Stackpole Beach
Pembrokeshire
Stackpole Beach encompasses the exceptional coastal area around Stackpole Quay and the nearby Barafundle Bay, all within the Stackpole National Nature Reserve managed by the National Trust. Barafundle Bay is consistently voted one of the finest beaches in Wales: a perfect sheltered sandy cove accessible only by foot, with turquoise water, limestone cliffs and National Trust management that keeps it pristine and car-free. Stackpole Quay itself is a tiny Victorian limestone harbour from which Barafundle is reached by a short clifftop walk.
The Stackpole area is not included in the Pembrokeshire PSPO restriction list. Year-round dog access on the beach. Dogs should be kept on leads on NNR paths to protect nesting seabirds and other wildlife. One of the finest dog-friendly coastal walks in Wales.
At a Glance
- Dog Access
- Year Round
- Dogs on leads on NNR paths to protect wildlife. Once on the beach, dogs can be off-lead.
- Beach Type
- Sand, Rock
- Tide Notes
- Sheltered bay. Sandy beach at all tides. Clear water. Limited tidal range at Barafundle.
- Facilities
- National Trust Stackpole Quay car park with toilets and cafe (seasonal). Barafundle Bay has no facilities and no car access
- Parking
- National Trust Stackpole Quay car park. Barafundle Bay reached by 10-minute cliff walk from the quay. National Trust members free, others pay
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Stackpole Beach dog friendly?
Stackpole Beach scores 9/10 for dog friendliness, making it one of the finest dog-friendly coastal destinations in Wales. Dogs are welcome on the beach and the clifftop paths throughout the year, though leads are required on National Nature Reserve paths to protect nesting seabirds and other wildlife.
Are dogs allowed at Stackpole Beach year round?
Yes, dogs have year-round access at Stackpole Beach. The area is not included in the Pembrokeshire PSPO restriction list, so there are no seasonal bans to worry about — you can visit with your dog in any month.
What should I know before visiting Stackpole Beach with my dog?
Barafundle Bay itself is car-free and has no facilities, so you'll need to park at the National Trust Stackpole Quay car park (free for NT members, otherwise paid) and walk roughly 10 minutes along the clifftop to reach the bay. Keep your dog on a lead on the NNR paths to protect local wildlife, but once you arrive at the sheltered sandy cove with its turquoise water and limestone cliffs, it's well worth the short walk. The quay has toilets and a seasonal cafe, so it's worth making a stop there before heading out.
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