From spider crabs to kayaking, one Pembrokeshire beach is a haven for underwater adventures
Nestled along a stretch of coastline renowned for its stunning sandy beaches lies Stackpole Quay. Tucked away in a gap between wooded cliffs, this hidden gem boasts a small pebble beach and calm, clear waters.
The beach is part of the National Trust’s Stackpole Estate, a 200-acre expanse with a history dating back to Norman times. The charming Welsh Cove is also rated as one of the best spots in the UK for water sports and snorkelling.
The sheltered location also makes it an ideal location for swimming, especially at high tide. Popular with families, swimmers should be aware that there are no lifeguards on duty, so extra care should be taken when going for a dip.
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The calm waters and secluded location are ideal for snorkelers of all abilities. One family who visited the stunning Stackpole Quay shared a brief video on TikTok, showing just how perfect the area is for introducing younger members of the family to snorkelling and diving.
Casey Thomas (@caseythomass) simply entitled the video “Adventures” showing how clear the water is.
Visitors don their wetsuits in May to get up close and personal with the spider crabs that gather here in huge numbers to breed. Just beyond the reef, marine life is also abundant with pipefish, prawns, velvet swimming crabs and sea hares.
In addition to snorkelling and swimming, Stackpole Quay is a favourite spot for kayaking and paddleboarding. The slipway from the car park provides easy access to the water, making it convenient for visitors to launch their watercraft.
For beach lovers looking to refuel, the Boathouse is located just up from the beach, serving up a selection of coffees, light snacks, refreshments, and locally made ice cream.
Just a short walk along from the cove lies Barafundle Bay, one of Wales’ most celebrated beaches. Known for its golden sands and clear blue waters, one visitor on Tripadvisor referred to it as “God’s little corner of heaven”
Leaving a five-star review, they added: “To get to Barafundle you can park at Stackpole Quay, and walk past the tearoom and up some steep steps. The walk is about 15-20 mins long along a beautiful view of sea and clifftops. The view when you get there is breathtaking. There are steps to take you down to the golden sand. You will see why Barafundle has been voted as one of the best 10 beaches in the WORLD.”
Heading in the opposite direction, visitors will find another beautiful sandy beach at Freshwater East.
How to get to Stackpole Quay
Take the B4319 from Pembroke to Stackpole and Bosherston where there are various entry points onto the historic estate. There are pay and display car parks at Stackpole Quay, Broad Haven South, Bosherston Lakes and Stackpole Court.
