best beaches to visit in pembrokeshire

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Beaches in Pembrokeshire

Acres and acres of golden sands backed by dunes like  freshwater west  and broad haven south or a small, secluded rocky cove, such a cwm yr eglwys, perfect for rock-pooling .

Protected by their National Park status Pembrokeshire’s beaches have some of the cleanest waters and sands with many awards to show for it; Blue Flags and Green Coast awards! That makes Pembrokeshire beaches some of the best in Wales.

Explore by Map

Use the map below to discover your perfect Pembrokeshire Beach

• Aberbach beach
• Abercastle harbour
• Abereiddy beach
• Aberfelin beach
• Abermawr beach
• Amroth beach
• Barafundle bay
• Broad Haven Beach
• Broad Haven South beach
• Caerfai bay
• Church Doors cove
• Coppet Hall beach
• Cwm yr Eglwys beach
• Druidston Haven beach
• East Angle bay
• Freshwater East beach
• Freshwater West beach
• Gelliswick beach
• Goodwick Sands
• Lindsway bay
• Little Haven beach
• Lydstep Haven beach
• Manorbier beach
• Marloes Sands
• Martin's Haven beach
• Monkstone beach
• Musselwick beach
• Newgale beach
• Newport Parrog beach
• Newport Sands
• Nolton Haven beach
• Penally beach
• Poppit Sands
• Porthclais harbour
• Porthlysgi beach
• Porthmelgan beach
• Porthselau beach
• Priory beach
• Pwllgwaelod beach
• Sandy Haven beach
• Saundersfoot beach
• Solva harbour
• St Brides Haven beach
• Stackpole Quay
• Swanlake Bay
• Tenby Castle beach
• Tenby Harbour beach
• Tenby North beach
• Tenby South beach
• Traeth Llyfn beach
• Watwick Bay
• West Angle Bay
• West Dale beach
• Whitesands beach
• Wiseman's Bridge beach

Beach Awards Information

In order to qualify for The Blue Flag Award, a series of stringent environmental, educational, safety-related, and access-related criteria must be met and maintained.

The program aims to raise environmental awareness and promote good environmental behaviour among tourists and local populations and best practice among beach and marina management staff.

The prestigious Blue Flag for beaches is acknowledged in 46 countries around the world and is operated by the Foundation for Environmental Education

Green Coast

The Green Coast Award recognises excellent water quality, high environmental standards, and sensitive management of rural beaches.

The award is for beaches that have not only achieved EC excellent water quality but are prized for their natural unspoiled environment. This means that they generally do not have the level of infrastructure and intensive management generally associated with more urban, traditional resort beaches. Because of the nature of the award, you will not find a flag flying but you should find an unobtrusive plaque somewhere.

Other suggestions

Things you might also be interested in

7 memorable things to do for free -->, pembrokeshire myths and legends -->, 48 hours in milford haven -->, any search for sandy coastal perfection should be contained within the limits of tenby in the south and cardigan in the north – the pembrokeshire coast..

Kevin Rushby – The Guardian

Are you ready? Plan your trip to Pembrokeshire

Adventures & activity, accommodation, things to do, privacy overview.

• Pembrokeshire

Top 10 Pembrokeshire Beaches

The Pembrokeshire coast is filled with beautiful beaches with golden sands , secret coves, and fascinating rock pools to explore - in fact, there are over 50 to explore.

We’re lucky to have so many Blue Flag beaches dotted along the 186-miles of stunning coastline, perfect for families with lots of useful facilities that make for a fun-filled day out near Bluestone.  

1. Barafundle Bay

Barafundle Beach has become the stuff of legend in recent years, mostly thanks to looking like a tropical beach hidden away on Pembrokeshire’s south coast . You’ll need to invoke the spirit of Indiana Jones and navigate a short but stunning trek through the forest and over a lake before you arrive at Barafundle's golden sands.

This is the perfect way to enjoy the variety of terrains that Pembrokeshire has to offer, and the half-mile walk to the isolated location makes it feel like a real adventure as you find your way to the bay through the trees, as if on a desert island. You’ll often find helpful locals directing visitors to their favourite spots definitely a bonus for any newcomers. Savour the breathtaking moment you arrive and enjoy one of the world’s most beautiful beaches.

Distance from Bluestone: 29 minutes by car, 15.7 miles

Parking: Stackpole Quay National Trust car park is located around ½ mile from the beach, postcode: SA71 5LS. You can purchase a parking ticket for £5 all-day and £2 after 2 pm (cash only).

The ticket can be reused in other National Trust car parks in Pembrokeshire and is free for members.

Accessibility: Access to the beach is down steps from the clifftop, so not suitable for pushchairs or wheelchairs.

Facilities: There are no facilities on the beach, so make sure you bring everything you need with you. The nearest public toilets are at the Stackpole Quay NT car park.

Find out more about Barafundle, with our in-depth guide. 

Welcome to Barafundle Bay

We’ve cheated a little here because Tenby doesn’t just have one beach – it has four! But, it’s impossible to choose just one to focus on, so here’s an overview of the four different beaches you can visit. The historic and picturesque seaside town of Tenby is surrounded on three sides by the sea, so it’s not surprising that it boasts so much sandy coast.

The two main beaches of North and South, are at either end of the town while Harbour and Castle beach is the nearest to the town centre. Tenby is a beautiful spot where the small town can be enjoyed just as much as the town itself and has been a favourite for holidaymakers for centuries. When the tide is out you can (almost) walk between all four beaches.

Distance from Bluestone: 21 minutes by car, 10.2 miles

North Beach

Instantly recognisable thanks to the magnificent Goskar rock in the middle, the view of North Beach with the harbour behind is probably the most well-known of Tenby. Looking out over Carmarthen Bay, when the tide is out, this beach offers a magnificent stretch of sand to play on and as it’s relatively sheltered misses out on the windiest weather.

Parking: North Beach car park (SA70 8AG) is the closest; however it can fill up in the summer and with cars restricted from entering the town centre between 11 am and 5.30 pm in peak season, parking in the centre can become difficult. If you fail to get a spot, there is a daily park and ride service that operates in the summer.  From 11 am to 6 pm it brings visitors from The Green car park (SA70 7NG) and The Salterns car park (SA70 8DU) into the town centre.

Accessibility: Access to the beach can be made via steps from the North Cliff, via a long winding, steep ramp, or from the harbour via a long, flat walkway.

Facilities: Toilets with disabled access available; cafes, shops, restaurants are located just above the beach and a tourist information centre can be found along the promenade. Lifeguards patrol the beach daily from 10 am to 6 pm during the summer.

Castle Beach

At high tide, this beach disappears completely, but if you hit it at the right time you can find a beautiful, sandy stretch in the cove between Castle Hill and East Cliff, perfect for swimming and paddling. The beach is backed by towering cliffs, where you can go rock pool hunting and cave exploring, and as the closest to the town – it’s ideal for families who don’t want to venture too far. Enclosed by Castle Hill and St Catherine’s Island, and Caldey Island in the distance, it’s a picture-perfect setting to enjoy a classic beach day.

At low tide, you can catch a boat to Caldey Island that lies 0.6 miles off Tenby. To purchase tickets, head up the slipway to the harbour. 

Parking: Tenby’s multistorey car park (SA70 7LT) is the closest; however in the summer it fills up quickly and with cars restricted from entering the town centre and harbour between 11 am and 5.30 pm in peak season, parking and driving in the centre can become difficult. In summer there is a daily park and ride service that operates from 11 am to 6 pm and brings visitors from The Green car park (SA70 7NG) and The Salterns car park (SA70 8DU) into the town centre.

Accessibility : Access to the beach is via a slipway from the harbour and is just a short walk from the town centre where you can find shops, cafes, and restaurants.

Facilities: Toilets with disabled access are available on Castle Beach.

Harbour Beach

Harbour Beach is often overlooked but is a real gem!. Head to the harbour at low tide, and between the boats and the old town walls, you’ll find a small, golden stretch of sand. Perfect for those with small children - the compact beach has great views of the harbour and old town – just make sure to check the tides before you visit.

The small place of worship next to the beach is St Julian’s Chapel. It was built in 1878 as a fisherman’s chapel, to replace a chapel on the pierhead.

Parking: Tenby’s multistorey car park (SA70 7LT) is the closest; however in the summer it fills up quickly and with cars restricted from entering the town centre between 11:00 am and 5:30 pm in peak season, parking and driving in the centre can become difficult.

In summer there is a daily park and ride service that operates from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm and brings visitors from The Green car park (SA70 7NG) and The Salterns car park (SA70 8DU) into the town centre.

Accessibility: Access to the beach is via a slipway from the harbour and is just a short walk from the town centre where you can find shops, cafes, and restaurants.

Facilities: Toilets with disabled access available on the slipway. Lifeguards patrol the beach daily from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm during the summer.

South Beach

The mile and a half long South Beach is a beautiful stretch of sand that looks like something you might find in Australia or the Mediterranean. Backed by magnificent sand dunes, there’s more than enough space for you to enjoy – at low and high tide – and is perfect for a family day at the beach. Looking out over Caldey Island and Carmarthen Bay, on clear days you can see as far as the Gower or even North Devon. 

Parking: The nearest car parks are South Beach Car Park (SA70 7EG) and the Rectory Car Park (SA70 7EA).

Like all car parks in Tenby though, they fill up quickly. If you're visiting in the summer, there is a daily park and ride service that operates from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm and brings visitors from The Green car park (SA70 7NG) and The Salterns car park (SA70 8DU) into the town centre. You can also access the beach from Penally and join the coast path to the south end of the beach. There is limited parking at the train station (SA70 7PS) and public toilets.

Accessibility: If you are coming from the direction of the town, access to the beach is via steps and a ramp from the Esplanade. The South Beach Car Park gives access straight onto the beach.

Facilities: At the north end of the beach there are toilets with disabled access; hire facilities; cafes and restaurants. Lifeguards patrol the beach daily from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm during the summer.

Tenby is more than just its beaches, find out about the historic town, which is famed for its unique seaside charm.

Tenby Guide

3. Manorbier Beach

Overlooked by the famous medieval castle, this sandy, south-westerly facing beach is a favourite among families, perfect for rock-pooling and for water activity enthusiasts. The Pembrokeshire coast path passes through the beach, so it’s a perfect place to spend a day on the sand and explore the nearby coastline. It’s great for history enthusiasts too with the nearby castle and the King’s Quoit cromlech (ancient burial chamber) found to the southeast of the beach.

The south-westerly facing beach is great for surfers but does mean there are strong currents in the water.

Distance from Bluestone: 23 minutes by car, 11.7 miles

Parking: The nearest car park is Manorbier Beach Car Park (SA70 7SY), around a five-minute walk from the beach.

Accessibility: The terrain is relatively flat and access to the beach can be made down a long pathway from the road.

Facilities: There are no on-beach facilities; however there is a toilet in the car park and a shop, pub, and cafe in the nearby town, which you will pass through on the way to the beach.

Find out more about Manorbier, its castle, and the beach with our guide. 

Explore Manorbier

4. Freshwater West Beach

Known for being one of the most beautiful beaches in Pembrokeshire as well as one of the best surfing spots, Freshwater West has something to offer everyone. Divided from the road by huge sand dunes that roll into the surrounding landscapes, the extensive stretch of sand is edged at the south by dramatic cliffs and even at high tide, feels vast.

Freshwest, as it is called locally, is one of Wales’s top surfing beaches and the base of the Outer Reef Surf School which offers surfing tuition for adults and youngsters, instructor courses, and lifeguarding awards. On early mornings you will often find the car parks full of keen surfers ready to catch the early morning waves at this picturesque spot. The sandy beach, has a pebbled area at the bottom of the dunes, that can be difficult to navigate for some, but if not, it’s definitely worth exploring the mass of dunes during your visit – just don’t get lost.

Ideal for a walk, a day out, or just to sit take a break, and admire the beauty of the coastline.

Distance from Bluestone: 20 miles

Parking: Yes. There are two small free car parks but beware if the surf is good you may struggle!

Accessibility : It can be rocky in places but it’s a relatively simple trip down from the car parks

Facilities: There are public toilets in the southern car park from spring to autumn. For a taste of the ocean, try Cafe Mor, the food truck shaped like a boat that takes up residency in the car park throughout the year. Serving delicious and hearty snacks inspired and sourced straight from the waves, with dishes unique to Pembrokeshire.

For a beach to be named Freshwater West, you'd expect an eastern equivalent, and this beach isn't too far away - just along the coast toward Manorbier. Learn about both Freshwest and Fresheast, in our guide.

Freshwater East and West Beaches

5. Whitesands Bay

Another popular spot with surfers and water sports fanatics, Whitesands is an award-winning beach overlooked by the imposing headland of Carn Llidi. Found on the St. David’s Peninsula, the westerly, wide sandy beach curves northwards, while there are quieter, sheltered bays towards the south. The wide sandy beach is perfect for a day of sandcastle-making or relaxing, but the strong currents do mean you have to take extra care if you decide to swim.

You can pick up the coast path and walk north or south; or why not climb to the top of Carn Llidi and be rewarded with a magnificent view? As one of the best surf spots in the country, on most days you’ll find surfers, kayakers, and body-boarders toward the northern end of the beach, which is entertaining to watch even if you have no plans of getting in the water.

Distance from Bluestone: 46 minutes by car, 26.6 miles

Parking: There’s room for 60 cars to park right next to the beach (SA62 6PS), but in busy periods this fills up quickly. If you don’t want the worry of parking, catch the Celtic Coaster shuttle bus from the Oriel Y Parc in St Davids to Whitesands. (Please note this service only runs in summer).

Accessibility: There is a slipway from the car park to the beach.

Facilities: There are toilets with disabled access in the car park, as well as a cafe. Lifeguards patrol the beach from the end of May to September.

Discover more about this enchanting and rugged coastline with our guide to Whitesands.

Explore Whitesands Bay

6. Newgale Beach

Found at the northernmost point of St Bride’s Bay, Newgale is a well-known surf beach that is well worth a visit – even if you’re not planning to get on a board. Surrounded by rugged cliffs, the beach is made up of a three-mile stretch of sand that is almost hidden from view of the road by a huge pebble bank. You’ll have to navigate this to get to the beach, but once you do it’s well worth it. Towards the south end of the beach, you can explore sheltered bays and even a cave.

Distance from Bluestone: 26 minutes by car, 17.3 miles

Parking: There are two main car parks in Newgale found towards the southern end of the beach (SA72 6DY) along Welsh Road.

Get to know Newgale a little better with our guide.

Newgale Beach

7. Broad Haven North

Sitting in the southeast corner of St Bride’s Bay, Broad Haven is a large, west-facing beach ideal for families and water sport enthusiasts to enjoy. At high tide, the beach becomes a narrow stretch of sand and pebbles, but when the tide goes out; you can find a great expanse of golden sand that links together Broad Haven with the neighbouring Little Haven and another bay, The Settlands.

At the right time of day you can walk between all three – just make sure you check the tides and don’t get caught out! It's also a great spot for paddle boarding and kayaking – try Haven Sports by the car park at the south end of the beach. They offer to hire stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, bodyboards, surfboards, and wetsuits - so you will be ready for the water!

Distance from Bluestone: 26 minutes by car, 15.2 miles

Parking: There are two car parks next to the beach in Broad Haven. The closest is Marine Road Car Park (SA62 3JR) has 46 spaces and can be found at the southern end of the village. Millmoor Way Car Park (SA62 3JH) is at the northern end of the village and has space for around 150 cars.

Facilities: Broad Haven beach is right in front of the village, so there are cafes, shops, pubs and hire facilities just across the road from the main beach. There are also toilets with disabled access at the northern end of the beach. Please note, you have to cross a road to reach. Lifeguards patrol the beach from the end of June to September.

8. Broad Haven South

Just along the coast from Barafundle, Broad Haven South is a breath-taking expanse of sandy gold beach, surrounded by dramatic, rugged cliffs and beautiful, blue waters ideal for swimming and kayaking. Church Rock protrudes from the sea in the centre of the bay – around 150 yards from the shore at low tide – and frames the view perfectly. Backed by high sand dunes and a stream on the left-hand side, Broad Haven South, is perfect for anyone looking to spend the day on a beach and is a favourite of locals and tourists all year round.

Distance from Bluestone: 17.1 miles, 31 minutes by car

Parking: You have a few options for parking. For the shortest walk to the beach try Trefalen Car Park (SA71 5DZ). From here the beach can be reached via a flight of steps. Or, if you wanted to enjoy the beautiful Bosherston Lily Ponds park at the National Trust Car Park (SA71 5DW) in Bosherston village and take the 1-mile scenic route to the beach.

Accessibility: The route through the Lily Ponds is relatively flat and well kept, while the Trefalen Car Park has well-maintained steps up and down from the beach.

Facilities: There is a cafe and public toilets at the Trefalen Car Park, while there are toilets with disabled access, shops, cafes, and a pub in Bosherston village.

We've taken a closer look at both Broad Haven North and South beaches, check out our beach guide.

Guide to Broad Haven North and South

9. Monkstone Beach

You might be surprised to find a remote and quiet beach nestled between the popular seaside towns of Saundersfoot and Tenby , but Monkstone is just that. The easterly facing sandy stretch feels isolated and unspoiled thanks to its location and is great to visit if you want some time away from the crowds.

Again, this is another beach that’s tide dependent so check before you go otherwise there could be a very little beach to visit. 

Distance from Bluestone: 19 minutes by car, 9 miles

Parking: There’s no official car park for the beach and access is via a footpath through Trevayne Farm, where there is a small amount of parking on the lane.

Accessibility: To get to the beach, there’s a steep path and steps to the beach, or you could reach via the coast path from Saundersfoot (30-minute walk) where there are several different car parks.

Facilities: None directly on the beach, however, there are public toilets with disabled access, cafes, shops, and restaurants in nearby Saundersfoot and Tenby, which are both a short car ride away.

Find out more about this hidden gem, with our Monkstone beach guide. 

Visit Monkstone

10. Marloes Sand

Found on the very western edge of Pembrokeshire, the Marloes Peninsula offers stunning scenery, an abundance of wildlife, and incredible views of the coast. The slightly curved sandy beach is divided into a series of smaller bays by the rock formations found along the beach and at low tide, they provide lots to explore and privacy from other beachgoers – just don’t get caught out by the tide coming back up the beach.

Another Hollywood star – Snow White and the Huntsman starring Kristen Stewart and Chris Hemsworth was filmed on the beach in 2011.

Distance from Bluestone: 41 minutes, 22.7 miles

Parking: There’s a National Trust Car Park (nearest postcode -SA62 3BH) around ½ a mile from the main beach, which is signposted from Marloes village.

Accessibility: Access to the beach is along a sandy track and takes around 10 – 15 minutes to walk from the car park.

Facilities: There are toilets near the National Trust car park, but no facilities on the beach itself. The Runwayskiln cafe serves fresh local food and can be found around 150 meters from the car park or there’s a shop, cafe, and pub in Marloes village itself.

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There's more than just these beaches though, and there's more to Pembrokeshire than just the coastline. You can explore this magnificent National Park on a break with us, enjoying..

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16 best things to do in pembrokeshire coast national park | wales.

The Pembrokeshire Coast National Park in west  Wales is unique. Why? Because, in the UK, it’s the only National Park that’s completely coastal . And makes it a perfect holiday destination.

Situated on the west coast of Wales, Pembrokeshire Coast National Park was established in 1952. At only 620 sq km in size, it is one of the smaller National Parks in the UK with a population of 22,800.

However, each year this gorgeous destination in Wales attracts over 4.2 million visitors !

The Pembrokeshire Coast is a perfect holiday destination to visit for wildlife lovers, hikers, cyclists and anyone who wants to get away to relax for a few days or even weeks in Wales.

After 4 days in the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, I managed to do a lot of different things on my Wales adventure. Here I will share all the activities and things I did on my holiday to help you plan yours.

Most of the things I did on my trip were free, but I’ve included prices for the additional tours and activities that you can book.

I’ve also included my recommendations on where to stay, how to get around, what the weather is like and what to pack for your trip.

Best Things to do in Pembrokeshire

Of course, in 4 days I didn’t have time to do everything I wanted so it’s a wonderful excuse to go back again! The great thing about Pembrokeshire is that it’s a perfect place to visit at any time of the year, as long as you pack the right clothes.

Here are my top 16 suggestions for the best things to do whilst visiting the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park in Wales, including the must-see attractions.

Ask me any more questions about the Pembrokeshire Coast in the comments below.

1. Pembrokeshire Coast long-distance walk

I will start with the walk for hard-core walkers  (like me if you hadn’t guessed!)

This is a 186 mile/ 299 km walk along the Pembrokeshire Coast Path. After exploring a short section of this coast I can imagine what a wonderful National Park walk this would be.

Although you might not be able to complete the whole walk on a short trip, it does give you many options for walks in the area, since you can hop on and off the coastal path depending on your location.

The walk starts in St Dogmaels and finishes in Amroth (or you could do it the other way round!) It takes on average between 10-15 days to complete.

And don’t expect an easy walk. The path takes you on an undulating route along the coast but allows you a wonderful opportunity to explore this National Park in full.

About the Pembrokeshire Coast Walk

• The vegetation has to be cut back 4 times a year
• There are 31 stiles
• Along the walk, you will go through 475 gates
• And across 149 footbridges
• To help you on your way there are 530 signposts
• And here’s the big one, there are 2,779 steps
• Which equals 30,000 ft/ 9,000 m of ascent/descent.

It is almost the same height gain as if you were climbing Mt Everest (35,000 ft!)

The Pembrokeshire Coast Path is also part of the even longer Wales Coast Path route! If you want an even longer walk than 186 miles!

If you like the idea of doing a coastal walk, but maybe a shorter one then how about the awesome coastal walk along the Jurassic Coast on the south coast of England.  I did this walk one summer over 6 days and it’s a beautiful walk.

Click here to read next – Jurassic Coast walk in Dorset and Devon

2. Visit Strumble Lighthouse

Before you get too excited, you aren’t allowed to go up into the lighthouse. But it’s still pretty spectacular to visit from the outside.

For the best views walk south on the Pembrokeshire Coast Path.

Here’s where I spotted a few grey seals playing around in the water. And lounging about on the rocks too!

Go seal spotting on the east coast of the UK at Donna Nook Nature Reserve

3. Go to St David’s City

Cost: Free (Shopping not free or Pembroke Castle prices below)

St Davids is the smallest city in the UK, located in Pembrokeshire .

Go visit its beautiful cathedral or simply wander around the city. It won’t take too long! If you’re driving, St Davids has a one-way system around the city so be ready to drive around twice if you miss your turning!

You could also pop along to Bishop’s Palace opposite St Davids Cathedral. It’s an old ruin dating back to the 13th century but it’s fascinating to wander around.

Pembroke Castle

If you like history then you could visit Pembroke Castle. £7 Adults, £7 children 3-15 and seniors 65+ (Buy from the gift shop). Opening times change through the year.

During December the castle has a magical Christmas Market.

Check here for opening times before your visit www.pembroke-castle.co.uk

4. Visit Pembrokeshire’s Blue Lagoon

Blue Lagoon Address:  Abereiddy, Haverfordwest, SA62 6DT.

In June, I visited Iceland’s famous Blue Lagoon , which was an amazing experience. But to be honest I was more impressed with Pembrokeshire Coast’s Blue Lagoon in Wales.

Enjoy a beautiful walk from above or follow the coast path and get up close to this National Park beauty.

The Blue Lagoon was a quarry where slate was transported by tram to the nearby harbour at Porthgain. It was formed when a channel connecting to the sea was blasted, allowing the seawater to flood in.

This area of the Pembrokeshire Coast is popular with coasteering, whilst I was there I saw a group of children scrabble the rocks and jump into the Blue Lagoon. At least it was a warm sunny day but that water did look cold!

I was also lucky enough to spot a couple of seals playing around in the water. And there was even one sunbathing on the beach. Ignoring all the people around him.

Blue Lagoon Facilities

• Public toilets are available.
• Although they close between 1 November and the middle of February (except Christmas holiday).

Read next: Top 25 Places to Visit in Wales

5. Try Coasteering along the Pembrokeshire Coast

Cost: From £42/£44 children £44/52 adults*

Before I visited Pembrokeshire Coast National Park I hadn’t heard of coasteering, a must-do adventure activity for outdoor lovers.

After chatting with Caroline at Caerhafod Lodge , near the coast where I stayed, I found out all about it and it sounded amazing.

The Pembrokeshire Coast was where Coasteering was invented! There are organised tours that take groups of adventure-seeking tourists along rocks and cliffs to then take amazing leaps into the sea.

You can see in the photo above one of the points at the end where you can jump in the lagoon. Wow, what an adrenalin buzz!

After watching a group of children scramble across the rocks at the Blue Lagoon , I was tempted. Although jumping into freezing water sounded like a challenge in itself! I chatted with them afterwards and they assured me they weren’t too cold.

Would you try it?

For more information check out these local Pembrokeshire Coast Coasteering tour companies who do  tours.

• Celtic Quest Coasteering  
• Preseli Venture

6. Go seal spotting in Pembrokeshire

(best thing to do for wildlife lovers).

During my trip (at the beginning of October) the seals were all coming in from the sea to have their pups.

As you walk along the coastal path keep an eye out for them in the little coves on the beach. I spotted them in several places, some in isolated coves , down below sheer cliffs.

There were also a few swimming near the Strumble Head lighthouse. And there was even one on the beach at the Blue Lagoon.

Important note

Please note I have a zoom lens on my camera, the seals in Pembrokeshire are wild animals and have very sharp teeth so don’t get too close to them.

If you miss the seals on the Pembrokeshire Coast, on the other coast of the UK they give birth to the pups slightly later. I visited Donna Nook Grey Seal Colony in November, where there are thousands of seals.

Read about my experience on the Lincolnshire Coast, with top tips for a great day out here – Donna Nook Grey Seal Colony

Welsh Wildlife Centre

For more things to do for wildlife lovers, there’s also the Welsh Wildlife Centre, north of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. This is part of the Wildlife Trust near Cardigan in Pembrokeshire, Wales.

• Free entry.
• For opening times visit their website The Welsh Wildlife Centre

7. Take a boat trip to Ramsey island

(one for the bird lovers).

Cost: From £5.50/£8.50 children and £12/18 adults (discounts for RSPB)*

Ramsey Island is an RSPB Nature Reserve and home to hundreds of birds . You can take boat trips to the island (when the birds aren’t off in warmer climates!) Boat trips go from April to October.

Although, the number of visitors to the island is limited so book early to avoid disappointment.

On the island, there is a nature trail that you can walk, 3.5 miles/ 5.6 km (shortcuts available). A wonderful way to be close to nature and the birds living on the island.

All you need is a boat to get you there! The boats leave from the Lifeboat station (the old one), see the photo below.

Ramsey Island

• For more information about the boat trips to Ramsey Island visit Thousands Islands Expeditions*
• You can opt to just land on the island or continue the boat trip around, as well as guided tours on the island.

8. Learn about the work at RNLI on the Pembrokeshire Coast

(royal national lifeboat institution).

Did you know there are 237 RNLI lifeboats stations around the UK and Ireland ?

And in 2015, there were 7,975 people rescued and 348 lives saved!

At St Justinians Lifeboat station you can go inside and see their amazing rescue boat . Once a year they also do tours on the boat, unfortunately, I picked the wrong day!

The great thing about visiting the lifeboat station here is you can see the old station situated next door. Take a short walk along the Pembrokeshire Coast path and you have a great view of both buildings.

St Justinians’ Car Parking – £3 per day all day

9. National Park walks along the Pembrokeshire Coast

Ok, so you might not want to do the full 186 miles/ 299 km route of the Pembrokeshire Coastal path. But that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy some shorter routes.

There are plenty of places you can park (some free and some paid) along the coastal path. And you can spend as long as you want.

The wonderful thing about walking along the Pembrokeshire Coast, on top of the stunning scenery, is that you can’t get lost! Pick a direction, start walking, keep the coast on one side the countryside on the other, perfect.

And when your legs are tiring simply turn around and walk back.

Read next:  Hiking Cadair Idris in South Snowdonia

10. Visit Oriel y Parc Gallery and visitor centre

Cost: Free (Parking charges apply – see below)

The Oriel y Parc visitor centre has loads of information. As you might expect from a visitor centre! But there’s also a café and a gallery that you can visit too.

There are also a few walks around the local area. It’s a great place to base yourself from for a few hours or the day.

Car parking

30 minutes of free parking. Great if you want to pop in for some information.

• Up to 1 hour = £1
• Up to 2 hours = £2
• Up to 3 hours = £3

11. Walk along Whitesands Beach

An idyllic beach to spend the day relaxing on in the warmer summer months. Or on a cooler day, it’s great for a walk. Surrounded by sand dunes and rocks it can be windy but it’s still a lovely place to relax

There’s a Beach Café , which is open every weekend and weekdays from 1 March to 31 October. Plus school holidays.

If you are going out of these times I’d recommend taking a flask with a hot drink.

Car Parking and toilets

It costs £5 to park here all day for cars.

And on top of that, you have to pay 20 pence to use the toilet . A right pain, in my opinion, probably because I never have cash on me!

The machine accepts 5p to £2, although doesn’t give change!

I’d recommend plan your visit so you spend a decent amount of time here. I was planning on stopping for a couple of hours but ended up spending the whole day!

Please note dogs are banned from this beach between 1 May and 30 September.

12. Scramble up to St David’s Head

A short but windy walk from Whitesands Beach. The path takes you out on to a piece of land that juts out into the sea. And for those more adventurous you can scramble to the top .

It gives you stunning views of the Pembrokeshire Coast Path.

My favourite thing was sitting watching the waves crash against the rocks at the tip of the head. I can imagine this would be a great place to sit and look out for dolphins, porpoises and whales.

Although I wasn’t lucky enough to see any on my Pembrokeshire trip.

13. Learn about the geology of the Pembrokeshire coast

Cost: Free (Maybe buy a book for more information)

I had no idea that the Pembrokeshire National Park is a haven for geology lovers.

It wasn’t until I started chatting with the guests in my hostel (Geology students from The Netherlands) and another couple on one of my walks I discovered the amazing geology in the area.

St Davids Head is a great example of this, made from old volcanic rock dating back over 500 million years .

I’m no expert but it’s certainly interesting to see the layers of rock and learn more about how and when it formed. As you walk along the coastal path you can see the different vegetation growing in certain areas.

14. Visit Porthgain Harbour in Pembrokeshire

A great place to explore as Porthgain used to be a Commercial harbour. And you can still see all the old industrial buildings, which are in good condition. You can imagine what it would have been like as a working harbour. 

Also, it’s a wonderful place to stop and do some walks along the coastal path.

Grab some lunch

After your walk, you can relax at the Sloop Inn, Haverfordwest, SA62 5BN. They serve traditional pub food, including freshly caught fish specials.

15. Go swimming or paddling in the sea

Whilst you are walking along the Pembrokeshire Coast you will find little beaches and coves. Take your time to go explore.

There are some lovely beaches you can go swimming in the sea from.

In October, it was a bit cold for my liking. I settled for a paddle in the sea, with my boots on. As you can see, I got them very wet, maybe it was better if I had taken them off!

If you love swimming then don’t forget your swimming outfits or maybe wetsuits in those colder months. 

I use this brightly coloured travel towel from Cotton and Olive which is perfect for beach trips.

16. Visit Pembrokeshire to relax

The Pembrokeshire Coast National Park is such a relaxing place to visit . Far away from the big cities on the southwest coast of Wales, you can truly escape everyday life and there’s plenty of activities to take your mind off things.

But the one thing I loved about the Pembrokeshire Coast is the wildlife and nature around you, which instantly makes you feel calmer. Plus the people are so friendly too.

One of my favourite things to do on my trip was sitting and watch the crashing of waves against the rocks . The power of the ocean is totally mesmerising. I could have sat and watched for hours.

The Pembrokeshire Coast National Park is a lovely place to stay in Wales and I can’t wait to visit again.

Further information about the Pembrokeshire Coast

When is the best time to visit Pembrokeshire?

It depends on your reason for visiting and with so much to do it’s great for everyone visiting.

Do you want to see wildlife or go birdwatching? Would you like to hike the whole 186 miles of the coastal path? Do you want to relax on the beach?

Summer is great to visit as you’ll enjoy the warmest temperatures. But spring is wonderful for wildlife and birds returning to Ramsey Island . Autumn is wonderful, the seals have their pups and much less crowded.

You can even visit in the winter months too but be sure to wrap up warm.

Average day temperatures

Spring – 9-15 C

Summer – 17-20 C

Autumn – 11-18 C

Winter – 8-10 C

Getting about on the Pembrokeshire coast

During the summer months, there are many local bus services that go along the coast. The services run from the beginning of May until the end of September.

However, there is a reduced service in low season . Please check before travelling.

You can find out more about here Pembrokeshire Greenways or pop into one of the Visitor Centres (at Oriel y Parc Visitor Centre they gave me a little booklet with all the times in).

Or visit Traveline Cymru .

Travelling by car is a great way of getting to some of the more out the way places in Pembrokeshire. Some roads are narrow, so take care when driving. There are plenty of passing places but be prepared to reverse on smaller country lanes.

I stayed near St Davids and although this is a city it’s small. Plan ahead for filling up with fuel. These are the two options for St Davids

• Ocean Haze Filling Station, St Davids, Haverfordwest, SA62 6QN
• Letterson Filling Station, A487, Square and Compass, Haverfordwest, SA62 5JJ (locals said this was the cheaper one!)

For more information about where to park . Visit Pembrokeshire Council for details

Where to stay in Pembrokeshire Coast National Park?

Budget accommodation hostel in Pembrokeshire

For my visit to Pembrokeshire, I stayed in a lovely independent hostel called Caerhafod Lodge. It’s a 23-bed hostel, with 5 en-suite rooms.

It’s completely set up for self-catering, with a well-organised large kitchen. There’s also a drying room, lounge area and picnic benches and BBQ area outside looking out to the sea .

You can read my full review here Caerhafod Lodge .

Mid-range accommodation hotels in Pembrokeshire

St Davids is a great place to base yourself with numerous hotel options.

These are a few of the favourite options but there are plenty more to choose from. Simply click on the link (Booking.com) and you can check the latest prices and availability for each place your trip.

• Ocean Haze from £90
• City Inn from £78
• The Grove Hotel from £90

Click here for more options  Where to stay in Pembrokeshire Coast National Park?

For further information about your trip, you can go to www.visitpembrokeshire.com  or www.pembrokeshirecoast.wales

If you love exploring the UK click here to read the 22 best day hikes in the UK

What to pack for your Pembrokeshire trip?

Depending on what activities you choose to do on your visit to Pembrokeshire Coast, will make a difference to what you pack for your holiday in Wales.

Here are a few essential items that you should take with you to ensure you enjoy the best of Pembrokeshire.

• Swimming gear, goggles and a beach towel (or a wetsuit in colder months)
• Hiking gear – good hiking shoes/boots, a waterproof jacket and a small backpack
• Binoculars for wildlife and birdwatching
• A water bottle – also handy for every trip
• For cooler months – take some warm clothes, hat and gloves (it can be cold on the cliff top paths)

Planning a longer trip to Wales?

Pembrokeshire is a beautiful place to visit in Wales, but if you have more time then maybe you’ll want to explore more of Wales.

Here you can read about all the best places to visit in Wales on a road trip, including destinations in south, north and mid-Wales. You can stop off at Hafren Forest , maybe do more hiking in the beautiful Snowdonia or Brecon Beacons National Parks.

Read the full post here with all the 25 best places to visit in Wales

Have you visited the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park in Wales? Tell me anything I’ve missed about things to do in Pembrokeshire that you did on your trip.

Or ask me any questions about visiting Wales in the comments below.

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*Becky the Traveller participates in the Amazon Services Associates Programme, as well as other affiliate programmes. If you make a purchase through these, I earn from the qualifying links. This is at no extra cost to you. Read more here .

Becky the Traveller

17 thoughts on “ 16 best things to do in pembrokeshire coast national park | wales ”.

I have never heard of this place before.but loved your post and googled this place. Beautiful pics.

Ah thanks so much Madhu 🙂

Lovely post with great tips and some beautiful images. I’m going to Wales next year so I’m going to try to get here.

Ah wonderful Lynne, well if you need any more tips then feel free to drop me a message 🙂

Yes to Whitesands Bay! We stumbled across it by chance last time we were in Pembrokeshire and I’d love to go back. I try to get down to Wales at least once a year, so your post has given me some good advice for our next adventure.

Ah that’s wonderful Alice, I absolutely loved it and I’m glad I’ve given you a few new ideas for your next trip 🙂

Such a wonderful destination! Should defo be more famous xx

Ah true Carmelatte, but not too famous!! It’s the right amount of lovely at the moment 🙂

Gorgeous photos! I had never heard of this National Park before. The idea of coasteering sounds cool. I’ve done some coastal hikes on Vancouver Island in Canada where there is some scrambling along the coast, but never any swimming!

Ah thank you Taryn, no I’d not heard of coasteering before but it does look and sound like so much fun 🙂

I loved this post, you were so lucky to see seals! With 3 visits to Pembrokeshire, my partner and I still haven’t seen one… but we have seen a lot of red kites. The last 2 visits we stayed at a fantastic little campsite, and did a circular walk from Whitesands that took us to the “secret” Porthmelgan beach, I’d really recommend it on your next visit! x

Yeah the seals were so cute, I guess it’s timing, I was there in September so the perfect time to see them 🙂 Thanks for the tip too

We are headed to Pembrokeshire and coastal Wales next week…really hoping to see the puffins on Skomer Island and spend a lot of time on the trail. Your post was so timely. Thank you!

Ah that’s fantastic Anne, I”m sure you’ll have a wonderful time, it’s beautiful there. Let me know if you see the puffins! 🙂

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10 Hidden Beaches & Secret Coves in Pembrokeshire

Posted: 19th July 2024 5:50 pm

Pembrokeshire’s coastline is dotted with over 50 beaches and coves. Their abundance means that there is always a new spot to discover, and some are hidden gems. We love sunbathing on Whitesands or a walk along Newgale as much as anyone, but sometimes a day off the beaten track is needed. Here is a guide to some lesser-known treasures in Pembrokeshire.

Porth Melgan

Just north of Whitesands, this small sandy cove is accessed from the coast path. The cliff faces on all sides mean that it is sheltered from the breeze a lot of the time, and so is a perfect picnic spot!

Tucked around the corner from Whitesands to the south, this sandy beach is a favourite among those in the know. It’s only accessible from the coast path, and so is a great option on busy summer days. Park at Whitesands and enjoy the half an hour’s walk with stunning views.

Photo credit: @caffeine_and_culture on Instagram

Watwick Bay

Further afield near Dale, Watwick Bay is a favourite stop off for sailors on days out on the water. It truly is stunning, and (as with most on this list) is only accessible from the coast path. It’s also fantastic for rockpooling, so make sure to pack the nets!

Traeth Llfyn

Ask a local about Traeth Llfyn, near Porthgain, and they will tell you about the sweeping golden sands at low tide or the crystal clear waters on a still day. But first, they are likely to say ‘Oh yes, the one with those steps!’ The steep metal steps that descend to the beach are quite something, but so worth it for the paradise that awaits at the bottom!

Around the corner from Solva Harbour lies the Gwadn. Walk over the cliff from the harbour car park, or around the corner on a low tide. On a higher tide, the beach is likely to be all yours! It’s a real suntrap, and a summer’s day spent barbequing and swimming is a dream.

Porthlysgi Beach

Park at Porthclais and set off on the mile walk west along the coast path to get to Porthlysgi. It doesn’t look like much at high tide, but as the water drops beautiful soft sand is revealed and it becomes a haven. Whether it’s a pit stop on a coast path walk or you base yourself there for the day, put it on your list!

Photo credit: @hughsey007 on Instagram

Ceibwr Bay (nr. Molegrove)

This is a wild and wonderful beach that isn’t so good for a day’s sunbathing and swimming but is a fantastic stop off to spot some wildlife. While you’re there make sure to visit the Witches Cauldron to the south – a collapsed cave that has created one of the most beautiful spots around!

Porthmynawyd

Porthmynawyd has what every beach needs – an ice cream parlour at the top of the hill! The dairy farm at Pointz Castle has a cafe serving their delicious ice cream so after a visit to this beautiful cove, be sure to pay them a visit.

Porthsychan

This mostly pebble and shingle beach is tucked away further north than the others on this list, near Fishguard. While it is lacking in the sand department, that is more than made up for by the serious rock pooling potential you’ll find! The bay is usually sheltered, so can be good for a dip. Park at Strumble Head and the walk takes about 20 minutes.

Porth Y Rhaw

Walk down a valley at Nine Wells and discover a lush green haven, tucked away from any hustle and bustle. Porth Y Rhaw is a sheltered cove just around the corner from Solva, perfect for a flask of coffee or a picnic. On a wild day the sea here is spectacular to watch from a distance.

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Top 5 Best Pembrokeshire Beaches

5 of the best beaches in the pembrokeshire coast national park, 5 minute read.

In September 2020, I walked the full 186-mile Pembrokeshire Coast Path . The trail crossed through 58 beaches and 14 harbours in the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. After seeing all this coastline, I decided to narrow it down to 5 of my favourite Pembrokeshire beaches for you to visit.

Overall, the route took me just under 2 weeks to hike and included 35,000 feet of ascents and descents which is equivalent to climbing the height of Mount Everest !

The Pembrokeshire Coast is in the south west of Wales and is one of the UK’s 14 National Parks . It is known for its extraordinary rugged coastline and secluded sweeping beaches.

Although these are my favourite Pembrokeshire beaches, there are so many along the coastline that I simply couldn’t name them all. Everyone will have their preference and you should explore the area to find your own favourites!

To get you started, here’s 5 of the best Pembrokeshire beaches – ordered from south to north along the coast:

• Tenby South and North
• Freshwater West
• Barafundle Bay

See also: How to Walk the Pembrokeshire Coast Path Top 3 Brecon Beacons Walks

1. tenby south and north.

The beaches of Tenby South and North are less dramatic than some of the others along the coast. Visiting them is not so much about the rugged wilderness, it’s more about the lovely seaside setting. What makes them so special is their positioning. The beaches are nestled either side of the quaint multi-coloured town of Tenby.

Tenby is as charming as it is pretty. Aside from the 2.5 miles of beaches to walk along, make sure you stroll around the cobbled streets of the town and visit Tenby Castle . Explore some of the pubs and cafes on the beach front and if you have time, consider visiting the fortress on St. Catherine’s Island .

Tenby is much easier to get to than many of the other beaches in Pembrokeshire. There’s a train station in the town centre and it’s close to another busy fishing village that’s worth a visit called Saundersfoot .

Expect some crowds and be prepared that you likely won’t have the place to yourself. However, compared to Brighton or Bournemouth, Tenby has heaps more to offer and is far less busy.

2. Freshwater West

Freshwater West will likely seem familiar to you and for good reason. It was the filming location of THAT Dobby scene in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows . It was also used in the Russell Crowe version of Robin Hood , amongst other Hollywood blockbusters.

As with many of the other Pembrokeshire Beaches, there’s often nothing nearby them. No concrete promenade, no beach hut selling overpriced toys and expensive refreshments, no dingy arcade, just the beauty of nature.

Freshwater West is a perfect example of the Pembrokeshire tranquility. There are a couple of grassy car parks, a lone road leading to them, and then nothing but fields folding into sand dunes followed by the wide sand beach.

Freshwater West is a popular spot for surfers and bodyboarders alike. It has consistently strong currents with curling waves and is considered to be one of the best surfing spots in Wales .

There’s a food van near the car park called Cafe Môr which serves fantastic seafood rolls, breakfast buns, and Welsh beef burgers. There’s also a great campsite, Gupton Farm , that’s only a 10-minute walk from the beach if you’re looking for somewhere to stay.

3. Barafundle Bay

If you’ve heard of any Pembrokeshire beaches, it will likely be this one. The National Trust owned Barafundle Bay is often cited as one of the most beautiful beaches in Britain, and for good reason.

With it’s golden sands fringed by picturesque heathland, it’s easy to see why it’s one of the most idyllic and photographic beaches in all of Pembrokeshire.

It’s an isolated beauty with the only car park and visitor centre being a 10-minute walk over the headland in a wooded creek. The beach itself is wedged between two craggy limestone cliffs that jut out into the turquoise sea.

Stop at The Boathouse Tea-room to get any snacks before you head up the trail to the beach. Once you arrive in Barafundle, it’s only the cliffs, sand, and waves around you so make sure to stock up on refreshments before your visit!

Newgale beach is just enormous. Stretching 2-miles along the majority of St. Brides Bay it could easily take you 20-minutes or more to walk its length. One of my favourite things about this beach, other than its impressive scale, is the gorgeous views on the horizon.

From here you really get a scope of Pembrokeshire’s beauty as the sprawling coast stretches away from you far into the distance on both sides before hooking round into great headlands out to sea.

As it’s so large, the beach is a popular spot for kite surfers both out to sea and those land-boarding at low tide. Newgale is also popular for surfers due to the neat curling waves that break upon the beach.

I highly recommend you walk along the Pembrokeshire Coast Path at either edge of the beach and explore some of the caves nestled beneath the headlands. When you get up on top of the soaring cliffs the views are simply phenomenal.

5. Whitesands

The final on this list is also my favourite of the Pembrokeshire beaches. With its jutting cliffs, azure water, and golden beaches, Whitesands is like no beach I’ve ever seen. It’s located on St David’s Head , set against the backdrop of the 181m Carn Llidi , in a part of the coast that is so far removed from anywhere that it’s hard to believe you’re still in the UK.

The bay signifies the start of my favourite part of the Pembrokeshire Coast Path which begins just after Whitesands in the rugged north of the National Park. Some of the best walking paths I’ve ever been on are along this section.

Whitesands is one of the best surfing spots in Wales, like so many of the beaches in Pembrokeshire. When the swell’s up, don’t be surprised if you see the water filled with the bobbing heads of eager surfers keen to catch the next wave.

There are multiple campsites around Whitesands which are perfect places to pitch if you want to be close to the beach. If you get the time, it’s also worth visiting St Davids , the UK’s smallest city, to see its impressive cathedral.

Whitesands Beach House is a great spot to get an ice cream and a hot chocolate if you’re looking for a break from the bracing sea air!

Special Mention: Marloes Sands

When I met people along the Pembrokeshire Coast, Marloes Sands was often mentioned as one of the best Pembrokeshire beaches. Unfortunately, when I walked past this section, there was a thick layer of sea mist blanketing the beach.

The mist was so dense that it completely obscured the cliffs, sand, and sea. All I could hear from my place on the path above was the lapping of the waves on the beach. For that reason, it gets a special mention but you’ll have to go for yourself to see what it’s like!

Before You Go

Thanks for reading my guide on the top 5 best Pembrokeshire beaches. If travel guides like this interest you, head over to  my blog page  to find out more!

If you’re new to  Walk Wild , check out the  About Me  page to learn who I am and what made me want to be a travel writer.

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The Best Beaches in Pembrokeshire You Can See in ONE DAY!

Categories U.K , Wales

Pembrokeshire is very well known for its award-winning beaches and coastline and there are 50 beaches in Pembrokeshire!

With so many beaches to choose from it’s hard to know which beach in Pembrokeshire to visit but in this Wales travel post I’m giving you 5 of the Best Beaches in Pembrokeshire that you can visit in one day as they are pretty close together when driving, and walking if you wish!

Best Beaches in Pembrokeshire

Keep reading to see how you can visit 5 of the best beaches in Pembrokeshire and in just one day!

I fully recommend following the itinerary I have detailed below in order to visit these best beaches in Pembrokeshire as my day flowed really smoothly and to help you plan your trip to Pembrokeshire I’ve added things like postcodes to help you find out where to park at the beaches too!

Saundersfoot Beach

I started my day in  Saundersfoot which is on the edge of Pembrokeshire. I had been staying in Carmarthen the night before which is a perfect base town in Wales as it’s pretty central to everywhere in South Wales – Swansea, Pembrokeshire, the Brecon Beacons.

There are 2 main car parks for Saundersfoot, the main one in the harbour and another one the other side of the beach by the Crown Beach Restaurant. I just happened to come across the Crown Carpark first so pulled in and I’m glad I did as it enabled me to walk right along the beach to the town and I didn’t have the stress of driving through the small roads of the town.

The postcode for this carpark is SA69 9AJ and the parking cost at Saundersfoot was £4.00 for the whole day which I’m glad about I did as I didn’t return until 5 hours later.

Also see – things to do in Saundersfoot!

Saundersfoot Beach with the tide out.

The tide was quite far out when I arrived in Saundersfoot mid-morning so I was able to walk right along the beach and breathe in the fresh sea air.

I headed into the town to have a look around and was greeted by the British sea-side smell of doughnuts and chips! I checked out the harbour which had no water in it due to how far the tide was.

Next I started my Coastal Walk to Tenby from Saundersfoot  because Tenby is the next beach town along the coast to the West and it’s possible to walk from Saundersfoot to Tenby on a beautiful, but sweaty coastal walk!

Read here how to do the Saundersfoot to Tenby Walk !

Saundersfoot beach from afar and from the start of the Coastal Walk

Tenby Beach

Tenby is a very popular Welsh seaside town, even more so than Saundersfoot as it is a bit bigger and more well known for its colourful buildings . It’s often highly rated as one of the best beaches in Pembrokeshire and the most visited!

Tenby is home to a harbour, a castle and 2 beaches either side.

Fish and Chip shops are everywhere, as are shops where you can get the good old bucket and spade. Boat trips are offered to find nearby wildlife, there is a good-sized high street packed full of pubs and cafes with tables spilling out onto the streets and generally it is a very pretty, quaint and happy place to be.

There is a main car park in Tenby so whether you drive there or walk there I would highly recommend going!

Can you see why it’s rated one of the best beaches in Pembrokeshire?

The harbour area.

Of course seen as I had left my car a 3+ mile walk away in Saundersfoot, I had to go back and get it. All in all I spent about 5 hours walking from Saundersfoot to Tenby and back along with spending some time in each town, so make sure you do give yourself enough time.

Freshwater East Beach

The next beach on my list was Freshwater East . I did get a bit confused with Freshwater East and West thinking that East was where Harry Potter was filmed, however Harry Potter was filmed on Freshwater West Beach in Pembrokeshire but more on that later.

It took me about 25 minutes to drive from Saundersfoot to Freshwater East Beach. I used postcode  SA71 5LZ to find the car park which I found easily enough and paid £1.00 to stay there for an hour.

Freshwater East is a really nice beach. I felt a bit out of place in my gym/walking gear as at the time the beach was full of families playing in the sea and sand and there aren’t many places to walk apart from on the beach however it was nice to visit a beach with no town attached, no shops, no food carts, just a beautiful, quiet Pembrokeshire beach.

I had a walk along the top of the small-sized sand dunes but due to timing, I was back in my car and on my way to the next stop when looking for the best beaches in Pembrokeshire in one day!

The walk to Freshwater East is really pretty!

Barafundle Bay

The next stop being Barafundle Bay ! When researching the best beaches in Pembrokeshire I came across Barafundle Bay as it has recently been voted as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, so obviously it had to go on my list of beaches to visit in one day in Pembrokeshire.

Barafundle Bay is a secluded beach and doesn’t have a car park or road leading to it. Therefore to get to Barafundle Bay you need to drive to Stackpole Quay . I used postcode SA71 5LS to find the car park.

Be sure to note that before arriving at the car park you pass by a building with a car park and need to follow the road right around the U bend until you reach the main car park (this way you won’t go back and forth 3 times like I did thinking I had missed it!).

Here are the full details of how to get to Barafundle Bay !

Due to the cloud the beach wasn’t presented in the best of ways when I got there but I could understand the buzz of it being so beautiful as it really is secluded. The water was a lovely colour and I can imagine on a sunny day its amazing.

It seems like this is a popular place for surfers and kayakers too as there were a lot of people donning their wetsuits and heading up the woodland track towards the beach as I got back down to the car park.

i love all these National Trusts signs everywhere in Wales!

This is why it was rated as the best beach in Wales!

I had booked a guest house in Pembroke Town for the night- High Noon Guest House . I booked it just the day before on Booking.com and got a single room for just £31.50 inc breakfast. It was a cheaper option than staying in the likes of Tenby and it was a mere 15 minute drive from Stackpole Quay so it worked perfectly when exploring the best beaches in Pembrokeshire!

The town of Pembroke was very quiet when I arrived at 6:30pm despite it being a Saturday night. The sky had cleared though and I was still debating whether I could fit in visiting another beach and hopefully a sunset or wondering whether I should leave Freshwater West until tomorrow morning?

Down by the river in Pembroke Town.

Freshwater West Beach

I used postcode SA71 5AH to find the car park, this is for the main car park however due to the direction I came in I came across a different one situated behind some huge sand dunes. I got out the car with my chips in hand and headed straight for the beach and wow, was I blown away!

My view from the car park looking towards the beach!

Freshwater West is the film location in Wales where The Harry Potter Deathly Hallows film was filmed in 2010. It’s a huge beach and it’s very exposed with some pretty big waves and it has to be of the very top best beaches in Pembrokeshire!

The top half of the beach was covered in coloured stones whereas the bottom was all sand. I ate my chips and then had a walk along the rest of the beach.

The beach isn’t perfectly West facing and instead the sun was setting behind the cliff but it was still good enough for me. The sun was due to set at 9:26pm and I must have been on the beach from about 8:15 for a good hour and the whole time the sky turned different colours, the sun appeared and then went behind the clouds creating even more beautiful colours.

It was really quiet and calm too, a few people were walking their dogs, one person was surfing, another was fishing and I just felt so happy! It really was the best way to end an already amazing day!

This is on my top list of best beaches in Pembrokeshire for this reason!

I drove 15 minutes back to Pembroke whilst the sky was turning a beautiful pink colour and I was full of happiness and contentment from my one day in Wales by the ocean and therefore I would highly recommend copying this day and doing it yourself when you visit Pembrokeshire!

Pembrokeshire is a pretty big area and I did only see a small section of it in a day however I think the best way to visit is to focus on an area of coastline with multiple beaches close together rather than trying to jump around the County too much!

• For more posts on my Wales see:
• Hiking Pen Y Fan in the Brecon Beacons.
• How to Climb Snowdon from Pen Y Pass!
• 16 Beautiful Staycations in Wales!
• 2 Day North Wales Itinerary!
• Places to visit on a Wales Road Trip!
• Best Time to Visit Wales!
• Amazing Glamping Pods in Wales with a Hot Tub!
• Amazing Glamping Pods in North Wales!
• How to Get to Barafundle Bay!
• How To Visit the Bosherston Lilly Ponds!
• Best Day Trips from Cardiff!
• Things to do in Saundersfoot!
• How to Walk from Tenby to Saundersfoot!
• Beautiful Tenby Cottages for Self Catering in Tenby!
• Wales Road Trip Tips!
• Things to do in Broad Haven Pembrokeshire!

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Friday 20th of October 2017

What a day! You certainly made the most of it! Stunning beaches and pictures :)

TheWanderingQuinn

I did indeed! It's crazy how close these beautiful beaches are to eachother though! Thanks for reading and commenting ?

Wednesday 9th of August 2017

I can't believe in all these years that I've lived in Wales I've still not been to Tenby! I definitely need to fix that... if the sun ever comes back here :p

Oh my gosh, yes you do need to go! Let me know how you get on! I hope the sun comes back sooon!!

The 49 best beach spots in Pembrokeshire

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1 Marloes Sands

2 Whitesands Bay

3 Freshwater West

4 tenby north beach, 5 barafundle bay, 6 broad haven south beach, 7 barafundle bay beach, 8 newgale beach, 9 poppit sands beach, 10 tenby south beach, 11 manorbier beach, 12 caerfai bay, 13 monkstone beach, 14 broad haven, 15 castle beach, 16 saundersfoot beach, 17 whitesands beach house, 18 broad haven beach, 19 coppet hall beach, 20 stackpole quay, 21 church door cove, 23 freshwater east, 26 newport beach, 27 wisemans bridge, 28 west angle bay, 29 abermawr, 30 ceibwr bay, 31 tenby harbour, 32 nolton haven beach, 33 skrinkle haven beach, 34 traeth llyfn, 35 aberfforest beach, 36 musselwick beach, 37 newgale coast holiday park, 38 porthmelgan beach, 39 newport sands, 40 little haven, 43 pembroke castle, 44 cafe môr - the pembrokeshire beachfood company, 45 pembrokeshire coast national park, 46 cardigan, 47 yha manorbier, 48 pembroke, top searches in pembrokeshire, explore nearby places.

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The best beaches in Pembrokeshire

Penned on the 23rd February 2022

Exposed to the full force of the Atlantic Ocean and the Irish Sea, Pembrokeshire is a place where you are blown away by both the magnificence and beauty of nature. Surrounded by the ocean on three sides, embracing a slow-paced lifestyle comes as second nature here. The coastline receives some of the best surf in the UK, whilst quieter inlets are the perfect place to go for a dip or a kayak. For those less inclined to take to the water, a coastal ramble allows you to explore the highly regarded Pembrokeshire Coast Path. Here, you can get your fill of windswept cliffs, dramatic seascapes and a profusion of coastal wildlife, as well as stumbling across stunning waterfalls and coastal arches. 

Pembrokeshire is a must-visit for anyone looking to explore one of the most remote regions of the UK, whilst immersing yourself in a unique culture and island-like mentality. In this guide, we introduce you to the best beaches in Pembrokeshire, so that you can make the most of your time in this spectacular corner of the world.

Aberfforest Beach

A hidden shingle cove found on the northern coast of Pembrokeshire, Aberfforest Beach lies between Newport and Dinas. Accessible only by walking, it is yet to be discovered by many and generally quiet all year round. A well-sheltered bay, Aberfforest is an exquisite location to strip off and go for a dip or to launch a kayak and explore the surrounding coastline. Green cliffs rise on either side of the water, meaning it is sheltered from the wind most of the time. Behind the bay is an alluring woodland, complete with one of Pembrokeshire’s best waterfalls. A peaceful place for quiet contemplation or for inspiring creative tasks such as sketching or writing, it would be a shame to visit without spending some time at this idyllic spot.

There are no amenities or lifeguards here. Dogs are welcome all year round and access is via the Pembrokeshire Coast Path.

Where to stay: Y Berllan Hideaway | A fairy-tale retreat nestled in an enchanting woodland glade.

Whitesands Bay

Near St David’s, Whitesands is a fine west-facing bay, offering a slice of the tropics within remote Wales. Here, the widespread of powdery white-sand and turquoise water lends the feeling that you’re elsewhere in the world and the quieter southern coves are the ideal place to experience a sense of escapism. The northern area of the beach is considerably busier, largely due to the fact it has a popular surf break which is also used by kayaks and canoes. The craggy crest of Carn Llidi rises behind the sand, an ideal vantage point for soaking up the views towards the remote rocky headland of St David’s.

Awarded Blue Flag status for its impeccable water quality and amenities, Whitesands is a seasonally lifeguarded beach with parking, toilets and a café. It is possible to rent surfboards and windbreaks here and the ramp in front of the Surf Life Saving Club is the easiest point of access.

Caerfai Bay

The closest beach to St David’s (only 1.5 miles away), Caerfai Bay is a rocky cove that is absorbed by the ocean at high tide. At low tide, an exposed sandy shoreline is revealed, along with several rock pools and small caves. Access to the cove is via a steep set of steps that descend from the Pembrokeshire Coast Path. Being south facing and sheltered by the headlands which stand proudly on either side, Caerfai is a suntrap and attractive location for sunbathers. Whilst the bay is known for its excellent water quality, at times it experiences strong currents, meaning erring on the side of caution is necessary when swimming.

Amenities are limited, other than a free car park which sits above the beach. However, walking to and from St David’s offers a pleasant opportunity to sample a number of noteworthy pubs and eateries along the way. The beach is dog friendly and is not patrolled by lifeguards.

Broad Haven (North) Beach

Broad Haven North is a thin, westerly facing beach of pebbles and sand at high tide. As the tide ebbs towards low, a vast expanse of firm, golden sand is revealed. The water at Broad Haven is much calmer than most other parts of the Pembrokeshire coastline. This, combined with the gently sloping sand, makes it a firm favourite with swimmers of all ages. For those looking to stretch their legs, there is a pleasant walk to Little Haven – the next headland – at low tide. There is also a selection of interesting rock pools and geographical formations including sea stacks and arches, at the northern end of the beach.

Broad Haven has plenty of amenities and access is easiest from the southern end using the concrete slipway. There are two car parks, toilets and three pubs on the promenade above the sand. During the summer months, lifeguards patrol the beach and dogs are welcome at the southern end all year round.

Where to stay: Officers’ Mess | Just a mile from the beach this is a truly unique and special retreat for two.

Marloes Sands

Surrounded by nature and encompassing the wilderness of the Welsh coastline, Marloes Sands is home to a wide variety of marine life and birds. Exposed to the full force of the ocean, this south-westerly facing beach is surrounded by windswept cliffs and dramatic landscapes. Atop the headlands of ragged grass, there are excellent views out towards the ocean. Descend towards the broad curve of the beach at low tide and ample amounts of smooth sand are revealed. Puffins and seals are known to frequent the area, so keep an eye out for exciting views of local wildlife. If you’d like to swim here, only do so when the weather is calm, as the beach isn’t lifeguarded.

Marloes is a remote beach without any amenities. The nearest car park belongs to the National Trust and is half a mile away. For food, the nearby village of Marloes is less than a ten-minute drive.

Where to stay: Officers’ Quarters | Steeped in history and now lovingly restored, this hideaway provides a soulful escape to the coast.

Freshwater West

At the end of the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, Freshwater West is a long and inviting strip of sand and a well-known surfers’ paradise. Backed by the extensive dune system of Broomhill Burrows, the westerly facing beach receives great waves and is amongst the most beautiful in the area. There are strong rip currents here, meaning only experienced swimmers and surfers should enter the water. However, you can book surf lessons with Outer Reef Surf School . For those looking to enjoy a beach sunset or an evening picnic, Freshwater West is known for its beautiful skies, which light up in a cascade of colour.

There are two small car parks close to the beach. However, they can become very busy when the surf is good. One of them has a concrete ramp leading down to the beach. The award-winning Café Mor food van serves up delicious food from spring to autumn.

Barafundle Bay Beach

Voted one of the best beaches in the world, the picture-perfect Barafundle Bay comprises of pristine sand, inviting waters and is backed by soft, sandy dunes. Protected by pine-covered limestone headlands on both sides and a half-mile walk away from the nearest car park, there is an air of seclusion to the seemingly untouched inlet. However, Barafundle has gained notoriety in recent years because of its crystal-clear waters and lesser crowds than some of Pembrokeshire’s more accessible beaches. Its sheltered eastern-facing aspect means the ocean here is often calm, though there are small waves sometimes. A lovely spot for open water swimming and paddling, Barafundle should be high up on your list of beaches to visit in Pembrokeshire.

Somewhat off the beaten track, there are no facilities or lifeguards at Barafundle Bay. The nearest car park is at Stackpole Quay, a half-mile walk away over the cliffs. Dogs are welcome on the beach all year round.

Church Door Cove

A hidden gem, found between Old Castle Head and Lydstep Point, Church Door Cove is an area of important geological interest, due to its limestone and red sandstone cliffs. Only accessible at low tide, via a set of 140 steps, it is best to visit only on fair weather days. Stepping onto the sand of this tiny, southeasterly facing cove, you are rewarded with a view of an impressive stone archway. It has been carved out of the cliffs by nature and forms an attractive focal point or subject of photography. Swimming at the cove is pleasant and it’s common to have the beach all to yourself. However, be wary of the tide at all times. From the clifftop, there are sweeping views of Old Castle Head, Lydstep Head, Caldey Island and the Bristol Channel.

There are no facilities at Church Door Cove and it isn’t lifeguarded. The nearest car park is Stackpole Quay and it is dog friendly throughout the seasons.

Tenby North

No guide to Pembrokeshire’s beaches would be complete without a visit to Tenby. The ancient harbour town is a hotspot with tourists and it’s well worth a visit to soak up the history of the area. There are four beaches in Tenby, three of which have Blue Flag status. Our favourite is North Beach because its enclosed easterly position means it catches the sun all day and is well-sheltered no matter the weather. A long length of flawless sand, you can access Tenby South from here at low tide, making it a popular place for runs along the seafront. Gaskar rock is a notable landmark in the middle of Tenby North, whilst a colourful smattering of coastal buildings rise up behind the sand. The calm waters make it a fantastic place to go swimming, all whilst enjoying impressive views of St Catherine’s Island and Carmarthen Bay.

Tenby North is seasonally lifeguarded and there are dog restrictions from May to September. Access is from the rear of the beach via a steep set of steps or the harbour front. There are two car parks above the beach and plenty of places to grab food and snacks in the town.

Staying in Pembrokeshire

Pembrokeshire truly is a beautiful location for a unique getaway with plenty to see and do, including beach days, history and a lovely selection of eateries . Browse our collection of quirky places to stay in Pembrokeshire  and start planning your next adventure. 

Or browse our full collection of heavenly hideaways, situated in the most picturesque corners of the UK here .

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16 Best Places In Pembrokeshire To Visit

Pembrokeshire is one of my favourite places in Wales to visit. Not only is it totally stunning, but there’s also a heap of historic and dramatic spots to see all across (and just outside) Pembrokeshire itself. Now, with a pretty big area to cover, it can be a little mind-boggling when it comes to finding all the best places in Pembrokeshire to visit. This is exactly why I wanted to share my favourite spots.

Now, it’s likely you’ll be travelling around Pembrokeshire by car? And, to be honest, it’s probably the easiest way to navigate this area of Wales. Although there are limited train lines and rural bus links, they can be few and far between. This can be especially when looking to visit more isolated or countryside spots. 

That being said, it’s kinda a benefit to exploring some of the best places in Pembrokeshire by car. This way, you’re totally travelling at your own pace but you can also include some gems that are perched just outside Pembrokshire itself. 

That’s the thing about exploring the stunning spots in West Wales , you’ll be totally spoilt for choice when it comes to exploring. 

Take a little gander, below, at some of my very favourite and best places in Pembrokeshire that I’m hoping you’ll love. Have the best time on your trip to Wales; and fingers crossed for some lovely, sunny, weather! 

1.) St David’s 

Being one of the smallest cities in all of the UK, St David’s is a perfect place to stop for a day trip whilst exploring Pembrokeshire.

Truth be told, the city is tiny but it packs a hunger punch when it comes to the incredible spots to see. 

You see, right within St David’s itself is the cathedral, which has stood here for centuries and has been considered a holy spot since William the Conqueror visited almost 1,000 years ago. 

It’s totally gorgeous and pretty imposing too. In fact, it towers over the rest of St David’s and is easily the tallest building in the city. 

Once here, make sure to take a stroll around the grounds, head inside and see the renovated cloisters and stunning organ that sits proudly inside the cathedral itself. It’s got so much history that dates back almost 700 years. 

Oh, and don’t forget to visit the Bishops Palace that’s right next door. 

Afterwards, take a little wander around the city and stop off at the most gorgeous St David’s Bookshop that’s tiny and so quaint.

Also, if you get a rumbling tummy, stop off at The Bishops that serves up one of the tastiest pub lunches in the city.

Also, for a tasty evening meal, pop over to St Davids Gin & Kitchen that serves up some tasty seasonal dishes that are so good. 

We loved it here! St David’s is easily one of the best places in Pembrokeshire that you can’t miss. 

Read more: Best things to do in Wales

2.) Green Bridge 

Perched on the south coast, around a 25-minute drive from Pembroke, the Green Bridge is a must-see if you love natural history. It’s one of those spots that’s almost hidden away but totally worth visiting, especially in the early evening.

Created by thousands of years of erosion, the Green Bridge is very similar to Durdle Door (in Dorset) and the, now collapsed, Azure Window in Malta . 

In fact, the whole coastal route around the Green Bridge is so lovely, too. Just be sure not to venture too close to the cliff edge; it’s high! 

Now, to get to the Green Bridge, you will need to drive through a Ministry of Defense area which has signs like ‘tank crossing’ and shooting ranges. Don’t worry though, this is a through-road that is public access (even if it does feel a little strange). 

Also, just in case you need some guidance, this is the parking area we used to park up and walk the area around the Green Bridge, Elegug Stacks and the Cauldron. They’re all close by and really easy to visit for a few hours stroll. 

Read more: Best places to see in South Wales

3.) Blue Lagoon  

Perched on the Pembrokshire coastline, the Blue Lagoon is a lovely little stop to make when driving the coastal route. Nestled within Abereiddy, it’s an old slate mine that is connected to the seawater. The colour itself comes from the minerals in the Slate and is a lovely place to go for a dip. 

Now, the lagoon itself can be very deep so make sure you know how to swim, wear wet-suits in the colder months and always tell people where you are.

After all, no one likes a reckless swimmer. 

Also, it’s worth noting that you’ll need to pay around £4-5 to park on private land here. Which, although might seem steep for the area, is probably worth it if you really want to see the Blue Lagoon. 

Read more: Best castles in Wales

4.) Saint Govan’s Chapel

Perched on the cliffs of St Govan’s Head, Saint Govan’s Chapel is one of the best places in Pembrokeshire to visit whilst on the coast. Not only that, but it’s also relatively easy to visit (by car) if you’re heading east from the Green Bridge and heading across to Tenby. 

Now, although it’s relatively easy to access, there are a few steps to get to the ruined chapel. These can also get quite slippy on wetter days, so make sure to tread carefully. 

Make sure to take in the views around the area, pop in the tiny little chapel and don’t forget to count the steps up and down. Local folklore states that there are actually more steps going up than going down. I’ll let you decide on that one! 

Read more: Best places to see in West Wales

5.) Marloes Sands

Not too far from St Anne’s Head, Marloes Sands is a lovely coastline area to stroll if the tide is low. You see, at high-tide, the beach can totally disappear, so make sure to check local tide tables before visiting. 

Oh, and if you’re feeling adventurous, pop over to Albion Sands where you might even see the shipwreck that still lies on the seabed (at low tide).  

6.) Broadhaven Beach

Perched within Pembrokeshire National Park itself, Broadhaven Beach is one of the best places in Pembrokeshire to visit for a proper beach day. 

You see, at low tide, Broadhaven Beach is totally huge with lots of sandy stretches to chill out and relax. Best of all, there’s a few car parks and lifeguards that patrol the beach in the summer months. After some time in the surf, pop into the Ocean Cafe and Bar that’ll fill ya up for sure.

Read more: Best places to visit on a Welsh road trip

7.) Whitesands Bay

Not too far from the city of St. David’s, it’s really easy to pair up a visit to Whitesands Bay whilst exploring this area of Pembrokeshire. Now, this is a totally stunning beach to visit and with its white sands and lovely waters, it’s a great place to spend a hot sunny day. 

Better still, Whitesands Bay has won lots of awards for its epic beach and is a “Blue Flag Beach”, too. 

8.) Laugharne Castle 

Now, remember I said that some of the benefits of exploring Pembrokshire are that there are some places just outside the county limits? Well, Laugharne Castle is one of these spots! 

Perched within Carmarthenshire, it’s a totally stunning ruin to see whilst travelling east beyond Pembrokshire itself. Not only that, but you’ll also be able to stop off at Dylan Thomas Writing Shed, too. 

After exploring the village area, pop into the Owl & The Pussycat for a tasty bite to eat. They make the best homemade cottage pies.

Probably one of my favourite spots in all of Wales, Tenby is a stunning and historic fishing village that you can’t miss. It’s the kind of place you can spend a good few days strolling around, visiting the gorgeous beaches and popping over to Caldey Island, too.

You see, in the summer months, Caldey Island has regular day trips where you can visit the monastic island where they make some of the tastiest Welsh chocolate. It’s a lovely day trip and well worth it on a dry day. 

Also, don’t forget to pop into some of the ice cream shops, little pubs and restaurants that line the streets. There are a fair few choices of places to gorge but, for me, nothing quite beats a bag of fish and chips on the seafront.  

It’s one of the best places in Pembrokeshire to base yourself, especially when exploring the coastal route around the Green Bridge and Carew Castle, too. 

Read more: Best things to do in Tenby

10.) Carew Castle 

Speaking of Carew Castle, this is one easy places In Pembrokshire to explore when driving. 

Around 15-minutes from the centre of Tenby , it’s a totally gorgeous ruin to visit around sunset when the hues hit the stone. Obviously, at this point, the castle will be closed, so if you want to take a little wander inside, make sure to visit earlier in the day. 

Oh, and pop over to this car parking area for some lovely views across the water. 

11.) Strumble Head 

Not too far from Fishguard, Strumble Head is a lovely coastline on the west of Wales that’s beautiful to visit. Not only are the views over to Strumble Head Lighthouse totally lovely but you might also see some of the local wildlife, too.

There are lots of seals and gannets that call this area home and you’ll easily spot them on a calm, sunny day. 

After a day on the coast, pop back in the car and drive (20-minutes) down to Porthgain for a tasty meal at the Shed Bistro . They have some of the freshest fish. It’s so welcoming and quaint and one of the best places in Pembrokshire to stop for a bite when around Porthgain. 

12.) Pembroke

Not to be confused with Pembrokeshire, Pembroke is a town that sits midway between Milford Haven and Tenby and really easy to stop off at whilst heading further west. 

Pembroke Castle is a must-see when strolling the town and is steeped in history. In fact, it’s where King Henry VII was born. After taking in the grounds and remains of the castle, make sure to stroll around Mill Pond and stop by some of the little vintage shops and pubs that line the streets. It’s pretty lovely, especially for a few hours visit. 

13.) Tresaith Beach 

Around 5-miles north of Pembrokshire, Tresaith Beach is a must-visit spot (even if it’s technically not in Pembrokshire itself). 

You see, on a calm day, the beach is totally sandy and even has an incredible waterfall that jets out into the sea itself. It’s such a beautiful and quaint spot. Plus, you can stop by the Ship Inn for a pint afterwards. 

Now, there is limited parking here, so just consider this if you’re visiting in the holiday season. It doesn’t get overly busy, but there’ like 20 spaces in total. 

Read more: Best hikes in Wales

14.) Penbryn Beach  

Another spot, around 7-miles north of the boundary limit of Pembrokshire, Penbryn Beach is a totally gorgeous spot to visit for a beach day on the west coast. 

Not only does it have a huge stretch of white sandy beach, but it’s also a great place to watch the sunset as it faces directly west.

Oh, and be sure to pop in the Plwmp Tart Cafe for a tasty lunch when you’re heading to the beach. It’s right next to the car park and you can’t miss it. 

15.) Pentre Ifan

The largest and best-preserved neolithic dolmen in all of Wales, Pentre Ifan is pretty incredible to see. Built around 5,000 years ago, it’s even older than the likes of Stonehenge, too.

Once a burial chamber, it’s now really easy to visit if you’ve got a car and totally free, too. To get here, follow our drop-pin on Google Maps. There’s a little layby (with space for around 10 cars) and a small wooden gate that’s a little unassuming. Go through the gate and within a minute you’ll have reached Petre Ifan.

Now, you’ll likely only spend 15-minutes, or so, here but it’s well worth visiting if you love ancient history. 

16.) Cwm-yr-Eglwys

Just shy of Dinas Cross, Cwm-yr-Eglwys is a tiny little place where you can see the historic remains of the church that has been lost to the sea. Not only that, but it’s also got a really intimate little beach and a perfect little bay for paddleboarding, too. 

Afterwards, take a ride up to Newport that’s a lovely little village filled with independent cafes and little pubs. It’s also got the cutest antique shop called, the Carningli Centre. We loved it. 

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9 Best Places to Visit in Pembrokeshire, Wales

Last Updated on February 20, 2024

by Maggie Turansky

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There are countless places to visit in Pembrokeshire that make it an unforgettable destination. A coastal region in the south of Wales that has been popular for decades amongst British tourists for a bucolic seaside escape, it still remains fairly off the beaten path in regards to foreign tourism.

This, however, is a shame as Pembrokeshire seemed to offer the beauty and mild weather of Cornwall with a fraction of the summer crowds. Some of the spots to see in Pembrokeshire include everything from beautiful beaches to imposing castles to charming villages and everything in between.

Whether you’re on the hunt for a quiet seaside getaway and some good time lounging on the beach or are keen to embark on a longer coastal trek, Pembrokeshire really offers it all. As one of the most dramatic places to visit in all of South West Wales, this beautiful region has so much on offer that its sure not to disappoint any who choose to visit.

Table of Contents

Getting To & Around Pembrokeshire

There are three main options for travellers wanting to visit Pembrokeshire from other parts of Wales or England: train, bus or car.

There are regular trains to various towns in Pembrokeshire such as Pembroke and Tenby from Swansea in Wales taking around 1.5-2 hours. You can also connect to these trains from other major cities like Cardiff.

If coming from London, there are trains to Cardiff and Swansea that leave from London Paddington Station roughly every thirty minutes and you can switch to most of the bigger towns in Pembrokeshire from either of those cities. All in, the journey time will take about 4 1/2 hours.

When travelling by train in the UK, it is advisable to book tickets in advance if you want to secure a cheaper fare as last-minute fares can be expensive. You can browse train schedules here .

It is possible to take the bus to get to Pembrokeshire however routes are limited and slower than the train. For example, there are direct buses from London Victoria Coach Station to Tenby, one of the biggest towns in Pembrokeshire.

They leave a few times per day, are generally less expensive than the train, and the journey will take about 6 1/2 hours. You can find connections to some towns in Pembrokeshire from Cardiff or Swansea. You can browse bus schedules here .

Like many places in rural Britain, public transport can be lacking in Pembrokeshire so if you’re not planning on spending all of your time walking the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, it can be incredibly useful to have your own vehicle. If you do hire a car, there are a couple of options you can take.

The first option is to hire a car locally from Pembrokeshire however there are not as many providers available here as other major cities in Wales and England.

The other option is to hire a car from either Cardiff or Swansea or even London. If travelling from London, it might work out to be cheaper to take the train to Cardiff or Swansea and hire a car from there if you can get a cheap ticket in advance.

For renting a car in the UK, we recommend searching on Rentalcars.Com to find great deals. It’s also worthwhile to take out an excess insurance policy with iCarHireInsurance so you don’t need to pay an excess if you have to make a claim.

Best Places to Visit in Pembrokeshire

Whether you’re looking for natural scenery, charming villages, historic castles or white sand beaches, Pembrokeshire can offer it all.

Pembrokeshire Coast National Park

One of the highlights of visiting Pembrokeshire is the sheer jaw-dropping beauty of the region and its coastline, and that is expertly exemplified at the gorgeous Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.

One of three Welsh national parks (the others are Snowdonia and the Brecon Beacons ), this park is filled with dramatic cliffside scenery, beautiful beaches, rambling moorland, lush forest and much more.

If you’re an outdoor lover and are looking for a perfect place to get out in the thick of nature, then you absolutely cannot go wrong with spending time in this incredible national park.

A number of the places to visit listed in this article lie within the national park simply because it is massive and nearly all-encompassing of the entire coastal Pembrokeshire region, spanning nearly 630 square kilometres (243 square miles).

So whether you want to enjoy some of its countless wild beaches, walk in the Preseli Hills or try to visit all of these beautiful places, no time in Pembrokeshire is complete without spending time in the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.

Pembrokeshire Coast Path

As already mentioned, one of the most appealing things about a trip to Pembrokeshire is the absolutely stunning coastal scenery. Because of this, walking part if not all of the Pembrokeshire Coast Path is one of the best things to do in the region.

This trail spans a total of nearly 300 kilometres (186 miles) and the majority of it winds its way along the coast and the rugged cliffs of the region. Beginning in the south near the town of Amroth and ending at Poppit Sands beach, the coastal path is part of the larger Wales Coast Path which winds its way completely around the coast of Wales.

The trail is quite well marked and there are a number of smaller, circular day hikes you could do on it as well of varying difficulty.

For instance, the circular route around St. Anne’s Head is a great option for a day hike, presents you with beautiful scenery and you might even spot some wild horses! Undoubtedly, the coastal path is one the top attractions in Pembrokeshire.

Stackpole Nature Reserve

If you haven’t seen enough of beautiful nature yet, then make sure to head to the beautiful Stackpole Nature Reserve . Upheld by the National Trust, this natural area is another fantastic place for a day in the great outdoors and taking in the beautiful scenery, flora and fauna of South Wales.

Known for being home to such wildlife as sea otters, various birds, over 30 species of butterflies and the larges colony of horseshoe bats in Wales, you can also take in beautiful flora in this area, as well.

Full of beautiful beaches, pleasant woodland areas, lily ponds and more, Stackpole is undoubtedly one of the best places to head to when in Pembrokeshire.

Pembrokeshire isn’t all just stunning natural areas and trekking (though these are certainly highlights of visiting the region), there are also countless lovely towns and villages to visit in the region and one of those villages is the lovely town of Pembroke.

Though the town itself can be worth wandering through and exploring, the main highlight of Pembroke is undeniably Pembroke Castle, which is absolutely an excellent place to visit in the region. Known to be the birthplace of Henry Tudor (who would later become King Henry VII), this impressive medieval fortification was first built by the Normans in 1093.

If you love old castles or simply want to learn about Medieval history, a visit to Pembroke and Pembroke Castle is one of the best things to do in Pembrokeshire.

A lovely, historic seaside village in the region, St Davids can be one of the top places to visit in the region as it holds the title of the “Smallest City in the UK.” While it may just seem like a tiny village, the fact that there is a proper cathedral is what constitutes it as a city.

Much like Pembroke, the main appeal of St Davids for the majority of visits isn’t the village itself but rather the impressive St Davids Cathedral, which is absolutely worth taking in. The monastic community where the cathedral today stands was founded in the year 589 CE, however, the first cathedral wasn’t built until 1123 and was consecrated in 1131.

The cathedral itself is impressive and worth visiting, but the town is equally charming and a perfect place to wander through and enjoy as it’s filled with inviting cafes and cool shops.

North of St Davids, you can also visit the small town of Porthgain, which is also lovely. And those who are interested in neolithic history, venture even further north to the town of Newport where you can find the Pentre Ifan Burial Chamber.

The town of Tenby is also a great place to visit and is considered one of the best towns in Pembrokeshire to base yourself in. The town itself is a popular summer resort destination due to its picturesque seaside location, great restaurants, and two lovely sandy beaches.

As one of the most popular places to visit in Pembrokeshire, Tenby is absolutely charming and worth exploring in its own right. Home to some beautiful beaches, an interesting walled landscape and lots of interesting places to explore, Tenby is sure to impress all who visit.

If you’re hungry for lunch or dinner and you want a really good Italian pizza, look no further than Top Joe’s . They also have a great wine list. However, if it’s a pub you’re after, there are plenty to choose from in Tenby, as well.

The town is also a jumping-off point to visit the monastic site at Caldey Island , which is home to a community of Trappist monks. Ferries to the island leave from Tenby Harbour where a flock of boats leave regularly for a small fee.

Carew Castle & Tidal Mill

Located not too far from Tenby lies Carew Castle another fascinating historic site to visit in Pembrokeshire. This medieval fortification was originally built in 1270 by Nicholas de Carew and the castle was inhabited by this family for centuries after.

Located just west of the castle lies the Carew Tidal Mill, the only fully restored mill of its kind in Wales. The mill was built in 1801 and used tidal technology to mill corn. It was fully restored in the 1970s and now it houses a museum.

So if you want to learn a bit about two completely different eras of history in one small town, then you need to make sure to visit Carew Castle and Tidal Mill.

If you’re a fan of Arthurian legend and would like to visit a mythical birthplace (much like Tintagel in Cornwall), then you can’t miss Carmarthen, famous as it is believed to be the birthplace of Merlin.

This Arthurian mystic was said to have been born in a cave just outside the town limits and if you’re at all interested in this legend, then you must visit this charming town. Though located in Carmarthenshire and not in Pembrokeshire, it’s not too much of a detour to visit.

There is also a lot of Roman history in Carmarthen, however, the town does have a contemporary vibe and it is very much worth exploring in its own right. After taking in the historic sites, stroll through its streets and browse the many shops and cafes to be found here.

If you happen to be visiting Pembrokeshire in the summertime, you would be remiss if you didn’t take the time to visit one of the region’s beautiful beaches. Marloes Sands, for instance, is one of the best beaches in Pembrokeshire, located a bit north of St Anne’s Head and the village of Dale.

If you’re interested in a beautiful beach and some Hollywood history, then head to Freshwater West which was used as a filming location for Shell Cottage in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows .

Alternatively, you could most your way to Whitesands Bay Beach just outside of St Davids. This is another lovely beach to spend a lazy day at and one of the nicest places in Pembrokeshire. There is also a cafe and a campsite here.

Whether you simply want the scenery or are keen to learn to surf on the sandy beach, you’re sure to love the options available in Pembrokeshire.

Where to Stay in Pembrokeshire

Coach Guest House – Located in Tenby, this guest house is well located close to the coast and major attractions. They offer a range of private rooms suitable for couples and families with modern amenities and a great breakfast included daily.

The Park Hotel – Also located in Tenby, this hotel is perfect if you want to stay a little more in nature and close to the Pembrokeshire Coast Path but still be within walking distance of the main town. Rooms are classically decorated with some offering sea views and all having access to a swimming pool. Breakfast is also included daily.

Beachcomber B&B – If you’re looking for a luxury hotel in Pembrokeshire, then you can’t go wrong with this swish bed and breakfast. Located in the centre of Tenby, they have a range of plush rooms available, a helpful and accommodating staff and a wonderful breakfast included each morning.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other for hotels in Pembrokeshire. 

Pembrokeshire is truly an underrated destination when it comes to international tourism. While it is certainly no secret in the UK, it still has a wonderful undiscovered atmosphere to it which can make it difficult to find the top places to see in Pembrokeshire.

Couple beautiful beaches and breathtaking scenery with postcard-perfect villages and friendly locals — Pembrokeshire is certainly one of the loveliest places to visit in western Britain.

Are you planning a trip to Pembrokeshire? Have any questions about visiting? Let us know in the comments!

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About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

Very interesting! Freshwater West is where Harry Potter …Fresh East is on the South coast. Also, Carmarthen is not in Pembrokeshire and is far too big to be considered a village. However, you’ve summed up the magic of the place beautifully….thank you!

Appreciate your notes, John. I’ve just updated the information in the article! Thanks 🙂

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Pembrokeshire secret beaches

You may have thought that secluded beaches with fine sand, crystal clear water and just the cry of the gulls for company were long gone, but they're not. Tucked away in the nooks and crannies of the Pembrokeshire coast are any number of unspoilt hidden gems where you can enjoy a little peace and quiet.

Here at the Beach Guide we have compiled a list of your favourite hidden beaches in Pembrokeshire that are just far enough off the beaten track to never get too busy.

Of course escaping the crowds may not be your only reason for visiting these little known spots. Not only are they a little tricky to find and get to, they are also some of the loveliest beaches in Pembrokeshire.

1. Musselwick Sands Beach

Marloes, pembrokeshire.

Located close to Marloes village on the southern edge of St Brides Bay is the lovely sandy beach of Musselwick. Backed by the high cliffs of Wooltack Point and Nab Head the north-facing beach here is…

2. Church Doors Cove

Manorbier, pembrokeshire.

Like neighbouring beaches along this stretch of the Pembrokeshire coast, Church Doors Cove is something of a geological wonder, and it is to this that the beach's name refers. The cove has sheer stratified…

3. Porthmelgan Beach

Pembrokeshire.

Just to the north of the popular Whitesands beach is the pleasant little cove of Porthmelgan. Only accessible from the coast path this is a great spot to escape the summer crowds. As with many of the…

4. Conigar Pit Beach

The secluded little Conigar Pit beach lies about halfway between the slightly better known beaches of Manorbier and Shrinkle Haven. It is formed of a twin cove tucked in behind Old Castle Head and joins…

5. Drinkim Bay

Caldey island, pembrokeshire.

Drinkim Bay is one of a number of beautiful sandy beaches on the little island of Caldey, just off the Pembrokeshire coast. This is not the easiest beach to get to by any stretch of the imagination. Being…

6. Monk Haven Beach

St ishmaels, pembrokeshire.

Set at the end of a wooded valley near the village of St Ishmaels is a cove that is every bit as tranquil as its name - Monk Haven. This comes from a monastic settlement that existed here long ago. Whilst…

7. Mowingword Bay

About half a mile to the south of Barafundle Bay, on the far side of Stackpole Head, is Mowingword Bay. Relatively unheard of compared to its much vaunted neighbour the beach here rivals any in Wales.As…

8. Porthsychan Beach

Fishguard, pembrokeshire.

Set in a sheltered cove near the north-westerly tip of Pembrokeshire is the pleasant little beach of Porthsychan. What the beach lacks in sand (it is mostly shingle and pebble) it makes up for in charm.…

9. Presipe Bay

Presipe Bay is one of the beaches on the Pembrokeshire coast that can genuinely be described as a hidden gem. At low tide the beach here consists of a wide stretch of golden sand backed by stunning sandstone…

10. Traeth Llyfn Beach

Porthgain, pembrokeshire.

Traeth Llyfn is one of the lesser visited beaches on this stretch of the Pembrokeshire coast, which is a shame as it is areal gem. In fact, the chances are you may well get this beautiful stretch of sandy…

11. Ceibwr Bay

Cardigan, pembrokeshire.

This remote little beach is mainly pebbles, although there are a few patches of shingly sand to be found. The beach sits at the end of a deep valley with cliffs extending far out along both sides of the…

12. Swanlake Bay

Tenby, pembrokeshire.

Swanlake Bay beach is located in South Pembrokeshire and the only way to get here is to walk down the Pembrokeshire National Park Coastal Footpath. The closest car park is in Manorbier, so although it…

13. Watwick Beach

Dale, pembrokeshire.

Watwick Bay is a small east-facing beach at the mouth of Milford Haven. It is set on the remote and narrow peninsula leading to St Annes Head. The beach is rather steep and is made up mostly of sand.…

14. Nolton Haven Beach

Nolton haven, pembrokeshire.

Nolton Haven is a secluded sandy beach in the St Brides Bay area. It is set in a narrow inlet which is flanked by cliffs. The beach here is a mix of sand and pebbles but at low tide a narrow strip of…

15. Skrinkle Haven Beach

Skrinkle Haven beach sits between Old Castle Head and Lydstep Point and is located to the south-east of pretty Manorbier Village. There is a small bay here that is encircled by high cliffs and when the…

16. Porthselau Beach

St davids, pembrokeshire.

Porthselau is a small, largely sandy beach which is dotted with rock formations. It is located on the south side of greater Whitesands Bay. It faces north-west which means that you get excellent vistas…

17. Porthmynawyd Beach

Newgale, pembrokeshire.

Not far from Newgale Sands is Porthmynawyd, yet another idyllic little Pembrokeshire cove which only really comes into its own as the tide goes out. Then you will find a lovely stretch of golden sand…

18. Pen-y-Cwm Beach

Pen-y-Cwm beach is located around a small headland from the better known Newgale beach. In fact this is probably the easiest way to reach the beach as it is accessible across the sand at mid to low tide.…

19. Marloes Sands Beach

Milford haven, pembrokeshire.

Stretching over a mile this expanse of golden sand offers some of the most spectacular scenery anywhere on the Welsh coast. Set on a peninsula that forms the south-westerly tip of Wales, Marloes Sands…

20. Amroth Beach

Amroth, pembrokeshire.

The golden sand, Blue Flag beach at Amroth sits at the start / end of the 186 mile Pembrokeshire coastal path.As the tide goes out a vast expanse of sand is revealed - perfect for beach games. When the…

Please note: we would have preferred it if these beaches could have remained secret forever and would like to make it clear that the Beach Guide would never be the first to publish the details of any hidden beach.

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Enjoying wild places in The UK away from the crowds. The wilder the better!

The Four Best Beaches In Pembrokeshire

Pembrokeshire National Park is a special place. I am not ashamed to admit I am less than two years away from turning forty and have only just discovered it for the first time. I can’t believe I am that old, nor can I believe that I left it this long to make it there. That old saying that some of the best things are worth waiting for comes to mind. Discovering the best beaches in Pembrokeshire was certainly was.

A Bit About Pembrokeshire National Park

There is a good reason I probably took so long to visit Pembrokeshire. It is located in the far south west of Wales and seems a long way from anywhere else when you’re driving it. I was actually quite taken back at how far it was to this part of the country when crossing the Severn Bridge. Wales in general isn’t that wide and it doesn’t take too long to reach places like Snowdonia or The Cambrian Mountains once you’ve crossed the border. This isn’t the case with Pembrokeshire. I remember my heart sinking just a little when at Newport my phone announced there was still 105 miles to go. Be prepared for the long drive, but one which is worth it. What waits at the end is worth every mile.

The National Park itself was created in 1952 and is unusual in that it is focused almost entirely on the coast line. Nowhere within the park boundary is more than ten miles from the sea. You can read more about the park itself here , but from here on in I will focus exclusively on the best beaches of Pembrokeshire. This is after all why many visit and why you’re reading this article in the first place!

My Beach Rating System

I have thought long and hard about which information you might find most useful. On the back of this, I have created my own little rating system. Hopefully it will prove to be useful as I describe each beach. Here are the details:

Legs and Lungs = How challenging it is to reach the beach. This will factor in climbing, descending, distance and steepness.

Belly Buster = How easy it is to buy food and water at or near the beach.

Ease of Wees= How available public toilets are.

Take to the Water=What is swimming and surfing like at the beach in question.

Castles In The Sand= What can be found on the beach. Is it mostly sandy, pebbly or a mix of both.

0= very hard up to 10 which will be very easy. Hopefully that makes sense.

Freshwater West

This was the first beach I visited in Pembrokeshire and surely one of the best beaches in Pembrokeshire, so thought this was a good place to start.

Legs and Lungs = 10. There is ample free parking at Freshwater West. From here it is no more than a thirty metre walk across the quiet lane onto the sand below. The beach is lovely and long so a good walk up and down its length or even an early morning or early evening run will help burn off any calories you didn’t use in getting to this slice of heaven.

Belly Buster= 6. There are no permanent shops here, but when we visited in summer there were several portable kitchens serving fish and chips, burgers and drinks. These probably aren’t there in the off season though hence the lower score.

Ease of wees= 0. You won’t find any public toilets here I’m afraid. There are plenty of sand dunes you could hide behind in an emergency, but it’s far from ideal.

Take To The Water= 5. I have given this a five, because it is excellent for surfing, but dangerous for swimming . The day we visited, there were many surfers enjoying great waves, but nobody was swimming. Strong rip currents means this really isn’t the place to take a gentle dip.

Castles In The Sand= 10. Freshwater West is almost all sand and beautiful sand at that. It is the perfect exfoliator and is at its best as the tide is going out. Your feet sink slowly into its cooling surface and you can’t help but feel great afterwards. It’s also a great place to half bury a child or partner if you see fit. An excellent area of rock pools do reveal themselves at low tide at the southern end of the beach. Perfect if you like searching for crabs and other wildlife.

Skrinkle Haven/ Church Door

This place is incredible and probably my favourite beach of the lot. The scenery on offer here is great and you may well find yourself wanting to return at least once during your trip. Even better is that you have three separate beaches on offer, separated by cliffs. Travel between each is great fun and an adventure in itself.

Legs and Lungs = 3. Parking is free up near the youth hostel, but it is a more challenging route down than many others. It isn’t a long walk, however some steep stairs need to be taken, which might prove challenging for those scared of heights. It may well get you puffing on the way back up too, but at least it offers a good workout for the legs and lungs. On a hot day you may well crave the cool waters of the sea again by the time you reach the top.

Belly Buster = 6. There is a good cafe attached to the youth hostel. This offers good quality food and drink, but is obviously a bit of a pain to reach once down on the beach. If you stock up and visit before or after your time on the sand, then it works well.

Ease of Wees= 6. This gets the same rating as the food and drink category, as the toilet can be found in the same place. Once down on the beach it is very tricky to find a sheltered place to relieve oneself. A couple of shallow caves are your best option.

Take To The Water= 8. This is a great spot to swim, but you must be careful of some rocks close to the surface in places. Gaining access to the sea at high tide is trickier too as two of the beaches become almost impossible to reach. Make sure you know when high and low tide occurs at this location. The beaches are stunning, but nobody wants to become stranded.

Castles In The Sand= 10. This one gets top marks because it offers a great mix of pebbles, rock pools and pristine sand. There is even a small area of shallow quick sand, but this is obviously best explored with caution.

Barafundle Bay

Perhaps the most famous beach in Pembrokeshire, this stretch of sand is often voted the most stunning in Great Britain. You have to visit to appreciate why. It certainly is a beautiful place, but it seems everybody has heard this too. It was without doubt the busiest one we visited on our August trip. I’m sure it is nearly deserted out of peak season though and still as stunning.

Legs and Lungs= 6. A walk of a kilometre or so is required if leave your car in the nearest car park. This one is a pay and display as you might expect in such a busy spot. On the walk itself, there are some gentle undulations, but nothing too steep or long to worry about. The climb up the stairs on your return will probably prove the toughest test.

Belly Buster= 6. There is a small cafe near the main car park, offering most food and drink options you would need for a beach day. It would be quite a long walk back though from the beach itself, so plan or eat in advance with this one.

Ease Of Wees= 6. A toilet can be found next to the cafe, but once down on the sand there are no facilities. The many sand dunes behind the beach offer some privacy should you be caught out.

Take To The Water= 9. This is a perfect place to take a swim. It is sheltered from strong currents and the bottom shelves gently away from the shore. Visibility is not great though, which is why it didn’t score a ten.

Castles In The Sand = 9. If you’re looking for an all sandy beach, then Barafundle Bay is the perfect beach for you. It is clean soft and safe as you don’t need to worry too much about the tide here. Rock pool enthusiasts will be disappointed though, hence the one mark taken off.

Marloes Sands

A gorgeous beach on a dramatic stretch of coastline. If you love cliffs and yearn for some peace and quiet, then I highly doubt you’ll be disappointed with Marloes.

Legs and Lungs= 4. It is a bit of a walk down to the beach and a slog on the way back up if you’re not particularly fit. There is never anything particularly steep though and the amazing scenery proves a great distraction.

Belly Buster= 6. There is a great cafe near the main car park, which is a great place to stop at on a sunny day.

Ease of Wees= 5. Like many other beaches, there is a toilet next to the cafe, but you wouldn’t want to be hiking but up this once down on the beach. I couldn’t see any secluded spots down on the beach, so relieving onself down there could prove either tricky or embarrassing.

Take To The Water= This beach is affected by the tides and it could be easy to become cut off from the main exit point if not careful. There are some reported strong currents, but as this article suggests, it is still a popular spot among the wild swimming community.

Castles In The Sand= 8. The sand here is great and is at its best during low tide. There are also some pebbly and rocky sections too should you crave these instead.

In Conclusion…..

I am very aware that I’ve only included details about four beaches. This seems inadequate when there are well over fifty to choose from in the National Park. We explored many others and every one was lovely in its own right. For the sake of your eyes and sanity though, I have kept it to the very best ones myself and Louise visited during our week in Pembrokeshire. Others such as the one at Tenby and Broad Haven were also incredible, but didn’t quite have the wow factor for us that those above did.

I will certainly be back at some other point to explore more of the coastline and maybe hike some of the famous coast path. There is over a hundred miles of it to explore, which is very exciting indeed. If you have never been, then hopefully this article has inspired you to make the effort and head west. We live on a beautiful island and Pembrokeshire helps showcase it at its best.

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28 best beaches in Wales and the cottages to book nearby

From North Wales to South Wales, here's where to find the most glorious sands

A perfect alternative to the beaches of Cornwall or Norfolk, the best beaches in Wales offer glorious sand, epic scenery and many welcome dogs so you can take the whole gang along.

Of course, you'll want to spend longer than a day trip soaking up the sea views and relaxing in these incredible locations so we've brought you the top holiday cottages to book on or near the beach, too.

When it comes to the best beaches in Wales, Barafundle , Rhossili and Tenby are among the most beautiful spots that regular feature in the world's top 20 lists.

With miles of superb coastline, there are countless sandy stretches to choose from, whether you're after the best beaches in North Wales or the most beautiful strips in the south.

From Pembrokeshire to Conwy and Gwynedd to Carmarthenshire, here's where to go to experience Wales' best beaches in 2024 and the places to stay nearby with the likes of Airbnb , VRBO and Holidaycottages.co.uk .

Llansteffan Beach, Carmarthenshire - Best beaches in Wales

A large and tranquil beach with views across the River Towy to Ferryside, Llansteffan is a well-kept secret and offers soft sand to sit on and firm sand for building sandcastles (an essential for any younger beach goers). Use Llansteffan Castle, which looms above the beach, as your inspiration for building an epic sandcastle in this family-friendly location. The beach is covered with cockle shells and the rock pools are full of life, making this the perfect spot for exploring with little ones.

Where to stay: You can book this spacious four-bedroom holiday cottage beneath the ancient castles and overlooking the swirling sea. The interior is classic and comforting, with a contemporary kitchen and furnishings, plus a great games area for younger guests (or the young at heart) hidden away in the garage.

Tresaith, Ceredigion - Best beaches in Wales

A fabulous beach in Wales and home to the Afon Saith stream, which cascades over the cliff at the right-hand end it, Tresaith is a sandy stretch popular with locals and tourists alike for sailing, surfing and rock pooling. There's a cafe, a bucket-and-spade outlet and the Ship Inn, which serves up pub food and craft beers from the Brains brewery, as well as a guaranteed good-time atmosphere.

Where to stay: Splash out on a stay at amazing Edge House, a four-bedroom retreat with sea views, a short drive or walk from Tresaith. There's a clifftop hot tub from which to admire the views and perhaps enjoy a glass of something bubbly while you drink in the natural beauty.

Pendine Sands, Carmarthenshire - Best beaches in Wales

This seven-mile stretch of golden sand is the perfect spot for sunbathing, collecting shells and swimming. You'll find rock pools, dramatic walks along the Wales Coast Path and plenty of spots to lay your picnic blanket for an alfresco feast. It's also where Sir Malcolm Campbell set the world land speed record in the 1920s.

Where to stay: Cliff Haven is a two-bedroom apartment with a large balcony overlooking Pendine Sands. It's close to the beach, village pubs and restaurants, and offers all the modern essentials needed for a self-catering beach break.

Porth Dafarch, Anglesey - Best beaches in Wales

A lovely little south-west facing beach on Holy Island, Anglesey, Porth Dafarch has soft sands, rock pools and beautiful sunsets – what more could you ask for from the perfect Wales beach holiday? Those who are feeling adventurous can take to the path around the rocky headland, with Trearddur Bay beach, Rhoscolyn beach and the dramatic cliffs and RSPB reserve at South Stack lighthouse all nearby.

Where to stay: This beautiful white-washed cottage overlooks Porth Dafarch beach and Trearddur Bay with the hills of Snowdonia and the LLyn Peninsula on the horizon . There's space to sleep six in the three well-appointed and comfortable bedrooms.

Whitesands Beach, Pembrokeshire - Best beaches in Wales

A wide expanse of fine white sand with Blue Flag status, this glorious Pembrokeshire beach is one of the best surfing spots not only in the area, but in the entire country. At the north end of Whitesands, there’s a rocky promontory to climb on and the quieter south end offers lovely sheltered bays.

Where to stay: Prospect Cottage is a lovely little spot for up to three people in the heart of St Davids, within easy reach of Whitesands (as well as Caerfai and the tranquil harbour of Porthclais). A great garden tops off the cosy cottage perfectly, where all can sleep peacefully in the double and single rooms.

Llangrannog Beach, Ceredigion - Best beaches in Wales

A former a smuggler's haunt, Llangrannog is now a family-friendly sheltered sandy cove at the mouth of a narrow valley. There's another beach that you can walk round to at low tide and for walkers, a wonderful circular walk that can be followed around the headland of Ynys Lochtyn. You'll find traditional pub food overlooking the sea and home-made ice cream at the beach cafe, too.

Where to stay: Driftwood Cottage is a delightful Airbnb located just a few minutes walk from LLangrannog’s two beaches. It has a cosy living and dining space with charming coastal touches, as well as two comfortable bedrooms (one double and one twin) that are perfect for family groups.

Rhossili Bay, Swansea - Best beaches in Wales

No stranger to the best beaches in Wales lists, Rhossili Bay is three miles of dreamy sand and coastline on the Gower Peninsula that everyone, from walkers to watersports fans can appreciate. It's been voted the best beach in Britain and one of the 10 best in the world previously and never fails to impress, with its dramatic views and dog-friendliness. There's a steep walk down to it, which makes it unsuitable for pushchairs.

Where to stay: Go for something unlike anywhere else and check into Bunkershill, an amazing property for a group of 12 people (a bunk room makes a great spot for kids). It has glorious grounds with ponds, generous bedrooms and views over Mewslade Valley, the sea and even Devon in the distance. It's also a 25-minute walk to Rhossili Bay.

Or experience the best of Gower from a cottage that sleeps six in Port Eynon, just 15 minutes away by car. There is well-sized kitchen and living areas, while outside a large, enclosed lawned garden with a patio area with outdoor furniture doubles up as a perfect playground for children and dogs as well as a scenic spot for al fresco dining (a charcoal BBQ is also available).

Bracelet Bay, Mumbles - Best beaches in Wales

Said to be a favourite spot of Catherine Zeta Jones, who owns a home overlooking the Mumbles' lighthouse with husband Michael Douglas, Bracelet Bay is one of Wales' most breathtaking beaches. There's a rocky shore, rock pools, a cave and a fossilised coral reef to explore while here. The beach boasts Blue Flag status and a seaside award – and is said to be where you can find some of the tastiest ice cream in the country.

Where to stay: Sea Mist Lodge, just a few minutes' walk away in Limeslade Bay, is a two-bedroom chalet with a hot tub, modern kitchen and enough space for four guests to base themselves during a seaside escape.

Freshwater East Beach, Pembrokeshire - Best beaches in Wales

Sheltered from prevailing winds and backed by sand dunes, Freshwater East Beach is one of the best beaches in Wales for all. Its dunes are known as the Burrows and are grazed by ponies in the winter. It's a very popular beach with families and children who can enjoy hunting for fossils and paddling in the stream that runs into the sea. The beach is also a great spot for sailing, fishing and windsurfing.

Where to stay: Annwyl is a charming beach chalet sleeping four people in a small holiday park opposite the coast. There's an open-plan lounge and kitchen, as well as two bedrooms and space for families to relax over dinner or a game of cards. Pembroke, with its array of shops, restaurants and the historic castle, is also nearby if you fancy a change of scene.

Harlech Beach, Gwynedd - Best beaches in Wales

This huge, peaceful beach is overlooked by mighty Harlech Castle, a World Heritage Site. A 440-metre path from the car park takes you to the beautiful sand dunes of Harlech Beach. A National Nature Reserve and Site of Special Scientific Interest, the beach is ideal for children to play and adults to sit back and relax. You'll find a shop, café and the Royal St David’s Golf Club, one of Britain’s finest links courses, nearby, ideal for anyone looking to work on their swing by the seaside.

Where to stay: Branwen, part of Harlech Apartments, is an apartment for two people offering impressive views of Harlech Castle, as well as the soothing image of the sea. Inside, it's stylish and the perfect spot for people watching.

West Shore Beach, Llandudno - Best beaches in Wales

Looking for the best beach in North Wales? Llandudno's North Shore Beach is the seaside resort's most famous stretch, with its Victorian pier and wide promenade, but if you're after something without the crowds, head for West Shore Beach. Backed by dunes and showing off Llandudno's quieter side, this stunning Blue Flag beach offers a large expanse of sands and is famous for its sunsets.

Where to stay: Make it a big group getaway and check into a 10-person townhouse, with a wood burner, garden and hot tub to enjoy during nights of fun. This glam property is also just a short stroll from one of the best beaches in Wales, plus a good handful of independent pubs, restaurants and shops nearby.

North Beach, Tenby - Best beaches in Wales

For the best beaches in South Wales, look no further than picturesque Tenby and the harbour town's North Beach. The unrivalled coastal spot is one of the most photographed locations in Wales thanks to its superb sand and Goscar Rock sticking out of the middle of it. A sun trap even on windy days, it has a Blue Flag for its water quality and is overlooked by the town of Tenby.

Where to stay: For a seriously impressive holiday cottage that sits right on North Beach, this modern apartment sleeps six and offers incredible views from various spaces. The lovely cobbled streets and quaint shops and traditional inns of Tenby are also within walking distance.

Castle Beach, Tenby - Best beaches in Wales

This cliff-backed beach is another Tenby stretch that needs mentioning. Castle Beach can completely disappear at high tide but at low tide, it's an absolute delight to behold. The smallest of Tenby's three sandy beaches, it's just 150m wide and the cove is as scenic as they come, with the ancient ruins of Tenby Castle above it. Previously named the best beach in the UK, this one should be high on your list when it comes to the best sandy spots in Wales (and the world).

Where to stay: Try this lovely cottage that sits just a few minutes' walk away from Castle Beach (and a lovely selection of pubs and shops), which sleeps six and offers a cosy home from home.

Saundersfoot Beach, Pembrokeshire - Best beaches in Wales

The very popular sandy beach of Saundersfoot is a favourite destination for families and has shallow water, ideal for swimming. A small seaside resort between Tenby and Amroth, Saundersfoot has a charm and character of its own. There's a busy harbour at the south end and a number of cafes, pubs, shops and restaurants nearby and along the beachfront.

Where to stay: Just a few metres from the beach is a two-person cottage (plus one dog allowed) for a romantic seaside escape in Wales. The detached cottage has pubs, restaurants and shops all within walking distance, plus plenty of lovely coastal trails to try.

For something sleek and stylish, try this nine-person beach house with a hot tub. A short walk will get you to the sandy Glen beach, which adjoins the harbour in the centre of the village. There are also shops, pubs and restaurants.

Barmouth Beach, Gwynedd - Best beaches in Wales

Sand dunes, mountains and a micro-climate, this glorious beach has it all. Located at the mouth of the Mawddach Estuary, in the south west corner of the Snowdonia National Park, Barmouth is another of the best beaches in North Wales to have on your list. There are often large waves that make it ideal for surfing and the sprawling beach never feels crowded, even during the busier months.

Where to stay: Take in the views from a lovely cottage that's close to the beach, harbour and restaurants. This one sleeps two and has everything you need for a beach break to Barmouth.

Barafundle Bay, Pembrokeshire - Best beaches in Wales

A regular on the 'best beach' lists, Barafundle Bay offers all the wow factor you want from a trip to the seaside. It's backed by dunes and pine trees, with swathes of golden sand. It's often compared to beaches in the Caribbean and is pristine thanks to its isolated location. The Pembrokeshire beach has no facilities and parking is a half a mile walk over cliffs but it's worth it for taking all of this in.

Where to stay: Just a 10-minute drive from Barafundle Bay and close to another terrific Welsh Beach, Freshwater East, this cottage is homely, sleeps four and ideal for small families.

Newport Sands, Pembrokeshire - Best beaches in Wales

Pretty Newport Sands is the perfect place for a family getaway, with plenty of rock pooling and crabbing competitions to keep younger ones entertained. This long, broad beach at the mouth of the River Nevern is a haven for grown-ups too, with dune-backed, sandy shores and plenty of space to explore at low tide.

Where to stay: Embrace the nautical theme with a stay in the beautifully restored Lightkeeper's Watch, a tiny but chic space with glorious views and its own private hot tub. The perfect space for two.

Newborough Beach, Anglesey - Best beaches in Wales

This superb beach, located on the south-western tip of the island of Anglesey, is backed by Newborough National Nature Reserve and is known as one of the best beaches in North Wales. You'll find incredible views of Snowdonia National Park, with Llanddwyn Island located at the far end of the beach, which makes a great picnic spot.

Where to stay: Check into a former granary that has a unique location on a working vineyard in the south-west of Anglesey, around a 10-minute drive from Newborough Beach. It sleeps four, with two dogs allowed.

Marloes Sands, Pembrokeshire - Best beaches in Wales

A hidden gem on the western edge of Pembrokeshire, Marloes Sands is a wide, curved National Trust beach with amazing scenery and wildlife to explore. There's safe swimming and lovely coastal walks that start from the car park, plus you'll want to look out for seals and seabirds. The unique beach has sandstones and volcanic rocks for some of the most impressive geology around.

Where to stay: A short drive from Marloes Sands is a stylish three-bedroom beach Airbnb, finished with a minimalist Scandi-style aesthetic. The open-plan dining-living area is flooded with natural light and looks out onto the garden, which features a BBQ and raised sofa seating area.

Penbryn Beach, Cardiganshire - Best beaches in Wales

A gorgeous National Trust beach, Penbryn is one of the best beaches in Wales for its golden sand. It's almost a mile long and when the tide is low you can explore a cave at the right hand side. At very low tide there is a quiet beach you can access from the headland, but be sure to check the tide tables as there's no other way to leave the sandy cove.

Where to stay: The Granary Cottage is a stone cottage near the quaint village of Llangrannog near to Cardigan and offers stunning views of the sea. There's one bedroom, making it ideal for a solo or couples' escape.

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The UK's best-kept secret seaside spot with golden beaches and its own microclimate

Dale in Pembrokeshire might be one of the UK's best-kept secret seaside spots thanks to its golden beaches, microclimate, and stunning coastal walks on its doorstep

• 15:43, 1 SEP 2024

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Welcome to Dale, a quaint coastal village that could be one of the UK's best-kept seaside secrets. Nestled at the far western edge of Wales, Dale is where history and nature combine to offer a slice of paradise that's as adventurous as it is tranquil.

Despite its small size, Dale is packed with character, from its charming cottages to its historic harbour. There are few places where rolling green hills, cliffs, and expansive sea views converge quite like this.

In Dale, you can unwind, relax, or grab a paddleboard and explore the coastline. Whether you're a fan of breathtaking coastal walks, watersports, or simply enjoying a pint in a beachside pub, Dale has something for everyone.

It's relaxed, delightful, and possesses that irresistible blend of charm and wild beauty that makes you feel like you've discovered something truly special.

READ MORE: The most beautiful hidden Devon beach that can only be accessed by 'smuggler's tunnel'

Dale Beach and watersports

At the heart of the village's coastal allure is Dale Beach. Its microclimate makes it a surprisingly sunny spot in Wales, according to WalesOnline .

This pebble and shingle beach extends along the sheltered Dale Bay, making it a favourite spot for locals and visitors attracted by its serene waters and picturesque surroundings. The bay's natural shield from the elements means the waters stay relatively calm even on windy days, making it an excellent location for paddleboarding, sailing and swimming.

Dale Beach is a well-facilitated location, ensuring a comfortable and convenient visit for all. It boasts public toilets, including accessible options, making it an inclusive spot for everyone to enjoy their seaside experience.

The beach also features a slipway and a pontoon, ideal for launching small boats or paddle boards or getting closer to the water.

Additionally, Dale Beach houses a well-established watersports centre where equipment can be rented, lessons taken, or simply enjoy the sight of colourful sails dotting the water.

Pembrokeshire beaches

Just a short distance from Dale, either by foot along the coastal path or a quick drive, you'll find Marloes Sands, one of Britain's most stunning beaches.

Marloes Sands is characterised by its vast expanse of golden sand, framed by towering cliffs and unique rock formations. The beach extends for almost a mile, its breadth revealed as the tide retreats, unveiling a landscape dotted with rocky outcrops and pools brimming with marine life.

Despite its charm, Marloes Sands remains refreshingly devoid of commercial development, maintaining its wild character.

The National Trust car park provides access to the beach, a half-mile walk away. The journey is worth it for the sweeping views of the coastline and distant islands of Skokholm and Skomer, renowned for their abundant birdlife.

These islands are a haven for puffins, manx shearwaters, and other seabirds, making the area a hotspot for wildlife enthusiasts. Marloes Sands' dramatic scenery has also made it a popular filming location for major films.

For those seeking a more secluded coastal experience, nearby Albion Sands offers just that. This small cove, only accessible at low tide by scrambling over rocks, has a hidden charm all its own.

A short distance away, St Brides Haven presents a contrasting landscape with its rocky shore, perfect for exploring tidal pools or simply enjoying the tranquillity of a lesser-known beach.

Exploring the coast - walks and wildlife

Dale is ideally located for exploring the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, a trail that meanders along some of the UK's most stunning stretches of coastline.

The path offers a variety of gentle walks and more challenging hikes, each offering scenic spots and coastal vistas.

Whether you opt for a leisurely stroll from Dale to St. Ann's Head, home to an iconic lighthouse, or embark on a longer trek towards Marloes, the views are spectacular.

This area is also a sanctuary for wildlife. Keep an eye out for seals sunning themselves on the rocks or dolphins frolicking in the surf.

Bird enthusiasts will be thrilled here, as the cliffs serve as nesting grounds for various seabirds. And if you're fortunate, you might even spot the elusive chough, a rare bird with a distinctive red beak and legs.

A trip to Skomer

Just a short drive from Dale, the quaint village of Martin's Haven is the starting point for boat trips to Skomer Island.

Skomer is one of the UK's most significant wildlife havens. It is home to thousands of seabirds, including the charming puffins that nest here during the spring and summer.

A trip to Skomer provides the opportunity to get up close and personal with these adorable creatures and explore the island's rugged beauty. The boat journey over is also a delight, offering dreamy coastline views and the chance to spot seals and dolphins.

Once on the car-free island, you can spend the day meandering the trails, watching the puffins go about their business, and soaking in the tranquil atmosphere of this remote outpost.

Eating out in Dale

Dale boasts a few excellent dining options. During the day, enjoy a proper Welsh breakfast or fresh local crab sandwiches from the family-run Boathouse cafe, which is situated right on the beach.

The Griffin Pub, a traditional and award-winning establishment that's been around for 300 years, is a favourite among locals and visitors alike. Located right on the seafront, it's not uncommon to see patrons enjoying the balmy summer nights outside on the pavement, adding to the lively atmosphere of the place.

This pub offers a warm welcome, hearty meals, and a taste of local culture. The menu boasts a variety of dishes, many of which highlight the best produce from Pembrokeshire, including fresh seafood caught just off the coast.

From mackerel to turbot, razor clams to scallops, crab to lobster, the menu offers an extensive selection of fresh seafood dishes and local produce. There are also other home-cooked dishes available to cater to all tastes.

For a dining experience that combines delectable food with stunning views, Coco's Brasserie at Dale Yacht Club is the place to go. Situated right by the water, this brasserie provides a relaxed and welcoming environment where you can savour a meal while taking in the tranquil harbour views.

Known for its Mediterranean-inspired tapas, plates, and grazing boards, this chic venue is sure to impress.

Stay in a fort

For a truly unique experience, consider spending the night in Dale Fort. This historic building, perched on a cliff overlooking the sea, was once a military installation. It was part of a network of forts built during the 19th century to protect Britain's coast.

The West Blockhouse, an imposing structure located on the dramatic Pembrokeshire coast, stands alone on a rocky cliff overlooking the roaring Atlantic Ocean.

Constructed between 1854 and 1857, this former battery of six heavy guns once guarded the harbour entrance. Today, it welcomes guests as an educational centre and hostel.

The fort provides unrivalled views of the sea and surrounding coastline, with the sunrise offering a particularly breathtaking spectacle from this historic spot.

Accommodation options range from shared dormitories to private rooms, all with access to the building's facilities and grounds.

Practical information

A few practical details can help ensure your visit to Dale Beach goes smoothly. There is parking available next to the beach, but spaces are limited, so early arrival is recommended, especially during peak times.

If the beachfront car park is full, there's a larger pay-and-display option just a short walk away, providing around 100 spaces.

Dale Beach offers public toilets, a slipway and pontoon, and a cafe located across the road from the bay.

Dog restrictions are in place at the northern end of the beach from May 1st to September 30th. A map of the beach will show you where these apply.

For those planning longer stays, Dale boasts a charming selection of B&Bs and self-catering accommodations, ensuring a comfortable place to rest after a day of exploration.

Getting to Dale

Reaching Dale is relatively straightforward, but some planning is required, particularly for those visiting from outside Wales.

• Most Recent

10 most beautiful places you’ll be surprised are in the UK, from waterfalls to secluded beaches

W hen the weather disappoints or the workload is heavy, we often find ourselves wanderlusting for far-flung places across the globe.

However, you don't have to venture outside of the UK to enjoy azure waters, golden sand and palm trees. In fact, for those who only look to airports, cross-Channel trains and ferries to get their holiday fill, the sheer beauty that can be found across Britain is somewhat surprising. But it's certainly a pleasant surprise, as this guide will show you.

The UK is home to Bali -esque flowing waterfalls, jungle settings that look like something from Central America , a slice of Sydney in  Devon and even an Italianate villages in Wales . What’s more, some of our beaches can compete with the best around the world (for their natural setting, if not their weather).

So when those blues are getting to you but you can’t go abroad, fear not; below are some of the best places in the UK to enjoy some strikingly exotic scenery.

Three Cliffs Bay, Gower Peninsula

A half-hour drive from Swansea, in south Wales , Three Cliffs Bay is a spectacular shoreline of sand dunes, salt marshes and the bay’s signature three limestone cliffs.

A photogenic part of the Gower Coast Path, it’s an ideal spot for picnics, and is popular for caravaning, glamping and cottage retreats.

Tinside Lido, Plymouth

Part of an Art Deco hotel that first opened in 1935, Tinside Lido closed in 1992 but returned after a successful local campaign and attained Grade II-listed status in 1998.

Its poolside views are not dissimilar to Sydney's Bondi Beach, while the salt water swimming pool is a great place to splash and sunbathe in the summer months. It currently opens every summer, from late July to late September.

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Portmeirion, Gwynedd

Designed and built in the style of an Italian village by Sir Clough William-Ellis between 1925 and 1973, Portmeirion is one of the most unique villages in Wales.

While it may be located in North Wales, rather than the Mediterranean, Portmeirion still attracts visitors in their droves due to its scenic beauty, boutique hotels and excellent restaurants . The main village, subtropical gardens and section of beach remain the most popular attractions.

High Force, Durham

Verdant scenery and fast-flowing waterfalls give High Force the air of a Costa Rican jungle, but it can be found in County Durham. One of England ’s most spectacular waterfalls, it has a 21m drop into the beautiful plunge pool below.

A variety of wildlife and fauna can be seen at High Force throughout the seasons from wildflowers, ferns and towering trees to roe deer and rabbits.

Barafundle Bay, Pembrokeshire, Wales

Near to the village of Stackpole in Pembrokeshire , Barafundle Bay is nestled between cliffs and is reminiscent of a secluded bay on a Greek island. Once owned by the Cawdor family of Stackpole Court, the beach is now open to the public and has previously made the list of the top beaches in the world, while the Good Holiday Guide also named it the best beach in Britain.

With sand dunes and pine trees, the beach is accessible by a half-mile walk from the nearest car park and offers a secluded, scenic retreat.

West Bay, Dorset, England

With towering orange cliffs and beautiful clear waters, West Bay in Dorset is reminiscent of the Algarve.

With its seaside location, it's ideal for family holidays and coastal walks, while the nearby market town of Bridport has long had a stellar reputation for culture and food.

Kynance Cove, Cornwall, England

Kynance Cove is situated in southern Cornwall , not far from Lizard Point, the most southerly point in the UK. it is one of the most photographed and painted locations in the county, with beautiful white sand and blue sea, and certainly wouldn't look out of place on a Sardinian postcard.

A landscape painter's dream, the contrast between the cove’s white sand beach, emerald waters and the dark red and green serpentine rock is breathtaking.

At low tide there are plenty of sea caves and islands to explore, and its rock-towers were even featured in BBC One's Poldark.

Tenby, Pembrokeshire

On the right day, Tenby can feel like you’ve transported to Bali , with its palm trees, golden sands, blue seas and colourful buildings.

A seaside tourist town for over 200 years, Tenby is steeped in history and surrounded by a medieval wall. It's also home to four beaches; North, South, Harbour and Castle. North is popular for watersports, Castle its spectacular views and South beach for its almost two-mile stretch of golden sand. Harbour is the smallest of the four, but is ideally located on the harbour itself.

Sgwd Yr Eira, Brecon Beacons

Sgwd Yr Eira waterfall may look like a selfie spot in Thailand , but is actually found in the Melte Valley, in Wales's Brecon Beacons National Park.

Translated literally as “fall of snow”, visitors can walk behind the curtain of water on a path forged by sheep farmers, which makes for the perfect photo opportunity. The waterfall forms part of the national park’s ‘four waterfalls walk’, a six-mile loop that takes around three hours.

Langamull Beach, Isle of Mull, Scotland

Described as one of Mull’s best kept secrets, Langamull Beach is often heralded as the Mull Caribbean thanks to its white sand.

The 20-minute walk to the beach is secluded, with spectacular views justifying the journey, and there are several other walking routes along grassy dunes and low-lying cliffs. On a clear day, visitors may be able to see other small islands and Skye.

Read more on the best hotels in Scotland

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