Herm Island
A car-free paradise in the Channel Islands, Herm boasts Caribbean-like beaches, stunning coastal walks, and a serene escape from the everyday.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best chance for sunshine
Herm Island
Best Time
Best chance for sunshine
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A car-free paradise in the Channel Islands, Herm boasts Caribbean-like beaches, stunning coastal walks, and a serene escape from the everyday.
"Herm Island truly IS a hidden gem! Serene, tranquil, with some of the best beaches I've ever seen."
🥾 Pack Comfy Walking Shoes
Herm is car-free! Explore its beauty on foot, so comfortable footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:
☀️ Sunscreen & Hat Essential
The sun can be strong, especially on the beaches. Protect yourself for a comfortable day out. :sunwithface:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Shell Beach
Northern tip of Herm
Caribbean-like turquoise waters and pristine white sand. A true slice of paradise.
The Mermaid Tavern & Ship Inn
Near the harbor
Enjoy delicious food and a fantastic atmosphere at these popular island eateries.
Coastal Walking Trails
Island-wide
Explore dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and breathtaking sea views on foot.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Car-Free Charm
Ferry Essentials & Island Life
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Pack Comfy Walking Shoes
Herm is car-free! Explore its beauty on foot, so comfortable footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:
☀️ Sunscreen & Hat Essential
The sun can be strong, especially on the beaches. Protect yourself for a comfortable day out. :sunwithface:
🌊 Kayak or SUP Adventures
Rent gear from the beach for a unique perspective of the island's coastline. :kayak:
🍺 Don't Miss the Beer Festival
If visiting in season, the Herm Beer Festival is a vibrant event with local brews. :beer_mug:
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Pack Comfy Walking Shoes
Herm is car-free! Explore its beauty on foot, so comfortable footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:
☀️ Sunscreen & Hat Essential
The sun can be strong, especially on the beaches. Protect yourself for a comfortable day out. :sunwithface:
🌊 Kayak or SUP Adventures
Rent gear from the beach for a unique perspective of the island's coastline. :kayak:
🍺 Don't Miss the Beer Festival
If visiting in season, the Herm Beer Festival is a vibrant event with local brews. :beer_mug:
📸 Capture the Caribbean Vibe
Herm's beaches rival the Caribbean. Get your camera ready for stunning photos! :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Herm Island as a 'hidden gem' with stunning, Caribbean-like beaches and a wonderfully tranquil, car-free atmosphere. The island offers a refreshing escape with beautiful walking trails, good food options at its taverns, and a unique sense of peace.
"The most beautiful island I've been to. Lovely beaches, two with cafés and one of those selling a selection of alcoholic beverages.
The Mermaid Tavern and The Ship both serve great food and have an amazing atmosphere. All staff across the island were fantastic!"
Matt Worley
"It is like being on a private island....a very special place to visit. My personal favourite is Shell Beach.
This is a must to visit if going to Guernsey.
You can also hire kayaks from the beach which is a great way to see the coast."
Lou S
"Love the experience been in Herm
Beautiful island
Quite place
Wonderful day ♥️♥️"
Analisa Goncalves
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Access Herm Island via a 20-minute ferry ride from Guernsey. The ferry service operates seasonally, so it's crucial to check the latest timetables and book tickets in advance, especially during peak times.
No, you cannot travel directly to Herm Island from the UK mainland. You must first travel to Guernsey and then take the dedicated ferry service from Guernsey to Herm.
Ferry ticket prices can vary, but typically range from £10-£20 for a return trip per adult. It's advisable to check the official ferry operator's website for the most current pricing and to book your tickets.
Herm Island is a car-free island. Visitors and residents get around on foot. This contributes to its peaceful and tranquil atmosphere.
Ferry times to Herm Island vary depending on the season and day of the week. Ferries typically run multiple times a day during the summer months, with reduced services in the off-season. Always check the official ferry operator's schedule before your visit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, you need to purchase a ferry ticket to travel to Herm Island from Guernsey. There is no separate entry fee for the island itself once you arrive.
Absolutely! You can stay overnight in various accommodations, including the Herm Island Hotel, cottages, and holiday cottages. Booking well in advance is highly recommended, especially for the popular Herm Island Hotel.
Herm Island is generally accessible to day visitors during daylight hours, with ferry services running throughout the day. Specific attractions like shops and cafes have their own operating hours, which can vary seasonally.
Booking is essential for ferry tickets to Herm Island and highly recommended for accommodation, especially if you plan to stay overnight at the Herm Island Hotel or one of the Herm cottages.
The primary cost is the ferry ticket from Guernsey. Once on the island, you can explore freely. Costs will then depend on your spending on food, drinks, and any activities or souvenirs.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Shell Beach is frequently cited as a must-visit for its stunning white sand and turquoise waters, often compared to the Caribbean. Other beautiful beaches include Belvoir Bay and Alderney Bay.
You can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, exploring walking trails, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and spotting wildlife like puffins and seals. The island also has historical sites to discover.
Yes, Herm Island is very family-friendly. Its car-free nature makes it safe for children to explore, and the beautiful beaches are perfect for a day of fun.
Visitors often report seeing seals and puffins, especially during certain times of the year. The island's diverse habitats also support a variety of birdlife.
Yes, there are a few shops on Herm Island, including a gift shop and a general store, offering essentials, souvenirs, and local crafts.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Herm Island offers several dining options, including The Mermaid Tavern and The Ship Inn, both known for great food and atmosphere. The White House Hotel also provides dining experiences.
Yes, there are cafes located near some of the beaches, offering refreshments and light meals. These are perfect for a break during your exploration.
You are welcome to bring your own picnic to enjoy on the beaches or designated areas. This can be a cost-effective option for a day trip.
The White House Hotel on Herm Island is known for its dining, offering a range of dishes. Reviews often highlight the quality of food and the pleasant dining atmosphere.
While specific menus can vary, most establishments on Herm Island are accustomed to catering to dietary needs. It's always a good idea to inquire directly with the restaurant or cafe about their vegetarian and vegan options.
📸 📸 Photography
Shell Beach, with its white sands and clear waters, is a prime photography location. The dramatic cliffside trails and panoramic sea views also offer incredible photo opportunities.
Absolutely. The combination of rugged coastline, pristine beaches, and clear blue waters makes Herm Island a dream for landscape photographers. Golden hour can be particularly magical here.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's essential to check with the island authorities or the ferry operator for any restrictions on drone flights before you fly.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beaches and seascapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting, and a polarizing filter can enhance the vibrant blues of the water and sky.
Many visitors rave about the views from the cliff paths overlooking the sea and the picturesque scenes at Shell Beach. The charming island architecture also makes for great detail shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing a picnic to enjoy on the beach, as this can be a fun and economical way to feed the family. The Mermaid Tavern and Ship Inn offer family-friendly dining options. The short ferry ride from Guernsey is also an adventure in itself for younger travelers.
🚶♀️ Active Explorers & Hikers
Don't forget to pack sturdy walking shoes and plenty of water. You can also rent kayaks or paddleboards from the beach to explore the coastline from a different perspective, adding an extra layer of adventure to your visit.
🏖️ Beach Lovers & Sun Seekers
Beyond Shell Beach, explore other beautiful bays like Belvoir Bay for a more tranquil sunbathing experience. Remember to bring your swimwear, a towel, and plenty of sun protection to make the most of these idyllic coastal spots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Herm's Pristine Beaches
Beyond Shell Beach, Belvoir Bay and Alderney Bay offer equally beautiful, though perhaps less crowded, stretches of sand and sea. These beaches provide a more secluded experience, perfect for those seeking tranquility. The island's car-free nature means you can easily walk between these coastal gems, discovering hidden coves along the way.
Remember to pack essentials like sunscreen and water, as amenities can be limited directly on some of the more remote beaches. The experience of finding your own perfect spot on these unspoiled shores is a significant part of Herm's charm.
Getting Around Herm: A Car-Free Adventure
Walking trails crisscross the island, leading you through rolling hills, along dramatic cliff edges, and down to secluded coves. The main paths are well-maintained, but some smaller tracks can be more rugged, offering a sense of adventure. The island is small enough that most key areas are accessible within a reasonable walking distance, allowing for a full day of exploration without needing any motorized transport.
This car-free environment not only enhances the tranquility but also makes Herm incredibly safe for families. Children can roam and play with a greater sense of freedom, adding to the island's appeal as a relaxed getaway.
Dining and Refreshments on Herm
For a more refined experience, The White House Hotel provides dining options, often highlighted in reviews for its quality and setting. Additionally, cafes are situated near some of the main beaches, offering convenient refreshments and light meals, ideal for a casual break.
While dining out is an option, many visitors also choose to bring their own picnics to enjoy on the beaches or in scenic spots. This can be a more budget-friendly approach and allows for maximum flexibility in enjoying the island's natural beauty.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit