Coasteering & Kayaking in Pembrokeshire: Complete Guide
Coasteering and sea kayaking in Tenby are two of the best ways to experience the Pembrokeshire coastline up close — with caves, cliffs, wildlife, and big views you can’t get from the footpaths. This guide explains what to expect, what to bring, who it’s suitable for, and how to choose the right trip.
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Quick Answers (Most Asked Questions)
What is coasteering?
Coasteering is a guided coastal adventure where you move along the shoreline by scrambling, swimming, exploring caves, and (optionally) jumping into the sea.
Are coasteering jumps mandatory?
No. Jumps are always optional. A good coasteering session is about the journey along the coast, not “being brave”.
Is coasteering safe?
Yes — when it’s guided properly, with the right kit, conditions checks, and a clear safety brief. Your guide chooses the safest route for the group on the day.
Do I need to be able to swim for coasteering?
Yes. For coasteering, we recommend participants can swim 25 metres fairly confidently.
Is sea kayaking beginner-friendly?
Yes. Most first-time paddlers are fine with a short briefing and a relaxed pace. Basic swimming ability is required.
What’s the minimum age?
Coasteering: 8+
Kayaking: 6+
What should I bring?
Swimwear for under your wetsuit, footwear that can get wet, and a towel + warm change of clothes.
Where do you meet?
Kayaking meets in Tenby. Coasteering meets at a local venue (full details are provided when you book).
Coasteering in Pembrokeshire (Near Tenby): What It’s Like
Coasteering is the most immersive way to explore the Pembrokeshire coast — you’re in the terrain, not just looking at it.
What happens on a coasteering session?
Meet your guide and get kitted up (wetsuit, buoyancy aid, helmet)
Safety briefing: movement on rock, sea awareness, signals, group rules
Enter the water and begin the coastal journey
Explore caves, swim sections, and surfy play-spots (conditions dependent)
Optional jumps (with safe alternatives for every feature)
Return, get changed, and head off with salt in your hair and a grin
What to bring coasteering
Bring:
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swimwear (to wear under the wetsuit)
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footwear that can get wet and won’t fall off – trainers are the BEST
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towel + warm change of clothes
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any essential medication (e.g. inhaler)
We provide:
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wetsuit
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buoyancy aid
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helmet
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expert local guide
Sea Kayaking in Pembrokeshire (Tenby): What It’s Like
Sea kayaking gives you the best view of Tenby’s coastline — calm, scenic, and properly adventurous when conditions allow. It’s a brilliant way to explore cliffs, coves, and hidden corners of the shore, with plenty of time to take in the scenery and spot wildlife.
What happens on a kayaking trip?
A typical sea kayaking trip includes:
Meet your guide in Tenby and get kitted up
Short briefing on paddling technique, safety, and how the group will move together
Launch and settle into an easy rhythm on the water
Paddle along the Tenby coastline, exploring bays and coves
Stop for photos and wildlife spotting when conditions allow
Return to shore and get changed
What to bring kayaking
Bring:
swimwear (to wear under your wetsuit)
footwear that can get wet and won’t fall off (trainers are ideal)
towel + warm change of clothes
sunscreen on sunny days (it reflects off the sea)
We provide the key equipment needed for the session.
Minimum age for kayaking
Sea kayaking is suitable from age 6+, with basic swimming ability required.
Wildlife you might see while kayaking in Tenby
Sea kayaking is one of the best ways to spot wildlife along the Pembrokeshire coast. Depending on the day, you might see:
seals (often hauled out on rocks or popping up nearby)
seabirds along the cliffs
fish and jellyfish in clear water
Occasionally, groups get lucky with bigger sightings too — but we never chase wildlife and always give it space.
Which Should You Choose: Coasteering or Kayaking?
Choose coasteering if you want:
the most “adventure per minute”
caves, scrambling, and optional jumps
a high-energy session with loads of variety
a proper taste of the Pembrokeshire coastline up close
Minimum age: 8+
Swimming: we recommend you can swim 25 metres fairly confidently.
Choose kayaking if you want:
a scenic journey on the sea
a more relaxed pace with time to take it all in
the best views of Tenby’s coastline from the water
a beginner-friendly adventure that still feels wild
Minimum age: 6+
Swimming: basic swimming ability is required.
Best Time of Year for Coasteering & Kayaking in Tenby
The best time for coasteering and sea kayaking in Tenby is usually late spring through early autumn, when the sea is warmer and the days are longer. That said, conditions matter more than the month — wind, swell and tide can make a bigger difference than the date on the calendar.
Late spring to early autumn (most popular):
warmer water and more comfortable temperatures
longer days and calmer conditions more often
best for families, beginners, and groups
Spring and autumn (often brilliant):
quieter coastline and a more “wild” feel
dramatic scenery and big skies
can feel colder, and conditions can change faster
What affects conditions on the day?
The main factors are:
wind (changes how exposed the water feels)
swell and waves (can make the coastline more playful or more challenging)
tide height and timing (affects access to caves, gullies and landing spots)
visibility and temperature (comfort and confidence)
If conditions aren’t suitable, we’ll adjust the plan or reschedule — safety comes first.
Safety: How We Run Sessions
Adventure is the point — but safety is the foundation. Every session is guided, structured, and adapted to the conditions and the group on the day.
What you can expect on every session
properly fitted safety equipment for the activity
a clear briefing before you enter the water
coaching on movement, technique, and group safety
route choices based on conditions and ability
optional features (including jumps) with safe alternatives
constant group management from start to finish
If you have any concerns about confidence in the water, injuries, or medical conditions, tell us before you book (or at the start of the session) and we’ll help you choose the safest, most enjoyable option.
For general sea safety guidance, you can also read advice from the RNLI and check local conditions using the Met Office forecast before you travel.
Visiting Tenby for Adventure Activities (Planning Tips)
If you’re travelling to Tenby for your session, a little planning makes the day smoother — especially in peak season.
arrive a little early so you’re not rushed
bring warm layers for afterwards (even in summer)
plan parking ahead in busy periods
eat something beforehand and bring water
expect to be happily tired afterwards
Where do sessions meet?
Kayaking meets in Tenby.
Coasteering meets at a local venue — full details are provided during booking.
Why Book With Tenby Adventure?
Tenby Adventure runs guided coasteering and sea kayaking sessions on the Pembrokeshire coast. Our trips are led by experienced local guides, with a clear safety briefing, quality equipment, and a route plan chosen for the conditions and the group on the day. If you’re unsure which activity is right for your group, we’re happy to advise before you book.
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FAQs
No — jumps are always optional. Your guide will offer safe alternatives for every feature.
Yes. For coasteering, we recommend participants can swim 25 metres fairly confidently.
Coasteering is suitable from age 8+. Kayaking is suitable from age 6+.
Kayaking meets in Tenby. Coasteering meets at a local venue — full details are provided during booking.
Last updated: January 2026