Dolphin Spotting in West Wales

Dolphin Spotting Adventures in West Wales

West Wales is a stunning area known for its rugged coastline, sandy beaches, charming coastal villages and wildlife. One of the most magical experiences you can have here is spotting dolphins. Guests who have stayed with us at our yurt holiday site frequently have asked where the best place to see the famous Cardigan Bay Dolphins are and have successfully spotted them! Whether you're a seasoned wildlife enthusiast or a curious traveler, Cardigan Bay is one of the best spots in the UK to see these magical creatures!

Prime Dolphin Spotting Locations

Cardigan Bay

Cardigan Bay is renowned for its resident bottlenose dolphins, one of the largest populations in Europe. We are so lucky to have this marvellous bit of coastline a short drive away from our yurt holiday site! 20 minutes away in the car from your yurt or tipi stay will bring you to the bay that has multiple beaches and opportunities to dolphin spot! The dolphins are most frequently seen between April and October, making it an ideal time to plan your visit… this is also the best time to stay in one of our yurts!

• New Quay: This charming seaside town is a hotspot for dolphin sightings. The sheltered harbor and clear waters make it a perfect location to spot dolphins from the shore or on a boat tour. New Quay is located around a 30 minute drive away for our tipi and yurt glamping site.
• Aberporth: With its picturesque seafront, the village of Aberporth is frequently visited by dolphins and seals. The coastal path provides fantastic views and if you enjoy paddle boarding it's a great spot, giving you the choice of the sea or the sea tributary. Aberporth is located around a 30 minute drive away from our yurt and tipi glamping site.

• Mwnt: The unique alcove beach of Mwnt is one of our favourite spots and is for many of our regular glamping guests. Dolphins can be spotted from the beach, a favourite jelly fish hunting spot! Mwnt is around a 30 minute drive away from our yurt and tipi holiday site.

Pembrokeshire Coast National Park

The stunning Pembrokeshire coastline offers breathtaking views and abundant wildlife. Dolphins are often seen around this area, especially near the islands. Being in the neighbouring county to Larkhill Tipis and Yurts, it’s a bit more of a drive away,  . The drive is however stunning and we recommend the route that takes you from our glamping site and over the Preselis towards the Pembrokeshire Coast. 

• Ramsey Island: Known for its rich wildlife and dramatic cliffs, Ramsey Island is a haven for marine life enthusiasts. Take a boat trip around the island for a chance to see dolphins, seals, and seabirds. We recommend visiting in the month of September when seal pups can be seen by boat. We did this a few years ago and it was incredible! 
• Skomer Island: Famous for its puffins, Skomer Island also attracts dolphins to its surrounding waters. If it’s puffins you’d like to see you can book the ferry during the months of May, June and July, which is when the puffins nest on this island. We recommend booking this early as the ferry boat across to the island gets booked up quickly! 

Recommended Boat Rides

To enhance your dolphin spotting experience, consider taking a boat tour. Many local operators offer guided tours, providing insights into the behavior and habitat of dolphins and other marine creatures.

Dolphin Spotting Boat Trips

Based in New Quay, ‘Dolphin Spotting Boat Trips’ offers a range of tours tailored to your interests. Their knowledgeable guides provide a wealth of information, helping you learn more about the marine environment. With options for both short and extended trips, there's something for everyone. We’ve hopped on the Dolphin Survey boat for their one hour trip many times over the years, guests who have glamped with us here at Larkhill Tipis and Yurts have also hired their own private boat for a unique tailored sightseeing tour!

Voyages of Discovery

For those exploring Pembrokeshire, Voyages of Discovery offers thrilling tours around Ramsey Island. Their experienced crew ensures a memorable journey with opportunities to see dolphins, seals, and various seabirds up close. Quite a few of our glamping site guests have booked with Voyages of Discovery and had a wonderful time.

Tips for a Successful Dolphin Spotting Trip

• Choose the Right Season: Dolphins are most active between April and October. Plan your visit during these months for the best chance of sighting them.
• Book in Advance: Boat tours can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. To avoid disappointment, book your trip in advance.
• Bring Binoculars: While dolphins may come close to shore, binoculars will enhance your viewing experience, allowing you to see these magnificent creatures in detail.
• Dress Appropriately: The weather in West Wales can be unpredictable. Wear layers and bring waterproof clothing to stay comfortable during your excursion, which is also good advice for your yurt and tipi stay in Wales!