Channel Islands
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Positives
- Reef and beachbreak options
- Untapped big-wave reefs
- Island flexibility
- Short driving distances
Negatives
- Massive tidal fluctuations
- Large local surf population
- Restricted W swell window
- Some pollution issues
Channel Islands surf travel guide
The Channel Islands of Jersey and Guernsey have some high quality breaks and good exposure to straight W Atlantic swells. Some of Europe's last untapped big-wave reefs are there for the keen. Huge tides make local knowledge key and can make a big difference in the surf, increasing or decreasing the swell size depending on which way the tide's going. The islands large surf population ensure crowds at every session.
Surf spots in Channel Islands
Research the 18 surf breaks in Channel Islands and discover what spots suit the current conditions.
Break lowdown
We’ve collated the wave data giving you a unique insight into the 18 breaks in Channel Islands.
When to go
Surf and weather statistics to help plan your surf trip to Channel Islands
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Travel Information
General
- Current Time
- Tourists
- 35,548,200
- Population
- 55,980,000
- Tourist Info
- Tourist Info
Security
Health
Money
- Currency
- GBP
- Exchange rate
- $1 = £0.7 GBP
Cost of living
Communication
- Dialing in
- +44
- Dialing out
- 00
- Emergencies
- 112
- Language
- English
Electricity
- Plug Type
- g
Visas
Since Brexit, unrestricted travel between the UK and the EU is over. The current system allows for visa free travel for up to 90/180 days a year. Beyond 90 days things get very complicated so check online for the details. US, Canada, OZ, NZ and some others follow the same 90-180 day rules. Most other countries need a visa before arrival. more info here
Getting Around
Ferries from England and France are regular and between Jersey and Guernsey, the inter-island ferries take 1-2 hours depending on which boat you get. Check Condor ferries for prices and times. All the roads and beach car parks get super crowded in summer but during the rest of the year, access to the main breaks is pretty easy.
Accommodation
The Islands are full of holiday accommodations but prices are not cheap. Campervan and camping can be a good option - on Jersey check The Palms campsite near Greve de Lecq and on Guernsey Vaugrat Campsite near Pontifer. Both are only open seasonally.
Activities
In Jersey, The Watersplash Beach Bar and Diner is a surfer hangout and also houses "The Waves Nightclub". You can find any kind of sailing or wind-related activities across the islands and both are full of historic sites.
Hazards & hassles
Parking and very busy roads from May to September and the surf gets packed as well. In the colder surf season the crowds thin but the best spots will still be very busy. Gets rippy at size and there are rocks at many beaches to look out for. Big tides change the spots completely.
Handy Hints
On Jersey check the free webcams at Watersplash or The Surf Yard website. The island has a number of well stocked surf shops. Freedom Surf Shop on Guernsey has been around for years and has a knowledgeable staff that can help with many aspects of surfing on the island.
Due to global pandemic, Visas, Getting There, Getting Around or Accommodation information and pricing may have changed. Always check Government Travel Advice before travelling.