Pembrokeshire is known for its incredible coastline with stunning scenery where you can have the most amazing adventures on a paddleboard or kayak but did you know that these incredible experiences can also be had away from the coast on our rivers and lakes?

Whether you looking for the thrills of wakeboarding, honing your wild swimming technique or simply drifting downstream in an open canoe exploring the inaccessible wildlife-rich creeks of the Daugleddau Estuary, Pembrokeshire’s lakes and rivers have plenty of options.

Llys y Fran Lake right in the heart of  Pembrokeshire has 200 acres of water so there’s room for everyone. The water is clean, deep and there are no tides to restrict your fun.

Enjoy the view on a Stand-Up Pedalboard, a brand-new watercraft that combines the fun of a SUP, with the comfort of handlebars. You step on two pedal pads on the board and this drives two fins side-to-side beneath the board propelling you forwards with incredible efficiency and speed… yes you can literally walk on water.

There’s plenty of equipment for you to hire including paddleboards, and giant paddleboards,  canoes and kayaks and the option of booking on to an instructor-led session to help you get going. If you have your own kit and are confident on the water you can self-launch – just call to book your launch time.

Coming soon to Llys y Fran Lake is open water swimming. Organised only sessions will be tailored to clubs, groups and individuals who want to have a go at this hugely popular activity.

At Paddlewest there’s the opportunity to explore by canoe a truly special and rarely visited part of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park as you quietly paddle through the upper reaches of the Daugleddau Estuary.  Each 3-hour tour will explore the back waters and creeks where you will see the amazing and unique flora and fauna of the estuary as well stropping at villages such a Creswell, Llangwm and Carew.

Each tour is tailor made for the group and weather conditions and will show you the best of the history and wildlife on the river.

If you’d prefer something a little less adventurous try the row boats on Pembroke Castle Pond. The imposing 13th century castle stands on a rocky outcrop defended on three sides by the tidal Pembroke River. At the end of the 20th century a tidal barrage was constructed, maintaining the lake even at low tide. Hire one of the beautiful rowing boats to see the castle from a very different perspective. Great fun for all the family.

Experience the thrills at Wild Lakes which offers the latest wakeboarding facilities on a purpose-built 160-metre lake, which has been specifically designed and selected to suit both beginners and advanced rider. Taster and beginner sessions are available where you will run through all the basics, learning the best technique for getting up and riding consistently, to working towards good board control and tricks. All equipment is provided.

Wakeboarding not your thing? Then book yourself on to a Ringo ride or the Aqua Park. Wales’ only Aqua Park is guaranteed to make you smile – a whole heap of inflatable fun, laughter, jumping and sliding.

After something more sedate? Try wild swimming with Wild Swim Wales offering beginners sessions, guided swims, or a full coaching experience.

Multi activity packages are available.

Take things slow with Heritage Canoes trips through the beautiful, and otherwise unreachable, nature reserve of the Teifi Gorge in an open canoe. With the river flowing lazily past ancient woodland and wildlife habitats, it makes this trip suitable for ages and abilities and should be high on your list of must-do’s on your holiday.  The trips are fully guided journeys, using canoes which seat 2 or 3 people and last around 2 hours. All equipment and instruction are included.

At Adventure Beyond you can experience full day or half day canoes trips that guide you through the spectacular Special Area of Conservation known as the Teifi Gorge on the River Teifi.

On longer trips you paddle through the Teifi Marshes Nature Reserve toward the town of Cardigan, passing fishing boats until you reach the village of St Dogmaels. To recharge the batteries a café, pub, or picnics stops can be arranged too.

Keep your eyes peeled for the local wildlife on these trips there’s a good chance to see some fantastic creatures like Otters, Red Kites, Salmon, Kingfishers and even Red Deer!

Adventure Beyond also offer SUP trips down the Teifi Gorge, pack a picnic and you’ll stop on the river where you can recharge and take a dip. Great family fun.

After all your river and lake adventures you’re missing the sound of the waves breaking on the shore, give surfing a go. Check out Pembrokeshire’s top surfing locations or find a surf school that will help you catch your first break.