Secret beach with crystal clear waters that looks like it could be on a desert island
It may not be as popular as other Pembrokeshire beaches like Saundersfoot or Tenby, but this beach is so secluded it could even be your very own private haven
The secluded beach is located on the south west coast of the county
(Image: Laura Clements)
Pembrokeshire's beaches are so beautiful, the only bad thing about them is having to choose between them for a day out. And while you may think you know every inch of the Pembrokeshire coast path, it is likely you may have missed one special beach from your list.
Now, it may not be as popular as other Pembrokeshire beaches like Saundersfoot or Tenby, but this beach is so secluded it could even be your very own private haven. Even better, the views are truly breathtaking here, with the beach providing a direct vista up the Milford Haven waterway.
The name is Watwick Bay, nestled on the south-west coast of the county. Its sand is the softest, most golden of any beach you may have ever strolled on in Wales, and its crystal-clear waters boast that tropical-aquamarine colour.
At Watwick Bay, it is not an unfamiliar sight to see yachts belonging to well-off people, who've moored up in the bay to enjoy picnics and sip wine here. If there ever was a place where you could pretend you were at the most exclusive beach on the continent, then this could be it.
But, you don't have to own a yacht to have to get to and enjoy here. In fact, a walk to Watwick beach is a great way to soak in all the brilliant views the surrounding area have to offer. Located on the Dale peninsula and at the mouth of the Milford Haven waterway, Watwick Bay is a two-mile hike along the coast path from the village of Dale.
On your way to the beach, you'll pass Dale Fort, which was constructed in the latter half of the 19th century to defend Milford Haven against a French invasion that never materialist. Those defence walls were later named Palmerston's Follies after Lord Palmerston, the Prime Minister of that time.
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Once you reach Watwick Bay, you may find a beach all to yourself. But the views here are also quite something. The distant industrial skyline offers a stark contrast to the estuary's vibrant blues and greens. Turn your gaze in the opposite direction, and you'll be met with the sight of the Angle peninsula and the vast expanse of ocean beyond.
The view of Dale in Pembrokeshire, where you can begin your walk to Watwick Bay
(Image: Laura Clements)
Nestled in between is Thorne Island's Victorian fort, another one of Palmerston's Follies, which has been transformed into one of Wales' most distinctive homes by tech entrepreneur Mike Conner. It's essential to check the tide times before venturing to the beach as high tide leaves little sand exposed, and you certainly wouldn't want to be caught out by an incoming tide.
However, with careful planning and preparation, you'll be rewarded with one of Pembrokeshire's most stunning and tranquil experiences. The journey to the bay along a winding, tree-lined trail adds a real sense of adventure, making you feel as though you're the first person to stumble upon this hidden gem of a beach.
The crystal-clear blue waters are so transparent that you can see the seabed and watch crabs darting across the sand. And thanks to its sheltered location, the water is perhaps a degree or two warmer than more exposed beaches.
The tranquil sea of Watwick Bay in Pembrokeshire
(Image: Laura Clements)
But some may say that the best way to explore is to start at Dale and amble towards Dale Fort, pack a picnic and pause at Watwick, but then continue on your journey afterwards. You can extend your stroll towards the West Blockhouse, another Victorian structure, and the remnants of the concrete gun emplacements from World War Two.
There's a circular route right around St Anne's head, approximately six miles in total, which takes in Mill Bay, a site of historical significance where King Henry VII landed in 1485 prior to the Battle of Bosworth, and the lighthouse at St Ann's Head. It's along these rugged rocks where the Sea Empress spilled 72,000 tons of oil into the sea.
On clear days, you'll be treated to stunning views of Skokholm Island and Skomer further north, islands teeming with puffins, gannets, guillemots, and kittiwakes. Further on, you'll pass Frenchman's Bay and Welshman's Bay as you steadily make your way north to Westdale Bay. From here, you'll head back down to Dale.
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Once one of Pembrokeshire's most important ports, Dale is now a hotspot for water sports, particularly sailing and windsurfing. It's also a great spot for a pint and an ice cream. Watwick Bay is one of those places where you can feel far away and escape reality yet be within walking distance to modern-day comforts. It really is worth the effort.
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