by Last Updated on 28/03/2024 by Claire Coney
Setting Off for Pembrokeshire
Austin and I set off for Pembrokeshire in Wales on a miserable morning. The rain was torrential and it fell like stair rods from the sky. Consequently, the poor visibility reduced the traffic on the M4 to a crawl due to poor visibility. Despite the terrible weather, I felt excited about the adventures ahead of us.
Our journey continued into Wales at a slow pace. But thankfully, once we crossed the Seven Bridge, the weather gradually improved.
By the time we reached Pembrokeshire, the rain had stopped. It was starting to brighten up and the clouds drifted away. The sun appeared and I was delighted to feel the warmth on my face.
About Pembrokeshire
Pembrokeshire is a remote region in southwest Wales. The coastline is part of Pembrokeshire’s National Park management scheme. It’s the first of its kind in the UK.
Pembrokeshire is also known for its dramatic coastline and beautiful beaches. Thus, the National Geographical Magazine rated it the second-best coast in the world.
Pembrokeshire’s magnificent coastal path meanders along the cliff tops for 186 miles. The coastline also has plenty of dramatic natural rock formations and 50 beautiful beaches. Wandering along the coastal path you will discover many pleasant coves and pretty fishing villages. You can have lots of fun exploring.
You will also find plenty of water activities on offer. Pembrokeshire has lots for you to enjoy.
Austin and I looked forward to exploring Pembrokeshire. We also wanted to walk some of the Pembrokeshire Coastal Path.
Arriving at Our Pembrokeshire Campsite
Austin and I arrived at Druidston Home Farm campsite in the afternoon. We were eager to set up camp and enjoy the emerging sunshine. Abigail, our Cairn Terrier couldn’t wait to get out of the van and explore. She loves our camping trips as much as we do. As soon as she was out of the van, Abigail put her nose to work. She investigated all the new smells of our camping pitch. Abigail soon learnt the rattles in the hedgerow was a place that demanded her attention.
First of all, Austin and I erected our small tent. When the tent was up, I made it cosy inside. I decorated the air bed with pillows, sleeping bags and fleece blankets.
Then I placed Abigail’s dog bed in the corner of the tent with her fleece blanket. I think it’s important for Abigail to have somewhere of her own to go so that she feels safe and cosy.
Next, we put up our utility tent and installed the porta-potty which we use at night.
And finally, we set up our picnic area with tables and camping chairs. Austin unpacked our gas cooker and food for the evening meal. While I laid the table with cutlery, glasses and wine.
A cup of tea followed our meal, and then I cleared up and took the dishes to the campsite facilities for washing.
It was a pleasant evening so Austin and I sat chatting. We had another glass of wine and watched a beautiful sunset over the sea.
Pembrokeshire Beaches
One of the best things about Pembrokeshire is the beautiful beaches. And there are lots to choose from. What’s more, is that most of the beaches are dog-friendly. It was wonderful to take Abigail to the beach and we went to different beaches every day. It is such a delight to see dogs enjoying a walk on the beach.
These are the beaches Austin, Abigail and I visited when we visited Pembrokeshire.
Druidston Haven Beach
This spectacular beach was in a picturesque cove edged by dark, dramatic cliffs. There are some spectacular rock formations and caves at the north end of the beach. But keep an eye on the tide times to avoid getting cut off. The sea comes in fast and the currents are strong.
At high tide, the beach has a pebble and stone bank. But at low tide, the beach reveals a broad expanse of golden sand.
There is no parking or facilities at Druidston beach. The nearest car park is at Nolton Haven.
Dogs are allowed on this beach all year round.
Austin, Abigail and I went to this beautiful beach every day. We loved it.
Newport Sands
The stunning beach of Newport Sands is 1.5 miles long. It is known to the locals as ‘Traeth Mawr’ which means big beach. The curved bay is backed by dunes and has impressive views of the Preseli Mountains.
Newport sands are on the north side of the river Nevern and are opposite the fishing village of Newport. The striking cliffs at the northern end of the beach are topped with a golf course. Also, you will find a car park, shop, café and toilets.
In contrast, the southern end of the beach is popular for bathing and beach games. It’s a good spot for fishing and bird watching. It is also great for kayaking, paddle boarding, and surfing.
Austin and I walked along the beach with Abigail. The wind was chilly, but the sun was shimmering on the sea. Although it was still early lots of people were walking on the beach. Some with dogs, some with children and a few people were already paddling in the sea.
The sand at the southern end of the beach was soft and deep. Little Abigail’s paws sank into the sand and this slowed her down. Austin climbed the dunes for a better view of our surroundings. While he explored the dunes I sat and enjoyed watching the beach activities.
The estuary’s strong current hindered the boats as they motored into the harbour. Abigails sat with me basking in the sun. She loves to sunbathe and the breeze was strong enough to keep her cool. When she is ready for some shade, I put an umbrella up. Abigail will happily stretch out under the umbrella for a snooze.
Austin returned to join us. He lay back in the soft sand and in no time was looking at the inside of his eyelids! Quite honestly, he could sleep on the edge of a knife! I wish I could!
When Austin reawakened, we set off back down the beach and returned to the van. The van was parked in an ideal spot with a fabulous view of the beach. It was a perfect place for our picnic.
Solva
A charming Welsh harbour that is set in a deep-sided valley. Solva has a small strip of sand that only appears at low tide. This patch of sand is at the head of a narrow inlet next to the harbour slipway.
The river Solva flows into the sheltered water of the harbour. This makes it an ideal place for children to gather and explore the rock pools and shallow waters.
Austin and I had a wonderful spot next to the harbour where we sat to eat our lunch. While I ate, I enjoyed watching families hunt for crabs, paddleboarding and kayaking. It was a joyful place full of laughter and people chattering. The highlight for me was when a young girl rode her beautiful horse into the water. The horse enjoyed splashing and soaking his legs in the salty water.
In the morning, I walked along the beach to the Lime Kilns that lay at the edge of the harbour. While I explored the Kilns Austin and Abigail climbed over the rocks and checked out the pools.
With our curiosity satisfied Austin and I continued along the Pembrokeshire coastal path. Austin strode up the steep path and Abigail and I followed. The route meandered through a woodland full of fragrant flowers.
The path climbed to an Iron Age Fort on top of a ridge. The views were incredible. To the north, Solva harbour lay in the deep valley below and the village spread up the opposite hillside. While in contrast to the south lay a picturesque cove and Solva Beach. It was well worth the steep climb to the top of the ridge.
Newgale Sands
This beach is phenomenal and one of the largest beaches in Wales. At high tide, the beach is stone and pebbles. Whereas at low tide, it becomes an enormous expanse of golden sand. The sand extends for approximately 2 miles making it a fantastic place for a dog walk.
Dogs are allowed on this beach all year round. However, restrictions apply on the middle section of the beach from 1st May to 30th September.
This beautiful beach is popular with surfers as the waves roll straight in from the Atlantic Sea. And kite surfers make good use of the brisk sea breezes.
This beach remains wild and undeveloped. The only facilities are at the north end of the beach. Here you will find shops, cafés, a pub and surfboard hire.
Austin and I enjoyed Newgale Sands and visited it several times during our holiday. We even got to see it in the full glory of the sunshine. Abigail loved it too!
Nolton Haven
I love this beautiful secluded cove. It nestles in St Brides Bay and has tall dark cliffs that line the narrow inlet. However, swimmers should be aware that the currents of the sea are strong and unpredictable.
At high tide, the beach is a mix of sand and pebbles. But as the sea retreats beautiful golden sand is exposed. And, this beach is dog-friendly all year round.
In the village, we found a lovely pub. Austin and I spent an hour or so here with a drink, soaking up the rays on a beautiful sunny day. It was a peaceful spot to unwind at the end of our day out.
Broadhaven
The golden sand of Broadhaven faces west towards St Brides Bay. At high tide, the broad expanse of sand disappears and returns when the tide goes out.
At the north end, you will find plenty of rock pools to explore. Also, there are sea stacks, stone arches and some interesting natural rock formations.
The south half of the beach is dog-friendly all year round. However, restrictions apply on the Northern half from 1st May to 30th September.
Austin, Abigail and I had a walk on the beach, then sat on the wall for a while enjoying the sunshine. After that, we explored the little Victorian seaside resort. Broadhaven has a lovely seafront and esplanade. You will find cafés, restaurants, a fish and chip bar, and several shops to enjoy.
St Brides Haven
This lovely shingle and pebble beach is in a sheltered cove. It faces northeast which protects it from the prevailing winds.
Rocks edge the cove and create rock pools that are ready for exploring at low tide. Dogs are allowed on the beach all year round.
Behind the beach is an interesting 19th-century church. You will also see St Brides Castle on the hill behind. The castle is being used as holiday accommodation.
Austin, Abigail and I walked the coastal path for about 5 miles before turning inland. We stopped for a break and a soft drink at the pub in the pretty village of Marloe. Once refreshed we continued on our walk and returned to St Brides for our picnic lunch.
Marloe Sands
I would describe Marloe Sand as a fantastic and dramatic seascape. I can understand why scenes from Snow White and The Huntsman were filmed here in September 2011.
The mile-long golden sands of Marloe Beach are in the southwest of Pembrokeshire. It’s exposed to the full force of stormy seas. At low tide, you might find the remains of shipwrecked boats that have met their peril on the jagged rocks.
The geology of the rocks is spectacular. You will see sandstone and volcanic rocks. Their faults and folds protrude at jaunty angles from the sand and they look like a fantasy world.
The National Trust car park and café are approximately half a mile from the beach. The path to the beach is moderately steep. Come prepared.
Austin, Abigail and I walked the peninsular in the morning and visited the beach after a picnic lunch. We loved this incredible beach. The beach is dog-friendly all year round.
Barafundle Bay.
I think that Barafundle is one of the most glorious beaches in Wales. The beautiful golden sandy beach lays before rolling dunes and tall pine trees. The limestone cliffs at either end of the beach make it feel secluded. While the waters are crystal clear and could belong to the Caribbean.
This isolated beach is part of the Stackpole Estate. But the National Trust manages Barafundle so it is likely to remain unspoilt. The Cowdor family once owned Stackpole Court and they built the wall and steps leading to the beach.
The walk to Barafundle Bay is about a mile and the National Trust car park is at Stackpole Quay. You will also find toilets and a café here. But there are no facilities at the beach.
Barafundle Bay is a dog-friendly beach and dogs are welcome on the beach all year round.
I believe that the walk to this beach is well worth it. Even though it was a cloudy day when Austin, Abigal and I visited it was breathtaking. We thoroughly enjoyed the experience.
Final thoughts about Pembrokeshire
Pembrokeshire is a delightful region with a dramatic coastline and beautiful beaches. It has a wild, untamed Shoreline waiting to be explored. Pembrokeshire more than lived up to my expectations. It’s packed with adventure and it’s like escaping to another world. It creates a unique experience for any traveller.
I am sure that I will return to Pembrokeshire many times in the future as there is so much more for me to explore.
Have you been to Pembrokeshire?
Do you have any recommendations for what I should visit next time I am in Pembrokeshire?
Please leave your suggestions in the comments below.
