Kayaking in Pembrokeshire: Coast, Rivers & Hire

Kayaking in Pembrokeshire: our coastal and inland guide

If you’ve ever considered a trip to experience kayaking in Pembrokeshire, which is as far west as you can get in Wales, then this is the Kayak Guide for you!

Whilst known primarily for its fabulous rugged coastline, Pembrokeshire Sea Kayaking isn’t the only paddling drawcard in this part of the country.

As well as the plethora of Sea Kayaking opportunities here there are many rivers, estuaries, lakes and more to explore from the water.

Kayaking here in the west of the country is both exciting and challenging, whilst at the same time being an experience that can be enjoyed by all kayakers from beginners to advanced.

This is a massive area to cover in one article so we’ve had to pick a selection of our favourite spots for this article, and we sincerely hope you’ll be able to get something out of our take on the Best Places to Kayak in Pembrokeshire.

We’ll revisit some of these places mentioned in this blog in depth in the future for sure.

But for now, let’s get paddling!

KAYAKING PEMBROKESHIRE SPECIAL INFO

We've Kayaked Pembrokeshire just the once and all our information comes from memory and experience. Nevertheless we suggest that you check out the most up to date information possible on both local rules and regulations that pertain to kayaking and kayak licencing. And ensure you have researched weather, river current speeds and tides for a superior Pembrokeshire Kayaking adventure.

For the main choices, compare a guided coastal outing, a researched tidal-estuary route or a booked session at Llys y Frân. The National Park’s kayaking guidance is a useful starting point.

Where to paddle

Pembrokeshire is home to a variety of fantastic kayaking locations suitable for all skill levels. In short, there’s absolutely no shortage of fantastic destinations to kayak in this beautiful far west county.

As we stated previously, this is a huge area, so in this section, we’ll explore several of the Top Spots for Kayaking in Pembrokeshire based on our own experiences and recommendations.

For more Welsh paddles, explore Swansea and Cardiff:

The following linked articles cover all you need to know about those destinations.
Kayaking Swansea | Kayaking Cardiff

The Pembrokeshire Coast National Park

The Pembrokeshire Coast National Park offers an incredible kayaking experience, with its rugged cliffs, hidden coves, and abundant marine life.

Even though this is one of the smallest of the UK’s National Parks, it actually almost encompasses the entirety of the Pembrokeshire Coast.

This stands as one of Wales’ most ecologically abundant and diverse regions, acknowledged globally for its exceptional variety of high-quality habitats and unique species.

Within its borders, the Park boasts a wealth of cultural and architectural heritage, with ancient monuments and historic buildings adding to its appeal.

To say that there are a whole range of different Sea Kayaking opportunities about the Pembrokeshire National Park is an understatement.

Coastal paddles

Pembrokeshire Sea Kayaking offers a unique adventure, combining unparalleled marine wildlife sightings, breathtaking coastal views, and a rich maritime history, making it an irresistible destination for kayakers.

With its crystal-clear waters, picturesque sea caves, and iconic landmarks dotting the coastlines, Sea kayaking in Pembrokeshire provides an unforgettable experience, perfectly blending exhilarating outdoor activity with serene tranquillity.

We haven’t managed to kayak the entire coastline yet but we know, from personal experience, that a Sea Kayaking Pembrokeshire adventure is one you don’t want to miss if you love Sea Kayaking as much as we do.

St Davids Peninsula

The St Davids Peninsula is one of the most popular locations on the coast for Sea Kayaking in Pembrokeshire and offers amazing paddling from Solva right around north to Porthgain.

With its crystal-clear waters, St Davids Peninsula offers sheltered guided outings for beginners as well as more demanding trips for experienced sea kayakers. Ramsey Sound and the offshore islands need a different level of tidal planning.

We love the paddling about Carreg Frân Island and Ramsey Island and the port town of Porthgain in the north really reminding us of those wonderful welcoming coastal towns of Devon and Cornwall.

The entire coastline, however, offers breathtaking views of the cliffs, beaches, twins and more and is teeming with surrounding wildlife both on land and in the water.

The Port of Milford Haven’s exploring guide helps distinguish quieter upper-waterway outings from the commercial shipping areas. Use its navigation advice to plan the particular stretch you want to enjoy.

Milford Haven Waterway

The Milford Haven Waterway is a stretch of water from St Anne’s Head all the way to Neyland and Pembroke Dock that provides ample space for kayakers of all abilities to explore more calm and sheltered waters.

There is an element of industrialisation about the banks along the haven when you get closer to Pembroke Dock but still you’ll find plenty of little secluded beaches and inlets in the north of the haven.

From the Haven you can paddle for miles up the Cleddau Ddu and can even go all the way to Blackpool or Haverfordwest if you so desire.

Don’t miss out on kayaking around the coastal landmarks here in the Milford Haven Waterway such as St Ann’s Head Lighthouse, West Blockhouse Fort, Thorn Island, Stack Rock Fort and Popton Fort.

As you paddle around, you’ll enjoy the scenic views and observe the rich marine life, including the chance to spot dolphins and porpoises which are known to frequent the area.

Fishguard and nearby

Fishguard is a picturesque harbour town that offers some excellent kayaking opportunities.

A number of Kayak Tours are on offer in this area with the awesome crew at KAYAK KINGS offering some spectacular exploration of the bay that takes in the old stone fort (built to protect the area from pirates) and the inlets and beaches of Dinas Head.

There are plenty of towering cliffs and rugged coastline about the Strumble Head Lighthouse and many seals call this part of the Pembrokeshire Coast home so you need to keep an eye out for them while giving them plenty of space and avoiding disturbance.

Don’t believe me? Check out this video from the guys at Kayak Kings themselves!

River kayaking in northern Pembrokeshire

Away from the coast, northern Pembrokeshire offers a different experience in the form of river kayaking.

The River Teifi

The River Teifi forms part of Pembrokeshire’s northern boundary, presenting a peaceful and scenic setting to paddle through.

The kayaking stretch of river from Llechryd bridge to the estuary’s entry at Poppit Sands is affected by the tides so keep that in mind and verify the times accordingly. As long as there’s sufficient water, it presents an excellent opportunity for a paddle.

The River Nevern

It’s also very possible to Kayak the River Nevern in North Pembrokeshire and although it’s not as wide and deep as the River Teifi it’ll still be an attractive paddle to those who love their river kayaking.

You’ll need some local knowledge though to figure out just how far upstream you can paddle so be sure to check in with the guys at the Newport Boat Club to get all the local knowledge you’ll need.

Llys y Frân Country Park and Reservoir

This awesome kayaking opportunity is right smack bang in the middle of Pembrokeshire and no Sea Kayaking Experience is required here.

Located at the foothill of the Preseli Mountains the water is clean, calm, and deep and you certainly don’t need to worry about checking tidal information before paddling.

Also a great destination for stand-up paddleboarding, with supervised open-water swimming sessions for those who book them, so there is something for families with different interests.

Bringing your own kayak or paddleboard is welcomed through the reservoir’s paid self-launch arrangements. Check opening times and bring the required proof of third-party insurance.

The Western Cleddau and Haverfordwest

Haverfordwest is clearly a Kayaking Mecca in the area as they have their own Kayak Club! Whilst the club might not do most of its kayaking in Haverfordwest itself there is still opportunity here.

The Western Cleddau River is tidal, so you do have to pick your paddling times, but the serenity of the Western Cleddau River, with its calm waters and picturesque surroundings might be right up your alley if you don’t wish to exert yourself too much.

Haverfordwest, situated along the river, is an excellent spot to begin your kayaking adventure of the Daugleddau Estuary which includes the entirety of the Cleddau River.

Along these river stretches you’ll experience a very interesting landscape unfolding before you.

The estuary’s banks offer a captivating contrast, with steep, wooded slopes and gently sloping farmland. Towering trees clothe the steep banks, creating a lush canopy that adds an air of mystery to the waterway.

Guided trips and kayak hire

Choosing a guide

When kayaking in Pembrokeshire, we recommend selecting a reputable tour operator to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

As we mentioned earlier companies like Kayak-King offer stunning kayaking tours led by expert guides who are intimately familiar with the Pembrokeshire coast.

These guides will take you to the best spots and prioritise our safety throughout the journey.

Another option to consider is Sea Kayak Guides, an organisation that specialises in sea kayaking and operates on the St Davids Peninsula.

MUUK-Adventures offers kayaking experiences at Abereiddy where you’ll be able to kayak into the Blue Lagoon as well as experience all the fabulous coastline along this stretch of the Pembrokeshire coast. Check their current kayaking sessions and prices before booking.

With their expertise, you’ll have the opportunity to explore all the unique features of Pembrokeshire’s coastline, especially some spots you may not have been able to find on your own.

Hiring a kayak

If your goal is to rent equipment and embark on the kayaking adventure independently, you should be aware of the various options available in Pembrokeshire, and there are plenty.

Here’s a list of reputable operators:

• Cardigan Bay Watersports
• Milford Beach Activity Centre
• Tenby Watersports
• Haven Sports
• Celtic Sea Watersports

There are plenty of other places and also some seasonal pop-ups in the warmer months where you can also hire kayaks in Pembrokeshire, so just make sure you do your research and due diligence as you would anywhere else before deciding on who to use.

By carefully selecting a reputable tour operator or kayak hire specialist and by hiring high-quality equipment, your kayaking experience in Pembrokeshire will undoubtedly be memorable and enjoyable.

Before you launch

Safety Guidelines

When Kayaking in Pembrokeshire, it’s essential to follow safety guidelines to ensure a fun and secure experience.

The British Canoe Union safety guidelines (as followed by the staff at Kayak King) are worth noting as they are probably the most reputable in the country for paddling of any sort.

To enhance safety and protect the environment, here are some suggestions that might be worth considering if going on any lengthy kayak expedition:

• Always wear a lifejacket or buoyancy aid.
• Be aware of the local conditions and tides.
• Paddle within your ability and never venture out alone.
• Carry safety equipment such as a whistle, waterproof torch, and a compass.

Licences and Permits

In Pembrokeshire, it’s not legally required to have a licence for recreational kayaking along the coastline. For in depth info of Kayaking Licencing Requirements in the UK please read this article.

However, we recommend participating in a Sea Kayak Academy course to improve your skills, gain valuable qualifications, and enhance your confidence on the water.

For beginners, we suggest joining a guided tour or seeking guidance from local experts, such as TYF Adventure, who can provide both equipment and expertise.

Your commitment to safety and responsibility also includes care for the environment.

Ensure that your kayaking experience leaves a minimal impact on the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park by adhering to the principles of Leave No Trace, disposing of litter appropriately, and respecting wildlife and their habitats.

By following these safety guidelines and regulations, we can enjoy kayaking along the beautiful Pembrokeshire coastline while preserving the environment and ensuring our own safety.

Wildlife and Marine Conservation

Observe and Respect Wildlife

While kayaking in Pembrokeshire, you’ll be fortunate to encounter a diverse range of marine life.

From seals to seabirds, the pristine coastline offers a unique opportunity to observe these animals in their natural habitat.

Check out the Pembrokeshire Marine Code to ensure you understand the correct way to interact with the fauna in the area so as not to harm the local wildlife or ecology.

You should always maintain a safe distance from any wildlife you encounter, whether it’s seals resting on the shore or seabirds nesting on the cliffs.

Additionally, never attempt to touch or feed the animals, as interaction with humans can disrupt their natural behaviours and potentially cause harm.

Marine Protection Areas

Pembrokeshire is home to a Marine Special Area of Conservation (SAC), which acknowledges the region’s significance for marine wildlife in Europe.

The SAC designation helps protect the area and its species from potential threats and ensures the conservation of this unique ecosystem.

When exploring the waters while kayaking, it’s important for us to familiarise ourselves with the marine protection areas and adhere to any guidelines put in place.

By respecting these designated zones and following best practices, we can help preserve Pembrokeshire’s exceptional marine life for future generations to enjoy.

When to visit

Seasonal Weather Conditions

In Pembrokeshire, the weather varies throughout the year, providing unique kayaking experiences for different seasons.

Spring is an excellent time to enjoy our kayaking adventures in Pembrokeshire as nature comes alive during this season.

Cliffs and shorelines become home to nesting seabirds, offering a fantastic opportunity to observe them tending to their nests and flying gracefully above the water.

Pembrokeshire’s summer months are also popular for sea kayaking.

With warm sunshine and pleasant temperatures, paddlers can explore the beautiful Pembrokeshire coast with ease.

The calmer waters during summer are typically more forgiving for beginners, making it an ideal time to learn and build confidence in one’s kayaking skills.

Autumn can be more unpredictable in terms of weather; however, the changing foliage colours along the coast provide a stunning backdrop for kayaking.

As for winter, although the temperatures drop, and daylight hours decrease, kayakers willing to brave the cold can enjoy fewer crowds and a more peaceful experience.

Tidal Considerations

Understanding the tidal patterns in Pembrokeshire is crucial for planning a safe and enjoyable kayaking trip.

Tides not only affect water levels but also have an impact on currents, which can change the difficulty of particular kayaking routes.

By familiarising ourselves with local tide patterns, you can ensure a more enjoyable and safer paddling experience.

The best tide depends on the particular route. A cave, beach or estuary launch can be accessible at one stage and unsuitable at another, so use local advice alongside tide heights and tidal-stream information.

When planning a kayaking trip, it’s essential to also consider factors like wind direction, the speed of tidal currents, and any possible hazards along the intended route.

By taking into account the seasonal weather conditions and tidal considerations, you can better plan our kayaking adventures in Pembrokeshire, ensuring a fantastic experience on the water.

Watch a Pembrokeshire paddling trip

Sam Webster is a scientist and outdoor sport enthusiast (check out his YouTube Channel – https://www.youtube.com/@SamWebster) who recorded a great personal VLOG on his channel Kayaking in Pembrokeshire from Saundersfoot to Tenby and back.

Check out this awesome part of the Pembrokeshire Coast here with Sam as he does a spot of Pembrokeshire Sea Kayaking where he paddles through caves and along very cool rugged coastline and beaches.

Our final thoughts

This was yet another kayaking location that we’ll need to revisit a number of times to truly be able to experience all that Pembrokeshire has to offer for the paddler.

But from our little experience here in the west of Wales, we can confidently say that Pembrokeshire is AWESOME for kayaking.

Pembrokeshire is seriously a hidden gem for sea kayakers with tidal racing, rockhopping, and spectacular scenery that can truly only be experienced, not described.

Sea Kayaking is so popular here that there is actually a Sea Kayaking Academy based here – have a look https://seakayakacademy.com

We did a lot of Sea Kayaking, where there is literally so much coastline to explore. But the estuaries and rivers we paddled were also lots of fun.

This is a highly recommended destination for kayaking so do yourself a favour and come over and experience Kayaking in Pembrokeshire for yourself.

Cheers all, happy paddling and thanks for reading!

I’m Mark, enthusiastic paddler and owner of Kayak Mad! Find out more about me and Kayak Mad.

FAQs: kayaking in Pembrokeshire

Is it possible to kayak to Ramsey Island?

Yes, but the open water and strong tidal streams require experienced sea-kayaking skills. We recommend planning it with an experienced local guide rather than treating it as a beginner outing.

Are there beginner-friendly kayaking spots in Pembrokeshire?

Yes. Choose a suitable guided coastal session or a booked reservoir activity at Llys y Frân. The right outing depends on conditions, rather than every bay being sheltered on every day.

What are the best places for kayaking along the Pembrokeshire coast?

It is a personal choice! We love the St Davids area, while Fishguard and the many coves and estuaries offer their own appeal. Choose the particular route to suit your skills and the day’s sea conditions.

Can I bring my own kayak to Llys y Frân?

Yes, through its paid self-launch arrangements. Check current opening times, rules and the required proof of third-party insurance before travelling.