Discover the Blue Lagoon at Abereiddi

Looking for a unique swimming spot in Pembrokeshire? Look no further than the Blue Lagoon! Nestled in the rugged rocks and ruins of Abereiddi’s coastline, just off the Wales Coast Path, the Blue Lagoon is a stunning natural pool that’s popular for coasteering, kayaking and swimming.

The site of the Blue Lagoon was, until 1910, the main quarry of St Brides Slate Company. Slate was extracted from Abereiddi, before being transported via tramway to Porthgain Harbour to be shipped out – you can still see the route of a tramway connecting the quarry to Porthgain on the clifftop, as well as ruined quarry buildings, which visitors are advised not to enter.

The Blue Lagoon was formed when the channel connecting the quarry to the sea was blasted, allowing the sea to flood in, with the slate giving the pool its brilliant blue colour.

Nowadays, the Blue Lagoon is owned and managed by the National Trust, and is open for visitors year-round, except between September and November, when it is closed to protect breeding seals. If you’re hoping to visit during these months, make sure you check online before your trip to avoid disappointment.

If you’re heading to the Blue Lagoon, you can park at Abereiddi Beach for £5 per day (cash only). The car park is relatively small, so if you’re visiting on a hot summer’s day, make sure you get there in good time. From the car park, there's a short, signposted walk to the pool.

If you’re planning a swim, be aware that the water is cold and the pool is deep, so only go for a dip if you’re a confident swimmer. Because the ground is rough underfoot, I would also recommend that you wear sea shoes. That said, I had a really enjoyable swim, with stunning surroundings and calm water – once you're in and swimming, you'll soon warm up!

If coasteering if your speed (it’s definitely not mine!), visitors are advised to only take part in an organised group led by a qualified instructor, and a booking system is in place for this.

Once you’ve explored the Blue Lagoon, you can enjoy a view of the pool from a higher vantage point by heading back towards the car park before turning left along the Wales Coast Path and up onto the cliffs. Once you're back at the car park, you can take a look at the ruined workmen's cottage, before relaxing on Abereiddi Beach, a shingle and dark grey sand beach, the latter formed from pounded grey slate.

The Blue Lagoon is well worth a visit and a really unique spot in Pembrokeshire. As long as you plan your visit in advance and arrive prepared, you'll be sure to have a great day out!

A walk along the Wales Coast Path is an amazing adventure, so what are you waiting for?! If you’re ready to start planning your walk, you can find lots of resources to help you on your way here.