Discover Pembrokeshire: Wales’ Wild Coastal Wonder
If Mother Nature had a favorite canvas, it might just be Pembrokeshire. Imagine a coastline shaped by volcanoes, carved by glaciers, and polished by time—a rugged masterpiece in Wales where red cliffs meet turquoise coves, sea stacks tower over crashing waves, and wildflower-covered headlands call to adventurers.
This slice of southwestern Wales isn’t just beautiful—it’s alive with ancient history, Celtic lore, medieval castles, and some of the best coastal hiking and sea kayaking in the UK. Welcome to Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, where every turn brings a new awe-inspiring view.
1. Fall for the Charm of Tenby
With pastel houses perched above golden beaches, Tenby is a picture-perfect harbor town that lives up to every postcard. Framed by medieval stone walls and wrapped around a bobbing harbor, it buzzes with life in the summer and quiets to a peaceful retreat in the off-season.
Don’t miss:
- Castle Beach, where you can walk to St Catherine’s Island at low tide
- North Beach, with views of Goscar Rock
- A coastal walk to Monkstone Beach for tide pools and solitude
🏰 2. Explore Carew Castle and Its Falconry Shows
Set beside a mirror-like millpond, Carew Castle blends Norman stronghold and Tudor mansion into one breathtaking ruin. Watch falconry displays, archery, and re-enactments, then cross over to the Carew Tidal Mill—the last of its kind in Wales.
🗿️ Side stop: See the intricately carved 11th-century Celtic cross near the entrance.
3. Visit Skomer Island for Puffin Paradise
Home to 48,000 puffins, Skomer is one of Europe’s best places to spot these charismatic seabirds. Catch the morning boat and hike the island’s 4-mile loop to see puffins, shearwaters, and wildflowers blooming on volcanic cliffs.
🧲 Planning tip: Book your ferry and land permits well in advance—summer sells out!
🍽️ 4. Feast in Foodie-Favorite Saundersfoot
From lobster rolls on the harbor to 10-course foraged menus in Narberth, the Saundersfoot area has become a haven for Welsh cuisine lovers.
Top picks:
- Lan y Môr for fine dining with coastal views
- The Stone Crab for boat-fresh seafood
- Annwn for wild, seasonal, and ancient-inspired dishes
🌿 5. Wander Colby Woodland Garden
Tucked into a peaceful valley near Saundersfoot, Colby Woodland Garden is a rewilded Eden with rare bats, butterflies, and seasonal blooms. Explore the towering Japanese redwood, shaded trails, and the sculpted walled garden.
🏯 6. Step Into History at Pembroke Castle
Birthplace of Henry VII, Pembroke Castle is one of Wales’ grandest. Explore towers, dungeons, and the eerie Wogan Cavern, then climb to the keep for panoramic views.
🎫 Summer brings interactive shows, falconry, and family-friendly medieval reenactments.
🌌 7. Stargaze in Dark Sky Paradise
When night falls, Pembrokeshire’s dark skies sparkle. Head to stargazing spots like Newgale Beach or Poppit Sands, far from city lights. August and December are prime times for meteor showers.
🔭 Don’t forget binoculars or a DSLR for astrophotography!
🔹 8. Visit the Ancient Pentre Ifan Burial Chamber
Over 5000 years old, this Neolithic tomb balances a 16-ton capstone on three uprights—made from the same bluestone as Stonehenge. It’s free, wild, and perfectly placed for epic views over the Preseli Hills.
9. Travel Back to the Iron Age at Castell Henllys
Step into reconstructed thatched roundhouses at Castell Henllys, where costumed guides demonstrate Iron Age life—from blacksmithing to cooking over open fires.
👨👧👦 Great for families! There’s a café, shop, and nature trails too.
⛪ 10. Marvel at St David’s Cathedral
In Britain’s smallest city, St Davids, lies an enormous 12th-century cathedral with purple stone towers, hidden chapels, and the shrine of Wales’ patron saint. It’s a peaceful, historic place surrounded by rugged coastlines.
🏖️ 11. Lounge on Barafundle Bay
Often named Britain’s best beach, Barafundle Bay is a secluded paradise reached by foot. Turquoise waters, golden sand, and dramatic cliffs make it ideal for swimming, walking, or just doing nothing.
🏞️ Bring snacks and water—no shops nearby!
💼 12. Walk the Golden Road Across the Preseli Hills
This 7-mile hilltop hike follows an ancient trade route dotted with standing stones, burial mounds, and epic views. Start at Bwlch Gwynt and see the Carn Menyn tors—believed to be the source of Stonehenge’s stones.
13. Take a Boat to Caldey Island
Sail from Tenby to Caldey Island, where monks live and make chocolate. Visit tranquil Priory Bay, hike the West Cliffs trail, and spot seals at St Margaret’s Island.
🍫 Pro tip: Try the monk-made chocolate bars sold near the ferry pier.
14. Visit Church Doors and Skrinkle Haven
Accessible at low tide, these hidden coves feature natural limestone arches, golden sand, and crashing surf. Bring good shoes—the steps are steep and the views worth every one.
🚣 15. Kayak or Coasteer Along the Cliffs
Try sea kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, or book a coasteering adventure—a high-energy combo of cliff jumping, swimming, and scrambling, born right here in Pembrokeshire.
🚲 16. Cycle Through the Gwaun Valley
This lush glacial valley runs between Fishguard and the Preseli Hills. Bike the 6-mile Gwaun Valley Trail to see Celtic churches, ancient stones, and rare wildlife.
🍻 End your ride at the Dyffryn Arms, an old-world pub frozen in time.
🏄 17. Surf at Freshwater West
Windswept, wild, and world-class for surfing, Freshwater West is a favorite among pros. Too dangerous for swimming but ideal for dramatic coastal views and Harry Potter fans—Dobby’s grave was filmed here!
18. Descend to St Govan’s Chapel
Built into a sea cliff, this 13th-century chapel honors a hermit saved from pirates. Check tide schedules and MoD firing range notices before you go—access is sometimes restricted.
🎶 19. Catch a Festival in Fishguard
This lively port town bursts into song each summer with:
- Fishguard Folk Festival (May)
- International Music Festival (July)
- Aberjazz Festival (August)
🎨 Visit the town hall to see the Last Invasion Tapestry, telling the tale of a French attack in 1797.
🏰 20. Sleep Like Royalty in a Real Castle
Roch Castle, near St Davids, offers boutique luxury in a medieval fortress. With sea views, stone towers, and sleek interiors, it’s one of the UK’s most unique stays.
🛎️ Book early—only six suites!
21. Hike the Dinas Head Loop
A stunning 3-mile coastal walk circles Dinas Island (not actually an island!) with sea cliffs, hidden coves, and puffins in spring. Visit Cwm-yr-Eglwys to see the ruined cliffside church washed away in the 1859 storm.
📌 Final Travel Tips
- Best time to visit: May–September
- Bring layers—the weather changes fast
- Download offline maps for remote walks
- Stay longer: One week lets you explore coast, castles, and cuisine at a relaxed pace
🧳 Our Recommended Gear for Exploring Pembrokeshire
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