The beach is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) due to the unique rock folding visible in the cliff faces.
The area has been used as a filming location for several major television and film productions, including 'Sherlock' and 'The Lion in Winter'.
The remains of a Neolithic burial chamber, known as the King's Quoit, are located on the headland overlooking the beach.
The beach is named after the village of Manorbier, which dates back to the Norman period.
The cove experiences significant tidal shifts, substantially reducing the available dry sand area at high tide.
Manorbier Beach is a south-west facing sand and pebble cove framed by high cliffs and backed by sand dunes. The beach is dominated by the medieval Manorbier Castle, which overlooks the bay from the northern cliffside. It is a popular location for surfing, with consistent swells and reef breaks at the northern end. The Pembrokeshire Coast Path runs directly along the cliff tops above the beach, providing integrated access to the wider shoreline. The beach includes a small stream, the Sherwill Brook, which flows across the sand into the sea. Geologically, the area features folded Old Red Sandstone cliffs characteristic of the Pembrokeshire coast. It remains a non-commercialized site without facilities directly on the sand.
From the coastal path near the castle walls looking down towards the beach and the bay.
Check tide tables before arrival, as the beach can be significantly smaller or inaccessible at high tide.
Wear sturdy footwear if you plan to walk the coastal path, as the descent to the beach involves steep, uneven terrain.
Bring all necessary supplies, including water and food, as there are no shops directly on the beach.
Attempting to swim near the headlands where strong rip currents are frequently reported.
Take all litter home, as there are no bins on the beach; keep dogs under close control around livestock on nearby paths.
