RNLI Lifeguard Patrols End at Whitesands as Visitors Urged to Take Extra Care

The RNLI's final seasonal lifeguard patrols at Whitesands Beach have officially ended, marking the close of the charity's 2026 beach lifeguard season across Wales.

The popular Pembrokeshire beach maintained daily lifeguard cover throughout the October half-term holiday, with the final patrol taking place on Sunday, November 1.

With lifeguards no longer on duty, visitors are being urged to take extra precautions when enjoying the coastline during the winter months.

The Met Office has highlighted the dangers of rip currents at Whitesands, which can carry swimmers away from shore, alongside the risk of becoming cut off by incoming tides.

RNLI regional water safety lead Chris Cousens is encouraging visitors to check tide times, follow safety signs and carry a fully charged mobile phone or another means of calling for help.

The charity is also reminding people of its important Float to Live advice. Anyone struggling in the water should tilt their head back, relax, spread their arms and legs and focus on controlling their breathing before calling for help or swimming to safety if able.

Although seasonal beach patrols have finished, RNLI lifeboat crews remain available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

HM Coastguard also continues to coordinate maritime emergencies throughout the year.

In a coastal emergency, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.

Visitors can find further water safety guidance at https://rnli.org/water-safety/float.

Photo Credit: RNLI