With a perfect blend of stunning natural landscapes, sun-kissed sandy shores, leisure activities, and modern eateries, it's no surprise tourists flock to Tenby. It's long been a favourite for those seeking a quintessentially British seaside holiday.
It boasts four beautiful beaches within a stone's throw of the centre, charming cobbled streets reminiscent of those seen in the French Riviera or Italy, and a picturesque array of bright houses. During the summer rush you'll find queues coming out the door of local haunts. No surprise then it claims bragging rights for scoring highly in a survey of the UK's "best" seaside towns.
The vibrant homes of the town, perched above the scenic harbour, are instantly identifiable.
Tenby's history can be traced back to the Norman conquest, with medieval structures still tucked away in alleyways and hidden corners.
Visitors wandering past Tenby's historical 13th-century walls are met with glorious beaches and striking clifftop views across the waters towards the hypnotic Caldey Island.
It has also been a cherished seaside resort since the Victorian times.
Today, it is famed for its four beaches, narrow cobbled lanes, bustling pubs, top-notch eateries and quintessential coastal charm. Beach enthusiasts will be delighted by the three miles of sandy stretches encircling the town.
Castle Beach was named the UK's best beach in 2019 and currently boasts a 4.8 out of 5 rating on Google.
Beyond the scenery, Tenby prides itself on a lively culinary and pub scene, including an exclusive local brewery, and the enchanting lanes where visitors can sip a beer or indulge in Welsh delicacies.
Tenby boasts numerous cafes along its sandy shores offering refreshments and ice cream. The town is easily reachable via public transport, with services to Tenby Station on the Pembroke Dock branch railway.
With four beaches just a stone's throw from the heart of Tenby, there's a patch of paradise for everyone.
Choose between North Beach, South Beach, the tranquil Castle Beach or Harbour Beach - each promises an idyllic coastal spot.
Notably, North Beach boasts the "superb, sheltered, sandy beach with the pinnacle of Goskar rock sticking out of the sand in the middle".
For those who prefer a more intimate setting, Harbour Beach is a delightful choice. Tucked away within the harbour and surrounded by charming cottages and an ancient castle, it's a favourite amongst families due to its safe and watchful environment.
On the other hand, Castle Beach offers easy access via a specially constructed ramp, unveiling golden sands and the impressive sight of St Catherine's Island's fort during high tides.
Visitors returning from a trip to Caldey Island, renowned for its medieval church, impeccably kept monastery and unique chocolate factory, will find their way back to shore at Castle Beach.
Last but not least, South Beach has over a mile of golden sands.
When it comes to dining options, you're spoilt for choice, from gastropubs and boutique restaurants to barbecue and craft beer specialists.
With an overall score of 4.5 on TripAdvisor, The Billycan is an independent bar, restaurant and hotel nestled in the heart of Tenby.
Offering a mouth-watering selection of pub favourites and innovative bistro-style dishes, this popular spot also serves up a fantastic Sunday roast.
It's perfect whether you're visiting as a couple or as a family with children of any age.
Another must-visit for food lovers is Tap and Tan. This independent craft beer taproom and live fire cookery, which has high ratings on TripAdvisor, is renowned for its meaty feasts and carefully curated menu made from locally sourced ingredients.
Other top spots to eat in Tenby include Indie Burger, known for its gourmet burgers.
From snug B&Bs to lavish hotels, Tenby caters to different budgets.
TripAdvisor users vouch for the Broadmead Boutique B&B as the crème de la crème of stays, with a full 5-star approval rating.
For the ultimate indulgence, the Heywood Spa Hotel provides the perfect refuge.
Alternatively, Penally Abbey Hotel and Restaurant offers visitors stunning vistas coupled with the sweet addition of complimentary tea and cake for a truly memorable stay.
Those travelling in groups might fancy renting an impressive clifftop home.
Tucked down a quaint cobbled lane, Harbwr Tenby emerges as the town's hidden jewel, scoring an impressive 4.5 on TripAdvisor.
Boasting a social vibe, the establishment invites guests to meander through their on-site brewery witnessing beer crafting in action, or savour top-notch pub fare in the adjacent bar.
For other favoured haunts, The Hope and Anchor and Coach and Horses are also crowd-pleasers.
Tenby bagged the title of the top destination for holiday fun, scoring an impressive 7.71 out of 10 in a study by OLBG, reported the Manchester Evening News.
The research considered a range of factors such as the number of pubs, restaurants, museums, parks, zoos and aquariums, water and amusement parks, arcades, beach review scores, hotel prices, Google searches, average temperature, average rainfall, and proximity to local train stations.
Tourists have been captivated by the charm of Tenby, leaving glowing reviews of their visits.
A visitor who went to Castle Beach in May 2025 said: "Had a picnic by the bandstand atop Castle beach, lovely sandy beach, right in the heart of tenby. Watching the boats going off to caldney island and sightseeing trips. At low tide walk over to st Catherine's island or around to South Beach. Cafés and toilets nearby."
"stayed in Tenby for a break from the bustle of life," said another in September 2024. "This beach is gorgeous, smooth golden sand,blue,green sea obviously the sun was shining bright even managed an ice cream (beware of the seagulls)"
A family that holidayed there in April 2023 described it as a "beautiful town", enthusing: "It is a place of beauty, a working environment with walkways, restaurants, cobbled streets and archways, smells and sounds.
"I loved it. It is so interesting to wander around from the lifeboat to the shore to see its working heritage. To the more modern aspects of tourism and restaurants, people queuing for boat tours and sea food kiosks. The cobbled streets with arches of shops and curios. Well worth a visit."
