Regularly topping polls as one of Britain's most sublime beaches, pinch-yourself-pretty Barafundle Bay is a highly scenic 10-minute walk south along the coast path from Stackpole Quay (turn right) or half an hour from the Stackpole Estate car park. Enveloped by dramatic, ragged cliffs and flanked by dunes, the beach is a perfect arc of golden sand sliding into clear turquoise sea. Avoid summer weekends when crowds descend. Barafundle is at its peaceful best in the low season.
If you're up for more walking, follow the coast path south of the beach out onto Stackpole Head with its impressive cliffs and rock arches. It's a 1.6-mile (30- to 40-minute) return hike.
