The Esplanade's small size, waterfront setting, and presence of helpful owners combine to create a peaceful, intimate atmosphere. The bed and breakfast sits on a corner in a four-story row house sporting a bright Tiffany-blue exterior with white trim. This facade is juxtaposed by the dark, crumbling stone 13th-century city wall located directly across the street from the hotel. Inside, the design is more busy and old-fashioned. A lounge area has red patterned carpet topped with sagging faded-red loveseats and a stocked bookcase. The restaurant has similarly ornate carpeting, plus lots of greenery and wrought-iron accents. Rooms are generally a bit less fussy, though all have old-fashioned decor that appeal largely to older couples. 

The Esplanade is located next to South Beach in the downtown area of Tenby in southwestern Wales. Because the hotel is downtown, almost every nearby Tenby attraction is within a 10-minute walk. The Tudor Merchant's House, a replica of a merchant's house as it would have been in the 15th century, is a four-minute walk away. The Tenby Lifeboat Station, a boathouse with two lifeboats and a museum about them, is a seven-minute walk away. The Tenby Museum and Art Gallery is a nine-minute walk away, as is the Tenby railroad station. Carew Castle is a 15-minute drive away. The hotel lacks on-site parking but street parking is free and there are parking lots within easy walking distance. 

The Esplanade is a small hotel with only 14 rooms, spread across four stories and without an elevator. Rooms are all decorated differently, though all have old-fashioned decor that's a mix of neutral tones, patterns, and classic wood furniture. Some appear more dated than others, particularly those with busy carpeting or paisley-patterned headboards. Some have pleasant details such as four-poster beds, chandeliers, and decorative crown molding. Standard amenities include flatscreen TVs, irons and ironing boards, tea- and coffee-making facilities, cookies, and bottled water. Wi-Fi is not available in rooms. 

Some bathrooms have towel warmers and jetted bathtubs, but smaller rooms have only a shower stall. Some rooms have sea views and Family Rooms are available.

The Esplanade has an on-site restaurant with a full bar and windows that provide nice views of the sea. The restaurant serves afternoon tea and a well-reviewed breakfast that's included in all rates. The hotel is a about a two-minute walk from South Beach, down a zigzag pathway across the street. The long stretch of beach is pretty and sandy.

The hotel does not have a parking lot or a gym. Also note there is free Wi-Fi only in the public areas downstairs.