RAMSAR Site: Pembrokeshire Coast wilderness guide
RAMSAR Site · Wales

RAMSAR Site: Pembrokeshire Coast

Pembrokeshire Coast is a protected wetland and coastal area recognized for its diverse marine habitats, dramatic cliffs, and rich wildlife, offering unparalleled outdoor experiences along its rugged shores.

RAMSAR SiteApproximately 20,000 acres (8,094 hectares)4+ Trails

Designation

RAMSAR Site

Total Wilderness Area

Approximately 20,000 acres (8,094 hectares)

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About RAMSAR Site: Pembrokeshire Coast

Pembrokeshire Coast is a protected wetland and coastal area recognized for its diverse marine habitats, dramatic cliffs, and rich wildlife, offering unparalleled outdoor experiences along its rugged shores.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Pembrokeshire Coast RAMSAR Site encompasses approximately 170 kilometers of coastline along the southwestern edge of Wales, featuring an extensive series of cliffs, coves, estuaries, and maritime habitats. This internationally important wetland area supports a wide range of ecological communities including salt marshes, sand dunes, intertidal mudflats, and rocky shores. The site is critical for numerous bird species, including wintering wildfowl and waders, while also sustaining populations of otters, grey seals, and diverse marine life within its clear waters. The geological features, shaped by glacial activity and ancient rock formations, add to the dramatic scenery. Outdoor recreation thrives here with the Pembrokeshire Coast Path providing over 186 miles of walking trails that wind along cliffs and beaches, offering spectacular views of sea stacks and caves. Visitors are often drawn to opportunities for birdwatching, kayaking, sailing, and exploring the many beaches scattered along the coast. Pembrokeshire Coast is also home to several historical landmarks such as St David's Cathedral nearby, and remnants of prehistoric settlements. Its status as a RAMSAR site highlights the commitment to conserving this sensitive environment while allowing people to appreciate the natural beauty and wildlife. The location offers a blend of coastal adventure and tranquil nature observation, making it a unique destination for outdoor enthusiasts and conservationists alike.

Field Guide · RAMSAR Site
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near RAMSAR Site: Pembrokeshire Coast

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Pembrokeshire Coast Path – a continuous cliff-top trail with panoramic ocean views✦ Skomer Marine Nature Reserve – important for puffins and grey seals✦ Marloes Sands – a stunning, remote sandy beach with dramatic cliffs✦ Bosherston Lakes – a noteworthy freshwater lake system supporting rare wildfowl
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in RAMSAR Site: Pembrokeshire Coast

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in RAMSAR Site: Pembrokeshire Coast
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in RAMSAR Site: Pembrokeshire Coast
Park Recreation

Birdwatching

Available in RAMSAR Site: Pembrokeshire Coast
Park Recreation

Kayaking

Available in RAMSAR Site: Pembrokeshire Coast
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in RAMSAR Site: Pembrokeshire Coast
Park Recreation

Coasteering

Available in RAMSAR Site: Pembrokeshire Coast
Park Recreation

Sailing

Available in RAMSAR Site: Pembrokeshire Coast
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in RAMSAR Site: Pembrokeshire Coast
Park Recreation

Beachcombing

Available in RAMSAR Site: Pembrokeshire Coast
Park Recreation

Cycling

Available in RAMSAR Site: Pembrokeshire Coast
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in RAMSAR Site: Pembrokeshire Coast.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free public access to coastal paths and most sites; some nature reserves may have a small entry fee or donation.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in RAMSAR Site: Pembrokeshire Coast

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

St Govans Camp Site

A family-friendly campground set near the coast offering direct access to nearby beaches and scenic trails.

Broad Haven Campsite

Situated a short walk from Broad Haven beach, popular with surfers and hikers on the Pembrokeshire Coast Path.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near RAMSAR Site: Pembrokeshire Coast

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

St David's, Wales
⌖ 5.41 miles
Gateway Basecamp

St David's, Wales

St David's is Wales’ smallest city, known for rugged coastal hikes, sea kayaking, and wildlife watching. Located within Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, it offers captivating cliff paths, historic ruins, and access to offshore islands.

Late Spring to Early Autumn
Explore Town
St. Davids, Pembrokeshire, Wales
⌖ 5.41 miles
Gateway Basecamp

St. Davids, Pembrokeshire, Wales

St. Davids in Pembrokeshire offers outdoor travelers stunning coastal hikes, thrilling coasteering, and peaceful paddling in a scenic Welsh town known for its nature and heritage.

Late Spring to Early Autumn
Explore Town
St Davids, Pembrokeshire
⌖ 5.41 miles
Gateway Basecamp

St Davids, Pembrokeshire

St Davids is a small coastal town perfect for outdoor lovers seeking rugged coastlines, hiking, kayaking, and wildlife watching within Pembrokeshire Coast National Park’s stunning landscapes.

Late Spring to Early Autumn
Explore Town
St Davids, Pembrokeshire, Wales
⌖ 5.41 miles
Gateway Basecamp

St Davids, Pembrokeshire, Wales

St Davids in Pembrokeshire offers spectacular coastal hiking, sea kayaking, and wildlife watching in Britain’s smallest city. With cliff trails, sandy beaches, and protected natural areas, it’s an ideal base for exploring Wales’ rugged west coast.

Late Spring to Early Autumn
Explore Town
St. David's, Pembrokeshire
⌖ 5.41 miles
Gateway Basecamp

St. David's, Pembrokeshire

St. David's in Pembrokeshire offers stunning coastal hikes, exciting coasteering, and calm kayaking in Wales’ only coastal national park. Discover historic sites, wildlife, and endless outdoor adventures on land and sea.

Late Spring to Early Autumn
Explore Town
St. David's, Wales
⌖ 5.41 miles
Gateway Basecamp

St. David's, Wales

St. David’s, Wales, offers stunning coastal hiking, kayaking, and wildlife spotting amid Pembrokeshire’s protected landscapes. This quiet town is a perfect base for outdoor enthusiasts seeking rugged sea views, historic sites, and peaceful adventure.

Late Spring to Early Autumn
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in RAMSAR Site: Pembrokeshire Coast

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Nightfall on Ramsey: Watching Manx Shearwaters Return by Boat
ADVEXPEDITION
St Davids, Wales
Boat TourADV Bookable

Nightfall on Ramsey: Watching Manx Shearwaters Return by Boat

A focused 90-minute evening boat trip from St Davids that brings you close to Ramsey Island’s coastline and the nightly return of thousands of nesting Manx Shearwaters, explained and experienced with local guides.

Boat TourPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip