Situated in South West Wales, Pembrokeshire is a county that can rival any other across the UK when it comes to beautiful beaches, craggy coves and charming coastal villages. It is very much a county with a deep link to the sea, through trade and fishing, and thanks to its rich history and warm local charm, it's a place that we love to champion here at Coolstays.
Inland you’ll find sprawling countryside, rolling hills and historic market towns, and dotted about the coast are a number of wonderful fishing ports and scenic seaside towns. Spend your days visiting significant historical sites or relaxing on vast sandy beaches, before heading to a charming local pub or marvellous contemporary restaurant for some delicious local food.
Read our guide to Pembrokeshire today and find out some of our favourite spots that the county has to offer.
Where to go in Pembrokeshire: Best Towns and Villages
Up first we’re going to outline some of our favourite towns and villages that Pembrokeshire has to offer.
Tenby
Let’s start with the big hitter. Tenby has always felt like Pembrokeshire’s most sought after holiday destination. And for good reason. It’s a picture-perfect harbour town with a pristine sandy beach, a charming harbour and some delightful pubs and restaurants.
While away your days relaxing on the sand or enjoying a pint and a glass of wine in one of the many cosy pubs the town has to offer. Tenby’s Welsh name is Dinbych-y-Pysgod, which literally translates to Little Fortress of the Fish, and you’ll see why when you wander the harbour, spotting fishing boats coming in with their day’s catch. You can also hop on a boat yourself and try your hand at fishing, or take a trip out to nearby Caldey Island.
Narberth
Head inland and you’ll find the gorgeous, multi-coloured market town of Narberth. With a mix of Edwardian and Georgian buildings lining its iconic high street, Narberth has developed a fantastic reputation with avid shoppers looking to browse. From fine art and antiques to delicious local produce, Narberth’s array of independent shops offer up so much for you to see.
Narberth is also known for its marvellous food scene, with an array of fabulous restaurants for you to choose from. For super-fine dining head to Annwn, or visit The Plum Vanilla Café for incredible plates that are packed with flavour. Other great dining spots in Narberth include the Stopio bicycle cafe, Hwb and the superb Ultracomida Deli that has a lively tapas bar at the back of the shop.
St Davids
No trip to Pembrokeshire is complete without visiting the smallest city in Britain. St Davids is just that, and offers up a wealth of things to do in a truly quaint, picturesque setting. Take a refreshing stroll around Treginnis Head, soaking in the crisp sea air, and admire a breathtaking sunset over Whitesands Beach.
Then, be sure to visit the remarkable cathedral, which dates back to the 12th century, or witness the atmospheric Gothic ruins of the Bishop's Palace, which stand across the river from the cathedral. These ruins create a striking backdrop for open-air theatre performances during the summer.
Afterwards, head to a traditional, cosy pub for an afternoon pint or, for something a bit different, visit Pebbles Yard Gallery and Espresso Bar.
Saundersfoot
Tucked between the bustling harbour town of Tenby and the tranquil shores of Amroth, Saundersfoot is a real treat. It’s smaller and more intimate than its famous neighbour, and offers a quintessential seaside break with its wide, golden sandy beach.
We love the bustling harbour, which is home to some delightful cafés, superb restaurants and lovely, traditional pubs. Basically, if you want a relaxed meal or pint with a view, Saundersfoot is the place for you.
Solva
And last on our list is the incredible harbour village of Solva. Solva Harbour Beach is a coastal delight, tucked between two dramatic cliffs in the heart of Lower Solva. This charming harbour, lined with pastel-painted cottages and bobbing boats, exudes seaside charm. Just up the hill, Upper Solva boasts breathtaking views and a more local feel, but it’s down by the water where the real magic happens. At low tide, the bay reveals a rugged landscape of tidal pools and rocky streams, perfect for little explorers. As the tide rolls in, the scene transforms into a tranquil haven, with boats swaying gently on the water.
With calm, sheltered waters, Solva Harbour Beach is a haven for boaters, kayakers and paddleboarders. Unlike Pembrokeshire’s surf-heavy beaches, Solva offers a safe and gentle setting, ideal for families. Just a short stroll from the beach, The Harbour Inn and 35 Main Street Café offer great food, while MamGu Welshcakes serves up fresh Welsh cakes and hearty bowls of cawl. For a drink with a view, The Royal George overlooks the bay, completing this perfect coastal escape.
Where to eat: Restaurants in Pembrokeshire
Here are some of our favourite places to eat in Pembrokeshire.
Annwn, Narberth
Annwn is a true hidden gem, combining incredible flavours with a deep love for local traditions. Housed in a beautifully converted old bank, it feels warm and welcoming from the moment you step inside. The passionate chef not only serves delicious food but also shares stories and even brings extra sauces and ingredients to your table as you eat.
The menu is built around the best local and foraged ingredients, from wild herbs to tender Preseli Hills lamb, ensuring every bite is packed with fresh, seasonal flavour. For an even deeper connection to your meal, you can join one of their occasional foraging days and discover the ingredients firsthand.
Umi, Tenby
Japanese cuisine enthusiasts will adore Umi, a truly beloved restaurant in Tenby, that is under the expert stewardship of Lok and Jen Cheung. The couple, known for their successful ventures such as The Dragon Palace, Lokky’s and The Imperial Dragon Inn, bring their passion for Asian cuisine to Umi, promising an authentic and immersive dining experience.
Umi - meaning "The Ocean" in Japanese - offers a meticulously curated menu featuring fresh sushi, sashimi, tempura and unique fusion dishes. The serene ambiance reflects Japanese aesthetics, making it perfect for both intimate dinners and social gatherings.
Llys Meddyg Hotel & Restaurant, Newport
Tucked beneath the mystical Carningli (Mountain of the Angels) and set along the serene Nevern estuary, Llys Meddyg is your gateway to the wild beauty of Pembrokeshire. Breathe in the fresh sea air, enjoy the finest locally sourced food in the restaurant or cellar bar and unwind by a crackling log fire, wrapped in soft Welsh wool. This Georgian townhouse blends timeless elegance with laid-back charm.
Choose from The Dining Room, The Cellar Bar or The Kitchen Garden, each offering a unique twist on the Llys Meddyg experience. Whether you’re after a romantic dinner for two, a family-friendly feast or a private celebration, there’s a space to suit every occasion.
The Shed, Porthgain
The Shed Fish and Chip Bistro in Porthgain is a must-visit for seafood lovers. Located in a charming harbourside village, this cosy bistro offers fresh local fish, a welcoming atmosphere and stunning coastal views. Whether dining in or grabbing a takeaway, it’s a perfect spot for any occasion.
Once a machine shop for slate quarry engines, The Shed now features coastal decor, local artwork and a relaxed vibe. The outdoor terrace overlooks the harbour, while takeaway options let you enjoy your meal right by the water.
Their famous fish and chips are a standout - light, crispy batter with golden, hand-cut chips. With friendly service, top-quality seafood and a breathtaking setting, The Shed is a true Pembrokeshire gem that keeps locals and visitors coming back.
The Stackpole Inn, Stackpole
Tucked away on the stunning National Trust-owned Stackpole Estate, the Stackpole Inn sits in prime position between Bosherston’s famous lily ponds and the dreamy Barafundle Bay - often hailed as one of the UK’s best beaches (The Sunday Times calls it ‘a desert island dream beach in Wales’).
This award-winning inn is a foodie’s dream, renowned for its fresh, locally sourced seafood and daily specials that have earned it a place in top restaurant guides. Run with warmth and charm by Gary and Rebecca Evans, the Stackpole Inn is everything you want in a coastal retreat. In summer, the large garden is the perfect spot to relax with a cold beer or a glass of wine after a day on the Pembrokeshire Coast Path.
Things to do in Pembrokeshire
If you’re heading to Pembrokeshire for a holiday, then here are some great things to do during your stay.
Walk the Pembrokeshire Coastal Path
No visit to Pembrokeshire is complete without at least one trip to the marvellous coast. Opened in 1970, the Pembrokeshire Coast Path stretches an impressive 186 miles (299km) along one of the most rugged and scenic stretches of coastline in the UK. From St Dogmaels in the north to Amroth in the south, this iconic trail is the longest and oldest section of the Wales Coast Path, offering an ever-changing landscape of steep limestone cliffs, rolling red sandstone bays, volcanic headlands, tranquil beaches and wild estuaries.
Every step along the way rewards you with awe-inspiring views, and best of all, there’s no shortage of charming coastal villages and cosy pubs to stop off in along the way. Whether you're resting your legs with a pint in hand or simply soaking in the views, there’s no better way to experience the magic of Pembrokeshire’s coastline.
Explore the Preseli Hills
The Preseli Hills rise to 536m in northern Pembrokeshire, offering a wild contrast to the lowlands of the south. The rugged landscape of moorland, heath and grassland is home to rare plants and wildlife, making it ideal for walking away from the coastline.
For spectacular views, hike to Foel Eryr for a 360-degree panorama across the sea to Ireland and Snowdonia on clear days. The hills are steeped in history, with prehistoric burial cairns and Iron Age hill forts.
Though mostly wild, the Preselis are home to charming villages like Pontfaen in the Gwaun Valley, where you can visit Bessie’s Pub and enjoy beer served from the barrel. Rosebush is another stop, with its community pub made of zinc, perfect for a well-earned pint after a hike!
Go coasteering
Coasteering in Pembrokeshire is the ultimate thrill-seeking adventure that blends rock climbing, swimming, scrambling and cliff jumping. Whether you’re leaping into crystal-clear waters or navigating rocky coastlines, coasteering offers a unique way to explore the stunning Pembrokeshire coastline from a completely different angle.
Pembrokeshire’s dramatic cliffs, sheltered coves and hidden caves provide the perfect playground for coasteering, with the added bonus of incredible wildlife and unspoilt natural beauty. There are a number of fantastic coasteering companies for you to choose from, so do some research before you arrive and book onto an excursion ahead of time.
Visit St Davids Cathedral
St Davids Cathedral has been a place of pilgrimage since the 12th century. It’s one of Christendom’s most revered shrines, with a rich history dating back fourteen centuries. St David founded his monastery here in the 6th century, and his shrine rests in the cathedral, nestled in a peaceful hollow beneath the city’s rooftops.
The cathedral is a perfect spot for a rainy day, with stunning architecture, a beautiful interior and peaceful chapels and cloisters to explore. The Refectory offers refreshments and lovely views of the cathedral and its surrounding gardens.
Carew Castle and Tidal Mill
Carew Castle & Tidal Mill offers a fascinating glimpse into the area's history. Perched on the banks of the Carew River, this stunning fortress dates back to the Iron Age and has been through centuries of transformation. Don’t miss the unique Bath stone windows, added by Sir Rhys ap Thomas between 1449 and 1525, adding a distinctive touch to this historic site.
Beyond the castle, the Tidal Mill - the only one of its kind to be restored in Wales - is a must-see, and one of just five still in operation across the UK. With interactive displays and an audio guide, you’ll learn all about how the mill once worked.
Unique Places to Visit in Pembrokeshire
Here are five other ideas for places that might be worth visiting along the way.