Sport is a key aspect of island life with many residents enjoying an active lifestyle. From the traditional sports of rugby and cycling, to sea-based exercise such as surfing and paddle boarding there is something for everyone on Jersey and Guernsey.
Beautiful blue waters
St Ouen’s Bay on Jersey’s west coast is a dream come true for surfers. With brilliant waves and a huge beach this is where surfers of all abilities come to surf. Don’t worry if you don’t have your own gear, there are several surf shops along the coast where you can hire boards and wetsuits and even book a lesson. Head to Guernsey’s Vazon Bay if you want to give surfing a go although it has to be said the swell isn’t as impressive as Jersey’s. With beautiful blue waters, swimming in the sea off the Channel Islands is a delight.
The islands’ are a surfer’s paradise
During the summer months many of the beaches have lifeguards but both islands also have their own lidos – the Havre des Pas bathing pool to the east of Jersey’s St Helier and La Valette bathing pools on Guernsey’s east coast. Paddle boarding is a popular sport for all ages and abilities this is a wonderful way to explore the Channel Islands’ shorelines. Jersey’s Absolute Adventures and Outdoor Guernsey offer lessons and board hire.
With accessible and clearly marked routes discovering the Channel Islands by bike is easy. Both Jersey and Guernsey have hire shops for you to rent bikes and helmets whilst Visit Jersey and Visit Guernsey have numerous routes on their websites. From hilly climbs to leisurely rides along peaceful roads there is something to suit every ability.
St Ouen’s Bay on Jersey’s west coast is a dream come true for surfers. With brilliant waves and a huge beach this is where surfers of all abilities come to surf
Nine-hole course
With their long stretches of coastline and impressive trails, the Channel Islands are a paradise for runners. Test your stamina against the other joggers who frequent the wide pavement along Jersey’s Victoria Avenue which runs parallel to St Aubin’s Bay or improve your hill running along Guernsey’s coast. Both islands host 5km Park Run events every Saturday which draws local and visitor runners.
Play a round of golf while you’re here
Both islands have golf courses which visitors can take advantage of. Les Mielles and Les Ormes in Jersey are open to all players whilst proof of handicap is required at La Moye and the Royal Jersey. In Guernsey, visitors can play at the 18-hole La Grande Mare and the nine-hole course at the St Pierre Park Hotel.
Fort Regent in Jersey, a Napoleonic fort which has been turned into a fitness and entertainment venue, is a great place to get your gym fix. No membership is required – you simply pay for a gym session or whatever class you want to take. Similarly the Beau Sejour Leisure Centre in Guernsey allows you to pay as you go to use the gym or take a class. Classes include everything from boxercise to yoga. And if you prefer to watch sport rather than take part you can always take the opportunity to watch Jersey Reds, a rugby team that plays in the RFU Championship.
Read more about Jersey and Guernsey
