My Guide to a Family Holiday in Tenby in Pembrokeshire
- Jennifer Kozyra
- May 25, 2025
- 6 min read
A Family Guide to Visiting Tenby: Beautiful Beaches, Exploring the Harbour, Activities & Local Eats
Nestled along the stunning Pembrokeshire coastline, Tenby is a colourful seaside town that’s bursting with charm, history, and family-friendly fun. Whether you’re building sandcastles on its award-winning beaches, exploring medieval town walls, or hopping on a boat to nearby Caldey Island, Tenby is a perfect base for a memorable family holiday. This handy guide will help you make the most of your time here, with recommendations on where to eat, what to do in town, and nearby gems worth exploring. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, Tenby has something for everyone.
Tenby’s Beautiful Beaches
One of Tenby’s biggest draws is its stunning coastline, with no less than four gorgeous beaches to choose from—each offering something a little different.
⛱ North Beach is the most iconic, with its golden sands, dramatic Goscar Rock, and picture-perfect views of the harbour. It’s ideal for families, thanks to its sheltered bay and calm waters.
⛱ South Beach stretches for over a mile and has a more open, spacious feel—great for long walks, beach games, or just soaking up the sea air. It also offers beautiful views of Caldey Island.
⛱ Castle Beach, tucked between the headland and St. Catherine’s Island, is a favourite for rock pooling and paddleboarding when the tide is right.
⛱ Harbour Beach, small but charming, nestled right by the town’s historic harbour—perfect for little ones who want to stay close to town.
All of the beaches are clean, scenic, and incredibly family-friendly, Tenby’s beaches are Blue Flag awarded and regularly rated among the best in the UK. Whether you're after a relaxed beach day or an adventurous splash in the surf, Tenby’s shores are a must-do for at least a day or two of your visit.
Activities and Must Dos when visiting Tenby
Tenby is packed with family-friendly activities, from seaside adventures to historical explorations. Here’s a round-up of the best things to do in the town
1. Spend a Day on Tenby’s Beautiful Beaches
Tenby’s North, South, Harbour and Castle beaches are perfect for family fun, offering soft sand, rock pools, safe paddling, and plenty of space for games and relaxation.
2. Take a Boat Trip to Caldey Island
Catch a boat from Tenby Harbour and explore the tranquil island, home to Cistercian monks. Spend the day on scenic walks, find the secluded, peaceful beach, and a chance to spot seals and seabirds. There is a small cafe and photography shop on the island.
3. Explore Tenby Castle and Museum
Climb to the ruins of Tenby Castle for panoramic views over the coastline, then visit the nearby museum to discover local history, pirates, and shipwrecks. The entrance fee of £5.50 for adults gives a ticket which lasts for 12 months and all children are welcomed free.
4. Go Crabbing at Tenby Harbour
A classic seaside activity, buy a crab line and some bait from one of the nearby shops, and see how many you can catch from the harbour wall.
5. Visit the RNLI Lifeboat Station
Head to the modern Tenby Lifeboat Station to learn about the heroic work of the RNLI. If you’re lucky, you might see a lifeboat launch down the dramatic slipway, keep an eye on their social media pages to find out when they launch.
6. Take a Coastal Walk on the Pembrokeshire Coast Path
Enjoy stunning scenery and wildlife on one of the many family-friendly coastal paths around Tenby. Short walks offer cliff-top views, hidden coves, and picnic spots.
8. Enjoy Kayaking or Paddleboarding Session
Try a water sports session right off Tenby’s beaches. Several local companies offer equipment hire and beginner-friendly lessons for kayaking and paddleboarding.
9. Visit Manor Wildlife Park
Just a short drive away, this conservation-focused park lets you get up close to animals like wallabies, lemurs, and red pandas in walk-through enclosures.
Just outside Tenby are some fantastic family attractions:
Heatherton World of Activities, located just 3 miles outside Tenby in Pembrokeshire, is an award-winning family attraction where you will find more than 30 indoor and outdoor activities ranging from family fun to adrenaline-pumping adventure! From high-energy activities like go-karting and zip-lining to more laid-back options like mini golf and and playgrounds. Heatherton offers something for all ages so great for the whole family.
Folly Farm is one of West Wales’ top family attractions, nestled just outside the seaside town of Tenby. It’s the perfect place for a day out, come rain or shine, with plenty of it's activities inside as well as outside. From a zoo packed with amazing animals to a vintage indoor fairground, huge play areas, and a working farm. Whether you’re visiting with toddlers, teens, or grandparents, Folly Farm has fun for the whole family—whatever the weather!
The Dinosaur Park
Another must-visit attraction while staying in Tenby is The Dinosaur Park, a thrilling destination for families and dino-lovers of all ages. Nestled in woodland just outside the town, the park features a spectacular trail filled with life-sized dinosaur models, bringing prehistoric creatures to life in a fun and educational way. Kids will love exploring the outdoor play areas, digging for fossils, and racing on go-karts, while the indoor play zone ensures the fun continues whatever the weather. With a great mix of adventure, imagination, and interactive experiences, The Dinosaur Park is a roaringly good day out.
Our favourite Places to Eat in Tenby
Tenby is full of fantastic places to eat, from cosy sea-view cafés and charming timber-clad pubs serving hearty traditional meals to stylish restaurants offering Indian, Italian, or Japanese cuisine. We found the dining scene to be very family-friendly, kids were warmly welcomed, with great menu options available and even “kids eat free” offers at certain times. Here are some of the spots we've tried and really enjoyed.
The Normandie
The Normandie is a hotel, bar and restaurant nestled between Upper Frog Street and the ancient town walls
With a large, varied menu and a garden area out the back, The Normandie is a good option for families wanting a mix of choices. It has a separate kids’ menu and space for prams. It also shows sports on their big tvs.
Lollies Traditional Sweet Shop
Step back in time and let the kids choose from jars of old-fashioned sweets and fudge. It's a fun, colourful stop for a sweet treat.
Twelve Tapas (Twelve at The Mews)
Located in the heart of Tenby on Upper Frog Street, Twelve Tapas offers a stylish and contemporary dining experience. Known for its diverse selection of small plates inspired by global flavors, it's an ideal spot for sharing dishes in a relaxed atmosphere. The wine list is extensive, featuring selections from renowned vineyards worldwide.
Billycan
A stylish spot offering a varied menu from steaks and seafood to pizzas and small plates. The kids’ menu and laid-back vibe make it ideal for families.
Harbwr Brewery Tap & Kitchen
Tucked near the harbour, Harbwr serves up homemade pub classics and locally brewed beers. The fish and chips are a favourite, and it’s a welcoming place for families.
Some places we are yet to try but look good
The Tudor Mount
A welcoming spot in the centre of town with a dedicated children’s menu which does children eat free in the holidays, relaxed atmosphere, and plenty of high chairs. The menu ranges from pasta to roasts, perfect for picky eaters and grown-ups alike.
Take a Walk and Explore Tenby
Tenby is a walker's paradise, with breathtaking coastal paths, golden beaches, and scenic countryside routes right on your doorstep. Whether you're looking for a gentle stroll or a longer hike, there’s something for everyone:
1. Tenby to Saundersfoot (Part of the Pembrokeshire Coast Path)
This popular coastal walk is about 4.5 miles and offers stunning views of cliffs, beaches, and the sea. You’ll pass through woodland, and maybe spot some seals or seabirds along the way. It's moderately challenging and well worth the effort. You can return by walking back or catching a bus or taxi.
2. Tenby Town Trail
For a more relaxed stroll, explore Tenby’s historic town centre. Wander the cobbled streets, see the colourful Georgian houses, walk along the medieval town walls, and stop by Tenby Castle for incredible views. It's a great way to soak up the town’s charm at your own pace.
3. South Beach to Giltar Point
A scenic beachside walk that becomes more rugged as you reach Giltar Point, offering panoramic views of Caldey Island and the coastline. The path continues onto the coast path if you want to extend the walk further.
4. Castle Hill and St. Catherine’s Island
A short but rewarding climb from the harbour up to Castle Hill gives you one of the best viewpoints in Tenby. You can also explore around St. Catherine’s Island when the tide is low, just be sure to check the tide times.
5. Caldey Island Walks
Take a short boat trip to Caldey Island and enjoy peaceful walking trails through woodland and along cliff paths, with plenty of spots to sit, picnic, and take in the serenity of this spiritual island.
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