ClareWhitesands Beach, located on the west coast of Pembrokeshire in Wales, is a breathtaking expanse of fine white sand that curves north towards the rugged headland of St Davids Head. This popular destination is not only a feast for the eyes but also one of the best surfing beaches in the country. Overlooked by the imposing craggy hill of Carn Llidi, Whitesands Beach offers a scenic and exciting getaway for visitors from near and far.
A visit to Whitesands Beach reveals the near perfect conditions for surfing, drawing enthusiasts and beginners alike. The seascape offers an unbridled view of Ramsey Island, while the surrounding meadows and rambling hills create a picturesque backdrop for a day at the beach. Packed with outdoor activities and close to St Davids City, Whitesands Beach is also steeped in history, adding to its charm and making it an ideal destination for a memorable holiday.
Key Takeaways
- Whitesands Beach is a stunning, popular surfing destination in Pembrokeshire, Wales.
- The beach offers picturesque surroundings with a view of Ramsey Island and nearby meadows and hills.
- Its close proximity to St Davids City and rich history make it an attractive holiday spot.
Discovering Whitesands Beach
Whitesands Beach, located on the west coast of Pembrokeshire, Wales, is a stunning expanse of pristine white sand stretching northwards towards the direction of St. David’s Head. With the imposing craggy hill of Carn Llidi as its backdrop, this beautiful beach offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and is a popular choice for both tourists and locals alike.
A well-known feature of Whitesands Beach is its highly regarded Blue Flag status. This prestigious award is given to beaches that meet strict criteria, including high water quality and excellent visitor facilities, making Whitesands Beach an ideal spot for a fun-filled day at the seaside. Moreover, St. Davids, the smallest city in the UK, is just a couple of miles away, with its magnificent St. Davids Cathedral taking centre stage.
For the more adventurous visitors, Whitesands Beach is considered one of the best surfing beaches in the country. The consistent waves and beautiful setting provide surfers with an exhilarating experience. When the surf’s up, it’s easy to see why this beach is so popular among the surfing community.
Nature enthusiasts will adore the beach’s close proximity to Ramsey Island. Just a short boat trip away, the island is a thriving wildlife haven and home to a variety of seabirds, including guillemots, razorbills, and puffins. In addition, the waters surrounding the island are frequented by dolphins and seals, adding to the sense of wonder that this area provides.
A visit to Whitesands Beach in Pembrokeshire is a delightful experience for all who explore its picturesque shores. With its exceptional views, beautiful scenery, and fantastic visitor facilities, it’s no wonder that this stretch of coast is one of Wales’ most cherished seaside spots.
Beach Amenities
Parking and Transportation
Visitors to Whitesands Beach can make use of the ample parking provided by St Davids City Council. The car park charges £6 daily as of 2023 and can be found using the postcode SA62 6PS. For those seeking alternative transportation, consider using the Celtic Coaster Shuttle Bus, which offers a convenient connection between the beach, Oriel Y Parc Car Park, and caravan parks in the surrounding areas.
Facilities and Services
Whitesands Beach takes pride in its Blue Flag status and offers a range of facilities for a comfortable and enjoyable visit. Pembrokeshire County Council operates public toilets on-site with a 40p entry charge, ensuring that clean and accessible restroom facilities are available for all guests. Additionally, lifeguard services are provided between April and November, with daily services during peak visitor seasons, ensuring the safety of beachgoers while they indulge in water-based activities such as swimming and surfing. The lifeguard station on the beach also offers first aid services, if necessary.
Dining Options
Visitors to Whitesands Beach won’t go hungry, as the area boasts a lovely café operated by St Davids City Council. This welcoming eatery offers a variety of food and refreshment options, including hot drinks, snacks, and ice cream. For those seeking more substantial meals or a wider range of dining options, there are several cafés, restaurants, and pubs available in nearby St Davids, many of which serve delicious local cuisine and offer picturesque views of the stunning Pembrokeshire coast.
Activities at Whitesands Beach
Whitesands Beach, located on the stunning Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, offers a variety of activities to cater to families, children, and adventure-seekers alike. With its beautiful sandy shores, sheltered bays, and seaside award, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. However, please note that dog restrictions apply from 1st May to 30th September, so plan accordingly.
Water Sports
Surf’s up at Whitesands Beach! Known as one of the best surfing spots in Wales, the beach offers fantastic opportunities for both beginners and experienced surfers. Other water sports, including swimming, canoeing, and wind surfing, are also popular amongst visitors. Thanks to the lifeguards patrolling the area during peak seasons, families can enjoy a safe and fun bathing experience.
Walking Trails
For those who prefer land-based adventures, the coastal scenery around Whitesands Beach is simply breathtaking. The Pembrokeshire Coast Path, stretching across 186 miles of the National Park, offers walks suitable for all abilities. Whether you embark on a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, the views are sure to impress. Don’t forget to explore the historic city of St Davids and visit the National Park Visitor Centre for more information on walking routes and attractions.
Golfing
Golf enthusiasts are not left out of the fun at Whitesands Beach. A nearby golf course offers beautiful coastal views while you perfect your swing. Its idyllic location coupled with the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape is bound to make your golfing experience a memorable one.
Accommodation Near Whitesands Beach
Whitesands Beach, located in Pembrokeshire, offers a wide range of accommodation options for travellers looking to explore the stunning coastline and the historic city of St Davids. The accommodations near the beach provide guests with various options, depending on their preferences and budgets.
Hotels and B&Bs
For those seeking a more traditional accommodation option, there are a number of hotels and bed & breakfast establishments in the area. These accommodations offer a comforting and relaxing place to stay, with many of them situated close to St Davids city centre. The friendly atmosphere and excellent service provided by the staff can help make your visit to Whitesands Bay and the surrounding Pembrokeshire region even more memorable.
Self-Catering and Camping
If you prefer the flexibility and independence of self-catering accommodation, Whitesands Beach has several options available. Whitesands Beach Cottages are a popular choice, set back from the award-winning beach and offering tranquillity, relaxation, and stunning views. These beautifully-appointed residences combine style and comfort to make your stay special.
For an even closer connection to nature, there is a campsite near Whitesands Beach. Whitesands Camping welcomes tents, trailer tents, campervans, and smaller motorhomes from Easter through to the end of October. With 30 pitches available, this campsite is an excellent choice for those looking for budget-friendly accommodation while enjoying the delightful facilities, amenities, and scenery of the area.
In conclusion, there are various accommodation options available near Whitesands Beach, catering to all tastes and budgets. Whether you choose a hotel, B&B, self-catering cottage, or campsite, you will have a memorable and enjoyable stay in Pembrokeshire while exploring the beautiful Whitesands Bay and historic city of St Davids.
Historical Significance
Whitesands Beach, situated on the St. David’s peninsula in Pembrokeshire, Wales, boasts not only picturesque views but also a rich history. With its location in the heart of Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, it’s no surprise that this nearly mile-long beach carries so much historical significance.
St. David’s, the smallest city in the UK, is cherished for its unique charm and religious past. St David’s Cathedral, a stunning architectural masterpiece, attracts many visitors and pilgrims from around the world. It is said that St. Patrick himself set sail from Whitesands Beach on his way to Ireland in the fifth century, leaving a lasting connection between Wales and Ireland.
Overlooking Whitesands Beach stands St. Patrick’s Chapel, a site shrouded in mystery as very little is known about its history. The only historical reference to the chapel originates from George Owen’s Description of Pembrokeshire, written in 1603. Although coastal erosion has threatened the site for more than a century, its remnants continue to fascinate historians and sightseers alike.
Adjacent to the beach, the Carn Llidi hill offers breathtaking views of the Pembrokeshire coast, with its unique rock formations and captivating landscape. Climbing Carn Llidi is a popular activity for families visiting Whitesands Beach, as the panoramic views at the summit are truly unforgettable.
Recent archaeological discoveries at Whitesands Beach have unveiled a medieval cemetery preserved beneath the sand dunes. Almost 200 skeletons dating back to the medieval era have been excavated from the site, further enhancing the historical allure of this remarkable beach.
Whitesands Beach offers not only a scenic location for families and visitors alike to relax and take in the natural beauty, but also an opportunity to appreciate the diverse history it holds. From St. Patrick’s legendary voyage to Ireland, to the mysterious St. Patrick’s Chapel and the fascinating archaeological findings, this popular Pembrokeshire beach is steeped in a rich and varied past that continues to enthral both locals and tourists to this day.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the facilities at Whitesands Beach?
Whitesands Beach features a private car park for 60 cars located above the beach. During the summer, parking may be limited, but visitors can use the Celtic Coaster shuttle bus from The Oriel y Parc car park on the edge of St Davids. The beach also has a café and shop for refreshments and necessities.
Can you swim safely at Whitesands Bay?
Whitesands Bay is supervised by lifeguards during specific times, generally between April and September. They ensure safe swimming and surfing conditions for visitors. Make sure to follow lifeguard instructions and safety guidelines when swimming at the beach.
Are dogs allowed at Whitesands Bay?
Dogs are not permitted on the entire beach from May to the end of September, ensuring a clean and enjoyable environment for all visitors during the peak season.
Where is Whitesands Beach located?
Whitesands Beach is situated in Pembrokeshire, Wales, near St. David’s Head. It is also sometimes known as Porthmawr, which translates to “Big Harbour” in Welsh.
What accommodations are near Whitesands Beach?
There is a range of accommodation options near Whitesands Bay, including hotels, bed and breakfasts, and self-catering cottages. Some hotels near Whitesands Bay include Whitesands Camping.
Are there any camping options near Whitesands Bay?
Yes, there are camping options near Whitesands Bay. One popular option is Whitesands Camping, located within walking distance of the beach. Other nearby camping sites may be available, so it is advised to research online for more camping options around Whitesands Bay.
