Wisemans Bridge Beach

A sandy cove backed by low cliffs and a scattering of colourful beach huts - Wisemans Bridge is the sort of place that looks better in person than it does on Google Maps. It's a proper working beach where locals actually swim, rather than a tourist trap, which means you'll find decent waves when the Atlantic's in the mood and usually space to spread a towel even in summer.

The beach itself slopes gently into the water, making it good for families with younger kids who want a proper paddle without the drama. The sand is that damp, packable sort that's brilliant for castles and digging. Low tide reveals rock pools worth investigating if you've got time to kill, and the cliffs behind are low enough that you won't need a lie-down after climbing back up.

This isn't a destination beach - you won't travel 40 minutes to spend four hours here. But if you're staying at one of the caravan parks dotted nearby (White Gate, Trees, or Sunnyvale over in Saundersfoot), it's a five-minute drive worth making on a decent day. Narberth is just inland if you need a coffee or sandwich, though the beach itself has the sort of relaxed vibe that doesn't require much infrastructure.

Go when the sun's out and the wind's dropped - the exposed position means it can be bleak in poor weather. Free, obviously. Couple of hours is realistic unless your kids have stumbled upon a particularly engrossing rock pool.