tide, the sea gives way to a large stretch of soft sand. On the left had side of the beach (when looking at the sea) there are lots of large rocks that my kids love to climb, making it one of their favourite beaches.

High Tide

Only shingle remains on the beach at high tide, with the water coming up near the slipway. The beach is still worth a visit because it’s so tranquil and beautiful being nestled in the cliffs.

Saints Bay Kiosk

Ojs at Saints Bay is run by 2 lovely ladies who go out of their way to make sure you have everything you need. The kiosk offers hot and cold food along with home-made cakes, hot and cold drinks and ice creams. The new roof terrace is the perfect place to sit to take in the view and with a toilet block next to the kiosk, it’s a great addition to the beach.

Saints Harbour and Fisherman's Landing

A short walk from Saints Bay beach is Saints Harbour, a tranquil spot with a handful of fishing boats bobbing in the water. A gentle sloping slipway gives access to the water for swimmers and those doing watersports and even if you’re not going in the water, it’s a beautiful spot to take in the view back towards Saints Bay beach and the South coast cliffs.

The Fisherman’s Landing is located to the left of the slipway. To access the top level, with the stunning view, you need to climb a ladder (ensure young children are supervised as it’s quite unstable!). There are lots of ropes up there and things to trip over and no safety rail at the front so generally take care with kids up there. However, kids love it up there as it’s a proper hidden den!