Location
United Kingdom
Status
Informal / Traditional
Suitable for
Adults only
Terrain
Rock
Best season
June to September
About Le Jaonnet Bay
Le Jaonnet Bay (sometimes spelt La Jaonaise) is a small, remote cove on the south coast of Guernsey in the parish of St Martin, below the high cliffs between Icart Point and Petit Bot. It is the island's best-known place for nude sunbathing, though Guernsey has no official nudist beaches. The bay is hard to reach, which is precisely why naturists like it: the final descent is by steps and a steep ladder. The shore is very stony, and except around low tide there is little sand, so it suits sunbathing on the rocks and swimming more than lying on a beach. There are no facilities. Visitors are few, and the island's tourism authority has described it as not suitable for families because of the access and lack of services. Local naturists say a States of Guernsey sign at the bay notes that naturists may be seen there. In 2017 Visit Guernsey removed wording that described the bay as not officially a nudist beach, after letters in the local press, and now presents it simply as a quiet spot.
Getting there
Park at Icart Point (Icart Road, St Martin) and follow the south coast cliff path west towards Le Jaonnet. Paths branch down through the gorse to the bay; the last section is steep steps and a ladder fixed to the rock. Bring everything you need, including water. Buses serve St Martin and Icart Road, with a walk to the cliff path. Not suitable for wheelchairs, pushchairs or small children.
What visitors say
Visitors describe Le Jaonnet as a pretty, secluded cove where nude sunbathing is common and accepted, but warn that the ladder descent is awkward and that there is very little sand except near low tide. Bring a mat for the stones. Most accounts recommend discretion, keeping away from any families and not taking photos. Some locals object to nudity elsewhere on the island, which keeps naturists to this bay.
Summarised in our own words from public reviews and guides listed under Sources.
Amenities
Legal context
Guernsey has no official nudist beaches. In 2017 Guernsey Police said no specific law covers nakedness but it could be treated as indecent exposure depending on location, time of day and who was present. Local naturists reported in 2018 that a States sign at the bay states naturists may be seen there.
Naturism at Le Jaonnet Bay sits under United Kingdom's rules for traditional tolerance — custom more than statute.
Full country law: United Kingdom public nudity guide.
Researched 24 October 2026. No official source confirms naturist status, so treat it as unverified.
Location
View on interactive map
Approx. 49.4269, -2.5763
Visitor tips
- 1 Informal / tolerated site — be discreet and leave no drama.
- 2 Towel, water, sunscreen. Sit on your own towel.
- 3 No photos without clear consent.
- 4 Check access, tides, and parking before you go.
- 5 House rules and local custom can be stricter than the law.
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Frequently asked questions
Is Le Jaonnet Bay an official nudist beach?
No. Guernsey has no official nudist beaches, but nude use here is long-standing and a States sign reportedly notes that naturists may be present.
How do I get down?
From the Icart cliff path, down steep steps and a ladder. It is not suitable for small children.
Is there sand?
Very little except at low tide; the bay is mostly stones and rock.
Are there facilities?
None. Bring water and food.
Sources
Important
Beach status changes. Verify current conditions before you go. This is guidance, not legal advice.
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