The golden cove with no road — half a mile's clifftop walk from Stackpole Quay, and regularly voted among Britain's best beaches.
Barafundle's magic is its inaccessibility: there is no road, no café, no toilets — just a half-mile walk over the headland from Stackpole Quay (steps at both ends), then golden sand between pine-topped dunes and clear green water. Arrive before ten or after four in summer and you may share it with a handful of people; midday in August is busier but never resort-like, because everything must be carried in.
Swimming is good on calm days (no lifeguards — judge conditions yourself), the southern rocks give snorkelling in clear water, and the dunes at the back hold the warmth on bright spring days. Combine it with the lily ponds at Bosherston or tea at the Stackpole Quay café for the classic Stackpole day. Take your litter home — the beach's condition depends entirely on its visitors.
Hand-picked places within easy reach of the sand.
Bosherston & Stackpole · Sleeps 4 · 2 beds
Stone cottage in Stackpole village — Barafundle before the crowds, lily ponds from the lane, Stackpole Inn over the road.
Pembroke · Sleeps 4 · 2 beds
Mews cottage on Pembroke's Mill Pond with the castle filling the bedroom window — swans included.
Freshwater East · Sleeps 6 · 3 beds
Modern lodge with hot tub on the wooded hill above Freshwater East — Barafundle over the headland.