Overview

Fermain Bay is a small, sheltered beach on Guernsey’s east coast, south of St Peter Port, set in a steep-sided valley with wooded cliffs and scenic sea views. It is a popular stop on the island’s cliff paths and coastal walks, offering a picturesque cove rather than a large open bay; dogs are welcome outside the island’s standard summer dog-ban period that applies to Fermain.

Dog Policies & Seasonal Rules

Fermain is listed among the Guernsey beaches where dogs are banned between 1 May and 30 September. During this period, dogs are not allowed on the beach, on or off lead, under the Control of Dogs Ordinance.

Outside these dates, dogs are permitted on Fermain Bay, subject to general rules requiring owners to pick up after their dogs and dispose of waste in public litter bins or by taking it home. Dog owners are also asked to prevent their dogs from chasing or disturbing wildlife, especially birds during the February to July breeding season. No additional on-lead requirements, time-of-day restrictions or dog-specific zones are published for Fermain Bay; this information is not publicly stated, visitors should contact the managing organisation or local authority for clarification.

Beach Features & Environment

Fermain Bay is described as a small shingle and pebble beach in a narrow, wooded valley, surrounded by steep cliffs and trees that give it a secluded, tranquil feel. The water in the bay is clear, and the setting provides attractive coastal views across the sea, including towards neighbouring islands on clear days.

The bay sits on Guernsey’s south-eastern cliff coastline, and many visitors experience it as part of a cliff walk, descending from higher paths down to the cove. The compact beach area and sheltered location make it feel more intimate than Guernsey’s large west-coast sands.

Facilities & Amenities

Fermain Bay is home to the Fermain Beach Café (often referred to simply as a beach café), which serves food and drink close to the water’s edge. This provides a place for visitors to stop for refreshments during a beach visit or while walking the cliffs.

The cited sources do not clearly list public toilets, showers, drinking water points, dog waste bins, dedicated picnic areas, or lifeguard services for Fermain Bay. This information is not publicly stated; visitors should contact the managing organisation or local authority for clarification.

Parking & Access

Access to Fermain Bay is typically via footpaths that descend from the cliffs and surrounding roads down into the valley and onto the beach. It is frequently described as part of a coastal or cliff walk rather than a drive-up beach.

The provided sources do not give specific details of any dedicated beach car park, parking charges, distances from parking to the beach or official parking opening hours at Fermain. Parking details are not listed in publicly available sources; this information is not publicly stated, visitors should contact the managing organisation or local authority for clarification.

Safety Information

Fermain Bay is a small, sheltered cove on a rocky, cliffed coastline, but the listed sources do not provide detailed safety notices about currents, tides, or underwater hazards. There is also no mention of regular lifeguard cover in the cited information.

No official safety information is provided online in these sources; visitors should follow on-site signage and take general coastal precautions, including care on steep paths, rocks and in the sea.

Accessibility Information

Fermain Bay is accessed via paths that lead down from the surrounding cliffs into the valley, but the sources do not specify whether these routes are step-free, their gradients, or their suitability for wheelchairs or mobility aids. There is also no specific mention of ramps, beach wheelchairs, accessible toilets or designated disabled parking serving the bay.

Accessibility details are not publicly available; visitors requiring specific accommodations should contact the managing organisation for up-to-date information.

Nearby Dog-Friendly Spots

Fermain Bay is located on Guernsey’s network of cliff paths, which are promoted as attractive walking routes and are generally dog friendly outside of any beach-specific restrictions. The Fermain Beach Café provides a refreshment stop at the bay itself.

However, none of the cited sources explicitly state whether the café or specific nearby attractions are dog friendly. No nearby dog-friendly locations are referenced in the provided sources; visitors should contact individual businesses directly to confirm their dog policy.

FAQs

Dog-Friendly Places to Eat Near Fermain Bay

After navigating the winding cliff paths or enjoying a swim in the crystal-clear waters of the bay, you’ll be ready for a well-earned rest. Fermain Bay is home to one of the most iconic cafes on the island, and its secluded location makes it a peaceful haven for dog owners looking to escape the hustle and bustle.

Beachfront Dining (Right on the Pebbles)

There is one primary destination at the bottom of the valley, and it is a must-visit for any coastal explorer:

• Fermain Beach Cafe: Widely regarded as one of the best beach cafes in the British Isles. While dogs aren't allowed inside the main restaurant, their award-winning outdoor terrace is a paradise for pups. They provide water bowls and plenty of shade, allowing you to enjoy high-quality seafood or a cream tea with your dog at your feet.

Elevated Views & Terrace Dining (Top of the Hill)

If you are walking back up the valley toward St Martin, these spots offer incredible views and a warm welcome:

• The Terrace at Fermain Valley Hotel: Located at the top of the hill overlooking the bay, this terrace is exceptionally dog-friendly. It’s a sophisticated spot to enjoy a drink or a meal while your dog relaxes after the steep climb up from the beach.
• Hotel de Jerbourg: If you follow the cliff path south toward Jerbourg Point (about a 20-minute walk), this hotel offers a fantastic sun terrace and a dedicated bar area where dogs are welcome. It’s a popular "halfway house" for cliff walkers.

Nearby "Hidden Gems" (A Short Walk or Drive)

For those heading back toward St Peter Port through the woods, these options are perfectly placed:

• The Ship & Crown: If you complete the walk from Fermain back into town (approx. 45 minutes), this traditional pub on the St Peter Port seafront is a classic "end of the walk" destination. Dogs are welcome in the bar area.
• The Old Government House (OGH) Garden: For a bit of luxury, the Olive Grove and gardens at the OGH are dog-friendly. It’s a wonderful place to finish a long coastal hike with a touch of class and a bowl of water for the pup.

🐾 Local Expert Tip: The "Steep Hill" Strategy

Because Fermain has no public car access at the beach level, remember that you have to walk back up a very steep hill to get to the nearest parking or bus stop. If your dog is a senior or tires easily, we recommend stopping at the Fermain Beach Cafe terrace for an extended rest and a bowl of water before attempting the climb back up!

View the menus and details for these nearby spots: