Approximate Location Map
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Freshwater West Beach is a sandy beach approximately 1 km across, facing west out to the Atlantic Ocean and surrounded by sand dunes and marsh land. The beach is backed by the extensive dune system of Broomhill Burrows and features a unique structure of sand dunes and reed beds, which are home to species such as choughs. Historically, this secluded beach was a haunt for smugglers, but it is now particularly popular with water sports enthusiasts and local fishermen.
The bathing water lies within the Pembrokeshire Marine Special Area of Conservation and the surrounding area forms part of the Limestone Coast of South West Wales and Castlemartin Corse Sites of Special Scientific Interest. The beach is also located within Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, highlighting the environmental value of the area. Castlemartin Corse drains land to the east and is the dominant freshwater influence to the bathing water.
Freshwater West Beach is extremely popular with surfers due to its location on Wales' exposed west coast, which picks up all the Atlantic swells. However, swimmers should exercise caution when venturing into the waters here as the rip currents are strong and the waves can be fierce. The beach is also a hotspot for experienced surfers, but it is advisable for only seasoned surfers to venture into these waters. Lifeguards are on duty daily from mid-June to early September, between 10 am and 6 pm.
Freshwater West Beach has a fascinating history as it was once used by smugglers as a place to stash their booty. The beach has also featured in several films, including 'Robin Hood' (the Ridley Scott version) and 'Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows'. In the Harry Potter film, the beach was where 'Dobby', the house elf, dies and was buried. Until recently, there was actually a gravestone, which was something of a pilgrimage for fans.
Freshwater West is located on the Pembrokeshire coastal path and is a must-visit destination for surfers and beach lovers alike. The beach offers excellent surfing opportunities, with long and stunning sunsets. Visitors can also explore the rock pools, which are an excellent way to discover the beach's diverse marine life. When visiting, note that parking can be limited, especially when the waves are good, and that the 'Cafe Mor' operates out of the southern car park from spring to early autumn.
The beach welcomes dogs throughout the year, allowing pet owners to enjoy unrestricted beach walks with their furry companions. A mobile cafe serves refreshments on sunny days. Anglers frequent Freshwater West for its abundant marine life, with species like bass commonly caught.
Sand
| Tonight |  |
|---|---|
| Chance of rain | 75% |
| Min temperature | 12°C |
| feels like | 11°C |
| Wind 18mph |  |
| Tomorrow |
 |
|---|---|
| Chance of rain | 37% |
| Max temperature | 14°C |
| feels like | 17°C |
| Wind 21mph |  |
| Max UV Index |  |
The tide at Freshwater West Beach is currently falling. Low tide will be at approximately 10:27 PM, and the next high tide will be at approximately 4:30 AM tomorrow.
Today's air pollution levels are forecast to be Low
Food available
Toilets
There is parking next to the beach.
Dogs are allowed.
Daily - 18th June - 4th September
Excellent water quality
around 3 miles northwest as the seagull flies, around 4 miles by road.
around 4 miles north as the seagull flies, around 18 miles by road.
around 5 miles north-northwest as the seagull flies, around 20 miles by road.
around 5 miles west-northwest as the seagull flies, around 29 miles by road.
around 5 miles north-northwest as the seagull flies, around 22 miles by road.
around 6 miles northwest as the seagull flies, around 27 miles by road.
around 6 miles northeast as the seagull flies, around 13 miles by road.
around 6 miles west-northwest as the seagull flies, around 28 miles by road.
around 7 miles east-southeast as the seagull flies, around 9 miles by road.
around 7 miles east-southeast as the seagull flies, around 9 miles by road.
around 8 miles northwest as the seagull flies, around 27 miles by road.
around 8 miles north-northwest as the seagull flies, around 22 miles by road.
around 9 miles northwest as the seagull flies, around 25 miles by road.
around 9 miles east as the seagull flies, around 12 miles by road.
around 9 miles north-northwest as the seagull flies, around 21 miles by road.
around 10 miles northwest as the seagull flies, around 29 miles by road.
around 10 miles east as the seagull flies, around 12 miles by road.
around 11 miles north as the seagull flies, around 24 miles by road.
around 11 miles east as the seagull flies, around 15 miles by road.
around 12 miles north as the seagull flies, around 28 miles by road.
Location: Castlemartin
Location type: Village
OS Grid: SR882998
Coordinates: 51°39'27"N 5°3'44"W
Mapcode: GBR G5.JJLM
What 3 Words: consoles.typhoon.witty
Coordinates and location codes are for an approximate mid-point of the beach, and may not reflect the best access point or the most popular part of the beach.
Country: Wales
Local Authority: Pembrokeshire
Parish: Angle
Nearest postcode: SA71 5AH
(for sat-nav purposes only, a beach does not have a postal address!)
Important! Beach information is compiled from a variety of different sources and is correct to the best of our knowledge at the time of compilation. However, information may be incorrectly supplied by our sources or go out of date after publication. BritishBeaches.uk makes no warranty as to the accuracy of any information on this page.
