What are the main coastal towns to stay in Pembrokeshire?

Tenby is the most popular, with beaches on both sides of the town and a busy harbour. Saundersfoot sits nearby and offers a smaller, more compact base with easy access to the same stretch of coast. Further west, St Davids provides access to more open coastline, while Newport in the north offers a quieter setting near an estuary.

Which beaches in Pembrokeshire are best for long walks?

Freshwater West offers a long, open stretch where you can walk for extended distances without interruption. Whitesands Bay provides a similar sense of space, particularly outside peak periods. Poppit Sands is another good option, with a flatter and more accessible shoreline for steady walking.

Which beaches are best for surfing in Pembrokeshire?

Freshwater West is one of the best surf beaches in Wales due to its exposure to Atlantic conditions. Whitesands Bay is another popular option, with consistent waves and good access. Both beaches provide enough space for different users without feeling crowded.

Are there coastal walking routes in Pembrokeshire?

Yes, the Pembrokeshire Coast Path runs along the entire coastline and links key towns and beaches. It follows the cliffs and provides access to viewpoints and smaller coves along the way. Sections can be walked independently, making it easy to plan shorter routes.

Are there accessible beaches in Pembrokeshire?

Yes, beaches such as Tenby’s main beaches and Poppit Sands are among the most accessible. They offer easier access from nearby parking and fewer barriers to entry. In contrast, beaches like Barafundle Bay require a walk and are less suitable for easy access.

What is Newport like as a coastal base?

Newport offers a quieter alternative to more central tourist areas. It sits near a sandy beach and an estuary, giving you access to different types of landscape. The town itself is smaller, which suits those looking for a slower pace.

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Coastal towns, beaches and highlights in Pembrokeshire

Main towns and coastal bases

Pembrokeshire’s coastline in West Wales is anchored by a number of well-known towns. Tenby stands out for its colourful harbour and beaches on either side of the town, while Saundersfoot offers a smaller, more compact alternative nearby. Further west, St Davids provides access to a more open and less developed section of the coast, with Whitesands Bay close by. Newport, on the northern edge of the county, offers a quieter base with access to both beach and estuary.

Beaches along the Pembrokeshire coast

The coastline includes some of the most well-known beaches in Wales. Whitesands Bay, near St Davids, is one of the most open and exposed, while Freshwater West offers a similar feel with more space and fewer built-up areas. Barafundle Bay is more enclosed and reached on foot, giving it a different character. Tenby North Beach and South Beach provide easier access from the town, while Poppit Sands near Cardigan offers a wide, accessible shoreline.

Points of interest and exploring the area

Pembrokeshire Coast National Park covers much of the coastline, linking beaches, cliffs and coastal paths. The Pembrokeshire Coast Path runs through the area, connecting towns and viewpoints and making it easy to explore sections on foot. Offshore, islands such as Ramsey Island can be reached by boat, while inland routes lead to estuaries and quieter areas away from the main beaches. The combination of accessible towns and more remote sections makes it easy to vary how you spend your time along the coast.

Things to do in Pembrokeshire