The Best Beaches in Pembrokeshire
Pembrokeshire is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the UK.
From wide sweeping bays backed by dunes to hidden coves tucked beneath dramatic cliffs, the coastline here has a way of surprising even seasoned travellers. Whether you’re looking for long coastal walks, wild swimming spots or simply a quiet place to sit and watch the tide roll in, there is always another beach waiting to be discovered.
Staying at Grove of Narberth places many of these extraordinary stretches of coastline within easy reach. Within half an hour to an hour’s drive, you can explore some of the most iconic beaches in Wales, each with its own character and sense of place.
Beaches closest to Grove of Narberth
One of the joys of staying at Grove is how quickly the Welsh countryside gives way to the coast. Within around 20 minutes you can reach the sandy shores of Saundersfoot and Coppet Hall, both perfect for an easy morning by the sea. Saundersfoot Beach stretches along the harbour village and is ideal for relaxed seaside walks, while Coppet Hall offers calmer waters that are popular for swimming and paddleboarding.
After time on the beach, you can call into Lân y Môr, Grove’s sister restaurant overlooking Coppet Hall Beach. With wide coastal views and a relaxed atmosphere, it’s a wonderful place to pause for lunch or dinner before heading back through the Pembrokeshire countryside.
Barafundle Bay
Often described as one of the most beautiful beaches in Britain, Barafundle Bay feels wonderfully untouched.
Reaching the beach requires a 20 minute walk along the cliffs from the National Trust car park at Stackpole, which only adds to the sense of discovery. When the view finally opens up, the reward is a perfectly curved bay of golden sand framed by dunes and turquoise water. On a calm day it can feel almost Mediterranean!
Freshwater West
Freshwater West is one of Pembrokeshire’s most dramatic beaches. Its vast sweep of sand and powerful Atlantic waves make it a favourite with surfers, photographers and film producers alike. The beach famously appeared in the Harry Potter films and the wartime drama Their Finest, where its wide sands doubled for Dunkirk. Even on quieter days, the scale of the landscape here makes it a memorable place to walk.
Whitesands Bay
Just outside St Davids, Whitesands Bay is one of the most popular beaches in Pembrokeshire.
The long sandy shoreline and reliable surf make it perfect for swimming, surfing or simply enjoying a traditional day by the sea. On clear days the views across Ramsey Island are spectacular, particularly as the sun begins to set. It’s also easily combined with a visit to St Davids, the UK’s smallest city.
Broad Haven South
Along the Stackpole coastline, Broad Haven South offers a beach that feels both expansive and peaceful. Framed by cliffs and backed by dunes and lily ponds, the bay opens into a wide stretch of sand that often feels blissfully spacious. Nearby Bosherston Ponds provide one of the most scenic walking routes in Pembrokeshire and make a wonderful way to extend a day by the sea.
Tenby’s North and South Beaches
The colourful harbour town of Tenby is famous for its beautiful beaches. North Beach looks out towards Goscar Rock and the harbour, while South Beach stretches for nearly two miles towards Penally. Together they create one of the most recognisable seaside scenes in Wales. Exploring Tenby followed by a walk along the sand is a classic Pembrokeshire experience.
Hidden coves and quiet discoveries in Wales
Part of the magic of the Pembrokeshire coast is that even its quieter beaches feel remarkable. Places like Marloes Sands, Abermawr and Caerfai reward those willing to venture a little further. Often reached by winding coastal paths and framed by dramatic cliffs, they offer a quieter and more secluded experience of the coastline. Many find their favourite beach is the one they discover almost by accident.
A day by the sea, the Grove way
A beach day in Pembrokeshire rarely needs much planning. Our team are always happy to suggest beaches depending on the weather, tides and what kind of day you’re hoping for. Before heading out, the kitchen can prepare a picnic or packed lunch so you can settle in beside the sea without needing to rush back.
After a day exploring the coast, returning to Grove feels like the perfect ending. The warmth of our boutique hotel in Pembrokeshire, a relaxed meal at one of our welcoming restaurants, and the quiet countryside waiting outside. And tomorrow, perhaps another beach to discover!
