11 AWESOME Things To Do In Pembrokeshire, Wales (& How To Get There)

Looking for the best things to do in Pembrokeshire? You’re in the right place!

The Pembrokeshire coast epitomizes Welsh charm and stands as one of the most stunning destinations in Britain, if not the world.

You don’t have to take my word for it—National Geographic Traveler magazine has named Pembrokeshire one of the top two coastal destinations globally.

Every year, tourists from around the globe flock to Pembrokeshire to witness its unique beauty. After experiencing it myself, it’s easy to understand why.

The Pembrokeshire coast boasts an incredible variety of dramatic landscapes, including rugged cliffs, hidden coves, charming blue-flag beaches, and lush greenery.

For thrill-seekers and adventure lovers, Pembrokeshire is a dream come true. Whether you’re into surfing, hiking, or simply have a love for nature and wildlife, there’s something here for everyone.

For the particularly adventurous, there’s the option to hike the entire Pembrokeshire Coast Path. All you need is 12-18 days and a deep love for hiking.

With 299 kilometres of coastline to explore, deciding where to start can be overwhelming.

To help you, I’ve narrowed down some of my favourite spots in Pembrokeshire that you absolutely must visit.

So, what are the best things to do in Pembrokeshire?

Read on below to find out!

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Prepare for your trip to Pembrokeshire

Tenby

Number one on the list of the best things to do in Pembrokeshire is to visit the charming harbour town of Tenby.

Tenby is one of the most iconic spots in Wales, renowned for its picturesque multicoloured buildings that line the harbour.

There are plenty of beaches to explore and activities to enjoy in and around Tenby.

Here are some top recommendations:

• Visit the Harbour: Take in the stunning views and vibrant atmosphere.
• Castle Beach: Relax on this beautiful beach with its dramatic views.
• North Beach: Enjoy the golden sands and clear waters.
• South Beach: A perfect spot for a peaceful day by the sea.
• Go Fishing: Experience the local pastime and perhaps catch your dinner.
• Fish and Chips at “Fecci’s of Tenby”: Delight in a classic seaside meal from this popular spot.
• Boat Trip to Caldey Island: Explore the serene beauty of this nearby island.
• Walk the Coast Path to Saundersfoot and Monkstone: Enjoy breathtaking coastal views on this scenic hike.

Abereiddy Blue Lagoon

Abereiddy, once a bustling slate quarry until its abandonment and flooding in 1910, has since reinvented itself as a playground for water sports enthusiasts, particularly diving and coasteering.

I first stumbled upon this lagoon in an advert and I was super excited to find out that it was in Pembrokeshire.

This spot is an absolute must-see and is hands down on of the best things to do in Pembrokeshire, so make sure it’s at the top of your list.

But the lagoon is just the beginning.

Adjacent to it is a beach with waves perfect for surfing, and it’s also a fantastic starting point for hikes along the breathtaking Pembrokeshire Coast Path.

One particularly scenic route takes you along the coast to the quaint town of Porthgain.

Abereiddy is only an hour’s drive from Tenby.

Once you arrive, you’ll need to shell out just £4 for parking—a small price to pay for such an incredible adventure.

Whitesands Bay

Whitesands Bay, a stunning blue flag beach located in the St David’s area of Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, offers a Mediterranean-like experience on sunny days with its crystal-clear blue waters.

There’s an onsite car park available for £5, but it’s cash only, so be sure to bring some with you. The toilets here also require 40p for entry.

If you find yourself without cash (like I did), there’s a layby on the way where you can park.

Whitesands Bay is also a fantastic starting point for numerous hiking routes.

One of the best is the circular route around St David’s Head and Whitesands Bay, offering breathtaking views.

Go Surfing

I bet you didn’t know that you could go surfing in Pembrokeshire.

There are actually loads of great surfing spots in the county (see below)

• West Dale: Rocky and sandy, best for experienced surfers due to strong rips and powerful waves.
• Marloes Sands: Isolated with solid swells, suitable for intermediate to experienced surfers.
• Manorbier: Beach and reef break, best for intermediate to experienced surfers, beginners should stick to the left.
• Newgale: Accessible and popular with longboarders, ideal for beginners with lifeguard-patrolled sections.
• Whitesands: Consistent surf, busy in summer, best for intermediate to experienced surfers.
• Tenby South Beach: Rarely perfect conditions, best for experienced surfers only.
• Abereiddy: Needs big swells, suitable for intermediate and experienced surfers.
• Freshwater West: Most consistent surf in Wales, not for beginners, surf school available.

If you are new to surfing and you want to learn, you can book a lesson here.

Church Doors Cove

Church Doors Cove is a breathtaking rocky cove with towering cliffs, where the force of the sea has carved a “church door” into the rocks.

This unique beach is best visited at low tide.

Adjacent to Church Doors Cove lies the stunning sandy beach of Shrinkle Haven.

Accessing Shrinkle Haven Beach requires a bit of adventure, as there is no dedicated path.

You’ll need to pass through a hole in the rocks on the right-hand side of Church Doors Cove.

Be sure to plan your visit for low tide to avoid getting stuck or soaked on your return trip.

Parking is available free of charge at Lydstep Head or near the Manorbier Youth Hostel.

To reach Church Doors Cove beach, follow the Pembrokeshire Coast Path.

You’ll then descend a long, steep set of concrete steps, followed by a metal stairway that leads down to the beach.

A trip to Church doors is one of the best free things to do in Pembrokeshire, so make sure to add it to your Pembrokeshire itinerary.

Barafundle Bay

Barafundle Bay is a hidden gem in Pembrokeshire, a beautiful sandy beach with golden sand and sparkling emerald and blue waters that make it a top spot to visit.

It’s no wonder Barafundle has been voted one of the BEST beaches in Britain, and even one of the best in the world.

This beach is managed by the National Trust, so you can park at the National Trust car park.

From there, it’s about a half-mile walk to the beach.

Since it’s so secluded, don’t expect any onsite facilities at Barafundle Bay.

However, there is a cosy village pub close to the car park if you get hungry.

Also, ensure to check the tide times before you go so you don’t get trapped by the incoming tide.

Looking for more UK inpiration? Check out my other guides here.

Newgale Beach

Newgale Beach is vast with vibrant blue waters that stretch for nearly two miles.

Beyond strolling along the extensive sandy shore, you can explore several sheltered bays at Newgale.

To reach them, simply walk down the beach and cross the small pebble bank at low tide.

This beach is perfect for surfing and kitesurfing, with nearby spots offering lessons for both activities.

For a stunning birds-eye view of the beach head south along the main road.

Cross the stone bridge, go up the hill, and after passing a house on your left, you’ll find the entrance to the coast path.

Newgale offers ample parking and a café where you can enjoy a meal.

Go Paddleboarding

Pembrokeshire offers stunning spots for paddleboarding, perfect for both beginners and experienced paddlers.

Here are the top locations:

• Solva: Sheltered harbour with calm waters and scenic views.
• Lower Fishguard Harbour: Safe, picturesque harbour ideal for all skill levels.
• Tenby: North Beach, Harbour, South Beach, and Castle Beach offer diverse paddling experiences. Experienced paddlers can venture to Caldey Island.
• Stackpole Quay and Barafundle Bay: Explore rugged cliffs and secluded beaches.
• St Davids: Whitesands Bay, Porthclais Harbour, and Caerfai Beach feature beautiful coastlines and calm waters.
• Broadhaven South: Launch from the sandy beach and paddle along dramatic cliffs; experienced paddlers can explore towards St Govan’s.

Solva

Solva is one of Pembrokeshire’s most charming harbour towns.

It makes for the perfect lunch spot and you’ll get the chance to have a taste of the local Solva crab.

For a delicious meal, head to 35 Main Street. Situated right by the harbour, their Solva Crab sandwich is a must-try.

For those who enjoy a scenic hike, the Gribin Coastal Walk is a top recommendation.

This trail offers breathtaking panoramic views of Solva Harbour and the picturesque village.

Parking is convenient, with a large car park located right by the harbour, ensuring you won’t have any trouble finding a spot.

St Govans Chapel

Nestled between two limestone rocks near the sea, St Govan’s Chapel is a small hermit’s cell steeped in mystery.

Legend says St Govan discovered it while fleeing from pirates.

As the story goes, the cliff face miraculously opened to hide him and closed behind him, only to reopen once the danger had passed.

Grateful for his safety, St Govan founded the chapel there.

According to lore, if you turn three times inside the chapel, one of your wishes will be granted.

Skomer Island

Skomer Island is the best place in Pembrokeshire (and all of Wales) to see Puffin colonies.

Not only can you see Puffins, but Razorbills, Guillemots and Seals too.

Boat tickets to get onto the island cost around £40 and sell out very fast.

Make sure you book in advance. If you miss out on a day ticket to the island you can book a 1-hour boat trip around Skomer for £20.

I went on the boat trip and whilst the views were beautiful, I didn’t see much wildlife, apart from a few Guillemots, but not puffins.

My advice would be to book in advance and get the day trip onto the island. Click here to book your tickets.

Seeing the puffins has to be one of the best things to do in Pembrokeshire, so make sure to add this one to your list.

FAQ’s on Pembrokeshire

What is the best way to get to Pembrokeshire?

There are 3 main ways to get to Pembrokeshire, by car, train and coach.

By Train

From London:

• Departure Station: London Paddington
• Route: Take the Great Western Railway (GWR) service to Swansea.
• Change at: Swansea for a Transport for Wales (TfW) service towards Pembrokeshire.
• Destinations: Key stations in Pembrokeshire include Haverfordwest, Milford Haven, Pembroke Dock, and Tenby.
• Approximate Travel Time: 5-6 hours

From Cardiff:

• Departure Station: Cardiff Central
• Route: Take a Transport for Wales (TfW) service directly to Pembrokeshire.
• Destinations: The same key stations in Pembrokeshire.
• Approximate Travel Time: 3-4 hours

From Swansea:

• Departure Station: Swansea
• Route: Take a Transport for Wales (TfW) service directly to Pembrokeshire.
• Destinations: Key stations in Pembrokeshire include Haverfordwest, Milford Haven, Pembroke Dock, and Tenby.
• Approximate Travel Time: 2-3 hours

By Coach

From London:

• Operator: National Express
• Departure Point: London Victoria Coach Station
• Route: Direct coaches or those with a change at Swansea or Cardiff.
• Destinations: Main towns in Pembrokeshire such as Haverfordwest, Tenby, and Pembroke.
• Approximate Travel Time: 7-9 hours, depending on the route and stops.

From Cardiff:

• Operator: National Express or Megabus
• Departure Point: Cardiff Central Bus Station
• Route: Direct or with a stop in Swansea.
• Destinations: Same key towns in Pembrokeshire.
• Approximate Travel Time: 4-6 hours

From Swansea:

• Operator: National Express or Megabus
• Departure Point: Swansea Bus Station
• Route: Direct coaches to Pembrokeshire.
• Destinations: Main towns in Pembrokeshire such as Haverfordwest, Tenby, and Pembroke.
• Approximate Travel Time: 2-3 hours

Driving

From London (4.5-5.5 hours):

1. Take the M4 motorway westbound out of London.
2. Continue on the M4 across the Severn Bridge (toll might be applicable).
3. Stay on the M4 through Cardiff and Swansea.
4. After Swansea, the M4 turns into the A48.
5. Follow the A48, and then the A40, which takes you into Pembrokeshire.

From Cardiff (2-3 hours):

1. Take the M4 motorway westbound.
2. Continue on the M4 past Swansea, where it becomes the A48.
3. Follow the A48 and then the A40 into Pembrokeshire.

From Swansea (1-2 hours):

1. Take the A483 out of Swansea.
2. Merge onto the A40 towards Pembrokeshire.

What is the best way to explore Pembrokeshire?

The best way to explore Pembrokeshire is by car.

There a lots of little places that are “off the beaten track” and will be difficult to reach via public transport.

If you don’t have a car of your own you can rent a car.

If you do not have a car of your own, another option would be to catch the train into Swansea and hire a car for your trip.

From Swansea, the drive into Pembrokeshire is a little over an hour.

Alternatively, if driving is not an option then you can find out all about the best bus routes in Pembrokeshire here.

Where Is the best place to stay in Pembrokeshire?

My top recommendations for places to stay along the Pembrokeshire coast are Tenby and the district of St Davids.

Both locations offer convenient access to many of Pembrokeshire’s best attractions, all within an hour’s drive.

Is Pembroke worth visiting?

Absolutely, Pembroke is worth a visit. This charming town is full of history, with Pembroke Castle, the birthplace of Henry VII, being a must-see.

The town’s quaint streets, traditional shops, and cosy cafes are delightful.

Nature lovers will enjoy scenic walks along the Pembroke River and coastal paths. Whether you’re into history, architecture, or just relaxing, Pembroke has something for everyone.

Why is Pembrokeshire famous?

Pembrokeshire is famous for its stunning coastline and natural beauty.

The Pembrokeshire Coast National Park features dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, and lots of wildlife. It’s great for hiking, surfing, and kayaking.

The area also has rich history with sites like Pembroke Castle and St Davids Cathedral.

Add in charming towns, friendly locals, and a strong sense of community, and you’ve got a unique and attractive destination.

How many days do you need in Pembrokeshire?

I would recommend spending a minimum of 3 days in Pembrokeshire.

If you want to do some hiking whilst you are in Pembrokeshire and take things a little slower then I would say at least 5 days in Pembrokeshire would be a good amount.

The best time to visit Pembrokeshire

Pembrokeshire is a fantastic destination to visit year-round—provided you can avoid the rain!

With its stunning walks and beautiful beaches, there’s plenty to explore in both winter and summer.

The key is to steer clear of those wet and windy days, as many hikes are far less enjoyable in poor weather.

While the UK’s weather can be unpredictable, planning your trip strategically to catch clearer skies will ensure you make the most of your time in this coastal paradise. A bit of sunshine makes all the difference!

Travel Tips For Pembrokeshire

Make sure to carry change on you. Many parking and toilet facilities here take cash only.

As you’ll be in very rural places a lot of the time with no access to a cash machine it’s important to be prepared for this.

Happy Exploring

I hoped this post has helped you uncover all of the best things to do in Pembrokeshire.

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to reach out.