South Beach runs south-west from below the Esplanade for about 2.5 kilometres, backed by dunes, towards Giltar Point and the Ministry of Defence range at Penally.
It is Tenby’s largest beach by a wide margin, and it is the one to choose when the town is busy.
Golden sand across a very wide expanse at low tide, with some shale exposed in places depending on the state of the tide.
Dunes behind, part of the Penally dune system, with the coast path running through them.
The view back to the town — the walls, the pastel houses on the cliff, the church tower — is the classic Tenby image, and it is best from halfway along the beach looking back.
Caldey Island is offshore, and St Catherine’s Island at the far end by the castle.
Lifeguards patrol in season, and the beach is described as safe for swimming — it shelves gently and is sheltered from the prevailing wind by the headland.
The water is clean and clear, which visitors mention consistently.
Sun loungers, parasols and deckchairs are available for hire — one of very few Welsh beaches where that is true.
A restaurant, a bar, a soft drinks shack and ice creams operate at the town end.
Toilets are close by at the top.
Dogs are allowed on part of South Beach, in a designated section, with a restricted zone in the main season. The dog-friendly stretch is towards the Penally end.
This makes South Beach the practical choice for dog owners, since North Beach and Castle Beach are more restricted. Check the signs on arrival, as the boundaries shift.
The one substantial criticism, and it is a real one.
Access from the Esplanade is down a very steep slope. There are steps in places, and the ramp that exists is genuinely steep.
Visitors with wheelchairs report managing it eventually but with considerable difficulty, and it is hard work with a pushchair, a cool box and beach kit. If mobility is a concern, look at the Penally end of the beach, where the approach through the dunes from the road is gentler, or check whether beach wheelchairs are available locally.
South Beach runs into the dunes and the coast path continues to Giltar Point — a limestone headland with cliffs, seabirds and views to Caldey.
Note: the ground beyond the point is an MOD firing range and access is restricted when firing is taking place. Red flags fly; check before walking through.
Penally village, behind the dunes, has a station on the Tenby line, which makes a one-way walk easy.
Free, open at all times.
Lifeguards: in season.
Parking: the Esplanade and the town car parks, both busy. The South Beach / Penally end has parking further out.
Access: the Esplanade approach is very steep. The Penally end is easier.
Getting there: the beach starts about ten minutes’ walk from the town centre, below the Esplanade.
South Beach is longer, quieter and dog-friendly in part. North Beach is closer to the town centre and busier.
Yes, in season, and it is regarded as a safe swimming beach.
On a designated section, with restrictions in the main season. The dog-friendly stretch is towards the Penally end — check the signs.
The approach from the Esplanade is very steep and is difficult with a wheelchair or pushchair. The Penally end of the beach is easier.
Yes — sun loungers, parasols and deckchairs are available at the town end.