Monkstone Beach
A secluded Pembrokeshire cove with adventurous access, unique geology, and stunning coastal views. Perfect for explorers and nature lovers.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Monkstone Beach
Best Time
Reveals more of the beach
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A secluded Pembrokeshire cove with adventurous access, unique geology, and stunning coastal views. Perfect for explorers and nature lovers.
"Absolutely stunning hidden away gem! Worth the steps for the sunset."
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes!
Crucial for entering the water due to razor shell clams. Protect your feet for a safe beach experience.
🥾 Adventurous Descent
Be prepared for steps and a rope assist. It's an adventure, but not for those with significant mobility issues.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Secluded Cove Exploration
Monkstone Beach
Discover a hidden gem with a unique pebbly shoreline and fascinating geological formations. Perfect for rock-pooling and quiet contemplation.
Adventurous Beach Access
Path from Trevayne Farm
Navigate steps and a rope for an exciting descent to the beach. The journey adds to the thrill of reaching this beautiful, less-trafficked spot.
Sunset Views
Monkstone Beach
Experience breathtaking sunsets over Carmarthen Bay. The golden hour light transforms the beach into a magical, serene landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessing Monkstone Beach
Beach Safety & Footwear
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes!
Crucial for entering the water due to razor shell clams. Protect your feet for a safe beach experience.
🥾 Adventurous Descent
Be prepared for steps and a rope assist. It's an adventure, but not for those with significant mobility issues.
⏰ Check Tide Times
Low tide is best for exploring the full beach and rock pools. Plan your visit accordingly.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Bring your furry friends along! Monkstone Beach welcomes dogs, making it a great spot for a pet-friendly outing.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes!
Crucial for entering the water due to razor shell clams. Protect your feet for a safe beach experience.
🥾 Adventurous Descent
Be prepared for steps and a rope assist. It's an adventure, but not for those with significant mobility issues.
⏰ Check Tide Times
Low tide is best for exploring the full beach and rock pools. Plan your visit accordingly.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Bring your furry friends along! Monkstone Beach welcomes dogs, making it a great spot for a pet-friendly outing.
🚶♀️ Scenic Coastal Path
Access via the Pembrokeshire Coast Path for a longer, scenic walk to the beach.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Monkstone Beach is lauded as a stunning, secluded gem with adventurous access that rewards visitors with unique geological features and excellent rock-pooling opportunities. While the descent can be challenging, the breathtaking views and dog-friendly nature make it a worthwhile destination. However, visitors must be extremely cautious of razor shell clams in the water and wear appropriate footwear.
"Fun little hike down, there are steps and a rope to help you. Beautiful beach."
Jay
"Absolutely stunning hidden away gem! If you follow the sign through caravan park, you will reach access to the steps that are definitely adventurous but not too steep. It’s not suitable for those who cannot hike a little as you will need to hold onto a rope to get down at the end to the beach. It’s dog friendly and in September we were able to walk bare feet! There was even a huge jelly fish!! We went during sunset and it was so worth the steps to get there."
Inna Zahorodna
"⚠️You absolutely MUST, MUST wear shoes if entering water. ⚠️ Beware Razor Shell Clams. A&E visit for foot surgery if you stomp on one. I'd post a picture, but you'd lose your lunch. All the locals seemed to know this beach in particular was a concern, but no signs posted. (Otherwise, lovely if slightly inaccessible beach.)"
James Preston
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Access to Monkstone Beach is often via a path through Trevayne Farm Caravan & Camping Park, which involves a descent with steps and a rope. Some locals suggest it's usable even if marked as closed, but it requires a bit of an adventurous spirit. Alternatively, you can access it via the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, which offers a longer but potentially easier route, especially from Saundersfoot beaches. Always check tide timings as access can be affected.
Monkstone Beach is not ideal for those with mobility issues due to the steep steps and rope required for descent. It's best suited for individuals who are comfortable with a bit of a scramble and hike.
Parking is typically available at Trevayne Farm Caravan & Camping Park, which provides access to the beach path. Be aware that this is a caravan and camping site, so access might be related to their operational hours or guest policies.
The Pembrokeshire Coast Path offers a more traditional hiking approach to Monkstone Beach. This route can be longer but may involve less challenging terrain than the direct farm access, especially if you approach from the main Saundersfoot beaches.
While there might be signs, some visitors note that the direct footpath down might be marked as closed, though locals report it as usable. It's advisable to rely on local knowledge or OS Maps for the most current access information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Monkstone Beach is a natural beach and does not require an entrance ticket. Access is generally free, though parking at nearby sites like Trevayne Farm may incur a fee.
As a natural beach, Monkstone Beach does not have set opening hours. However, access can be influenced by tide times and daylight. It's best to visit during daylight hours and check tide charts for optimal exploration.
There is no direct fee to access Monkstone Beach itself. Any costs would typically be associated with parking at a nearby facility or if you are a guest at a campsite like Trevayne Farm.
While the beach is accessible at any time, visiting during low tide is highly recommended to explore its full extent and rock pools. Sunset also offers spectacular views.
Monkstone Beach is a natural coastal feature and is not typically managed by a specific authority in terms of ticketing or entry fees. It's part of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Monkstone Beach features a unique pebbly shoreline with sandy patches, especially at low tide. The descent involves steps and a rope, and the beach itself can be rocky in places.
There are no formal facilities like restrooms or cafes directly on Monkstone Beach. Visitors should come prepared with everything they need. Nearby caravan parks or towns like Saundersfoot may offer amenities.
Monkstone Beach is great for exploring tide pools, enjoying the scenic views, walking along the shore, and photography. It's also a dog-friendly beach.
Swimming at Monkstone Beach is possible, but caution is advised due to the rocky terrain and the presence of razor shell clams. Always wear protective footwear if entering the water.
The beach and adjacent cliffs offer a fascinating geological display with great formations, folds, and even visible coal seams in shallow caves, making it interesting for nature enthusiasts.
📸 📸 Photography
Monkstone Beach offers stunning coastal views, unique pebbly shores dotted with potential 'moonstones', dramatic cliff formations, and beautiful sunset vistas. The adventurous access path also makes for dramatic shots.
Sunset provides magical light and colors, transforming the beach into a picturesque scene. Low tide also reveals interesting rock formations and tide pools, offering different photographic subjects.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal scenery and dramatic cliffs. A macro lens can be useful for close-ups of the pebbles and tide pool life. Consider a tripod for sunset shots.
Look for the unique geological folds and formations in the cliffs, the varied textures of the pebbly shoreline, and any interesting marine life in the tide pools. The steps and rope of the access path also add a unique element.
While the name 'Moonstone Beach' is often associated with beaches in California, Monkstone Beach in Wales has a unique pebbly shoreline that might inspire similar imagery. Focus on the textures and colors of the stones.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Crucially, ensure everyone wears sturdy shoes, especially when entering the water, due to the risk of razor shell clams. Pack plenty of snacks and drinks as there are no facilities on the beach. The dog-friendly nature of the beach is also a bonus for families with pets.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
Nature lovers will appreciate the opportunity for rock-pooling at low tide and the chance to observe local marine life. The adventurous access adds to the sense of discovery, making it a memorable outing for those who enjoy exploring off-the-beaten-path locations.
🐶 Dog Owners
Remember to keep your dog safe, especially around the water, and be mindful of the rocky terrain. Always bring water and waste bags for your pet. The adventurous access might be a consideration depending on your dog's agility and comfort level with uneven surfaces.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Descent to Monkstone Beach
Locals and visitors alike mention that while the path might be marked as closed on some maps, it is generally considered usable. It's always wise to assess the conditions on the day of your visit. The climb back up can be a significant effort, so taking your time and utilizing the provided bench halfway up is recommended.
For a potentially easier, though longer, approach, consider using sections of the Pembrokeshire Coast Path. This offers a more traditional hiking experience and can be a great way to enjoy the surrounding coastal scenery before reaching the beach itself.
Safety First: Beware of Razor Shell Clams
This warning is echoed by locals, who are aware of the specific concern at this beach. Despite the known risk, there are often no posted signs warning visitors. Therefore, it's crucial to heed this advice and ensure you and your companions wear appropriate shoes, such as water shoes or sturdy sandals, when wading or swimming.
Beyond the clam hazard, always be mindful of the rocky terrain and the tide. While the beach is dog-friendly and offers opportunities for rock-pooling, prioritizing safety, especially regarding footwear, will ensure a more enjoyable experience at this beautiful, yet potentially hazardous, location.
Geological Wonders and Tide Pool Treasures
At low tide, the beach transforms into a playground for rock-pooling enthusiasts. The varied terrain and the presence of numerous small pools can reveal a surprising array of marine life. It's a fantastic opportunity for both children and adults to discover the underwater world in a safe and accessible way.
While the name 'Moonstone Beach' is more commonly associated with California, the unique pebbly shoreline of Monkstone Beach offers its own distinct charm. The mix of stones, sand, and the dramatic coastal backdrop creates a visually rich environment perfect for exploration and photography.



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