Rock pooling is an activity long enjoyed by local children and adults alike. It’s great fun to scan the low tides for what might be lurking there and is something that can be enjoyed by people of all ages all year round – just make sure you have the right gear on.
What to check
Rock pools exposed at low tide have more to discover but please always check the tides (and indeed the weather) before you go, and don’t get yourself cut off anywhere. Local tides can be checked via Digimap or the Guernsey Press. Ormering tides are particularly low and can make for exciting rock pooling. You can view the 2026 ormering tides here.
NB If you go out on an ormer tide and find one while you’re there, make sure you know the regulations surrounding ormering which can be found here.
What to wear
If you’re planning to explore over rocks, appropriate clothing and footwear is a must. Rocks can be both slippery and sharp so sturdy footwear is a good idea and experience says wellies could be essential for youngsters. If it’s cold, a puddlesuit/waders are a good idea. Having none of the above won’t stop kids clambering over the rocks barefoot if they want to though and that’s the joy of childhood.
What to bring
It depends on what type of rock pooling you’re planning to do and how seriously you’re taking it. You could go empty handed choosing to just observe and see what you find, or you could take a small net pr clear bucket so that you can check them out without disturbing then too much.
If you plan to document what you find, you might like to try using the Natural History Museum’s Digital Nature Journal – a free, online way to keep track of everything you find. There’s no scientific knowledge or technological know-how required.
How to behave
It’s so important to be considerate with how you treat rock pools, they’re delicate habitats meaning you need to be gentle in your interactions. e watchful with your steps, place rocks back as they were (carefully), and handle any critters with care if you do pick them up.
And the old saying applies here too, leave nothing but footprints, take nothing but photos (and great childhood memories).
Where to go
Our all time favourite place to go rock pooling is Pêtils Bay, just past Bordeaux Harbour. At low tide there’s a wealth of habitat to uncover, from a variety of star fish and brightly coloured anemones, to worm pipefish, crabs, and rock goby fish.
Another firm favourite is the west coast at low tide. Port Soif offers so many hiding places you just wouldn’t know were there otherwise. And there are quieter spots that often get overlooked but are every bit as rewarding. Moulin Huet with its clear water, is perfect for more explorations. Just be conscious of accessibility if you’re taking youngsters.