Tenby Castle Beach

Visit Tenby Castle Beach

Sandy Tenby Castle Beach is a stunning family friendly seaside location in South Pembrokeshire on the Welsh coast. Sitting between the historic town walls and the iconic St Catherine’s Island, Tenby Castle Beach is a hidden gem that offers breathtaking views, golden sands, and a rich sense of history.

Castle Beach has been repeatedly voted one of the best beaches in the UK, and it’s easy to see why. Framed by cliffs, turquoise waters, and the dramatic backdrop of St Catherine’s Island, it’s the stuff postcards are made of.

The beach sits below the remains of Tenby Castle, which crowns the hill above. A short walk up provides spectacular panoramic views of the beach, harbour, and surrounding coastline. The mix of medieval ruins and natural beauty is truly stunning.

Just off the beach is St Catherine’s Island, accessible by foot at low tide. It’s home to a 19th-century fort that was once used during wartime. Today, it’s privately owned but has opened to the public at various times for tours – a must-do if you get the chance!

Thanks to its relatively sheltered position, the waters at Castle Beach are often calm, making it a popular spot for swimming, paddling, and even some light snorkeling when the tides are right. This is a Blue Flag beach, with RNLI lifeguards on duty during the holidays.

As the tide goes out, the rocky edges around Castle Beach reveal a host of rock pools, perfect for spotting tiny sea creatures like crabs, shrimp, and anemones. A hit with curious kids and adults alike.

At high tide, much of Castle Beach disappears, so it’s best visited during mid to low tide when the sands stretch out and allow access to St Catherine’s Island. Always check tide times to avoid being cut off.

During low tide, you can walk from Castle Beach to South Beach and even over to Tenby Harbour Beach, creating one long, glorious stretch of sand. It’s a wonderful way to explore Tenby’s coastline on foot.

One of the best things about Castle Beach is how easily accessible it is. Right below the town centre, you can go from coffee shop to sandy toes in under five minutes. It’s perfect for a spontaneous seaside moment.

From golden-hour shots of the sun lighting up the cliffs, to moody skies above the fort, Castle Beach offers an endless stream of Instagram-worthy moments. It’s one of Wales’ most photogenic spots.

While summer is busy and buzzing, spring and early autumn offer quieter visits, great light for photos, and fewer crowds. The beach is still beautiful, and you might just have it almost to yourself.

Whether you’re after a swim, a scenic picnic, or a historical wander, Tenby Castle Beach ticks all the boxes. It’s a coastal treasure that truly captures the magic of Pembrokeshire.