Stackpole Quay: Paddle Boarding Tour

If you’re dreaming of gliding through calm, crystal-clear waters while soaking up some of the most breathtaking scenery in the UK, then a paddleboarding tour in Pembrokeshire might be just what you need. Recently reviewed by fellow travelers, this two-hour guided adventure from Stackpole Quay to Barafundle Bay promises a blend of scenic beauty, wildlife encounters, and expert support—perfect for those looking for a relaxed yet memorable water experience.

What we love about this tour is its exclusive access to hidden caves and scenic viewpoints, which are often missed when visiting Pembrokeshire on your own. Plus, the presence of qualified guides who are friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive means you can focus on enjoying the surroundings rather than stressing about safety or technique. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that the activity isn’t suitable for children under 8, so if you’re traveling with younger kids or planning a family outing, you might need to look elsewhere.

This paddleboarding experience is well-suited for beginners eager to learn, as well as more seasoned paddlers wanting to explore Pembrokeshire’s coastline without the crowds. It’s a calm, engaging way to connect with nature, perfect for travelers looking for a mix of adventure and tranquility.

Key Points

• Beautiful coastal scenery and wildlife sightings make this a visual treat.
• Expert guidance and safety briefings help even beginners feel confident.
• Exclusive access to caves and hidden spots offers an adventure beyond typical sightseeing.
• The two-hour tour strikes a balance between immersive experience and manageable commitment.
• Cost at £35 per person includes all necessary equipment, making it good value.
• Not suitable for children under 8, so it’s better suited for older kids or adults.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why This Paddleboarding Tour in Pembrokeshire Is Worth Considering

Pembrokeshire is known for its dramatic coastlines and pristine beaches, and exploring it by paddleboard gives you a fresh perspective. Since the tour starts at Stackpole Quay, you’re immediately immersed in a scenic spot with fewer crowds, setting the tone for a peaceful, nature-filled adventure. We loved how the guides, from the reviews, are both friendly and professional, making safety and technique approachable regardless of your skill level.

The experience is designed to be accessible—all equipment is provided, including wetsuits, paddles, and buoyancy aids. The guides will give you a thorough safety briefing and paddling tips, which means even absolute beginners can feel ready to take on the water. As one reviewer put it, “Leo was incredibly enthusiastic and passionate about paddling,” and this kind of energy is exactly what makes the trip special.

As you paddle along, you’ll have opportunities to spot wildlife and explore caves that are inaccessible by foot. One of the highlights is reaching Barafundle Bay, a renowned, picture-perfect spot and a great place to pause, take photos, and maybe even swim if you’re feeling brave. The guides also arrange for photos, so you can capture your memorable moment on the water.

The itinerary is thoughtfully curated. Starting at Stackpole Quay with a safety briefing, then progressing through scenic views and hidden caves, before arriving at Barafundle Bay for a break and sightseeing. The tour concludes where it started, making logistics simple. You’ll find the timing flexible—generally beginning around high tide at 10 am or 1 pm—so you can choose a slot that fits your plans.

What to Expect at Each Stop

Starting Point: Stackpole Quay

Your adventure kicks off here, at the car park close to the National Trust site. Once you arrive, you’ll walk to the water’s edge past the charming Boathouse Tearooms and meet your instructor. This initial moment sets a relaxed tone, with friendly staff ready to gear you up.

Safety Briefing & Scenic Views

Before hitting the water, expect a thorough safety briefing covering paddling techniques, safety in case of falls, and how to maintain balance. This is not only practical but also reassuring, especially for newcomers. Once prepared, you’ll paddle out into the tranquil coastline, soaking in the views and feeling the sea breeze.

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Hidden Caves & Sightseeing

The real magic begins as your guides lead you through caves and narrow inlets only accessible by water. These protected spots are often quiet, giving you a sense of discovery. From the reviews, “We had time to explore, learn, and enjoy being on the water,” which perfectly captures the relaxed pace of this part of the trip.

Barafundle Bay

A highlight for many, this bay is renowned for its postcard-perfect scenery. You’ll have time for a break, take photos, and perhaps do a bit of swimming or simply relax on your board. The guides help you make the most of this stop, sharing insights about the area’s history and wildlife.

Viewpoint & Return

The final leg involves a paddle to a scenic viewpoint, offering more picture-worthy moments. As you make your way back, you’ll reflect on the experience, with plenty of chances to ask questions or just enjoy the peaceful sea.

The Equipment & Inclusions

The tour is inclusive of high-quality wetsuits, paddleboards, paddles, and buoyancy aids. This means you won’t need to worry about bringing your own gear, just comfortable swimwear, a towel, and some flip-flops. The provided gear is described as top-notch, which adds to the overall value, especially for those new to paddleboarding.

The Value & Cost

At £35 per person, the price covers a two-hour guided tour, all equipment, and insurance. Considering the personalized guidance and the opportunity to see Pembrokeshire’s coastline from a unique vantage point, this fee offers good value. The small group setting ensures you’re not just another face in the crowd, and the professional guides are committed to making it an enjoyable, safe experience.

Reviews from Fellow Travelers

One of the most convincing aspects of this tour is the positive feedback from past participants. A reviewer named Aneeta raved about the guides, Tom and Leo, describing them as “welcoming, knowledgeable, and passionate,” which is exactly the type of support you want when trying something new. She also appreciated the scenic exploration and the well-structured session.

Another reviewer, Mark, mentioned how Sabrina’s guidance made the activity “great fun” and praised the beautiful scenery. Katarzyna highlighted the professionalism and organisation, saying she had an “amazing experience” and loved the scenery along the way. These insights confirm that this tour is not only about paddling but about enjoying Pembrokeshire’s natural beauty with expert support.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This paddleboarding tour is best suited for adventurers eager to learn or improve their skills, as well as those simply wanting a relaxing yet scenic water activity. It’s particularly ideal if you enjoy small-group experiences, guided by knowledgeable instructors. Since children under 8 aren’t recommended, families with older kids or groups of friends will find it a fun, shared adventure.

Travelers who appreciate having all gear included and want to avoid the hassle of organizing equipment will also find this tour appealing. If your idea of a perfect day involves nature, wildlife, and a bit of physical activity, then this guided paddleboarding trip is likely to fit the bill.

FAQs

Is this activity suitable for beginners?
Yes, the guides are fully qualified and provide comprehensive safety briefings and paddling instructions. Many reviews mention how even those new to paddleboarding felt confident and enjoyed the experience.

What should I bring with me?
You should bring swimwear, a towel, and flip-flops. The tour provides wetsuits, paddles, and buoyancy aids, so you only need to focus on comfort and sun protection, like sunscreen.

Are the tour times flexible?
Starting times generally vary based on the tide, usually around 10 am and 1 pm. The guides will contact you the day before to confirm your specific time, giving you some flexibility.

How long does the tour last?
The guided paddleboarding experience lasts approximately 2 hours, which is enough time to explore the coastline, caves, and enjoy the scenery without it feeling rushed.

Can I take photos during the tour?
Absolutely. The guides arrange for photos, especially at key scenic spots like Barafundle Bay and viewpoints, so you can remember your adventure.

Is there insurance coverage included?
Yes, the tour fee includes insurance coverage, adding an extra layer of peace of mind during your paddleboarding adventure.

Final Thoughts

A paddleboarding session starting from Stackpole Quay offers a rare chance to see Pembrokeshire’s coast from a different angle. With friendly, professional guides leading the way, you’ll experience calm seas, scenic caves, and wildlife encounters—all while gaining confidence on your board. It’s a relaxed yet engaging activity, perfect for those who want to combine gentle physical activity with stunning natural beauty.

While not suited for very young children, older kids and adults of all skill levels will find this experience rewarding. It’s especially great if you value expert guidance and small-group intimacy. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or part of a small group, this paddleboarding tour provides a memorable, scenic escape into Pembrokeshire’s coastline.

If you’re after a way to connect with nature while learning a new skill or simply enjoying the tranquility of the sea, this tour could very well be one of the highlights of your trip to Wales. Just remember to bring your sense of adventure, some sun protection, and an appetite for beautiful views.

Enjoy your time exploring Pembrokeshire in a way that’s active, scenic, and truly special.

You can check availability for your dates here: