Barafundle Beach
Barafundle Beach
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7 within 3 miles
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- TouristsWalesWales, United Kingdom179 contributionsMost beautiful beachA short walk from Stackpole Quay national trust car park across coastal path grazing fields. Walled steps to get down onto the beach and woodland the opposite side if you want to walk further around the cliff tops. Beautiful natural beach, I was there on a rainy day the sand was beautiful and sea aqua against the grey skies. Breathtaking beach. Eye catching rock formations.Visited October 2023Traveled soloWritten October 19, 2023
- Michael BWakefield, United Kingdom491 contributionsGorgeous beach.We did a circular route from Stackpole Quay, passing through this superb yet relatively quiet beach. Total walk was approx. 2 1/4 miles all flat and easy apart from the coastal stretch which again was not hard. No facilities on the beach but it's all the better for that and it's not far to the quay.Visited June 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten July 7, 2024
- June ASurrey, United Kingdom2,755 contributionsLovely beach but inconsiderate dog ownersI loved this beach with its perfect vista, the woods near by and its wide golden sands - sadly for me though there were far too many dogs barking and running around. I get that they need to run around and enjoy themselves and don't hate them, as an autistic woman who doesn't deal well with loud noises though this can be very problematic, especially when owners constantly tell you that your fear is invalid - really not helpful. The beach itself is lovely and I would have loved to spend more time here but on the day I visited it was just impossible.Visited August 2023Traveled soloWritten July 14, 2024
- Lucie FDerbyshire, United Kingdom7 contributionsA beautiful beach with stunning views. Definitely worth a visit!This has to be one of my favourite beaches ever, not just in Wales! It is only a short walk (15/20 minutes) from the carpark to the beach (we parked in the National Trust carpark) and the views were incredible. The walk is quite steep in a couple of places (mainly the steps) but would be fine for most people. The sand itself is lovely and there was plenty of space - not too crowded at all. I think for us it was made even more special by the fact it was the first beach my toddler has even been to! If we were ever in this part of Wales again, this beach would definitely be at the top of our list!Visited August 2024Traveled with familyWritten August 30, 2024
- Nicki H4 contributionsLovely place great to walk over the coastlineCar park easy to find, cafe closed thu and Fri but toilets open Lovely walk and amazing beach. Very well looked after and dogs allowed all year round. We had a wonderful tripVisited September 2024Traveled soloWritten September 6, 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
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5.0
1,186 reviews
Excellent
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140
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15
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4
Terrible
9
Ceirios M
Bridgend, UK158 contributions
Apr 2021 • Couples
We didn’t walk to the beach but we went and grabbed a beautiful coffee and brownie from the cafe and sat on the pebbles. It was so quiet and peaceful listening to the water.
We paid £3.00 for 3 hours in the car park (minimum) and we are so glad that the weather held up for us.
Would 100% recommend going here and will definitely return in the future.
We paid £3.00 for 3 hours in the car park (minimum) and we are so glad that the weather held up for us.
Would 100% recommend going here and will definitely return in the future.
Written April 7, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Andrew B
Lincoln, UK12,153 contributions
Sep 2021
This beach is certainly not easy to get to but it is definitely worth it when you get there.
Firstly it is quite a challenging drive down narrow roads to the large but very busy National Trust pay car park at Stackpole Quay. From here it is a c half mile, c 15/20 minute walk along the cliff top/headland to the beach - really lovely views on the way but on the day we did it, it was very windy with virtually horizontal rain from the sea. There is no access at all by car.
It is a truly lovely large, long and picturesque beach with a great expanse of golden sand which is accessed by quite a steep descent of steps to it - no alternative. It has to be said there are absolutely no facilities here - cafe and toilets are at the car park. For the fit, you can walk along the beach or round the back of it to continue your coastal walk.
It is well worth the effort to visit it.
Firstly it is quite a challenging drive down narrow roads to the large but very busy National Trust pay car park at Stackpole Quay. From here it is a c half mile, c 15/20 minute walk along the cliff top/headland to the beach - really lovely views on the way but on the day we did it, it was very windy with virtually horizontal rain from the sea. There is no access at all by car.
It is a truly lovely large, long and picturesque beach with a great expanse of golden sand which is accessed by quite a steep descent of steps to it - no alternative. It has to be said there are absolutely no facilities here - cafe and toilets are at the car park. For the fit, you can walk along the beach or round the back of it to continue your coastal walk.
It is well worth the effort to visit it.
Written November 2, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Katherine
14 contributions
Apr 2022 • Couples
If I am completely honest, this beach was a little underwhelming for my partner and I. Having been told it was "beautiful" and "one of the best beaches in the world" I had high hopes; these were reduced when we saw it was...just a beach... like any other really.
It is a lovely spot: the water was clear (if not freezing, but it is only April) and the sand golden so a perfect place for a relaxing bask in the sun. When we visited it was fairly quite too which was great, I can imagine it gets packed at peak times though. It's a lovely secluded spot and has cliff walks behind the beach I believe (not that we did them!).
The hike to the beach is something that would put me off visiting again if I'm honest. A previous reviewer mentioned steep steps at the start of the walk but there was no mention of the horrendous decline to the beach at the end of your trek! Honestly, I can't decide if going down them or coming back up them was worse. Definitely think twice if you have small children or lots of "beach things" to carry!
Overall, I do think there are better options than this beach if you have small children or less-able people with you. If you're up for the walk though, the views were pretty fantastic at the top of the cliffs!
Top Tips: take cash (coins) for the car park!
If you like shade, take a parasol as there is little shade available on the beach.
It is a lovely spot: the water was clear (if not freezing, but it is only April) and the sand golden so a perfect place for a relaxing bask in the sun. When we visited it was fairly quite too which was great, I can imagine it gets packed at peak times though. It's a lovely secluded spot and has cliff walks behind the beach I believe (not that we did them!).
The hike to the beach is something that would put me off visiting again if I'm honest. A previous reviewer mentioned steep steps at the start of the walk but there was no mention of the horrendous decline to the beach at the end of your trek! Honestly, I can't decide if going down them or coming back up them was worse. Definitely think twice if you have small children or lots of "beach things" to carry!
Overall, I do think there are better options than this beach if you have small children or less-able people with you. If you're up for the walk though, the views were pretty fantastic at the top of the cliffs!
Top Tips: take cash (coins) for the car park!
If you like shade, take a parasol as there is little shade available on the beach.
Written April 23, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Susan K
Rugby, UK3 contributions
Jul 2020
You can't just drive up to this beach thank goodness. The walk is well worth it and part of a fantastic circular walk around lakes and woodland. All part of National Trust land so it is meticulously cared for. Leave Tenby behind and search out this beach.
Written July 30, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Tim
london67 contributions
Aug 2022 • Couples
Yes it's lovely, as everyone says, it can't be faulted. We went in the morning, arrived at 10am and were some of the first there. East facing so we were protected from the westerly wind. We walked to the lily ponds & back to the car park, about 5 miles including some sand dunes so quite tough, but well worth it.
I just wanted to add information about parking - as at August 2022 it's £6 cash only in the machine, but you can pay by card at the adjacent kiosk.
I just wanted to add information about parking - as at August 2022 it's £6 cash only in the machine, but you can pay by card at the adjacent kiosk.
Written August 20, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Choppy
Birmingham, UK1,273 contributions
Aug 2022 • Family
It’s a long trek to this beach (15/20 minute walk). A mile my sister said how wet in the heatwave it felt like a struggle and much longer than a mile.
First you have to park . There is a sign at the top saying full. It wasn’t full at 2:30pm when we arrived. There is a machine to pay or an attendant who you can pay for a parking ticket.
The toilets were dry when we got there but stank really bad. There is a cafe shop there where we got icecreams. You can fill your water bottle there. Take a insulated bottle as the trek is 20 minutes there and back. First it’s walk up steep steps. Once at the top through a cattle field which you access via a gate. The bay isn’t in view and it feels like an age to walk there in the heat carrying your beach things. Ensure you have decent food wear and a backpack to carry it in. The walk down to the beach is slippy in sandals.
The actual sand is beautiful. It clean, clear and no pebbles. High tide in August was at 4:30 so most of the sand was dry. The water is lovely and cold unlike other beaches further away.
Not for those with walking disabilities, using walking aids. Not buggy friendly. If you cannot carry it then don’t take it with you! There is no shop there no toilets so go prepared with food and water flasks.
First you have to park . There is a sign at the top saying full. It wasn’t full at 2:30pm when we arrived. There is a machine to pay or an attendant who you can pay for a parking ticket.
The toilets were dry when we got there but stank really bad. There is a cafe shop there where we got icecreams. You can fill your water bottle there. Take a insulated bottle as the trek is 20 minutes there and back. First it’s walk up steep steps. Once at the top through a cattle field which you access via a gate. The bay isn’t in view and it feels like an age to walk there in the heat carrying your beach things. Ensure you have decent food wear and a backpack to carry it in. The walk down to the beach is slippy in sandals.
The actual sand is beautiful. It clean, clear and no pebbles. High tide in August was at 4:30 so most of the sand was dry. The water is lovely and cold unlike other beaches further away.
Not for those with walking disabilities, using walking aids. Not buggy friendly. If you cannot carry it then don’t take it with you! There is no shop there no toilets so go prepared with food and water flasks.
Written August 16, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sian T
65 contributions
Jul 2021 • Family
I was a little worried that I was going to be disappointed by this beach. It is described as being one of the best in the UK. It doesn’t disappoint!
A couple of things:
We tried to visit on a Sunday around mid day. At this point the car park at Stackpole Quay was already full and we ended up visiting another beach. We were better organised and managed to get there earlier the following day. We arrived at 9.30 and the car park was already filling up.
Car park is run by National Trust, so free if you are a member. If you buy an all day ticket this is transferable to other beach car parks on the Stackpole estate should you fancy a change of scenery in the afternoon. The car park was £6 , for the whole day.
Helpful volunteers on hand to answer questions.
Maps available, if needed.
Toilets and a well regarded cafe at Quay.
If you are reasonably fit, it shouldn’t take longer than 10 minutes to walk to Barafundle Bay. Beautiful views. I was expecting a trek so wore trainers, but not really needed if the summer. R we are flip flops on the way back.
Quite a few steps so if problematic if you have mobility issues. Not accessible for pushchair or wheelchairs.
No facilities on beach, so take water and food. I didn’t find it too much hassle nipping back to the quay to visit bathroom.
Beach busy but did not feel crowded. Largely pristine, but horrified to see someone had left a bbq and some rubbish! Leave only footprints people!
Water crystal clear. Enjoyed a lovely swim, although even in July water was bracing! Some beautiful fish and jellyfish.
Sand soft and fine, felt like the Caribbean.
Beach framed by cliffs and woodland, really beautiful.
A couple of things:
We tried to visit on a Sunday around mid day. At this point the car park at Stackpole Quay was already full and we ended up visiting another beach. We were better organised and managed to get there earlier the following day. We arrived at 9.30 and the car park was already filling up.
Car park is run by National Trust, so free if you are a member. If you buy an all day ticket this is transferable to other beach car parks on the Stackpole estate should you fancy a change of scenery in the afternoon. The car park was £6 , for the whole day.
Helpful volunteers on hand to answer questions.
Maps available, if needed.
Toilets and a well regarded cafe at Quay.
If you are reasonably fit, it shouldn’t take longer than 10 minutes to walk to Barafundle Bay. Beautiful views. I was expecting a trek so wore trainers, but not really needed if the summer. R we are flip flops on the way back.
Quite a few steps so if problematic if you have mobility issues. Not accessible for pushchair or wheelchairs.
No facilities on beach, so take water and food. I didn’t find it too much hassle nipping back to the quay to visit bathroom.
Beach busy but did not feel crowded. Largely pristine, but horrified to see someone had left a bbq and some rubbish! Leave only footprints people!
Water crystal clear. Enjoyed a lovely swim, although even in July water was bracing! Some beautiful fish and jellyfish.
Sand soft and fine, felt like the Caribbean.
Beach framed by cliffs and woodland, really beautiful.
Written July 27, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Anna-Maria O
Connah's Quay, UK386 contributions
Aug 2021 • Family
Info first..
1) Carpark be there by 10.30am, if you are a National Trust card holder parking is free, you scan your card at machine. Cars £6, machine is cash only, Although if the lady at the little shop by the ticket machine is there she will take card payments, no notice saying this though.
2) To get to the beach is a good 15 minute walk, up steps and along a like Moor area, this is not pram or wheel chair friendly. Also once you have past the toilets & café that's it, picnic or bbq only, there is nothing on the beach at all.
3) Dog friendly, remember to clean up after them!!
The Beach, Wow, wow, wow!! Beautiful and unreal. We had an over cast day BUT it was still stunning. Beautiful soft sand. The waves are big and strong, or were today, didn't stop us going in though.
There is a walk though a woodland area that takes you to the cliff tops, I saw lots of people doing this, we didn't though, we enjoyed the beach.
Last but not least take your rubbish home, WHICH I must add people seem too, but let's keep this place a little gem.
1) Carpark be there by 10.30am, if you are a National Trust card holder parking is free, you scan your card at machine. Cars £6, machine is cash only, Although if the lady at the little shop by the ticket machine is there she will take card payments, no notice saying this though.
2) To get to the beach is a good 15 minute walk, up steps and along a like Moor area, this is not pram or wheel chair friendly. Also once you have past the toilets & café that's it, picnic or bbq only, there is nothing on the beach at all.
3) Dog friendly, remember to clean up after them!!
The Beach, Wow, wow, wow!! Beautiful and unreal. We had an over cast day BUT it was still stunning. Beautiful soft sand. The waves are big and strong, or were today, didn't stop us going in though.
There is a walk though a woodland area that takes you to the cliff tops, I saw lots of people doing this, we didn't though, we enjoyed the beach.
Last but not least take your rubbish home, WHICH I must add people seem too, but let's keep this place a little gem.
Written September 2, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
boxersaregreat
Sutton in Ashfield, UK656 contributions
Aug 2020 • Couples
This review is for the small Rocky beach near stackpole quay car park and the surrounding area. We arrived at about 9:50 am and paid £3 for 3 hours parking. We were limited as to where we could walk as we have an old frail dog who uses a dog buggy. We enjoyed watching a kayak lesson and walk up to left of the beach and sat on the high embankment watching the sea and everyone walking across the field to the beach. We had tea and scones at the boathouse tearoom. When we left at 12:30 the car park was overflowing. Cars waiting to get in. Cars couldn’t get out because of the queue to get in. The worst thing was people’s inconsiderate parking . Glad we went early.
Written August 26, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
BreconBeacons70
27 contributions
May 2023 • Couples
Lovely bay, with stunning views. If you walk further away from the Stackpole Quay car park, beyond Barafundle Bay there are lots of dramatic cliffs that are teeming with birds at this time of year. Quite magical experience. The bay has no facilities, but we purchased lovely sandwiches and pasties from the National Trust cafe at Stackpole Quay to eat on the beach. Perfect day.
Written May 19, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Would a motor home be able to get to and park in the car park? I understand from research the road can be narrow in places but is it possible to get to it if we made an early start when it’s quiet?
Written June 15, 2021
There should not be a problem.....the road is a little narrow but I'm sure you maybe use to those kind of roads!
Written June 15, 2021
Can you park a VW camper van in the Stackpole Quey car park overnight ?
Written August 11, 2020
Can’t see why not. Carpark near Barafundle beach charges £5 day or its free if your National Trust member. Give it a try....
Written August 12, 2020
Hi I'm looking to visit this beach next week , can you tell me how easy it is to find from the Stackpole car park please? I'm assuming this is the Quay car park? Any help would be great . Many thanks Wendy
Written August 24, 2019
Quiet straight forward but if your not sure just ask everyone is very helpful and yes it is stackpole quay hope you enjoy 👍👍
Written August 24, 2019
Just want a quick stop here for few pics is there any way to get there or park free it's just a quick 20min stop thanks .
Written August 7, 2019
As long as it is one of the smaller motor homes. The roads do get very narrow in places.
Written May 29, 2019
theharbourmartins
Cheltenham, United Kingdom
Hi can I get my son in his wheelchair down to this beach? We can bump him around a bit! Thanks x
Written April 7, 2019
Well in all honesty you have to go up some steep stairs, through some fields and down sone steep steps to the beach itself. Its wether you have a few strong people to help you.
Written April 7, 2019
Hi Christian - sorry for really long delay! Yes, dog-friendly all year round. You can walk from Stackpole, across Barafundle, and right along the stunning coast to Bosherston if you've got the time and energy!
Written January 2, 2019
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