Explore Jersey without a car: seaside days from the Ommaroo
You don’t need a car to enjoy a holiday in Jersey. With coastal walks, bus journeys and plenty to discover on foot, you can leave the driving behind and enjoy the Island at your own pace.
At the Ommaroo Hotel, you’re right opposite Havre des Pas beach, a 10-minute walk from St Helier town centre and beside a bus stop. Whether your idea of a good day involves sightseeing, shopping or a swim followed by lunch, you can make a start from our doorstep.
Start with a swim at Havre des Pas lido
For lovers of wild swimming, one of the pleasures of staying at the Ommaroo is having a seawater bathing pool just across the road.
Havre des Pas lido is a tidal pool, replenished by the sea with each tide. It gives you that fresh-air, saltwater swimming experience in a distinctive seaside setting, with the promenade and beach all around you. Visit Jersey
An autumn dip can be wonderfully refreshing, whether swimming is part of your daily routine or something you’d like to fit into your break. Check the tides, weather and local safety notices before entering, swim with someone else and bring warm layers for afterwards.
And if swimming isn’t for you? A stroll along the seafront is a lovely way to start the day, too.
Take your time at Coast Bar & Bistro
There’s no need to travel far for a good meal. Our own Coast Bar & Bistro is the perfect place to pause between adventures, with views across Havre des Pas and a relaxed atmosphere.
Start your day with breakfast at the Hotel, then return to Coast for lunch after a swim or a morning exploring. Or make dinner your reward after a full day out.
One of the nicest things about leaving the car behind is being able to settle in, enjoy your meal and take your time over the evening.
Discover St Helier on foot
St Helier town centre is just a 10-minute walk from the Ommaroo, making it easy to combine a seaside stay with time in town.
Browse the shops, wander through the Central Market or stop for a coffee. For a little history, plan a visit to Jersey Museum, checking its current opening times before you go.
You don’t have to fit everything into one outing. With town so close, you can pop in for an hour or spend a whole afternoon exploring before walking back to the Hotel.
See more of Jersey by bus
Jersey’s LibertyBus network makes it possible to explore further afield without hiring a car. The bus stop outside the Ommaroo is a useful starting point, while Liberation Station in St Helier is the hub for journeys around the island.
Gorey makes a lovely day out, with its harbour, places to eat and Mont Orgueil Castle rising above the village. Other ideas include a wander around St Aubin, time on the beach at St Brelade’s Bay or a visit to Jersey Zoo.
Plan your route using LibertyBus, checking the outbound journey and return service before setting off. Some trips involve a change in St Helier, and seasonal timetables can affect how long you have to explore.
Combine a walk with a bus journey
You don’t have to walk all the way there and back. Catching a bus to the start of a walk, or using one for the return journey, opens up more of the Island without committing to a full day on your feet.
For an easy local outing, explore the Havre des Pas promenade. For a longer day, choose a section of Jersey’s coastal paths that suits your pace and plan around the available bus stops. Jersey’s Tidal Trail offers inspiration for discovering the coastline in manageable sections.
Autumn brings shorter daylight hours, so leave enough time for your walk and the journey home. Comfortable shoes, an extra layer and a waterproof are useful companions.
Explore on two wheels
If you enjoy cycling, hiring a bicycle or e-bike gives you another way to see Jersey without a car. Choose a route that suits your confidence and fitness, and allow time for stops along the way. Visit Jersey’s getting-around guide is a useful place to start planning.
A leisurely ride, a coffee stop and a few photographs can easily become a whole morning’s outing.
Come back to the sea
After a day out, there’s something lovely about coming back to Havre des Pas. Take a final stroll by the water, enjoy dinner at Coast or simply put your feet up.
With the lido opposite, St Helier within walking distance and buses close at hand, the Ommaroo is a welcoming base for exploring Jersey without a car.
Book your stay at the Ommaroo and enjoy a little more time by the sea.