At around 8.40pm on Friday, police were called to Poppit Sands, near St Dogmaels in Pembrokeshire, after a number of people became disoriented.
Hywel Morgan, 47, died after being rescued from the sea, according to Dyfed-Powys Police. As a precaution, the two children were taken to the hospital.
Mr Morgan was described by his family as a “hero” and a “devoted and loving father.
Mr Morgan, also known as Hyw by family and friends, had assisted in the rescue of a group of children who had become entangled in a rip current.
His family stated in a police statement: “Hyw was a true hero. Despite our pain and grief, it gives us comfort that he tried selflessly to save others’ lives.
“Hyw was a selfless person who always made time for others. He was a devoted and loving father who was adored and respected by everyone who knew him.
“As a family, we would like time to grieve and would appreciate privacy to do so.”
