Village named best place to live by the sea is a perfect escape

Just next door to Tenby, one of Portia Jones' favourite beaches to visit in autumn has coast path access, a lovely sea-view café, and a wood-fired sauna, perfect for warming up after a bracing stroll by the sea

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Saundersfoot is perfect for an autumn break Charles Hawes

(Charles Hawes)

SAUNDERSFOOT might sit in the shadow of flashy neighbour Tenby, but don't let that fool you; this compact coastal spot has a unique charm of its own.

It has a proper sandy blue flag beach with a cutesy pancake shack, a harbour packed with places to eat, and cracking coastal walks leading to secluded coves and smugglers' tunnels.

The swish seaside community is best known for its expanse of golden sands and events such as the World Cawl Cooking Championships. It also has plenty of activities, sandy beaches, pubs, and restaurants for those in the know.

After playing second fiddle to Tenby for years, Saundersfoot's popularity is rapidly growing. The Sunday Times has previously named the small seaside resort one of the 'best places to live by the sea in the UK 2024'.

While Saundersfoot is a popular spot in summer, autumn is a lovely time to visit for fewer crowds, cheaper hotel deals, and cold-water swimming in the sea.

Start your day the Saundersfoot way, with a colourful sunrise over the sea as you dip in bracing waters. The east-facing beach delivers some of the best early-morning views in Pembrokeshire, all golden skies and rolling waves.

If you're feeling bold, join the Coppet Hall Bluetits for a chilly dip with a fun gang. They're a welcoming bunch that regularly meets to plunge into the sea before most people have coffee.

Post-swim, head to Shoreline or The Tramway Café on The Strand (don't miss the crepes), or grab a seat at MamGu by the harbour for epic sea views and freshly griddled Welsh cakes.

The Blue Flag beach was also voted amongst the best for sustainability by TripAdvisor in 2024.