Guernsey with Kids

Petit Port
Business Name
Category
Overview
One of our favourite beaches in Guernsey because it’s an absolute stunner. With soft sand (at low tide), crystal clear water and thanks to the fact you have to conquer 270 steps to reach it, it’s always quiet! It’s a trek back up from the beach so not suitable for all.
Long Business Description

Petit Port beach is simply stunning, however, the only way to reach it is by walking down over 270 steps! We haven’t made it to the beach with our girls yet (they are 6 years old), however, plenty of our friends have and they have coped with the steps ok (just remember to take lots of yummy bribe food to keep motivation up on the way back!).

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tzc5fDK1Qlw
Location

Petit Port is located off La Route De Jerbourg in St Martin on the coastal footpath.

Access to the footpath is signposted from the main road, look out for a small sign a few feet off the ground (opposite the Doyle monument). By car, drive past the sign and there is parking at the top of the hill on the right hand side.

Petit Port can also be accessed from 2 directions on the coastal footpath, 1) from Jerbourg, 2) from Moulin Huet
View of Petit Port beach in the distance, photo taken from the Jerbourg footpath

Footpath from Moulin Huet

View of Petit Port from the footpath

The Steps
The 270 steps are not for the feint hearted and are not suitable for anyone with limited mobility. The steps zig-zag down the cliff, there is a handrail and a bench halfway down for a well earned rest.

270 steps to get to Petit Port beach

The bench provides a well earned rest

Steep Steps down to Petit Port beach

The Beach
Low Tide

There is something very special about Petit Port beach at low tide thanks to the soft white sand and crystal clear blue water. It is a beautifully sheltered bay with rocks to explore on either side and a vast expanse of sand.

Due to the effort required to get onto the beach it is never very busy and you may have the whole beach to yourself!

Petit Port is a great place for children to swim/ paddle because there are no rocks underfoot, just soft sand, and it slopes gently into the water.
Kayak fun on a summers day at Petit Port
High Tide
You need to be mindful of the tide when planning a visit to Petit Port because at high tide there is no sand visible on the beach, it is totally under water. It is a long way down the steps to find a small rocky bay at the bottom!

It is good to get to Petit Port after high tide, ideally midway between high and low tide to maximise your time on the beach.
High Tide at Petit Port
Tide coming in at Petit Port
Facilities
There are absolutely no facilities on Petit Port beach so you need to take everything with you, but remember, what goes down must go back up!!
Address
La Route De Jerbourg, St Martin, Guernsey

Business Address
La Route De Jerbourg, St Martin, Guernsey
Saint’s Bay Kiosk
Business Name
Overview
Lovely kiosk right behind Saint’s Bay, offering sandwiches, snacks, ice creams and hot and cold drinks. With outside seating and lovely views over Saint’s Bay.
Business Address
Saint’s Bay, St Martin’s Guernsey, GY4 6ES
Saints Bay
Business Name
Category
Overview
A pretty sandy cove with a shingle bank at the top of the beach. Nestled in the south coast cliffs, it’s a well sheltered spot with beautiful views. Lovely beach café but no parking close to the beach, so be prepared for a walk.
Business Address
Saints Bay, Saints Bay Rd, St Martin, Guernsey
Sausmarez Manor Gardens
Overview
Stately home with beautiful landscaped gardens, a large duck pond (duck feed available to purchase) and a cafe in the orangery. Farmers Market every Saturday and a ride-on train at weekends and school holidays.
Business Phone Number
01481 235571
Business Address
Route de Sausmarez, St. Martin, Guernsey, GY4 6SG
Overview
St Martins preschool for 2 – 5 year olds is located at St Martins Community Centre
Business Phone Number
01481 237665
Business Address
St Martins Community Centre, Rue Maze, St Martins, GY4 6LL