Al fresco dining is a summer staple on our Islands. Sitting in the sun, eating delicious food and watching the world go by - what could be better?
On the Islands of Guernsey, we have a range of restaurants, bars and cafés that offer al fresco dining. Whether you want to sit in beautiful gardens, on a sun-trapped patio or on a terrace overlooking the beach, there are plenty to choose from. Here are some spots to explore on your visit to Guernsey, Alderney, Herm and Sark.
St Peter Port
Dix Neuf
Located in the arcade of town, Dix Neuf offers a menu that balances traditional and modern dishes, whilst still offering a nod to the French classics it takes inspiration from. With an al fresco dining area in front of the restaurant, it's a great spot to enjoy a leisurely meal, watch the world go by and get a feel for local life.
The Terrace
Named for its excellent terraced dining area that overlooks St Peter Port and neighbouring Herm Island, the Terrace is particularly popular in the summer. They offer a selection of European, Thai and Asian-fusion food served throughout the day as well as a great range of drinks, from Pimms and cocktails to ciders and beers.
The Slaughterhouse
The Slaughterhouse in St Peter Port offers several spots for outdoor drinks and dining. The main courtyard houses several large tables and is particularly popular for cocktails, while the roof terrace offers more peaceful dining, with views across town and the neighbouring islands.
Pier 17
For some al fresco dining out by the water, Pier 17 offers fresh, locally sourced food that can be enjoyed on its two terraces, one of which overlooks Castle Cornet. Their menu features a range of drinks and food that caters to all dietary requirements.
The OGH
Located above the St Peter Port high street, the 5* Old Government House Hotel is an excellent spot to enjoy delicious food throughout the day. Lunch, dinner, speciality afternoon tea and cocktails can all be served in their sunny, private Olive Grove Gardens.
Good Rebel
Good Rebel offers al fresco dining options for brunch, lunch and dinner. The restaurant is located at Admiral Park, part of Guernsey's business hub. It is easily accessible along the seafront by foot or bike, and has parking for those wishing to travel directly. Their patio area is a sun-trap with a metropolitan feel, and is pleasantly secluded.
Around Guernsey's Coastlines & Countryside
Fermain Beach Cafe
Fermain Beach Café on the east coast is ideal for sitting and relaxing with a jug of Pimms or a bite to eat, whether that be Guernsey ice cream or one of their locally sourced sandwiches. Their al fresco dining area overlooks the beautiful Fermain Bay. You can also take some drinks and snacks onto the beach if you'd prefer.
Many of our beach cafés and kiosks have al fresco dining. Find out more about those here.
The Terrace at Fermain Valley Hotel
Nestled within the stunning Fermain Valley, The Terrace offers an exquisite dining and drinking experience amidst breathtaking views and picturesque atmosphere. This idyllic setting is the perfect spot to soak up the sunshine while enjoying a delicious meal or sipping on a refreshing cocktail.
Cobo Tearooms
Cobo Tearooms is a favourite for many islanders. Overlooking Cobo Bay on the west coast of Guernsey, it is a traditional family-run tearoom serving breakfasts, lunches and homemade cakes. Their garden is pretty and quaint, offering views of the beach and sea beyond. A dog-friendly spot, it's a great place to visit if you're bringing a four-legged friend.
Cobo Bay Hotel
Just a few doors down from the tearoom you will find Cobo Bay Hotel's beach terrace. Offering panoramic views of Cobo Bay and al fresco drinks and dining in a relaxed atmosphere, it is a perfect place to watch the sunset. During the summer months you can also find them hosting their famous balcony gigs.
La Reunion
For some of the freshest seafood in Guernsey, with spectacular views out to Guernsey waters where it was caught, La Reunion has a terrace that is hard to beat. Their menu focuses on seasonal ingredients and cocktails with a twist - it's a great place to celebrate a special occasion.
The Rockmount
Just below La Reunion you will find The Rockmount, serving drinks and traditional pub food. They have a wooden terrace that looks out over Cobo Bay and beyond, and plenty of outdoor seating to enjoy a sunset from.
Crabby Jack’s
One for the kids, Crabby Jack's has al fresco dining on their two terraces, one downstairs and one above the restaurant looking out over Vazon Bay, or in their garden. Their outdoor play area is very popular, and visible from the terrace, so you can easily watch over your children whilst dining.
Puffin and Oyster
Located on the northwest coast of Guernsey overlooking Le Grand Havre, the Puffin and Oyster provides excellent views out to sea as well as delicious meals. Relax with a bite to eat and a cask-conditioned ale or a glass of wine from their extensive list on their terrace.
Saltwater at Beaucette Marina
For relaxed dining in a waterside setting, head to Saltwater at the north of the Island. Their al fresco dining area sits above the picturesque marina, where you can enjoy a menu celebrating local ingredients, including seafood - their speciality.
Fleur du Jardin
Fleur du Jardin offers al fresco dining in their scenic gardens. There is a pool, perfect for a dip-and-dine in the height of summer. Their menu caters for all the family, using locally sourced ingredients and produce wherever possible.
Alderney
The Blonde Hedgehog
The Blonde Hedgehog Restaurant focuses on simple dishes bursting with flavour. The menu changes daily and is created based on the fresh, local ingredients they get in that morning, many of which come from their kitchen garden just outside the kitchen itself. You can also sit outside in the grounds of the hotel to enjoy your meal.
The Moorings
The Moorings is the go-to venue for families in Alderney looking for a place where kids can let off steam and adults can relax. Situated alongside Braye Beach, they serve burgers, pizzas, seafood, salads and more. Out on their large terrace you'll often find bands playing throughout the summer.
Braye Beach Bar and Terrace
With stunning views over Braye Beach and beyond, this hotel restaurant is the ideal place to unwind. Stop in for a morning coffee, a light lunch, afternoon cream tea or an early evening drink.
Sark
Stocks Bistro
Only a 10-minute walk from the harbour, Stocks is a family-run country house hotel. Their poolside bistro and sun terrace opens from May to September, and is an excellent spot to unwind and enjoy one of their many specials made from locally sourced ingredients.
Fleur du Jardin
A hidden gem in Sark, the Fleur du Jardin is a family-run restaurant that serves delicious food and drinks outside in The Tea Gardens for a relaxed al fresco dining experience.
Herm
The Mermaid Tavern
The Mermaid Tavern has a cheerful, informal atmosphere and is popular all year round. In the summer months make sure to sit out in the courtyard to enjoy a drink in the sun.
The Ship Inn
A well-loved restaurant, The Ship Inn has an outdoor patio where you can enjoy drinks and dining. Their menu offers a wide selection of dishes that cater for all tastes. There is also a children's menu, which includes their famous ice cream sundaes.
Shell Beach kiosk
During the summer, you can enjoy a snack or a more substantial cooked meal from this well-stocked kiosk, sitting out on their benches or finding yourself a spot on Shell Beach. It has recently been granted an alcohol licence, so you can sit with your favourite drink and a fantastic view of the beach.
For some more al fresco dining in Guernsey make sure to look out for Seafront Sundays.
A classic part of Guernsey summer, on select Sundays from March-September the town seafront closes to traffic and sets up stalls celebrating independent businesses, artists and local charities. Many stalls offer food that can be enjoyed as you explore, or you can head to the benches on the nearby piers.
Several restaurants as Balthazar, Sorrento and Taj, put tables outside and take advantage of the closed road for some al fresco dining.
