Snorkeling in Jersey
Including Portelet Bay. On the map.
The vibe
Cool Atlantic currents mean this is more about rugged reef exploration in a wetsuit than a lazy tropical lagoon float, giving it a bracing, salt-cured edge. Late summer offers the clearest visibility and warmest water before the autumn gales stir up the shallows. You are mostly on your own here with a mask and fins, checking the tide charts yourself rather than joining organized snorkel boat herds.
Portelet Bay, Jersey
St. Brelade
pep68 / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Portelet Bay is a sheltered, south-facing cove that feels secluded and offers some of the clearest water on the island. The rocky seabed and surrounding reefs are teeming with life, making it a favorite for those looking to explore the underwater landscape of the Channel Islands.
Access. Access is via a long set of steps from the cliff top. It is a shore-entry site best visited at high tide to ensure enough water depth over the reefs.
Notes. The walk back up the steps is steep; ensure you have the energy after your swim. Check tide times carefully to avoid being cut off.