Coasts and beaches in Pembrokeshire

View over Freshwater West and Gupton Farm, Pembrokeshire, Wales — View over Freshwater West and Gupton Farm | © National Trust Images/Owen Howells

Explore sweeping beaches, beautiful countryside rich in wildlife and a rugged coastline on a visit to Pembrokeshire. From swimming at Broad Haven South or visiting the birds on Skomer Island, to discovering Iron Age forts at Solva, learn more about what to see and do at some of the best coasts and beaches in Wales.

Stackpole: Go kayaking or coasteering from Stackpole Quay, or spend the day at one of our beautiful family-friendly beaches, Broad Haven South or the world famous Barafundle Bay. There are also plenty of walking trails to enjoy, with Bosherton lakes and the surrounding woodland to explore. Call into reception at the Stackpole Centre for more information about routes.Plan your visit to Stackpole
Freshwater West and Gupton Farm: A stunning wide and sandy beach with extensive dunes, and a popular destination for experienced surfers. There’s plenty of sand to build impressive sandcastles, try kite flying or walk along this wild stretch of coast. Freshwater West is backed by a natural dune system and expansive wetland known as the Castlemartin Corse, with a variety of habitats for ground-nesting birds. So don’t forget your binoculars.Plan your visit to Freshwater West
Marloes Sands and Mere: The Marloes Peninsula on the Western edge of Pembrokeshire is a colourful combination of coast and countryside. A must-visit for beach lovers and birdwatchers alike, it’s also a great place to explore history and geology. Marloes Sands is a safe, sandy stretch of beach that’s suitable for bathing, while inland you’ll find Marloes Mere, an important wetland for breeding, migrant and wintering birds.Plan your visit to Marloes Sands and Mere
Martin’s Haven: Martin’s Haven is the peninsula’s harbour and the base for the Skomer Marine Conservation Zone, the first of its kind in Wales. Catch the boat to nearby Skomer and Skokholm Islands to discover internationally important populations of breeding seabirds including puffins, razorbills, guillemots, and Manx shearwaters.Plan your visit to Martin’s Haven

A family paddling in the sea at Marloes Sands, Pembrokeshire | © National Trust Images/Chris Lacey

Southwood Estate: Discover a timeless landscape of wooded valleys, floral fields, and craggy clifftops. This is a beautiful place for walking and the traditional field boundaries make it feel like you’re stepping into the past. Soak up the lovely sea views and look out for an abundance of wildlife on your adventures.Plan your visit to Southwood Estate
Solva Coast: Discover Iron Age forts, lime kilns and old mills nestled along the Pembrokeshire coastline. A great area for rugged walks through time, from Solva Harbour you can explore the village or take a walk onto the Gribin headland with its glorious views. The stone still used for repairs St David’s cathedral can be found at the end of the beautiful, sheltered Caerbwdy Valley, which runs down to the sea.Plan your visit to Solva Coast
St David’s Peninsula: Named after the patron saint of Wales, St David’s is the smallest city in Britain. The medieval cross which marks its centre is one of many along a historic route of pilgrimage to the cathedral. The peninsula offers beautiful coastal walks with wild flowers and birds colouring the landscape. Explore St David’s Commons where you’ll find a variety of heathland plants or visit St David’s Head for birdwatching.Plan your visit to St David’s Peninsula
Abereiddi to Abermawr: The wild stretch of coast between Abereiddi and Abermawr is all about industry and exploring the dramatic coastline. Watch breeding seals from the cifftops in September or take in the aqua blue colour of the Blue Lagoon as you explore the rugged coastline and clifftop views.Plan your visit to Abereiddi
Strumble Head to Cardigan: This is the most rugged and remote stretch of the Pembrokeshire coast. From the peak of Garn Fawr near Strumble Head to the cliffs of Pen yr Afr in the north, take in stunning sea views from the towering cliffs and explore rocky outcrops. The coastal walks here will take your breath away.Plan your visit to Strumble Head

View over St Bride's Bay, looking East from Porth Clais harbour with dramatic cliffs and a colony of seabirds, Pembrokeshire, Wales — View over St Bride’s Bay, Pembrokeshire | © National Trust Images / Joe Cornish

Dog-friendly beaches in Pembrokeshire

Well-behaved dogs are welcome at beaches in Pembrokeshire, unless there is a nature conservation reason for a place to be dog-free. This might vary according to the time of year, so it’s best to check the website for the beach or coastline when you plan to visit with your dog.

Dogs and livestock

While visiting, please pay attention to any local signage relating to dog walking – for example whether your dog needs to be on a lead. Dogs should be kept on leads around livestock, but if cattle or other large animals try to chase your dog then it is safer to drop the lead until you are clear of the area.

Follow the countryside code

Help keep coasts and beaches in Pembrokeshire safe and enjoyable by observing a few simple guidelines during your visit and following the Countryside Code.

Respect other people

Consider the local community and other people enjoying and working in the outdoors
Park carefully so access to gateways and driveways is clear
Leave gates and property as you find them
Follow marked paths and local signs
Be nice, say hi