Discover the Charm of Skomer Island: A Pembrokeshire Coast Gem
If you’re looking for a unique wildlife adventure along the stunning Pembrokeshire Coast, Skomer Island is the place to be. This little island is a haven for nature lovers, offering dramatic cliffs, quiet coves, and incredible wildlife that changes with the seasons. Whether you’re here to watch puffins flitting about or listen to the eerie calls of Manx shearwaters, Skomer delivers an experience you won’t forget.
What Makes Skomer Island So Special?
Skomer Island is a nature lover’s dream. In spring, the island bursts into life with bluebells and pink campion covering the landscape in a vibrant display. The fresh sea air and the sweet scent of wildflowers make every walk a delight. One of the highlights is The Wick, a dramatic cliff edge where thousands of seabirds, including puffins, guillemots, and razorbills, nest. You can get surprisingly close to these birds, making it a fantastic spot for wildlife photography and birdwatching.
What Wildlife Can You Find on Skomer Island?
Skomer Island is famous for its incredible wildlife, and it’s one of the best places in the UK to see puffins up close. These charming birds, with their colourful beaks and comical waddling, are a joy to watch as they dart across the sky or tend to their burrows. But puffins aren’t the only stars of the show – Skomer is also home to thousands of Manx shearwaters. These seabirds spend most of their lives at sea, returning to the island under the cover of darkness to nest. Their haunting calls create a magical atmosphere, especially during the breeding season.
The island’s cliffs are also teeming with guillemots, razorbills, and kittiwakes, while the grasslands are inhabited by rabbits, voles, and even the occasional short-eared owl. If you’re lucky, you might spot seals lounging on the rocks or dolphins playing in the surrounding waters. Skomer is a wildlife enthusiast’s paradise, offering endless opportunities to connect with nature.
How Do You Get to Skomer Island?
Getting to Skomer Island is part of the adventure. The boat operates from Martin’s Haven between April and September, running Tuesday to Sunday (plus Bank Holiday Mondays). To protect the island’s delicate environment, visitor numbers are limited to 250 per day, so it’s essential to book in advance. Tickets must be purchased online, and all passengers check in at Lockley Lodge, a visitor hub run by the Wildlife Trust.
Since sailings depend on the weather, it’s a good idea to check for updates before you set off. Parking is available at the National Trust car park in Martin’s Haven, making it easy to start your trip.
Why Should You Visit Skomer Island?
Skomer Island is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves nature. Its unspoilt landscapes, incredible wildlife, and tranquil atmosphere make it a perfect escape from everyday life. Whether you’re a keen birdwatcher, a nature enthusiast, or just looking for a peaceful retreat, Skomer has something for everyone.
Ready to explore? Plan your trip today and discover the magic of Skomer Island. And when you’re done, you can head back to your St Davids Escapes cottage to put your feet up and unwind.