Hop on a ferry from Poole or Portsmouth and you can reach a stunning pebble beach which has been described as a “gem”. Tucked away in the Fermain Valley on the beautiful island of Guernsey is Fermain Bay, St Martin’s, which according to local ferry provider Condor Ferries, is a favourite with locals.

“Fermain Bay in Guernsey is famous amongst locals and visitors for being breathtaking and is one of the most beautiful tucked-away gems on the Island,” said Condor Ferries.

“It is a rare pebbly beach and accessed via a cliff-top path or road down to the Bay but car parking is very limited.”

The beach is best reached on foot or by boat. Condor Ferries included it in their round-up of the “most picturesque beaches” on the Channel Islands thanks to its beautiful setting and impressive views.

In fact, its stunning blue water had some visitors saying the beach made them feel as though they were much further away than the Channel Islands.

Posting a review to Tripadvisor in May 2024, one visitor said: “This bay will make you doubt if you’re in the British Isles as it could easily be a place in the Mediterranean or the Caribbean.

“Gorgeous beach with a pleasant beach cafe and relatively low crowds.

“We caught the bus for £1.50 each from Town Terminus to Fermain Tavern where we then walked to the bay. Beware this was a very steep hill! Although it says it is a 10-minute walk, it took us half an hour to get back up to the top. The bay is worth it though.” [SIC]

As well as offering a lovely place to sit and take in the surroundings, Condor Ferries also recommends stopping at the local cafe.

“Located at the beach is the award-winning Fermain Beach Café, an exceptional spot to catch up with friends and enjoy some delicious seafood in the sunshine,” they said.

The cafe has been a constant at the beach for 21 years with popular dishes including crab salad, crab sandwiches and cakes.