Skomer
Island Protected Welsh island famed for puffin colonies
Skomer Island off Pembrokeshire is known for dense seabird colonies-puffins and guillemots-and seasonal boat trips, narrow walking paths and opportunities to see grey seals ashore.
Skomer is a small offshore island off the Pembrokeshire coast in Wales, noted for its large seabird colonies and coastal wildlife. It lies close to the mainland of southwest Wales and is a recognized nature reserve.
The island is most notable for dense populations of seabirds, especially Atlantic puffins and Manx shearwaters, which nest in burrows and on cliff ledges. Walks follow maintained paths that keep visitors away from nesting areas and viewing is concentrated on seasonally open trails.
Historically used for grazing and small-scale farming, the island was later managed for wildlife conservation and scientific study. Land use shifted from agriculture toward protected-status conservation to prioritise seabird colonies and maritime habitats.
Skomer sits off the Pembrokeshire coast near the headland of St David’s, reached by boat from nearby mainland launching points such as Martin’s Haven. The island is part of the coastal archipelago in southwest Wales and lies within sight of the Pembrokeshire coastline.
- Access: Day trips run from the mainland at Martin's Haven; visitor numbers are limited and bookings are required in peak season.
- Best time to visit: Breeding seabirds are most visible in spring and early summer, with puffins present on the cliffs during the breeding season.
How to Get to Skomer #
Boat departures to Skomer run from Martin’s Haven or St. David’s (depending on operator). Boats are seasonal and weather-dependent; book with licensed operators in advance. Landing fees and National Trust entry rules apply.
Tips for Visiting Skomer #
- Book wildlife cruises in advance during the spring and summer bird-breeding seasons.
- Respect walking trails and cliff-edge signs - puffin and seabird colonies are fragile.
- Bring waterproof outer layers; Atlantic weather changes quickly and sea spray is common.
Best Time to Visit Skomer #
Best visited Apr-Aug for puffins and seabird colonies; book boat trips early.
Weather & Climate near Skomer #
Temperate climate with mild summers (peaking in August) and cold winters (coldest in February). Temperatures range from 4°C to 18°C. Moderate rainfall (919 mm/year).
January
January is cold with highs of 9°C and lows of 5°C. Regular rainfall (98 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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February
February is the coolest month with highs of 8°C and lows of 4°C. Moderate rainfall (73 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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March
March is cold with highs of 9°C and lows of 5°C. Moderate rainfall (70 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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April
April is cold with highs of 11°C and lows of 6°C. Moderate rainfall (54 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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May
May is cool with highs of 14°C and lows of 8°C. Moderate rainfall (49 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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June
June is cool with highs of 16°C and lows of 10°C. Moderate rainfall (58 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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July
July is cool with highs of 18°C and lows of 12°C. Moderate rainfall (52 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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August
August is cool with highs of 18°C and lows of 13°C. Moderate rainfall (75 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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September
September is cool with highs of 16°C and lows of 12°C. Moderate rainfall (75 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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October
October is cool with highs of 14°C and lows of 10°C. Significant rainfall (102 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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November
November is cold with highs of 11°C and lows of 7°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (111 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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December
December is cold with highs of 10°C and lows of 6°C. Significant rainfall (102 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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