Pembrokeshire is famous for its breathtaking coastal landscapes, which make for great walking destinations. From the stunning cliff-top walks along the Pembrokeshire Coastal Path, to the golden sandy beaches of Tenby, it’s easy to see what attracts visitors every year. Whilst these popular destinations deserve the recognition, there are hidden gems that can be easily missed. Find out some of our favourite lesser-known locations at Matthew Baker Caravans. You may uncover your new go-to walk with the family.
Cwm Yr Eglwys Beach
Nestled near our Dinas Cross Caravan Park at Matthew Baker Caravans, Cwm Yr Eglwys is a tucked-away cove that provides the perfect shelter for a spring afternoon.
Its pebbled shoreline, calm waters, and scenic surroundings make it a perfect stop for walkers exploring the nearby Pembrokeshire Coastal Path. Being a quieter location also makes it perfect for swimming and paddleboarding. For the kids, carefully exploring the rock pools and spotting the small crabs, fish, and sea creatures that live there can provide hours of entertainment.
Just above the beach, you’ll find the remains of a 12th-century church called St. Brynach. The majority of the building was destroyed during a violent storm in October 1859, leaving only the dramatic façade standing. This is such a unique sight that makes it a special location on our list.
To finish the day of sightseeing, take a short walk to a well-cherished local pub, The Old Sailor’s, where you’ll have a warm welcome.
Strumble Head Lighthouse
Next on our list of lesser-known locations is Strumble Head Lighthouse, which is only 10 miles away from our Dinas Cross Caravan Park. Built in 1908, this important piece of architecture guided many ships safely along the dangerous coastline between Wales and Ireland. Before it’s construction, around 60 ships were lost along this stretch of coast in the 19th century. Now it exists as anderrated historic location on our coast.
If you’re a wildlife enthusiast, you’re in luck as Strumble Head is one of the best places in the UK to spot marine wildlife, especially harbour porpoises, seals and sometimes dolphins. A World War II lookout post on the cliffs is used by photographers and wildlife watchers, so make sure you check that out during your visit. For wheelchair users, there is step-free access from the public car park area onto parts of the coastal path around Strumble Head. Access to the lighthouse involves very steep steps and stairs, so it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or people with mobility issues. Elderly visitors, take extra care with the unstable terrain.
Porthgain Beach and Harbour
Another hidden location we recommend is Porthgain. Translated to ‘Chisel Port’ in English, this small beach and harbour is a 20-minute drive from our Newgale Park. Once a busy industrial port, this location still has some of the remains of Pembrokeshire’s quarrying and slate mining industry. Today, this location is best known for its small harbour with local fishing boats, dramatic sea views, and a selection of nice walks. A great pub, cafe and excellent art galleries make great stops along your walk.
A more well-known attraction that steals the limelight in this area is the ‘Blue Lagoon’, an old quarry located by Abereiddy Beach. Even though this is a local attraction all year round, its peak seasons are Spring and Summer. If you’re a swimmer, the lagoon is very inviting with bright blue water. Often, people will be spotted wild-swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding with their dogs or competing in cliff jumping events around the quarry. If you’re not a thrill seeker, not to worry, you can try the popular coastal walk between Porthgain and Abereiddy (about 3.6 miles / 5.8 km) passing quarries, cliffs, and amazing viewpoints.
Whitesands Beach
To finish the tour, we have another underrated spot, known mostly by the locals and avid surfers. Located near St David’s, the smallest city in the UK, Whitesands Beach is only a 25 minute drive from our Newgale Park at Matthew Baker Caravans. Here you’ll find an array of wildlife, from crabs, seabirds and seals to porpoises and dolphins. At low tide, the beach stretches nearly a mile, giving lots of space for walking, games, and rock pooling. Having received a Blue Flag award for excellent water quality, safety, and environmental standards, Whitesands Beach has become one of the best surfing beaches in Wales and the UK.
On the ground, history lovers have sought out hidden ancient history under the beach dunes, which cover the remains of a 6th-century chapel linked to St Patrick, and prehistoric remains have been found beneath the sand.
If you fancy a longer walk, the famous Pembrokeshire Coast Path runs right past the beach. You can walk to secluded coves like Porthmelgan Bay or Porthselau with amazing sea views.
With spring in bloom and summer not far around the corner, Pembrokeshire has some of the best walking locations to offer. From wildlife, coastal walks and history, to swimming, surfing and sailing, you’ll never get bored here. Matthew Baker Caravans gives you the perfect home away from home to uncover all of Pembrokeshire’s best hidden gems.
