From visiting major cities like Cardiff and Swansea to exploring national parks and areas of outstanding natural beauty, there are plenty of exciting things to do in South Wales for couples.
Containing beautiful areas like Pembrokeshire and popular tourist destinations like Tenby, this part of the UK is a perfect location for a romantic getaway.
To help plan your trip here, whether it’s for a couple of days or a longer break, we’ve put together this list of the most romantic things to do in South Wales for couples
1. Explore Caldey Island
One of the most interesting days out in Wales is taking a trip to Caldey Island, one of Britain’s holy islands that has a history dating back over 1,500 years.
Located just off the South Pembrokeshire coastline, you can buy boat tickets to travel from Tenby to the island, on a crossing that takes roughly 20 minutes.
This island itself has much to explore, with a beautiful monastery in its centre. Being disconnected from the mainland, its isolation provides a serene atmosphere that makes it one of the most romantic locations in the country.
You can take walks around the island, to a lighthouse with fantastic views across the sea. There’s also a population of red squirrels which you’ll be able to spot inhabiting the woodlands near the monastery.
For a full list of things to do, you can read our blog about what to do on Caldey Island.
2. Walk the Pembrokeshire Coast Path
For more adventurous couples or anyone who enjoys a good hike, the Pembrokeshire Coast Path provides a fantastic walking route along the southwest sections of the Welsh coastline.
Stretching for 186 miles from Stretching from Amroth in the south to St Dogmaels in the north, there are numerous parts of this trail that you can follow, depending on which areas of Pembrokeshire you most want to explore.
Our favourite is the Saundersfoot to Tenby walk, as you’ll get the chance to see two of the most beautiful seaside town in this part of Wales.
At the end of the hike, you can explore the many fun things to do in Tenby for couples, like paddleboarding or visiting the beautiful St Catherine’s Island.
3. Have a day at the beach
There are many fantastic beaches around South Wales which especially stand out in summer when the sun is out and the sea is glistening.
There are numerous beaches worth discovering, especially around Pembrokeshire where it’s easier to find hidden gems that are beautiful spots to spend a day.
There are several beaches in Tenby if you’re looking for a seaside town to explore and relax in. Or, you can check out some of the best beaches near Tenby, such as Amroth and Saundersfoot.
4. Take a day trip to Cardiff
Located in the south of the country, Cardiff, the capital of Wales, has many fantastic activities and places to see, offering numerous reasons for couples to visit.
From wandering the grounds of Cardiff Castle to visiting the National Museum, there are many amazing things to do in Cardiff for couples looking to immerse themselves in history and culture.
Being a thriving metropolitan hub, there is also a huge range of fantastic bars and places to eat in Cardiff, so it caters for foodies and anyone looking to try out the city’s nightlife.
5. Try a glassblowing experience
If you’re seeking a unique activity for couples in South Wales, look no further than Gift of Glass in Tenby. This remarkable glassblowing studio offers an immersive experience where you can learn various techniques of this exquisite art form.
From cutting and colouring to sculpting and blowing glass, expert guides will accompany you through each step of the process. You’ll even have the opportunity to create your own masterpiece, which you can proudly take home.
This private session lasts for two hours and is designed for two people, making it an ideal choice for a romantic date. Additionally, it provides a perfect solution if the weather forecast isn’t looking good, being one of the best things to do in Tenby in the rain.
6. Go alpaca trekking
Embark on a delightful adventure just a stone’s throw away from Tenby – alpaca trekking! This unique activity allows you to mingle with a friendly herd of alpacas and accompany them on a scenic mile-long trek.
Pembrokeshire Alpaca Trekking stands out as one of the finest and most exceptional activities for couples in South Wales. Make sure not to pass up the opportunity to partake in this unforgettable experience!
Situated on a picturesque farm nestled in the heart of Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, this activity also provides a fantastic opportunity to further explore the captivating landscapes of this region in Wales.
7. Visit the smallest city in the UK
Near the very western tip of Pembrokeshire you can pay a visit to the smallest city in the UK – St David’s.
With a population of only 1,600, the city appears more like a peaceful Welsh village but it receives many visitors each year from all around the world, especially in summer.
The main attraction is the stunning 12th-century cathedral that is free to enter, and there are plenty of great places to grab a drink or food, such as The Bishops.
You can also easily access the Pembrokeshire Coast Path from St David’s, or take a trip out to some of the most beautiful beaches in Pembrokeshire like the nearby Whitesands.
8. Explore Carew Castle
The landscape of the south of Wales is dotted with castles, including popular tourist attractions like Pembroke Castle, but a great option for couples to visit is Carew Castle.
With a history spanning 2000 years, there’s a lot to discover about this landmark as you explore the walls and towers that are still standing.
While you do have to pay to enter the castle itself, there’s also a mile-long circular walk you can take for free which takes you around the surrounding grounds and the historical tidal mill nearby.
9. Book a trip to Zip World
For braver couples and adrenaline junkies, one of the most thrilling activities in South Wales is found at Zip World Tower near Aberdare.
Zip World has several locations in Wales and England with different attractions, including the heart-racing Velocity 2 which is one of the most fun things to do in North Wales for couples, but Zip World Tower is worth a visit for its main event – Phoenix.
Being the fastest seated zipline in the world, Phoenix is an exhilarating activity that sees you take two separate ziplines as you travel up to 70 mph. Passing over a reservoir, you’ll also get stunning views over to the Brecon Beacons as you make your speedy descent.
10. Spend a day in Tenby
Tenby is one of the most popular seaside towns in the UK, with its colourful houses and multiple sandy beaches providing the perfect setting to enjoy the summer sun.
Take a trip to this beautiful town and you can enjoy the romantic little lanes and independent shops, or enjoy an ice cream on the beach.
You can also hire paddleboards if you’re after a fun experience to try together, or even just chill out with a few drinks at the tasty Harbwr Brewery.
Things to do in South Wales for couples FAQs
What are the best free things to do in South Wales for couples?
One of the best free things to do in South Wales for couples is simply enjoying a day at the seaside, basing yourself at one of the best beaches in Pembrokeshire such as Amroth or Saundersfoot.
For more adventurous couples, another free but challenging activity is walking the Pembrokeshire Coast Path.
What are the most romantic spots for picnics in South Wales?
South Wales has several idyllic spots where you can have a romantic picnic. One option is the picturesque Roath Park in Cardiff, with its beautiful lake and gardens.
You could also venture to the peaceful grounds of Tintern Abbey, nestled in the Wye Valley, or visit the stunning botanical gardens of the National Botanic Garden of Wales.
What are some unique date ideas in South Wales?
When it comes to unique date ideas in South Wales, there are plenty to choose from. You could take a romantic boat trip along the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal, explore the hidden caves at Dan-yr-Ogof in the Brecon Beacons, or go on a wildlife-watching excursion in the Gower Peninsula.
For a touch of history, you can visit the medieval ruins of Caerphilly Castle or embark on a ghost tour in the spooky Llancaiach Fawr Manor.
