Hey everyone, Alyssa here! Summer has well and truly arrived on our beautiful island, bringing with it that unmistakable buzz of outdoor festivals, coastal heritage, and long, balmy evenings. If you are looking for the perfect itinerary for late June, look no further. This weekend is absolutely packed with brilliant island events, including the much-loved garden railway open day jersey locals look forward to every summer, alongside some high-octane beachfront thrills.
Because the main events are just a few days away, I have put together a comprehensive weekend guide to help you make the most of it all. Whether you are a visitor mapping out your first trip or an islander looking for fresh weekend plans, here is how you can perfectly pair sunset music, rural charm, and heritage walks across Jersey.
There is no better way to kick off a summer weekend than with the magical 'Summer Night Sessions', which have just made their triumphant return out east. Imagine swapping a crowded nightclub for a sprawling, 800-year-old medieval fortress overlooking the sea. That is exactly what you get at Mont Orgueil Castle, which towers dramatically over the picturesque fishing port of Gorey.
These chilled, Ibiza-style sunset DJ sessions take place right under the Castle Keep in the Middle Ward. You get to see this incredible stone fortress in a completely different light. My top tip? Pack your own picnic basket, bring a comfortable blanket, and settle in on the grass as the sun dips and the music flows. Just remember to check the Jersey Heritage site to secure your spot, as these unique evening events are incredibly popular.
If you are travelling from out of town and want to stay nearby so you can easily walk back after the music ends, check in at the Beachcombers Hotel. It is a wonderfully quaint and unassuming spot just down the road, offering a heated outdoor pool to ease you into the weekend.
Saturday is all about contrasting experiences, starting with something fast and loud on our rugged west coast. Head down to Le Braye Beach in St. Ouen's Bay from 10:30 AM for a classic island motorsport tradition: Sand Racing. Organised by the Jersey Motorcycle & Light Car Club, this is a brilliant, free-entry spectacle for the whole family.
Unlike traditional tarmac tracks, the shifting sands of the bay make for a totally unpredictable and fast-paced race course. You will see everything from motorcycles and saloon cars to custom-built buggies tearing up the beach. The atmosphere is fantastic, with the crashing waves on one side and roaring engines on the other. It is a highly spectator-friendly event, so bring the kids, grab a good vantage point on the sea wall, and enjoy the show.
All that sea air is bound to build up an appetite. Once the morning racing winds down, take a short stroll along the Five Mile Road to El Tico. This place is legendary for its fresh seafood, vibrant atmosphere, and excellent value. Treat yourself to a hearty curry or some local catch, perfectly paired with a glass of Crémant, while looking out over the surf.
After a breezy morning on the beach, it is time to head slightly inland for a completely different change of pace. Just a short drive into the rural parish of St. Mary, you will find a truly charming local secret. This weekend marks the HSBA Garden Railway Charity Open Day, an absolute delight for families, model enthusiasts, and anyone who appreciates meticulous craftsmanship.
Tucked away in a beautiful private setting, you can explore over 138 metres of G-scale track. The level of detail is mesmerising—miniature trains chug through tiny tunnels, past carefully tended plants, and over bridges spanning tranquil koi fish ponds. It is a wonderfully relaxing way to spend an afternoon, and best of all, the open day raises money for local charities. Do remember to bring along some cash for donations, and as always, check their official page for any last-minute weather updates before you travel.
To round off your countryside afternoon, I highly recommend stopping for a cosy pub dinner. Just down the road, you will find The Priory Inn Devils Hole. It is a wonderfully traditional spot with a relaxed vibe, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring.
Dedicate your Sunday to soaking up St. Helier's vibrant culture, as several major summer exhibitions have just launched. Start your morning by taking the amphibious ferry from West Park across St. Aubin's Bay to the historic Elizabeth Castle. Not only is the tidal fortress stunning, but it is currently hosting the new 'Vraiqu'sie' exhibition. This multi-disciplinary display—blending sculpture, film, and song—explores the traditional Jersey practice of harvesting seaweed, offering a beautiful look at our shoreline heritage.
Back on the mainland, stroll over to the Weighbridge and step into the Jersey Museum & Art Gallery. They have just opened the poignant 'Life After Liberation' exhibition. Marking the 80th anniversary of Jersey's Liberation, it is a deeply moving look at how the island community rebuilt itself after the occupation.
Just a stone's throw away on the New North Quay is the Maritime Museum. If you have any energy left, this interactive space is brilliant for diving into Jersey's seafaring past, including tales of historic shipwrecks and mercantile adventures. To finish your weekend on a high, walk into town and grab a table at La Bastille Bar & Brasserie on Queen Street. Tucked away with an easy charm, it offers fantastic, carefully prepared food in a beautifully relaxed setting—the perfect Sunday sign-off.
If you are travelling to Jersey specifically to catch these summer events, St. Helier makes the perfect hub, giving you easy access to the main bus terminal and ferry links. For those who want to be right on the water, the Radisson Blu Waterfront Hotel, Jersey offers contemporary, relaxed quarters with glorious bay views. Alternatively, you cannot get more central than the iconic Pomme d’Or Hotel on Liberation Square, which is steeped in local history.
If you fancy a bit of pampering after a long day of sightseeing, book a room at The Royal Yacht Hotel & Spa, which features a gorgeous luxury spa and multiple bars right in the centre of the action. Prefer to escape the hustle and bustle? Head slightly west to the beautiful harbour village of St. Aubin and stay at the Somerville Hotel. This plush country house property sits high on the hill, offering some of the most breathtaking sea views on the entire island.
Whatever you choose to do this weekend, I hope you have an absolutely brilliant time exploring. See you out there!
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