Caldey Island Wales
A tranquil holy island off Wales' coast, home to Cistercian monks, offering serene beaches and ancient history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Catch the best weather for boat trips.
Caldey Island Wales
Best Time
Catch the best weather for boat trips.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tranquil holy island off Wales' coast, home to Cistercian monks, offering serene beaches and ancient history.
"A truely beautiful place with such lovely beaches, people, scenery, wildlife would definitely recommend visiting."
🚢 Book Boat Tickets Early
Boats to Caldey Island depart frequently from Tenby, but booking ahead is wise during peak season.
🧺 Pack a Picnic Lunch
Limited food options on the island; bring your own food and drinks to enjoy.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Monastery & Monastic Life
Caldey Island Village
Discover the ancient Cistercian monastery and learn about over a thousand years of prayer and quiet living.
Secluded Beaches
Various locations on Caldey Island
Enjoy pristine, often quiet beaches perfect for a picnic or a moment of tranquility.
Coastal Walks & Views
Caldey Island paths
Explore scenic walking trails offering stunning views of the Pembrokeshire coastline and surrounding waters.
Red Squirrel Spotting
Wooded areas on Caldey Island
Keep an eye out for native red squirrels, a rare and delightful sight in Wales.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Boat Trip Essentials
Island Pace & Provisions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚢 Book Boat Tickets Early
Boats to Caldey Island depart frequently from Tenby, but booking ahead is wise during peak season.
🧺 Pack a Picnic Lunch
Limited food options on the island; bring your own food and drinks to enjoy.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on varied terrain, so sturdy footwear is a must.
🌦️ Check the Weather
Boat trips can be cancelled due to rough seas, so monitor the forecast.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚢 Book Boat Tickets Early
Boats to Caldey Island depart frequently from Tenby, but booking ahead is wise during peak season.
🧺 Pack a Picnic Lunch
Limited food options on the island; bring your own food and drinks to enjoy.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on varied terrain, so sturdy footwear is a must.
🌦️ Check the Weather
Boat trips can be cancelled due to rough seas, so monitor the forecast.
💰 Budget for the Trip
Expect to pay around £15-£20 per person for the return boat journey.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Caldey Island for its peaceful atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and scenic walks, offering a refreshing escape from the mainland. The unique experience of visiting a holy island with a monastic community is a significant draw, though some find the boat fare a bit steep. Overall, it's highly recommended for a relaxing and picturesque day out.
"Great fun day out was a really interesting experience seeing how the monks live and how peaceful and relaxing the island was. Was a truely beautiful place with such lovely beaches, people, scenery, wildlife would definitely recommend visiting."
Chris
"Such a lovely island. The only way to get there is to buy a £20 per adult to the island. The trip there and back to Tenby is approximately 20 minutes. Such a beautiful island and the beach is lovely."
Victoria Addison
"Lovely walks gorgeous scenery perfect peace but visit when weather is good"
Roy Buchanan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The only way to reach Caldey Island is by boat from Tenby Harbour. Boats run regularly during the summer months (Easter to October) and the journey takes about 20-30 minutes.
Boats typically depart every 20-30 minutes from Tenby Harbour, but this can vary based on demand and weather conditions. It's best to check the latest schedule upon arrival in Tenby.
Yes, there are several car parks in Tenby town, some of which are within walking distance of the harbour. Consider parking slightly further out during busy periods to avoid congestion.
No, Caldey Island is a car-free zone. All visitors arrive by boat, and transport on the island is on foot.
Boat trips to Caldey Island are subject to weather conditions. If the sea is too rough, services may be suspended for the day. It's advisable to check the local forecast and harbour status.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The primary cost is the return boat trip from Tenby, which is approximately £15-£20 per adult. There is no separate entry fee for the island itself.
While specific discounts can vary, children's fares are generally lower than adult fares for the boat trip. It's worth inquiring at the ticket office in Tenby Harbour for the most current pricing.
Tickets are typically purchased on the day of travel from the ticket office at Tenby Harbour. During peak season, it's recommended to arrive early to secure your preferred departure time.
Caldey Island is generally open to day visitors from Easter until October. The monastery itself is a working religious community, and access to certain areas may be restricted.
While the monastery is a working religious site, visitors are welcome to explore the grounds and the church. There isn't a specific admission fee for the monastery, but donations are appreciated.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy peaceful walks along the coast, relax on the beaches, visit the Cistercian monastery, explore the island's village, and look for wildlife like red squirrels.
There are basic facilities including a small shop selling monastic products (perfume, chocolate, fudge), a cafe, and public toilets. It's recommended to bring your own picnic.
The island has varied terrain, including some uneven paths and inclines. While the village area is relatively accessible, some of the walking trails may be challenging for those with significant mobility issues.
Yes, the beaches on Caldey Island are beautiful and suitable for swimming, though the water can be quite cold even in summer.
Caldey Island is known for its birdlife and is one of the few places in Wales where you might spot native red squirrels. Seals can also sometimes be seen offshore.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Caldey Island has a small cafe offering refreshments, but it's not a full-service restaurant. Many visitors choose to bring a picnic to enjoy the scenic spots.
The island shop sells products made by the monks, including handmade fudge, chocolate, and perfumes. These make for unique souvenirs.
Absolutely! Bringing a picnic is highly recommended and a popular way to enjoy the island's beautiful beaches and viewpoints.
While not explicitly prohibited, it's a holy island with a monastic community, so it's best to be discreet and respectful. Bringing your own non-alcoholic drinks for a picnic is perfectly fine.
The cafe's opening hours usually align with the boat service times, typically from Easter to October. It's best to check on arrival for the most up-to-date information.
📸 📸 Photography
The monastery, the harbour, the lighthouse, the coastal paths, and the secluded beaches all offer fantastic photographic opportunities. Don't forget to capture the red squirrels if you're lucky!
Photography is generally not permitted inside the active monastic buildings out of respect for the monks' privacy and religious practices. Always look for signage.
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) can provide beautiful light for landscape and coastal shots. Midday offers bright light for beach scenes.
Drone usage is generally restricted over sensitive areas, especially religious sites and wildlife habitats. It's best to assume drones are not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for landscapes and village shots. A wide-angle lens can capture the expansive coastal views, and a telephoto lens might be useful for wildlife.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as food options are limited. Comfortable shoes are a must for little legs exploring the island's paths. The peaceful atmosphere makes it a great place for children to connect with nature away from the hustle and bustle of mainland attractions.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Peace Seekers
The boat trip itself offers a chance to disconnect and enjoy the sea air. Once on the island, the limited facilities encourage a focus on nature and reflection rather than commercial distractions. It's a perfect place to recharge and enjoy your own company amidst beautiful surroundings.
📸 Photographers & Nature Enthusiasts
Nature enthusiasts will be thrilled by the chance to spot red squirrels and seabirds. The varied terrain provides diverse photographic subjects, from sweeping sea views to intimate details of flora and fauna. Remember to bring a versatile lens and be prepared for changing light conditions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Monastic Heritage of Caldey Island
Visitors can explore the monastery grounds and the island's village, gaining insight into the monks' way of life. While the monastery is a working religious community, the island welcomes day-trippers who wish to experience its tranquil atmosphere. The presence of the monks contributes to the island's unique, serene ambiance, making it a special destination for those interested in history and spirituality.
Beyond its monastic significance, Caldey Island has a history of human habitation dating back to the Stone Age. This long human presence, combined with its natural beauty, creates a layered experience for visitors. The island's remoteness and dedication to quiet living have preserved its charm and made it a haven of peace.
Exploring Caldey Island's Natural Beauty
One of the island's most delightful natural features is its population of native red squirrels. These charming creatures can sometimes be spotted in the wooded areas, offering a special treat for visitors. The island's waters are also home to seals, which can occasionally be seen from the shore or the boat trip.
The beaches on Caldey Island are a major draw, often less crowded than those on the mainland. They are perfect for a relaxing day out, a picnic, or even a bracing swim in the clear waters, though be prepared for the cool Welsh sea temperatures. The combination of rugged coastline, peaceful beaches, and unique wildlife makes Caldey Island a truly memorable natural escape.
Practicalities for Your Caldey Island Visit
Once on the island, it's important to be prepared. Facilities are limited, so bringing a picnic lunch and drinks is highly recommended. Comfortable walking shoes are essential, as you'll likely be exploring the island's paths and beaches on foot. The terrain can be varied, so sturdy footwear will enhance your comfort.
While Caldey Island offers a peaceful retreat, it's also a place with a monastic community. Visitors are encouraged to be respectful of the environment and the residents. Purchasing local products like fudge or perfume from the island shop is a great way to support the community and take home a unique souvenir.





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