Nolton Haven Beach

Almost in the centre of the coastline hugging St Brides Bay, you will find a long narrow cove called Nolton Haven Beach. Nestled on the seashore between the popular seaside resorts of Newgale and Broad Haven, this small hamlet is truly idyllic for a day’s bathing.

The sheltered cove at Nolton Haven stands between two high cliffsides in west Pembrokeshire and was once a point of export for the old coal industry here. Nowadays, industry is somewhat lacking here and Nolton has become a peaceful place for a beachside break.

The beach itself is an expanse of soft golden sands whilst the tide is out, with a section of mixed pebble and sand towards the back, followed by a small section of grassy dunes before you reach the road.

Activities

Many a day are spent basking in the sunshine at Nolton Haven Beach. The sheltered nature of this cove makes it a great spot for sunbathing most days as the windchill is slight and the bay becomes a real suntrap. Make sure to be responsible if you’re planning a day sunning yourself here, bring along plenty of sun cream and water.

The protected location of these waters also mean that bathing here can be incredibly relaxing and refreshing, however there can be strong undercurrents at Nolton so be careful not to get caught up in them when swimming here.

The wider bays of Broad Haven Beach and Newgale Beach are more suited if you are planning a day of beach games as there is limited space here; you will struggle to find enough room for a game of cricket during the holidays as this beach may be small but it is still particularly popular. Instead, you are likely to find a beachside full of families building sandcastles and splashing in the shore.

You might like this: A Spotlight on the Havens

Read

The elongated shape of this beach exposes a wonderful collection of rock pools as the water retreats towards the ocean, allowing for hours of fun exploring and searching. Uncover resident starfish, see how many shellfish you can find and discover a new world of anemones, sea snails and maybe even a crab!

This small shore is an ideal place for launching kayaks, take an adventure out of the cove into St Brides Bay and sightsee the Welsh coast from a whole new angle. Venture north for views of the Rickets Head, the recognisable geological rock formation prominent at the south end of Newgale, or head south and land at the next bay along, Druidston Haven Beach for a spot of lunch.

Last but not least, Nolton Haven is a superb location to pick up the Pembrokeshire Coast Path. Walk to Little Haven for a visit to one of the seaside pubs before returning home for sunset at Nolton, or enjoy a further stretch to Solva knowing you can hop aboard the North Pembrokeshire Fflecsi Bus without having to walk all the way back.

Facilities

This little but popular cove is patrolled by local RNLI lifeguards during the summer months ensuring a safe beach day for those who visit. From around mid-July to early September, you will find their hut located at the back of the beach looking on at the beachgoers.

Just across the road from the beach is the public Pay and Display car park and very much like the beach itself, this is small meaning parking here is somewhat limited. Within the car park, you will find a public toilet block – particularly convenient if you’re planning to spend all day here.

Perched just a stone’s throw up the hill towards the main village centre is the local pub, The Mariners Inn. A traditional seaside inn offering drinks and a picnic area, The Mariners Inn is now also home to the Haven Brasserie. An independently run restaurant, the Haven Brasserie has quickly become a must-visit in the vicinity, known for its quality food and welcoming atmosphere.

Halfway up the hill in the other direction, you will discover tiny shop selling refreshments such as cold drinks and ice creams. A hidden gem, this store may often go unnoticed if not for the chalkboard signs advertising surf equipment for hire.

Local Top Tips

Believe us when we say parking here is limited. If you’re staying locally, avoid parking by walking down to the beach or jump on the North Pembrokeshire Fflecsi Bus. This service is available 7.30-6.30 Monday-Friday and 8.30-6.30 on Saturdays and covers the zone that connects the spectacular coast between Fishguard, St Davids and Broad Haven.

As Nolton Haven Beach is in a valley location sandwiched between two high cliffs, mobile phone signal here can be somewhat non-existent. Make sure to be prepared by checking tide times and bus times before you go, although there is a telephone box by the car park should you need it.

Access

Nolton Haven Beach is accessed via steep hills on either side, whether you are taking the main road or the Pembrokeshire Coast Path. From the car park however, access is pretty flat. Be wary when crossing the road to the beach and follow the path down the slipway onto the back portion of the pebbly sand.

Is Nolton Haven Beach Dog Friendly?

Nolton Haven Beach is completely dog friendly all year round, although it is practice to keep your pooch under close control here simply as the bay is small and can become busy on sunny days.

Award-Winning

The nationally recognised Seaside Award has been presented to Nolton Haven Beach in recent years, acknowledging it to be a fantastic beach kept in a well-maintained clean condition, making for a great day out for those who visit.

You might like this: Nolton Haven Holiday Cottages

Read