Skomer puffin watching
Skomer Island, Pembrokeshire
- Independent UK guide
- Free to use
- Affiliate links clearly labelled
- Updated October 2026
What to expect
Once you land on Skomer, you can walk a network of paths across the island, past meadows, cliffs, seabird colonies and old farm ruins. The puffins nest in burrows at several points, and the best viewing is often at the Wick, where hundreds can be seen at close range. Other highlights include razorbills, guillemots, seals and, in the evening, thousands of Manx shearwaters.
Tips before you go
- Landings are capped each day, so book well ahead.
- Stay on the paths, because the burrows are fragile and puffins are easily disturbed.
- Allow time for the circular island walk, which is about four miles.
Book or plan it
Prices and availability change, so compare. These are affiliate links.
Where to base yourself
A rugged coast of golden beaches, seabirds and a famous coast path
A weekend in St DavidsPembrokeshireBritain's smallest city, with a cathedral in a hollow and the coast on its doorstep
What to pack
Handy things people often forget. These are Amazon links, so prices and availability are set by Amazon.
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More kit guides: Walking gear Wet-weather gear Beach and coast gear
Related activities
Skomer is a small island off the Pembrokeshire coast, home to tens of thousands of puffins and other seabirds, as well as seals and rare small mammals.
Farne Islands puffin tripSeahouses, NorthumberlandThe Farne Islands, off the Northumberland coast, are home to tens of thousands of seabirds, including puffins that nest between roughly April and July.
Coasteering in PembrokeshirePembrokeshire Coast, WalesCoasteering means travelling along the rocky coastline by swimming, scrambling and jumping into the sea, with a guide, helmet and wetsuit.
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place on Skomer to see puffins?
The Wick, a deep cleft on the south-west of the island, is one of the best places, with puffins close to the path.
Last reviewed October 2026. Prices, opening times and conditions change, so check with the provider before you go. Report an error or share a tip.