COUNTDOWN TO SUMMER

Whatbetter place to bask in the sunshine on open golden sands with the hypnotic sound of the waves flowing than here in Pembrokeshire?

Our beaches are the best in Wales – sandy, safe and relatively uncrowded, ranging from traditional seaside resorts to hidden coves well off the beaten track. Pack your bathers and sunscreen and bring along your picnic blanket for a spot of sunbathing and some sandwiches on the beach.

Popular beaches to visit include Newgale, often remembered by its protective pebble bank and its impressive 2 miles of sandy shore. Or there’s Barafundle Bay, a beautiful hidden beach which can only be accessed via the coastal path and is a top choice, particularly if you’re looking for a dogfriendly beach. Its remote location often makes it a quieter spot.

Whitesands Beach is a favourite with surfers, beginners and professionals alike, whilst Freshwater West has become famous for its appearances on the big screen having been used as a location for Hollywood blockbusters such as Harry Potter where Dobby’s Shell House was situated. More recently, scifi aficionados are keeping their eyes peeled for Doctor Who’s Tardis which landed near Tenby between Penally and Lydstep.

Holiday Cottages for Summer

Tenby itself has four beautiful beaches which can rival any in the world, it’s a must-visit destination for those wanting to practice their sandcastle-building skills, top up their tan or explore the picturesque coves and working harbour. Enjoy a bite to eat with views of the stunning South Beach at Saltys Bear Bar & Restaurant. Along the North West coast is Porthgain, with another working harbour where you’ll spot the local fisherman bringing in the catch of the day which you can later sample at the popular Sloop Inn.

This is heaven for walkers, with the long-distance Pembrokeshire Coastal Path as well as public footpaths crisscrossing the countryside. Bike-riding families can choose from several off-road routes, or more experienced cyclists can take part in Challenge Wales and Long Course Weekend happening in the summer months. If that doesn’t take your fancy, there’s plenty more to explore. History has left its mark on this charming county in the form of majestic castles, quirky museums and some of the best Neolithic monuments in the UK.

This is a place for family holidays involving all sorts of water sports, from paddleboarding and surfing to kayaking and coasteering. There are also boat trips to islands where you might see puffins in summer or migrating seabirds in spring and autumn. If you’re lucky you might even see dolphins, seal pups and even whales, too!