Whitesands Bay, Pembrokeshire - spectacular scenery and surfing
Overlooked by the imposing craggy hill of Carn Llidi, Whitesands Bay is a wide expanse of fine white sand in Pembrokeshire, South Wales, curving north towards the remote rocky headland of St David's Head.
As well as its scenic appeal, this is one of the best surfing beaches in the country and therefore very popular. The surf ‘break’ is at the northern end, and on busy days there are canoeists, surfers, and bodyboarders competing for the best waves. At the quieter south end, less active types can simply enjoy some nicely sheltered spots .
Carn Llidi rises to 594 feet. Those who tackle it will be rewarded with delightful views out over the landscape.
A coast path runs through the beach. Hikers can walk southwards along the coast to the beaches of Porthselau and St. Justinian’s where there are spectacular views out to Ramsey Island.
Along the path to the north are the beautiful bays of Porthlleuog and Porthmelgan, that are only accessible on foot.
Whitesands Bay has proved fruitful to archaeologists, with some very well preserved burials from the 8th to 11th centuries discovered beside traces of an ancient chapel beneath the dunes. A number of neolithic burial chambers and stone hut circles nestle into the side of the rocky outcrop.
The bay is two miles north of the city of St David's - the smallest city in the country - though actually an attractive small market town with plenty of historic buildings and a cathedral to explore.
Further reading
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