Where can I see puffins in Wales? Best Times, Places & Visiting Tips!
Have you ever seen a haven for wildlife on Earth? Yes, Skomer Island is indeed, the place that offers a chance to view puffins and other flora and fauna-such wildlife. Whether you want to see these seabirds in North Wales or the West, you can spot them. Its North Wales locations include Anglesey and the coast of the Llyn Peninsula.
From late April to late July is the best time to see puffins in Wales. The best time to watch them will be from May to June. Skomer Island is mostly known for its seabirds, wildlife, flora, and fauna. It is known as an international seabirds island. You will get a chance to see various other sea birds too, including puffins, Manx shearwaters, dolphins, seals, razorbills, and many more.
Its distance from the Pembrokeshire Coast is less than a mile. If you like wildlife photography or are a nature lover, then visiting this place must be next on your checklist.
Top Places To Spot Puffins In Wales!
There are many different locations for seeing puffins in North Wales and the West. These places include Skomer Island, Anglesey, and Llyn Peninsula. The most visited and known for its flora, fauna, and wildlife is Skomer Island. An estimation of the Manx Shearwater breeding pairs is 350,000, thousands of Guillemots, and 41,500 Puffins.
Comparison Guide For Puffin Spots
| Places | Best Time | Species | Accessibility | Accommodation | Boat Tours |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Skomer
|
May-June
|
Puffins, Manx Shearwater
|
Difficult
|
Farm Hotel
|
£24–£44
|
|
Puffin Island
|
May-July
|
Guillemots, Puffins
|
Moderate |
Beaumaris
|
90 minutes
|
|
South Stack
|
June
|
Choughs, Puffins
|
Easy
|
Holyhead |
Guided Tours
|
1. Skomer’s Island, Pembrokeshire
If you are in search of puffins, then Skomer should be your top priority. The distance to it is almost 15 minutes from the mainland, but it is a worthy and unique place to spend quality time. The boat trip at this place feels like you are many miles away from worldly life. Not only this, you will get a chance to see beautiful bluebirds here, but they are season-specific.Â
This will enable you to see some of the rarest and most stunning creatures. There are also grey seals that you can see here at the time you visit.
Accommodations:
Although the accommodations here are limited, if you want to enjoy tranquility and isolation, then it is a must-visit. You will get an overnight stay here at its farm hostel, which is in the middle of the island. You can also reserve a private room or a bunk here. It also includes basic dining, kitchen, living, and toilet facilities. The thing that makes staying here a most beautiful experience is the isolation that you will get once the last boat sails.
You can enjoy sunsets and seabirds coming back to their homes. Electricity, hot water, a shared or separate room, and a boat trip are some of its accommodations. The boat fare per person is almost £10, and there are no boats on Mondays, so be aware.
Accessibility:
The accessibility at Skomer Island is limited. Keep this thing in mind before visiting the places to see puffins. It is an island in Wales that offers four compost toilets and a bottled water for sale facility. Know the following before you go:
- The walking path here is uneven, hilly, and rocky.
- To reach the island, one must climb these 87 steep steps.
- There are few restrooms and no cafeteria.
- There isn’t much cover or shade.
- No bins are at this place, and binoculars are available for £5.
Book Your Boat Trip
The opening time of the Skomer is from April to August (Tuesday-Sunday). If you’re wondering to see puffins go here. The boat operator that takes you to this island is only Pembrokeshire Island Boat Trips. You can book your trip and tickets from their official website in 2025.
Cost To Go & Reach The Ferry
Enjoy an unforgettable experience on Skomer’s Island. It is a place that takes almost 15 minutes to reach. For the Skomer Island landing trip, you will be dropped off on the island to enjoy at your own pace. After almost 4.5 hours, you will be picked up for return to sailing. The tickets here depend upon the age of travellers, but mostly they range from £24-£44. Advance bookings are necessary as the space is limited here.
Seabirds & Flora Of Skomer Island
Puffins are among the various bird species present on the island located in Wales, such as Manx Shearwater, Fulmars, Kittiwakes, Storm Petrels, Guillemots, and Razorbills. You will also witness the bluebells that further beautify the island.
An amazing thing about it is that you can also experience a dramatic night view with many of the Manx Shearwater coming back to their homes. Some other flora of this place that you can see include red campion, thrift, sea campion and heather.
Video Guide To See Puffins At Skomer Island
If you are planning a day trip to this beautiful place offering a mix of nature, seabirds, and wildlife, then it is better to know everything about it. Know about its ticket procedure, booking, landing, and what you should see here. You will find a striking video guide that shows you what to discover during your travels within this magnificent island.
2. Puffin Island (Ynys Seiriol), Anglesey
If you’re searching for puffins, Ynys Seiriol is also a nice spot. It is known as a designated special protection area that offers a view of beautiful seabirds. This is because it has the largest colony of Great Cormorants in the British Isles, with over 750 pairs.
Seabirds & Wildlife
The wildlife of this island include Guillemot, Razorbill, Shag and Kittiwake nesting. Some common Eider and Black Guillemot can also be seen. Grey seals are also sometimes seen on this island. The recorded number of puffins at this place is estimated to be up to 2,000 pairs.
History & Best Time
It is a Welsh coast 9th largest island, that offers the best views to see seabirds. Its history includes the monastic ruins of St Seiriol. There is also an old semaphore station on this island.ee these birds is April and July. Once these species are out of their breeding season, they can be seen outside. Some other species like cormorant and shags can be seen on the island all year round.
Accommodation & Cost
It is advisable to stay in a town close to that since it is difficult to find accommodation here. Stay at Beaumaris and find the best places to stay, like guesthouses or comfy B&Bs. While the boat tours from Beaumaris last for at least 90 minutes. Better ask the local operator about the ticket price. During the peak season, advanced booking is recommended.
3. South Stack Cliffs RSPB Reserve, Anglesey
It is a place that offers watching seabirds. It has a well-maintained trail along the coastal path. The renowned birdwatching site is on its northwest coast. It is run by the Royal Society to safeguard birds.
Flora & Fauna
The flora of this place is worth watching, which includes the silver-studded blue butterfly and the rare spatulate fleawort. You can also spot choughs and peregrine falcons all year round.
Accessibility:
There are facilities to reach the place by car and to use public transport. Cars considered were coming from Holyhead. They should follow the signs to South Stack. It is almost a three-mile drive from the town to the South Stack reserve.
Attractions:
You can also see a lighthouse, which can be reached by walking up 400 steep steps. Some guided tours include information about their history and origins. You must obtain a ticket from the RSPB parking lot kiosk.
Important Note: As of March 15th until September 15th, 2025, a 1.8-mile stretch of land close to South Stack will be closed to protect nesting birds.
Know Some Interesting Facts About Puffins
As you are interested in seeing these beautiful seabirds, there are some important and interesting facts about them.
- Their beak changes color from orange and yellow to a duller color.
- Sea parrots and sea clowns are other names given to these birds.
- Their lives are mostly spent at sea, relaxing on the waves.
- They are carnivores, and their food source is fish.
- They are expert flyers and swimmers.
- Their lifespan is almost 20 years.
- Their weight is lighter, which is between 320-480g.
Get The Best Sight Of Seabirds In Wales!
Knowing everything about the puffins, the best time to spot, booking, and accommodations is necessary before visiting. In Wales, there are different spots where you can see these seabirds and their natural flora. These sites comprise Skomer’s Island, Puffin Island, Anglesey, South Stack Cliffs RSPB Reserve, and many other spots.
So, begin your planning for your next trip to this beautiful destination and begin your holiday packing list. Enjoy your time at the beautiful Skomer’s spot, enjoy beautiful bluebells, visit the nearby attractions, and find the best accommodation to see a better sunset and see seabirds coming home. Visit Wales on this holiday trip and enjoy birdwatching at these beautiful locations.
FAQ'S
The exact location of this island is in Jack Sound, which is almost a mile from the Pembrokeshire coast.
From April to July, puffins can be seen on Skomer Island.
Booking tickets for the Pembrokeshire Island Boat Trip is the easiest way to access this island.
You can see puffins in many locations across Wales, including Anglesey, Skomer Island, and Llyn Peninsula.
Yes, Wales is one of the best places to see seabirds, puffins included. Puffins are some of the species that can be spotted in Wales, along with Manx Shearwater, Fulmars, Kittiwakes, Guillemots and Razorbills.
Reaching the island from Tenby is possible via a boat trip. Make sure to book your boat trip to Pembrokeshire Island in advance.
Ella Harrison
Hi, I am a traveling enthusiast. I have explored more than 18 countries. I have been curious about exploring the world since I was a kid. My search for hidden gems helped me immerse myself in the new cultures. Now, my current motive is to share stories about places that can inspire people to experience an adventurous journey. Throughout my exploration, the thing I enjoyed most was hiking in the UK’s places like Chepstow, Wales. I have experienced the vibrant cities and local flavors of different places. Join me and experience unforgettable adventures.
