A sheltered, west-facing cove and small working fishing harbour on Guernsey's south-west tip, and one of the island's best beaches for rock pooling and sea glass.
Tides are the same island-wide. These are today’s heights and times for Portelet Harbour.
Portelet is a small, sheltered cove beside a working fishing harbour at the south-west corner of the island, in Torteval. At low water it opens onto a wide expanse of soft sand and a broad carpet of rock, making it a favourite for rock pooling and for sea-glass hunting.
The road behind the beach leads towards Fort Pezeries, the 'Fairy Ring' and the Pleinmont observation tower along the cliffs. A kiosk and a year-round toilet block sit just above the harbour.
The cove is compact at high water and expands greatly as the tide falls, uncovering sand and extensive rock. Keep the returning tide in mind when exploring the rocks, and take care around the working harbour and slip.
Tides. Tide predictions are forecasts. Actual sea level is affected by atmospheric pressure, wind and waves. Always observe the sea and your surroundings.
Swimming. Sea swimming carries risks: currents, waves, rocks, submerged structures, boats and cold water. This page is for planning and does not confirm conditions are safe.
Facilities. Facilities and café opening hours change seasonally. Check directly before making a journey specifically to use them.