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Things to Do in Barafundle Bay, Pembrokeshire

Your complete guide to visiting Barafundle Bay from South View Glamping near Pembroke, one of Britain’s most beautiful and secluded beaches.

  • 25 mins from South View
  • Walk-in only beach
  • National Trust estate
  • Dog friendly all year
  • Year round destination

25 min

Drive from South View

13 miles

From South View Glamping

15 min

Walk from car park

National Trust

Managed estate

Year-round

Open all year

Overview

Why Visit Barafundle Bay

Barafundle Bay is consistently voted one of the most beautiful beaches in Britain, and it is easy to see why. A secluded golden cove tucked within the National Trust Stackpole Estate on the south Pembrokeshire coast, it combines stunning natural scenery with the kind of peaceful seclusion that is increasingly hard to find. There is no road access, which keeps the crowds down and the atmosphere special.

 

Just 25 minutes by car from South View Glamping near Pembroke, it is one of the most rewarding day trips available to guests staying in the Pembrokeshire countryside. The walk in from Stackpole Quay takes around 15 minutes through pine trees and wildflower dunes, and the moment the bay comes into view is genuinely one of those stops-you-in-your-tracks moments.

 

The beach itself is broad, sandy and sheltered by limestone cliffs on either side. The water is clear and calm enough for swimming on most days, and the surrounding coastline offers some of the most spectacular walking on the entire Pembrokeshire Coast Path.

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Voted Best Beach

Consistently ranked one of Britain's finest beaches

🌿

National Trust

Part of the Stackpole Estate nature reserve

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Walk-in Only

No road access, 15 min walk from Stackpole Quay

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Dog Friendly

Dogs welcome all year round

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Clear Water

Excellent swimming in sheltered cove

Getting There

How to Get to Barafundle Bay from South View Glamping

Barafundle Bay has no direct road access. This is precisely what keeps it so special. Here is how to get there from your glamping base near Pembroke.

1 Drive to Stackpole Quay

From South View Glamping, the drive to Stackpole Quay takes around 25 minutes through the quiet lanes of south Pembrokeshire. There is a National Trust pay and display car park at the quay. Arrive early in summer as it fills up quickly.

02 Walk the Coastal Path

From Stackpole Quay, follow the well-signed National Trust coastal path south for around 15 minutes. The path takes you through fragrant pine trees and over wildflower dunes before the bay opens up below you. The walk is easy and suitable for most visitors.

03 Explore the Bay

Once on the beach, the bay is yours to enjoy. Swim in the clear water, walk the full length of the sand, explore the rock pools at low tide, or simply sit and take in the view. The limestone arches and cliffs surrounding the cove are extraordinary.

04 Extend the Walk

The coastal path continues past Barafundle Bay towards Broad Haven South and the Bosherston Lily Ponds. A longer circular walk taking in both is one of the finest half-day walks in all of Pembrokeshire and highly recommended.

What to Expect

Best Things to Do at Barafundle Bay

Barafundle Bay rewards those who make the effort to get there. Here is what to do when you arrive.

01

Swimming and Paddling

The sheltered cove and clear water make Barafundle Bay one of the best swimming beaches on the Pembrokeshire coast. The water quality is consistently excellent and the sandy seabed slopes gently, making it safe for families.

02

Rock Pooling at Low Tide

The limestone rocks at either end of the bay are full of life at low tide. Crabs, anemones, sea urchins and small fish are all regularly spotted. Check tide times before you visit for the best rock pooling conditions.

03

Coastal Walking

The Pembrokeshire Coast Path runs directly past the bay. The section between Stackpole Quay and Broad Haven South is one of the most spectacular stretches of the entire 186-mile trail, with dramatic limestone cliffs and sea views throughout.

04

Wildlife Watching

The Stackpole Estate is a National Nature Reserve rich in wildlife. Red kites, choughs, peregrine falcons and grey seals are all regularly spotted along this stretch of coast. Bring binoculars if you have them.

05

Picnicking on the Beach

There are no cafes or facilities at Barafundle Bay itself. Bring everything you need and enjoy a proper beach picnic in one of the most beautiful settings in Wales. The National Trust cafe at Stackpole Quay is available before and after your visit.

06

Photography

Barafundle Bay is one of the most photographed locations in all of Wales. The combination of golden sand, limestone cliffs, turquoise water and the pine-fringed approach creates endless opportunities for stunning photographs at any time of day.

Explore More of Pembrokeshire

More to Explore from South View Glamping

Staying at South View Glamping near Pembroke puts you within easy reach of the very best of the Pembrokeshire coast. Combine your visit to Barafundle Bay with any of these stunning nearby destinations.
  • 25 mins from South View

Barafundle Bay

Often voted one of the most beautiful beaches in Britain. A secluded National Trust cove accessible only on foot — park at Stackpole Quay and walk 15 minutes through the dunes. Well worth every step.
  • 10 mins from Tenby

Saundersfoot

A charming harbour village just along the coast from Tenby with its own sandy beach, independent restaurants, and a relaxed atmosphere. Easy to combine with a Tenby visit for a full coastal day out.
  • 6 mins from South View

Pembroke Castle

One of the finest medieval castles in Wales and the birthplace of Henry VII. Just 6 minutes from South View Glamping, a fascinating half day visit that pairs perfectly with a trip along the Pembrokeshire coast.

  • 20 mins from Tenby

Bosherston Lily Ponds

A beautiful National Trust nature reserve with lily-covered lakes and the stunning Broad Haven South beach at the end of the path. At its best in June when the lilies are in full bloom.
  • 30 mins from South View

Freshwater West

One of Pembrokeshire’s most dramatic and wild beaches — powerful surf, vast dunes, and an unspoilt character that feels miles from anywhere. Used as a filming location for Harry Potter. Worth the drive.
  • 45 mins from South View

St Davids

Britain’s smallest city and home to a magnificent 12th century cathedral. St Davids sits on the far western tip of Pembrokeshire and makes a brilliant full day out, with excellent coastal walks nearby.
  • 40 mins from South View

Skomer Island

One of the best wildlife experiences in Britain, famous for its puffin colony visible April–July. A National Nature Reserve reached by boat from Martin’s Haven — book well in advance in summer.
  • 35 mins from South View

Newgale Beach

A dramatic two-mile stretch of pebble and sand on St Brides Bay — one of the longest beaches in Pembrokeshire, popular with surfers and families alike. Stunning at any time of year.
  • 15 mins from South View

Pembrokeshire Coast National Park

South View Glamping sits on the edge of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park — the only coastal national park in Wales, with over 600 miles of footpaths.

Food & Drink

Facilities at Barafundle Bay

Barafundle Bay has no facilities of any kind on the beach itself. This is a big part of what makes it so special. There are no cafes, no toilets, no shops and no parking at the beach. Plan accordingly and bring everything you need for the day.

What to Bring card:

Bring all food and drink with you. The National Trust cafe at Stackpole Quay is the nearest option and is worth a stop before your walk in or after your walk out.

Nearest food card:

The National Trust cafe at Stackpole Quay serves light meals, sandwiches, cakes and hot drinks. Open seasonally. The nearest restaurants and pubs are back towards Pembroke, around 25 minutes by car.

Toilets card

The nearest public toilets are at Stackpole Quay car park. Use them before starting the walk to the beach as there are no facilities on the beach itself.

Visitor Tips

Tips for Visiting Barafundle Bay from South View Glamping

Make the most of your day on the Pembrokeshire coast with these practical tips from guests who have stayed at South View Glamping near Pembroke.

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Arrive Early

The Stackpole Quay car park is small and fills up fast in summer. Arriving before 9am in July and August gives you the best chance of parking and the beach at its most peaceful.

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Bring Everything

There are no facilities at the beach itself. Bring water, food, sunscreen and everything you need for the day. The National Trust cafe at Stackpole Quay is the nearest option.

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Wear Good Shoes

The walk in is easy but the path can be uneven in places. Comfortable walking shoes or trainers are recommended. Flip flops are fine once you are on the sand.

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Check the Tide

The beach is at its best at mid to low tide when the full width of sand is exposed. At high tide the beach narrows significantly. Check tide times before you visit.

Getting There

How Far is Barafundle Bay from South View Glamping?

South View Glamping in Hundleton, near Pembroke, is one of the closest glamping sites to Barafundle Bay on the Pembrokeshire coast.

25

Minutes by car

13

Miles from South View

15

Min walk from car park

By Car

Drive from South View Glamping towards Pembroke then follow signs for Stackpole via the B4319. The journey takes around 25 minutes through quiet Pembrokeshire countryside. Park at the National Trust car park at Stackpole Quay and walk 15 minutes to the beach.

The Walk In

From Stackpole Quay car park, follow the signed coastal path south for around 15 minutes. The path is well maintained and passes through beautiful pine woodland and wildflower dunes before the bay opens up below. Easy walking for all abilities.

Barafundle Bay, Pembrokeshire — FAQs

How far is Barafundle Bay from South View Glamping?
Barafundle Bay is approximately 25 minutes by car from South View Glamping near Pembroke. You park at Stackpole Quay and walk around 15 minutes through the dunes to reach the beach.
Barafundle Bay has no direct road access. You park at the National Trust car park at Stackpole Quay and follow the coastal path for around 15 minutes through pine trees and dunes to reach the beach.
Yes, dogs are welcome at Barafundle Bay throughout the year. The beach is managed by the National Trust and has no seasonal dog restrictions, making it a popular choice for guests staying at South View Glamping with dogs.
Barafundle Bay is beautiful year round but is at its best in May, June and September when the weather is warm and the beach is less crowded. July and August are the busiest months. Arriving early in summer gives you the beach at its most peaceful.
Yes, Barafundle Bay is around 25 minutes by car from Pembroke and from South View Glamping in Hundleton. It sits within the Stackpole Estate, managed by the National Trust, on the south Pembrokeshire coast.

Your Base in Pembrokeshire

Staying Near Barafundle Bay? Base Yourself at South View Glamping

South View Glamping offers two private glamping stays near Pembroke, set on a quiet family-run smallholding on the edge of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. The perfect base for exploring Barafundle Bay and the wider Pembrokeshire coast.
  • Adults only · Sleeps 2

The Hut : Shepherd's Hut in Pembrokeshire

A cosy adults only shepherd’s hut with private hot tub, fire pit and peaceful countryside views near Pembroke. Designed for couples seeking a romantic rural escape with easy access to the Pembrokeshire coast and all the best beaches and attractions in West Wales.

From £95 per night

  • Fire pit & BBQ
  • Compact kitchenette
  • Free on-site parking
  • Dog friendly
View The Hut
  • Sleeps up to 3

The Cabin : Cabin Glamping in Pembrokeshire

A private countryside cabin with electric hot tub, outdoor kitchen, fire pit and stunning views. Ideal for families or friends exploring the Pembrokeshire coast together from a peaceful glamping base near Pembroke.

From £97.50 per night

  • Private electric hot tub
  • Outdoor kitchen & gas hob
  • Free on-site parking
  • Pet friendly
View The Cabin
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