New Year 2026

New Year & Early 2026 in Saundersfoot & Tenby

Your guide to seaside celebrations, community traditions and coastal fun near Puffin Cottage Holidays.

As we wave goodbye to 2025 and welcome 2026, Saundersfoot and Tenby come alive with festive spirit, unique local traditions and events that make a winter escape truly special. From fireworks over the harbour to colourful swims and cosy coastal walks, there’s plenty for your guests to enjoy right on your doorstep!

31st December — Saundersfoot New Year’s Eve Fireworks

Saundersfoot Harbour at Midnight

Celebrate New Year’s Eve in style with spectacular fireworks launched over Saundersfoot Harbour. It’s a magical scene — with the midnight sky illuminated above the sea and reflections dancing on the water — and a perfect way for visitors to feel part of the village’s festive energy. Many local pubs and restaurants also host special menus or gatherings before the big countdown.

Tips for guests:

• Book ahead for dinner in the village — it’s a popular night!

• Wrap up warm and arrive early on the harbour to secure great views.

• Pair the display with a coastal stroll along the beach before or after midnight.

1st January — Saundersfoot New Year’s Day Swim

Saundersfoot Beach — from ~12:30 pm Kick off 2026 with one of Pembrokeshire’s most beloved winter traditions! The Saundersfoot New Year’s Day Swim is officially the UK’s largest New Year’s Day festive dip, and 2026 marks its 40th anniversary with a ruby-themed celebration. Locals and visitors don fancy dress — especially in ruby, red and sparkle — then plunge into the chilly sea to raise funds for local charities.

There’s a real community party atmosphere with cheering crowds, live music and plenty of hot drinks to warm up afterwards. It’s free to come and watch, and a brilliant way to start the year with laughter, colour and seaside fun.

Why it’s special:

• A village-wide celebration bringing locals and guests together.

• Part of the rich coastal culture Pembrokeshire is known for.

• A great photo opportunity and memory-making moment for visitors.

Tenby’s New Year Vibe

Tudor Square & Town Centre

Just up the coast, Tenby has its own lively New Year’s Eve vibe — crowds gather in Tudor Square for music, countdowns and community cheer as midnight approaches. It’s lively, free to join and a great backdrop to extend your celebrations after dinner in town.

Early 2026 & Beyond — What’s Coming Up

Coastal Walks & Winter Strolls

Pembrokeshire’s coastal paths are beautiful year-round, and winter brings crisp air, dramatic skies and quieter beaches perfect for peaceful walks. From Saundersfoot Beach to Wiseman’s Bridge and up towards Tenby’s North and Castle Beaches, there are options for every pace.

Local sights your guests will love:

• Tenby’s iconic St Catherine’s Island and fort views.

• The colourful harbour in Saundersfoot — especially atmospheric in winter light.

• Taking in sunset views along the Pembrokeshire Coast Path.

Dates to Watch in 2026

Here are a few confirmed and expected highlights near your cottages:

January 1st Jan: Saundersfoot New Year’s Day Swim — from ~12:30pm.

Throughout Winter: Quaint local pubs and eateries open for cosy meals by the fire.

Later in the Year

• June–September: Outdoor events like Long Course Weekend in Tenby and other community gatherings.

• Street Food Circus & Harbour Feastival (Saundersfoot): A lively food market and family-friendly celebration dates TBC.

• Sunset Cinema events, dates and places TBC

• Triathlons & Sporting Events: Events like the Saundersfoot Triathlon & Ironman Wales return in September.

Making the Most of Your Stay

Staying in Saundersfoot and Tenby over New Year and beyond is about more than just events — it’s the coastal charm, community warmth, and slow-paced exploration that make holidays here unforgettable.

Guest suggestions:

• Start the day with a sea view breakfast at a local café.

• Take a scenic walk along the beach before brunch after the New Year’s Day Swim.

• Explore Tenby’s historic streets, independent shops and galleries.

• Enjoy a warming pub lunch with local seafood and seasonal specials.

Final Thoughts

Whether your guests are here for a festive break, a cosy winter escape, or planning ahead for a full 2026 of coastal adventures, Saundersfoot and Tenby offer a big-hearted welcome, stunning scenery and unforgettable experiences — all within walking distance of Puffin Cottage Holidays.

About us

Based in South Pembrokeshire, Puffin Cottage Holidays are a family run business, with a wealth of knowledge on the area and the local attractions and have been successfully letting holiday accommodation for over 15 years.

We aim to provide our customers with excellent service before, during and after your holiday, making your break away from home as enjoyable, relaxing and hassle free as possible. We understand that you may lead a busy life which is why we make ourselves available out of hours and on weekends, so that we can help you find your perfect holiday at a time convenient to you and if there is anything we can do to make your holiday more special just let us know.

Remember we specialise in all sorts of properties whether you are looking for Sea Views, Pet Friendly, Character, Rural, Hot Tubs, Lodges, Apartments, Cottages, Pods and keep close to our website for the best late deals.

If you have a property you are looking to holiday let, please see our Property owners page and contact us for more details. Our current properties are predominantly based in Tenby, Saundersfoot, Penally and surrounding areas therefore access to Pembrokeshire’s award-winning beaches is never too far away!