After 45 years, a What's On editor has finally visited Poppit Sands in Pembrokeshire, describing the long, sandy beach at the mouth of the Teifi Estuary as an incredible sight and a gorgeous place to swim.
A Long-Awaited Visit
Kathryn Williams, What's On Editor, admitted she couldn't believe she hadn't been to the beach before, noting it took her 45 years to get there and dip her toes in the estuary. The sweeping sands are backed by expansive golden sand dunes and mark the start of the 186-mile Pembrokeshire Coast Path.
Located at the end of the B4546 past the village of St Dogmaels, along the northern tip of Pembrokeshire, Poppit Sands is a popular day trip destination for families and those who love golden sand. It can also be accessed via the local 'history and beaches' cycle route.
Swimming, Wildlife, and Amenities
During her breezy visit, the editor found the dip in the crystal clear ocean worth it, though she suggested checking the tide is higher next time. At low tide, it appears possible to walk around to Gwbert, but she cautioned against it due to strong currents and fast tides.
The craggy estuary opening offers rock outcrops to explore for marine life at low tide, and birdwatchers can look for guillemots, razorbills, fulmars, and kittiwakes. Amenities include paid parking by the shoreline, public toilets, and the Crwst beachside café and bakery, which serves coffee, cakes, and locally made ice cream.
Crwst Café and Coastal Path
The editor sampled a gooey Glamorgan Sausage toastie, pizza toastie, and a chicken bacon roll at Crwst, which also offers halloumi and hot honey toasties, sausage rolls, and ham and cheese. The café's main venue is in Cardigan, a few miles around the estuary, known for Welsh brunch, massive cakes, and pastries.
For those staying longer, the surrounding coastal path offers epic views, with rugged, wild, and diverse scenery including towering cliffs, sandy beaches, and dramatic sea views. Essential information: the beach is in Cardigan, Pembrokeshire, with a large pay and display car park using PayByPhone.
