24 hours in Tenby

If it’s your fist visit to Tenby, this taster experience will be all that you need to convince you that you need to come back and next time, book a longer stay. 

What can you do in Tenby in just one day? Only a fraction of what’s on offer, if we’re honest. Beaches, activities, events, art galleries, shops, pubs and restaurants… we could keep going. But one day is better than nothing so here’s our recommendations on how to spend 24 hours in Tenby. 

An afternoon in Tenby

Drop your luggage off at the hotel or arrive early for adventures before you even check in, you won’t regret it. Stroll the cobbled streets to tour the art galleries and pick up a picture for your wall back home before popping in and out of the shops in search of gifts and presents for those upcoming special occasions you’re bound to have in the calendar. 

If you’re travelling with kids, spend a few hours at the Tudor Merchant’s House - a fantastic way to complement their Tudor history curriculum. Wander the lengthy sands of Tenby South Beach for snacks sitting amongst the dunes and feel at one with nature as the sand moves beneath your toes. If it’s adrenaline you’re after, hire a jet ski or book watersports with Tenby Adventure - that’ll get the heart pumping!

An evening in Tenby

If you thought Tenby was magical in the day, try an evening stroll up Castle Hill to watch the sky change as the sun sets. Looking out over St Catherine’s Fort from atop the hill will give you goosebumps. Continue around the headland to wander down to Tenby Harbour Beach where the twinkling lights sparkle over the water and the streetlamps cast their shadows over the pretty painted townhouses along the seafront. 

Book a table at Florentinos to indulge in Italian cuisine, dine out at Tap & Tan where scrumptious street food meets a local brewery or get romantic with a table under the Flemish chimney at the cosy Plantagenet House. Follow up with cocktails at The Cove, a refreshing pint at The Coach & Horses or a glass of wine at Twelve. We also love nights out at On Georges and The Billycan where the food is just as delicious as the welcome.

The next morning in Tenby

Head to Fuschia Caffe or try Caffe Vista for a leisurely breakfast. Choose a hearty fry-up or opt for something lighter before ambling on down to Tenby Harbour to pick up a ticket for the Caldey Island ferry. Make sure you’ve checked out of your Tenby accommodation before you board the boat though, as you’ll easily spend the whole day touring the island.

Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the picnic benches by the lighthouse before enjoying the cliff path walk or make a pitstop at the cafe on the green before sharing a Caldey Island chocolate bar from the gift shop. Explore the abbey from outside, snap a pic at the pretty St David’s Church and spend hours bathing at Priory Bay Beach before boarding the ferry back to the mainland where a journey home awaits you. 

Find out more about Tenby

If that’s whet your appetite for a mini break in Tenby, you might also want to read our guide to Tenby. You’ll find out more information on the fantastic annual events that take place throughout the town and discover even more activities to keep you entertained.