Guide to Broad Haven South Beach

Beaches, Coastal, Days out

Posted by Kate Atkin on 18th July 2024

An aerial view of Broad Haven South Beach.

Broad Haven South Beach boasts a sweeping sandy shoreline backed by rolling, grassy dunes, and flanked by limestone cliffs on either side. Nestled at the edge of the National Trust’s Stackpole Estate and the renowned Bosherston Lily Ponds, it is one of the finest beaches in Pembrokeshire.

This beautiful bay has a namesake 20 miles away on the west coast of Pembrokeshire, known simply as Broad Haven Beach or Broad Haven North by those who reside in the south. However, while they might share a name, they are two very different beaches, and this guide will explain why.

To make the most of your holiday in Wales, we’ve found the best things to do, the most scenic walks, and the top places to eat at this secluded coastal gem. And if you’re already reaching for the sun cream and beach towels, then click the button below to browse our full collection of Pembrokeshire holiday cottages.

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Broad Haven South Beach FAQs

Broad Haven South Beach is located 1 mile south-east of the village of Bosherston, on the edge of the Stackpole Estate in Pembrokeshire, Wales.

The postcode is SA71 5DR.

Dogs are allowed on Broad Haven South Beach all year round without any restrictions. In fact, it’s one of the most dog-friendly beaches in Wales.

Do bear in mind, however, that the Stackpole Estate is a Marine Special Area of Conservation and a National Nature Reserve. It is therefore recommended to keep your dogs close and on leads when visiting, so as not to disturb any of the wildlife.

There are two car parks for Broad Haven South Beach. You can use the National Trust car park in Bosherston (SA71 5DW) and walk down to the beach alongside the Lily Ponds. It’s a mile’s walk but an easier option for those with pushchairs, wheelchairs, or mobility problems.

Alternatively, you can park closer to the beach in the National Trust’s Trefalen car park (SA71 5DZ). Access to the beach from here is via a steep staircase down the cliffside which is not suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs.

Parking charges apply at both car parks unless you are a National Trust member.

There are no facilities on Broad Haven South Beach but both car parks have public WCs. There is also a seasonal ice cream van in Trefalen car park.

There is no lifeguard service at Broad Haven South Beach.

Access to the beach from the car park at the southern end is via a lot of steep steps down the cliff, which makes it difficult for pushchairs or wheelchairs.

Access from the car park in Bosherston on the northern side is much more accessible, via a 1-mile walk through the Lily Ponds, along boardwalks onto the sand.

Whilst the beach is free to visit, there are charges for the two National Trust car parks, unless you’re a member.

Ahead of your visit, check out The Beach Guide’s tide and weather report for Broad Haven South Beach.


Things to do at Broad Haven South Beach

With ample parking, wildlife-rich walks, and plenty of space for family-friendly activities, Broad Haven South Beach is one of the best beaches in Wales. Here are some of our favourite things to do during a visit.


A aerial view of Broad Haven South Beach and a bucket and spade on the sand.

Bring your bucket and spade

Masses of soft, golden sand ensure that there is more than enough room for everyone to enjoy a traditional bucket-and-spade day out at this beautiful beach in the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. At low tide, the soft sandy expanse here seems to go on for miles before it meets the shimmering, turquoise waters, so pack up the rounders bat, the cricket set and the frisbee for an afternoon in the sunshine.

Families will love exploring the boulders and ‘island’ on the west side of the bay to discover mysterious caves and springs gushing out of the cliffs. And when your little ones aren’t busy carving out hopscotch grids in the sand, they will adore splashing through the clear stream that trickles across the sand from the Lily Ponds behind the beach (more on those later!).


A view of Broad Haven South Beach at sunset.

Enjoy a Seashore Safari

Broad Haven South Beach is a playground for both young and old. The National Trust has created a self-led Seashore Safari for visitors to follow with a selection of nature-themed challenges to try along the route. Simply pick up a map from the visitor reception, set off on the trail and see what you can find.


A surfer in the sea and a view of Church Rock.

Dive into the waves

The blissfully blue waters at Broad Haven South Beach are too inviting to refuse, so you won’t want to forget your bathers. After a couple of hours of sunbathing with a book, cool off with a refreshing dip in the waves. There’s an intriguing limestone stack just offshore, known as Church Rock, which is an ideal spot for swimming. Take care if you plan to swim at Broad Haven South Beach though as the currents can be strong and can change quickly.

The bay is also a great choice for surfers, providing the conditions are right. The surf at Broad Haven South Beach is somewhat variable and not always suitable for beginners. But on a good day, seasoned surfers have been known to enjoy large barrel waves and wedge-like breaks, particularly along the south-westerly area of the beach.

Read our guide to 9 of the best beaches for surfing in Wales for more popular surf spots nearby.


A sea angler holding a fishing rod in the sea.

Have a go at sea angling

One of the best beaches for fishing in Pembrokeshire, Broad Haven South Beach is a huge draw for sea anglers. The most likely catches of the day include sea bass, wrasse, pollack, bull huss, and mackerel.

Younger visitors should also bring their nets as there’s a wealth of curious creatures from the deep to be found among the rock pools and hidden sea caves in the cliffsides along the headland.


A montage of images of Bosherston Lakes and the lilies.

Visit Bosherston Lakes

At the north end of Broad Haven South Beach, you will find Bosherston Lakes. Also known as Bosherston Lily Ponds, this 80-acre National Nature Reserve is managed by the National Trust and is one of the best days out in Pembrokeshire.

These three freshwater lakes are best known for their dazzling display of lilies each June and July. The leaves and spectacular white blooms provide shelter for frogs and nectar for insects, and there’s also a chance you may spot the resident population of otters frolicking in the water, as well as over 20 species of dragonfly. The ponds offer good coarse fishing and are well-stocked.


Walks near Broad Haven South Beach

Situated on the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, it should come as no surprise that there is a myriad of scenic walks from Broad Haven South Beach. Read on to discover some of our favourites, which we think are among the best walks in Pembrokeshire.


A bridge crossing Bosherston Lily Ponds.

Bosherston Lily Ponds Trail

One of the most popular Broad Haven South Beach walks is the easy 1-mile trail around Bosherston Lily Ponds. This delightful stroll is brimming with wildlife all year round, with the chance of spotting a cornucopia of birds, dragonflies, otters, and the famed water lilies. The lakeside path is mostly along even gravel paths and dogs are welcome.

Good to know

  • Distance: 1 mile
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Facilities: National Trust car park with WCs, plus a café and pub can be found in Bosherston village
  • Stay nearby: Coastguard House 1 | Sleeps 4 + 1 dog

A montage featuring Barafundle Bay, Broad Haven South Beach and Stackpole Quay.

Broad Haven South Beach to Stackpole Quay

Set off on the Pembrokeshire Coast Path from Broad Haven South Beach on a 3-mile adventure to Stackpole Quay. En route, you will see Stackpole Head which is a breeding ground for kittiwakes, razorbills, fulmars and guillemots. If you’re lucky, you may even spot some puffins.

You will also pass through Barafundle Bay, regularly voted as one of the best beaches in the UK and only accessible via the coastal path. The final stop is Stackpole Quay, a small, picture-postcard bay nestled amongst the cliffs and a favourite with kayakers.

Good to know

  • Distance: 3.1 miles
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Facilities: National Trust car park with WCs at Broad Haven South Beach and Stackpole Quay, plus a café on the harbour at Stackpole Quay
  • Stay nearby: Chestnut Cottage – Stackpole | Sleeps 6 + 2 dogs

St Govan's Chapel.

Bosherston to St Govan’s Chapel

This 4.4-mile circular trail will take you around the headland to see the incredible St Govan’s Chapel, built into the cliffside. This tiny hermit’s cell is full of myth and legend: make a wish at ‘Bell Rock’ and see if you can count the steps down and up again – many say that the number is never the same! Please note that access to St Govan’s Head may be restricted by the Ministry of Defence at certain times of the year.

Good to know

  • Distance: 4.4 miles
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Facilities: National Trust car park with WCs at Broad Haven South Beach and Bosherston village, plus a café and pub can be found in Bosherston village
  • Stay nearby: Broad Haven Cottage | Sleeps 4 + 1 dog

Food and drink near Broad Haven South Beach

You’ll have soon worked up an appetite after making the most of all these exciting activities. So, we’ve rounded up some of the best places to eat near Broad Haven South Beach where you can refuel after your adventures. For more inspiration, check out our Wales food and drink guide.


Scones covered in cream and jam with a cup of tea.

Ye Olde World Café

If you’re craving a spot of afternoon tea with homemade scones and delicate sandwiches, then Ye Olde World Café, also known as Bosherston Tea Rooms, is the perfect place. After a morning on the sand, sit inside this cosy cafe or outside in the sunshine, with a pot of tea and a slice of sticky cake and watch the world go by.

Good to know

  • Location: Bosherston, Pembroke, SA71 5DN
  • Opening times: Monday–Sunday 11.15am–5pm
  • Why not try: A delicious cream tea with fresh scones laden with fruity jam and a mountain of clotted cream
  • Stay nearby: Sea Gem | Sleeps 4 

Hands clinking some beer glasses above some food in a pub.

St. Govan’s Inn

For hearty pub fare, head to St. Govan’s Inn in Bosherston. The village’s sole watering hole, this country inn is a cosy place to dine, with its exposed beams adorned in horse brasses, and a crackling wood burner. Sit beside the fire with a fine cask ale and a newspaper or peruse the menu of delicious homemade dishes.

Good to know

  • Location: Bosherston, Pembroke, SA71 5DN
  • Opening times: Monday–Friday 12pm–2.30pm and 6pm–8.30pm, Saturday–Sunday 12pm–8.30pm
  • Why not try: Homemade cawl, a traditional Welsh soup with cheese and crusty bread
  • Stay nearby: Welcome, Croeso | Sleeps 4

Someone tucking into a plate of fish and chips in a pub.

The Stackpole Inn

Just 4 miles away from Broad Haven South Beach is The Stackpole Inn, an award-winning gastropub. Diners can choose between the sunny beer garden, or the atmospheric interiors with low, wooden ceilings, exposed stone walls, and a glowing wood burner. The menu changes regularly and showcases local seasonal ingredients.

Good to know

  • Location: Jasons Corner, Stackpole, Pembroke, SA71 5DF
  • Opening times: Food is served Monday–Saturday 12pm–2pm and 5.30pm–8pm, and Sunday 12pm–3pm and 5.30pm–8pm
  • Why not try: Whole roast bream served with beurre noisette, capers, cockles, parsley, and roasted potatoes
  • Stay nearby: Seathrift | Sleeps 4

Map of Broad Haven South Beach

Find all the places mentioned above in our map of Broad Haven South Beach.

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Stay near Broad Haven South Beach

With so many things to do around Broad Haven South Beach, you’ll need somewhere to take the weight off your feet in between adventures.

Our holiday cottages in Pembrokeshire are peppered among the coast and countryside in a range of different sizes, so you’re sure to find somewhere special for your stay. Click the button below to browse our self-catering accommodation in Pembrokeshire.

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Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing, please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.