Where to Eat, Drink and Stay Around Havre des Pas

By Alyssa | WhatsOn local events writer Alyssa picks out timely events, local favourites and useful places to eat, stay and explore.

Summer in Jersey has a distinct rhythm, and as July approaches, the island’s festival season shifts into top gear. One of my absolute favourite highlights of the year is just around the corner: the Havre des Pas Seaside Festival. It’s a weekend where our historic promenade and beautiful Victorian Lido transform into a vibrant stretch of pop-up bars, live DJ stages, and family-friendly beach games.

But this stretch of coast isn't just for festival weekends. It’s a gorgeous, sun-drenched part of St Helier that visitors flock to all summer long. Whether you’re timing your trip perfectly for the seaside celebrations this July or you're visiting later in August, knowing exactly where to base yourself is essential. To help you plan, I’ve put together a local’s guide to the festival, alongside my top picks for where to stay and the best Havre des Pas Jersey restaurants and nearby eateries to round off your day.

Practical Details: Havre des Pas Seaside Festival 2026

Before we dive into the surrounding neighbourhood, here is everything you need to know about this year's main event.

What to Expect at the Seaside Festival

If you're arriving in Jersey in late July, you are in for a treat. The Havre des Pas Seaside Festival is widely considered the island's biggest community beach party. The entire coastal road is pedestrianised, allowing you to wander freely between acoustic music sets, vibrant DJ stages, and a massive array of al fresco dining options provided by local vendors.

For families, the inflatable assault course on the beach is always a massive hit, and the atmosphere around the historic Lido is simply electric. It is worth noting one crucial piece of practical advice: tickets are strictly available on the door. You cannot buy them online in advance, so make sure you bring some cash with you to cover the very reasonable entry fee. It's also worth noting that St Helier is buzzing throughout the whole month; if you arrive a week earlier, you can catch the fantastic Fête de St Hélier (18-19 July) taking over the town centre with fairground rides and the Norman Market.

Where to Stay Around Havre des Pas

If you want to be right near the action for the festival—or just want to be first on the sand every morning—staying within walking distance is a lifesaver. Parking around the promenade gets notoriously tricky during big events, so being able to stroll straight from your room to the beach is a massive advantage.

• Thalatta Guest House: Tucked away on Cleveland Road, this is wonderfully close to the beach without being caught right in the middle of the late-night hustle. It has a lovely, homely feel, and the breakfast is fantastic. The hosts are known for being incredibly accommodating, even letting guests leave their bags at the desk to go exploring after check-out.
• The Norfolk Hotel: Situated slightly up the hill on La Colomberie, this relaxed hotel offers basic, comfortable rooms and features its own coffee shop, bar, and outdoor pool. It’s a perfect base because you can easily roll down the hill to the Lido for the afternoon and retreat back to a quiet poolside when you need some downtime.
• The Merton Hotel: If you are travelling with children, look no further. Located on Belvedere Hill, this is a casual resort-style hotel featuring an amazing indoor pool complete with waterslides. It’s an easy walk down to Havre des Pas, making it ideal for families who want a mix of beach days and resort entertainment.

Dining Out: Havre des Pas Jersey Restaurants & Nearby Gems

While the promenade itself has lovely casual seaside bites, kiosks, and (during the festival) endless street food, you’ll find some of the island’s most reliable dining spots just a short, breezy ten-minute walk toward the town centre. If you are specifically searching for Havre des Pas Jersey restaurants with a bit more seating and structure, these nearby St Helier options are well worth the short stroll.

• The Square: Located at Weighbridge Place, this is an excellent choice if you're wandering back into town after a day in the sun. The food here is consistently delicious—think perfectly cooked steaks, ribs, and fresh fish. They often have live music that adds a brilliant atmosphere without overpowering your conversation. It’s cozy, welcoming, and fantastic for a celebratory summer dinner.
• The Halkett Pub & Dining: Just slightly further inland on Halkett Place, this spot is perfect if you want a hearty, relaxed meal. They serve up a brilliant Sunday roast, which is exactly what you might crave after a long, active weekend by the sea. The decor is lovely, the service is quick, and they are incredibly attentive when it comes to accommodating food allergies.
• La Bastille Bar & Brasserie: Tucked away on Queen Street, this restaurant offers a relaxed yet refined feel. It’s close enough to feel like you're in the heart of town, but calm enough to offer a proper retreat. The decor balances comfort with a touch of elegance, and the dishes are carefully prepared. It’s the kind of place where you can really take your time over a meal after a busy beach day.

Make a Day of It: Nearby Attractions

If you need a break from the sun, or if the summer weather decides to be a bit typically British, there are some great indoor and historical spots just moments from the Havre des Pas coastline.

• Jersey Museum & Art Gallery: Located by The Weighbridge, this beautiful museum presents the history of Jersey from Neolithic times right up to the modern day. The beautifully restored Victorian House is a highlight, and the art gallery provides a cool, quiet respite from the festival crowds.
• Fort Regent Leisure Centre: Towering above the town on Mont de la Ville (Town Hill), this 19th-century fortification offers some interesting local history. While it serves primarily as a leisure and events space today, the walk up provides some nice vantage points over St Helier and the coast.

Whether you're joining the island for the vibrant Havre des Pas Seaside Festival this July or just planning a peaceful August coastal retreat, this corner of St Helier truly has something for everyone. Remember to pack some cash for those festival doors, book your restaurant tables in advance for those busy summer evenings, and enjoy the very best of the Jersey sunshine!