Porthgain to Abereiddy Coastal Walk
Pembrokeshire
This 4.8km coastal walk links two of Pembrokeshire's most distinctive former industrial harbours. Porthgain is a tiny, perfectly preserved harbour village where the old brick hoppers and stone quays of the former granite-crushing works frame a sheltered inlet, while Abereiddy has the famous Blue Lagoon, a flooded former slate quarry with striking turquoise water. The coast path between them follows dramatic cliff tops above dark volcanic rock, with views out to the offshore islands and the constant crash of the Atlantic below. The industrial ruins at both ends add layers of history to the wild coastal scenery, and the whole walk has a concentrated, intense character.
This is a short but memorable dog friendly walk with moderate off-lead potential on the cliff-top sections, though leads are essential near the cliff edges and through any farmland where livestock is present. The Atlantic wind carries strong salt and seabird scent, and the rocky terrain demands reasonable paw confidence. The Blue Lagoon at Abereiddy looks tempting but the deep water and steep quarry sides make it unsuitable for dogs. The beach at Abereiddy provides safer water access. The Sloop Inn at Porthgain welcomes dogs and is one of the best coastal pubs in Pembrokeshire, making it a natural start or finish point. Parking is available at both villages. A walk that packs a lot of drama into a short distance.
At a Glance
- Distance
- 4.8 km (3.0 miles)
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Duration
- 1 hr 45 min
- Walk Type
- Coastal, Historic
- Route Type
- Circular
- Off Lead Potential
- Moderate
- Livestock Risk
- Moderate
- Facilities
- The Sloop Inn at Porthgain (dog-friendly); The Shed Bistro at Porthgain; no facilities at Abereiddy
- Parking
- Porthgain Harbour car park (SA62 5BP); pay and display; alternative car park at Abereiddy
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Porthgain to Abereiddy Coastal Walk dog friendly?
Yes, this is a dog-friendly coastal walk with a rating of 7 out of 10. Dogs are welcome throughout, and the Sloop Inn at Porthgain , one of Pembrokeshire's best coastal pubs , is dog-friendly too, making it a great place to start or finish your walk. The beach at Abereiddy also offers a safe spot for dogs to access the water.
Can dogs be off lead at Porthgain to Abereiddy Coastal Walk?
There's moderate off-lead potential on the cliff-top sections of this walk, but leads are essential near the cliff edges and through any farmland where livestock may be present. The Blue Lagoon at Abereiddy should be avoided entirely with dogs , its deep water and steep quarry sides make it genuinely hazardous, so keep leads on in that area.
What should I know before visiting Porthgain to Abereiddy Coastal Walk with my dog?
At 4.8km, this is a short but dramatic walk with rocky terrain, so your dog will need reasonable paw confidence. The Atlantic wind brings strong salt and seabird scents, which can be distracting for some dogs. Parking is available at both Porthgain (SA62 5BP, pay and display) and Abereiddy, so you can choose which end to start from.
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