v2.webp){kind=logo}
- The crescent bay itself — golden sand and turquoise water
Barafundle’s shape and sheltered setting feel almost Mediterranean on a sunny day: fine, warm sand backed by dunes and cliffs forming a perfect natural amphitheatre. It’s the reason people hike in — the colour of the water and that private-cove vibe are rare in the UK. At night the beach becomes gloriously quiet for low-light photography, a sunset bench, or simply lying back and listening to uninterrupted surf (no beach bars blasting music here). Note: no lifeguards or facilities, so come prepared. - Cliff-top stretches of the coastal path — ever-changing views
The short hike in along the Pembrokeshire Coast Path gives you constant new angles of the bay: dramatic headlands, long perspective shots and little hidden ledges to sit
- The crescent bay itself — golden sand and turquoise water
Barafundle’s shape and sheltered setting feel almost Mediterranean on a sunny day: fine, warm sand backed by dunes and cliffs forming a perfect natural amphitheatre. It’s the reason people hike in — the colour of the water and that private-cove vibe are rare in the UK. At night the beach becomes gloriously quiet for low-light photography, a sunset bench, or simply lying back and listening to uninterrupted surf (no beach bars blasting music here). Note: no lifeguards or facilities, so come prepared. - Cliff-top stretches of the coastal path — ever-changing views
The short hike in along the Pembrokeshire Coast Path gives you constant new angles of the bay: dramatic headlands, long perspective shots and little hidden ledges to sit on. Daytime it’s perfect for a brisk walk, spotting wildflowers and getting different photo compositions every few minutes. Dusk is magical — the cliffs silhouette against the sinking sun, and it’s one of my personal favourites for watching light shift across the cove. - Paddling and sea exploration from the sheltered launch point
Because the bay is naturally sheltered, it’s a convenient place to launch a kayak or SUP and hug the coastline to explore small coves and rocky outcrops that are otherwise inaccessible. Daytime paddles reveal clear water and unexpected little beaches; it’s an especially good intro to sea kayaking without a big swell. Not really a night activity — tides and visibility make evening paddles risky unless you’re experienced and well-equipped. - Rock pools, snorkeling and shallow wild swimming
At lower tides the rockier edges reveal pools full of small marine life, and the water in the lee of the bay can be calm enough for a snorkel. The clarity and sheltered nature make short, safe swims rewarding compared with many wind-exposed Pembrokeshire beaches. Be realistic about temperature and currents — neoprene and a buddy are wise. Nighttime doesn’t add much here except dramatically colder, so stick to daylight. - Quiet picnics, sunset sessions and stargazing
With almost no nearby lighting and very few people after late afternoon, Barafundle is exceptional for long, relaxed sunsets that flow into starry skies. Bring a thermos and a blanket, find a dune-top seat or the low cliff edges, and you’ve got a proper coast-at-night experience without crowds. Don’t plan to camp or light fires on the beach — it’s protected and those things are discouraged or prohibited.
Spotted a mistake or missing something? Contact us.
Best Backpacking
.jpg)
Hi, I’m Johan (Netherlands 🇳🇱), the creator of TakeYourBackpack. Over the past decade, I’ve backpacked through 80+ countries across six continents, gaining extensive experience with independent travel, long-term trips, and overland routes.