Area activities - Where to Go, What to Do ?
Nature
Pembrokeshire’s most obvious appeal is its dramatic, yet accessible coastline. Porpoises and seals are regulars all around the coast, and sightings are virtually guaranteed from the boat trips arranged from St. Davids at the right times of year. A humpback whale was spotted off Strumble Head in 2006, huge Fin Whales have been seen and their visits to the Pembrokeshire coastline seem to be on the increase. In the summer of 2005 enormous schools of dolphins were seen in St. Brides Bay. The autumn is the best time for watching the seal pups on the coast. Look out for Choughs and Peregrine falcons while walking the coast paths. Red Kites occasionally sweep down from mid-Wales, and are always a spectacular sight. The song of the Skylark is a treat in early summer, and Stonechats and Wheatears are regular summer visitors on the cliff tops. If you’re lucky you may spot a lizard or even an adder basking in the gorse by the side of the path. Pembrokeshire is known for its seabirds, with a large colony of Manx Shearwaters nesting on Skomer Island (visits restricted), and it is possible to see Puffins, Gannets, Guillemotts and Razorbills at the appropriate times of the year. The wildflowers are abundant in spring in the banks along the lanes and on the coast path. One of our visitors in May recorded over 50 varieties. The Strumble Shuttle coastal bus service passes through the village making it easy to plan one way walks along the coast path. (Check times locally)."The highlight of our week was the boat trip to see dolphins, it was incredible and we saw some amazing wildlife such as seals and many different sea birds" - Benson Family, Yorkshire
Beaches and Bays
Abermawr - Great for a walk, sandy beach at low tide. At high tide, sit and listen to the waves breaking on the pebble bank formed by the big storm of 1859. Can be dramatic on a wild autumn afternoon. You may see a seal or two watching you, or a Peregrine fly past. The National Trust Bluebell woods here are spectacular in May, and Sand Martins nest in the low banks behind the beach in summer.Abercastle - small cove with sandy beach, traditional cottages, local fishing boats. Riot of colour on the cliff sides in spring and summer.
Newgale - around 7.5 miles through the lanes. Walk, surf, kayak, paddle, explore the rock pools at low tide - dogs welcome on parts of the beach all year. Charge for car park.
Whitesands - around 12 miles. A family favourite Blue Flag beach with excellent surfing and a café, as well as access for walkers to St Davids Head and Carn Llidi (Dogs not permitted from 1st May to end September). Charge for car park. Both Newgale and Whitesands have lifeguards in the high season.
Aberieddi - Famous for the blue lagoon and industrial history. A good circular walk from here over the cliffs to Porthgain (lunch at The Sloop?) and back by the inland route.
Solva - a great favourite with its sheltered narrow harbour, eating places and pubs.
Porthgain - always popular. Browse in the artists galleries, watch the sea from the spectacular jetty built to service the old mines on the cliff sides, or enjoy a drink or meal at The Sloop Inn (need to book in summer) or The Shed.
Preselli Hills - This is where the bluestones used to make Stonehenge originated, and the hills are wild, windswept and moody. A great place for a moorland walk, and a complete contrast from the coast. Far reaching views on a clear day - as far as Ireland in exceptional conditions.
