Seal Spotting in Pembrokeshire

Discover one of Pembrokeshire’s wildest autumn experiences

Every autumn, Atlantic grey seals return to the quiet coves and sheltered beaches of Pembrokeshire to give birth to their pups.

From September to November, wrap up warm, pack your binoculars and follow the coast in search of these wonderful marine mammals. You might spot an adult seal swimming between the waves, resting on the rocks or watching over a fluffy white pup from the water.

With a stay at Bluestone, some of Pembrokeshire’s most spectacular stretches of coastline are waiting beyond your lodge door. Spend the day exploring clifftop paths and hidden bays before returning for woodland walks, family fun and a cosy evening together.

When is the best time to see seals in Pembrokeshire?

Atlantic grey seals can be seen in the waters around Pembrokeshire throughout the year, but autumn is an especially exciting time to look for them.

Female seals come ashore to give birth between August and November, with September and October at the heart of the pupping season. Their pups are born with thick white coats and remain on land while they grow strong enough to enter the water.

Sightings can never be guaranteed, but a patient watch from the coast path may reward you with one of Pembrokeshire’s most memorable wildlife encounters.

Where to spot seals in Pembrokeshire

Pembrokeshire’s rocky coastline, offshore islands and secluded coves provide ideal habitats for Atlantic grey seals. Some of the best places to look include:

Martin’s Haven and the Marloes Peninsula

Follow the coast around Martin’s Haven and Marloes for far-reaching views across the water and down into quiet rocky coves. This part of Pembrokeshire is well known for its marine wildlife, with seals often visible from the coast path.

St Davids Peninsula

The coastline surrounding St Davids combines dramatic cliffs, small bays and views towards Ramsey Island. Take a walk around the peninsula and keep watch on the water and the undisturbed beaches below.

Strumble Head

Wild and wonderfully exposed, Strumble Head is a rewarding destination for wildlife watchers. Scan the rocks and tidal waters for seals, while also keeping an eye out for porpoises and seabirds.

Abereiddi and the north Pembrokeshire coast

The stretch of coast between Abereiddi and Abermawr is filled with rugged headlands and sheltered coves. It offers plenty of opportunities to pause along the coast path and quietly watch for wildlife below. Remember that seals choose where and when to appear. Take your time, enjoy the walk and treat every sighting as a special addition to your day.

How to watch seals safely and responsibly

Seal pups may appear alone on the beach, but this does not usually mean they have been abandoned. Their mothers will often be nearby in the water and may be waiting for people to move away before returning.

Help protect Pembrokeshire’s seals by following a few simple guidelines:

· Watch from the coast path and use binoculars or a zoom lens.
· Never approach, touch or feed a seal.
· Stay off beaches where seals or pups are present.
· Keep noise to a minimum.
· Never stand between a pup and the sea.
· Move away slowly if a seal raises its head, changes position or retreats towards the water.
· Follow any seasonal restrictions and local signage.

If you believe a seal is injured or genuinely in distress, do not approach it. Contact the RSPCA or Welsh Marine Life Rescue for advice.

What to bring on your seal-spotting adventure

Autumn weather on the Pembrokeshire coast can change quickly, so a little preparation goes a long way.

Bring binoculars for a closer view without disturbing the seals, along with sturdy footwear, warm layers and waterproof clothing. A camera with a zoom lens can help you capture the moment from a respectful distance.

Stick to established paths, take extra care around cliff edges and check the weather before setting out. If you are exploring with children, choose a manageable section of the coast path and keep them close beside you.

More autumn wildlife to discover

Seals may be the stars of the season, but they are not the only wildlife to look out for.

Autumn brings migrating birds to Pembrokeshire’s coastline, while choughs can be seen tumbling above the cliffs. Out at sea, patient watchers may also glimpse porpoises or dolphins moving through the waves.

Back at Bluestone, continue your day in nature with peaceful woodland trails, lakeside walks and plenty of opportunities for little explorers to discover the changing season.

Make Bluestone your base for an autumn adventure

After a windswept seal-spotting walk, head back to your cosy lodge, warm up with something delicious or enjoy our all-weather attractions together. With 500 acres of rolling countryside and woodland to explore on resort, your autumn adventure does not have to stop when you return.