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Intro
Ah, Skomer Island, the sort of place that makes you question why you ever booked that crowded beach holiday. Off the coast of southern Wales lies this pint-sized paradise bursting with wildlife, ancient history, and more puffins than you can reasonably fit into one Instagram post. Whether you’re a nature nut, a medieval maniac, or just here for the photogenic birds, Skomer offers something for every kind of adventurer (and even for those who consider a gentle hill a “challenging hike”).
So grab your binoculars, your camera, and maybe a raincoat (this is Wales, after all), and let’s set sail to one of the most charming islands the UK has to offer.
When to Visit (Trust Me on This)
Keep an eye on the calendar when planning your trip, don’t wait too long like I did! While Pembrokeshire has plenty of jaw-dropping scenery, let’s be honest: we’re all here for the puffins, and you really don’t want to miss their VIP appearance.
The best time to visit Skomer is between late April and July. This is when the island is in full wildlife party mode, puffins are nesting, wildflowers are blooming, and the Manx shearwaters are pulling all-nighters. Come any later and you risk seeing more empty burrows than beaked cuteness. That said, every season has its charms, autumn brings seal pups, and the landscape never really stops being stunning.
A Brief History (Yes, There Were Rabbits Involved)
Skomer might look like a puffin resort today, but it’s been a hot spot for humans and critters for thousands of years. The island has evidence of Iron Age settlements, including hut circles and ancient field systems that would make any history nerd’s heart flutter.
In the Middle Ages, Skomer switched gears and became a center for, wait for it, rabbit farming. Yes, fluffy bunnies were the island’s claim to fame long before the puffins stole the spotlight. You can still see signs of this farming past today, though the modern rabbits seem blissfully unaware of their ancestors’ CVs.
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Wildlife Wonders (a.k.a. Why You’re Really Going)
Skomer Island isn’t just rich in history, it’s also a wildlife paradise. Here are the headliners:
Puffins
Let’s just say it: puffins are the undisputed celebrities of Skomer. With their colourful beaks, expressive eyes, and comic waddle, they’re like the stand-up comedians of the bird world. Best seen from late April to mid-July, they nest in burrows and pop out like whack-a-moles with wings. Bring a camera. You’ll need it.
Manx Shearwaters
While puffins rule the day, the Manx shearwaters own the night. Skomer hosts over 300,000 of them, yes, that’s not a typo. These birds spend most of the year at sea, but during nesting season (late spring through summer), they return in the dead of night like feathery phantoms. Bring a torch and prepare to be amazed.
Atlantic Grey Seals
Spot these blubbery beach bums lounging on the shoreline year-round. Autumn is the real highlight though, pupping season, when adorable white-furred seal pups make their debut. Think chubby mermaids with puppy dog eyes.
Skomer Vole
Exclusive to Skomer (yes, it has its own vole), these little guys are surprisingly vital to the ecosystem. The Skomer vole, a subspecies of the bank vole, keeps the island’s short-eared owls well-fed. You might spot one darting through the grass between spring and early autumn, blink and you’ll miss it.
Nearby Treasures: More to Explore Beyond the Island
Once you’ve had your fill of puffin cuteness, there’s plenty more to explore around the Pembrokeshire coast. Here are just a few can’t-miss stops:
The Green Bridge of Wales
A spectacular natural rock arch sculpted by the sea. It’s dramatic, windswept, and very “Welsh postcard in real life.” You’ll find it in the Castlemartin area of Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.
Elegug Stacks
Two towering sea stacks jutting from the ocean like ancient sentinels. Perfect for spotting razorbills, guillemots, and possibly even the ghost of a pirate (unconfirmed).
Huntsman’s Leap
A narrow chasm with a legendary backstory, a horseman allegedly leapt it during a hunt, then promptly died of shock when he saw the drop. Whether true or not, the views are worth the slightly eerie name.
St. Govan’s Chapel
This tiny chapel, wedged into the cliffs near Bosherston, is steeped in legend and reachable by steep stone steps. A peaceful place to reflect, even if just about how you’re going to get back up.
Tenby
No trip to Pembrokeshire is complete without a stop in Tenby. With its pastel-hued buildings, long sandy beaches, and medieval town walls, it’s basically Wales’ answer to a coastal fairy tale.
Pembroke Castle
Birthplace of Henry VII and a history buff’s dream. Explore the enormous keep, underground tunnels, and climb the towers for sweeping views. Also, the gift shop is top-tier.
Manorbier Castle
A romantic fortress by the sea, once home to medieval writer Gerald of Wales. It’s got charm, views, and just enough crumbling stone to inspire a poetry phase.
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Where to Stay Near Skomer Island
From rustic campsites to comfy cottages and stylish hotels, there’s something for every type of traveller (and every budget) within 20 miles of the island.
Campsites
West Hook Farm Camping – Right by Martin’s Haven, with epic sea views and front-row seats to the sunset. A favourite for bird lovers and star gazers alike.
Creampots Campsite – Located in Broad Haven, this one’s quiet, family-friendly, and just a short drive from the coast.
Cottages & Holiday Parks
Musselwick Farm Cottages – Gorgeous stone cottages with ocean views, just minutes from the coast. Great for families or couples who want a self-catered retreat with a touch of luxury.
HPB St. Brides – A peaceful, well-maintained holiday base with access to coastal walks and everything you need for a relaxing stay after puffin-chasing.
Hotels
The Druidstone Hotel – Quirky, cosy, and perched on the cliffs above St Bride’s Bay. Think roaring fires, hearty meals, and boho vibes.
Twr y Felin Hotel – An award-winning art hotel in St Davids. It’s sleek, stylish, and ideal for those who want to unwind in comfort after their outdoor adventures.
Final Thoughts
Skomer Island isn’t just a destination, it’s an experience that sits somewhere between a David Attenborough documentary and a nature-fuelled daydream. From puffin encounters to ancient ruins, glowing sunsets to ghostly seabirds, it’s the kind of place that leaves its muddy bootprints on your soul (in the best way).
So, don’t wait too long to book. The puffins are punctual. Your camera roll is empty. And Wales is calling.
Go on then, get wild on Skomer
Some pictures sourced from pixabay, freepik and pexels.
