Exploring Guernsey with the Kids

1. Stunning White Sand Beaches & Turquoise Waters

While April wasn’t quite warm enough for sea swims (we’re not that brave!), the beaches made the perfect playground. We built sandcastles, hunted for shells, and explored historic bunkers and watchtowers scattered along the coastline. Best of all, Guernsey’s beaches are wonderfully quiet, even in the spring. Often, we had them entirely to ourselves or shared them with just one other family or a passing walker. Fab-u-lous!

2. Super Safe, Scenic Coastal Paths

We hired bikes with tag-alongs and cycled along off-road coastal trails, hopping from beach to beach. Along the way, we explored wartime bunkers and towers and even found a charming little playground (Les Amarreurs) nestled between two beaches. One of them happened to be a hotspot for kitesurfers—so we stayed a while to watch. Mesmerising!

3. The Ice Cream (Oh, the Ice Cream!)

Guernsey dairy is famous for its richness, and the ice cream more than lived up to the hype. As soon as we arrived at the airport, the girls spotted the Guernsey Ice Cream Route Map —and the excitement was real! Beach kiosks and cafés across the island serve fresh crab sandwiches, barista coffee, and, of course, creamy local ice cream. Most places offered both soft-serve Jersey ice cream and flavoured Guernsey scoops, plus all the classic lollies you'd expect from a nostalgic ice cream van. We sampled plenty!

4. Family-Friendly Foodie Heaven

Guernsey has a thriving foodie scene, from seafood to farm-fresh produce. Many restaurants cater to children with dedicated kids’ menus complete with colouring activities. The beach kiosks and cafes are great for more casual lunches, but wherever you chose to eat in Guernsey, you can expect good quality food, the freshest seafood and friendly staff. Dining out was stress-free, and delicious. We were there for the Spring Food Festival, but there is also an October food festival, previously known as Tennerfest, where restaurants across the islands put on fixed price menus offering excellent value.  

5. Island-Hopping Adventure to Sark

The Bailiwick of Guernsey also includes Sark, Alderney, and Herm. We took a short ferry to Sark, and it was like stepping back in time. No cars, no stress - just bikes and footpaths. We cycled around the island, crossed La Coupée to reach Little Sark, and, yes, had more ice cream! Highlights included delicious seafood at Time & Tide, handcrafted treats from Caragh Chocolates, and getting lost in the maze at La Seigneurie Gardens.

6. Castle Cornet

Overlooking the harbour at St Peter Port, this 800-year-old fortress is a hit for both history buffs and children. Kids receive a special guide with characters to spot throughout the castle. Fairy doors, a dressing-up station, and the midday cannon firing ceremony (with guards in full uniform!) kept everyone entertained, especially my youngest, who loved posing for photos.

7. Afternoon Tea at The Old Government House

A visit to Guernsey’s only five-star hotel, The Old Government House, is a must. Their afternoon tea is a true treat, featuring Guernsey cream and local ingredients. Set in the heart of St Peter Port, it’s a great way to unwind in historic luxury.

8. The Little Chapel

Before heading to the airport, we squeezed in a visit to The Little Chapel—a miniature masterpiece adorned with intricate mosaics and colourful ceramics. The girls loved exploring the tiny staircases and secret nooks. It was the perfect final memory of a magical trip.

9. The Peninsula Hotel – A Perfect Family Base

Situated on Guernsey’s northwest coast, The Peninsula Hotel is a fantastic choice for families. It has direct access to the scenic coastal paths overlooking Grand Havre Bay and the sandy Port Grat Beach just behind. We booked a family suite, which worked brilliantly - featuring a separate living area with sofa bed for the kids. A sliding door offered privacy between the rooms, and the oversized bathtub quickly became a post-beach highlight.

The hotel itself is stylish yet laid-back. The on-site bar serves local craft beers: "Nigel" by The Little Big Brew Co. was our favourite, and outside, the garden has its own quirky charm, complete with an old fishing boat and even a vintage London bus.