Wales is a totally stunning country to explore, especially with it having one of my favourite coastlines in all of Great Britain. With towering cliffs, white sandy bays and hidden coves – there’s a heap of the best beaches in Wales dotted all across the shore.
Honestly, it doesn’t matter if you’re visiting places in South Wales, heading to Pembrokeshire or exploring wider West Wales – you’ll be totally spoilt for choice with places to stop.
So, rather than making your trip to Wales a mad-dash to every single beach, I wanted to share some total gems that are well worth a gander. This way, you can prioritise what beaches you visit, whilst also heading to some of the best spots in Wales, too.
Take a look, below, at the best beaches in Wales to visit. Just don’t forget your swimming gear!
1.) Tresaith Beach
Nestled just shy of Penbryn Beach (also mentioned in this article), Tresaith Beach is a gorgeous little cove that’s got a lot going for it.
Situated within the tiny village of Tresaith, with a seaside pub and holiday cottages, it’s the perfect place to spend a few days relaxing and chilling on Tresaith Beach. Oh, and of course, finding the waterfall that’s just to the north of the beach itself – you can’t miss it!
Getting hungry? Be sure to grab a bite to eat at the Ship Inn and watch the sun go down with a tipple or two. it’s one of my favourite sunset spots in all of Wales.
2.) Cefn Sidan Beach
At around eight miles in length, Cefn Sidan is not only one of the best beaches in Wales – but it’s also one of the longest!
Located within the Pembrey Country Park, Cefn Sidan is perfect for a brisk stroll along the shore. It’s totally stunning, though,
Explore the scenic walking trails and bicycle paths further inland to get the most out of your visit to Cefn Sidan. If that’s not your thing, head across the other side of the bay and visit Dylan Thomas Writing Shed (where the famous Welsh poet once lived).
Read more: Best things to do in South Wales
3.) Rhossili Bay Beach
The Rhossili Bay Beach, located on the Gower Peninsula, is absolutely gorgeous and perched right within one of my favourite areas in Wales.
With rough, crashing waves and wild landscapes, Rhossili Beach is not for the casual swimmer (unless it’s really calm). That being said, it’s incredible for surfers who want to test their skills.
Just be careful on your stroll down the steep rocky path to the beach, it can get slippy in wet weather.
Feeling peckish?, Drive east around the Gower Peninsular towards Mumbles – a gorgeous little seaside spot that’s just shy of Swansea. You’ll find lots of little pubs, restaurants and cafes that line the shore. Take your pick!
Read more: Best things to do in West Wales
4.) Llangrannog and Penbryn Beaches
Around 7-miles north of Cardigan, Llangrannog and Penbryn Beaches are sandy bays that are well worth a visit in the summer months!
Llangrannog has a tiny little seaside town, with little shops, cafes and spots to spend a whole day at the beach. It’s gorgeous but can get quite busy in the popular summer months.
If you want a little more space, head to nearby Penbryn Beach that doesn’t really have any village with it but makes up by having a long stretch that’s never too crowded.
Afterwards, grab a welsh cake and a cuppa at the Plwmp Tart that’s just up the road. You can’t miss it and all their treats are homemade.
Read more: Best things to do in West Wales
5.) Rhosneigr Beach
Nestled on the shores of Anglesey, Rhosneigr Beach is one of the best beaches in Wales that’s actually won a number of awards (including the Green Coast seaside award).
The whole coastline here is pretty popular with adrenaline-seeking kitesurfers, windsurfers and surfers. But Rhosneigr Beach is also great for more chilled beachgoers who’d rather explore the coastline and pop in the sea for a dip.
Afterwards, head over to explore wider Anglesey on the Anglesey Coastal Path that’s totally stunning. Perfect for hikers and ramblers, this route takes in some of the island’s best spots around the shoreline.
Read more: Best castles in Wales to visit
6.) Barafundle Bay Beach
Barafundle Bay, an indented section of the Pembrokeshire Coast, has often been voted one of the best beaches in Wales and across the whole UK!
Its glorious, sandy dunes and shimmering clear waters have led to it even being compared to the beaches of the Caribbean.
You can totally see why on a calm summer day. Though, it feels a lot more blustery most of the time and often lacks a rum punch in hand! 😉
Now, Barafundle Bay is not the easiest to get to, making you earn your time at the beach by strolling half a mile from the nearest parking.
Afterwards, drive on over to the Green Bridge of Wales, a huge cliffside sea arch that looks so dramatic. Though, don’t be alarmed when you drive past ‘tank crossings’ this is a military area.
Read more: Best things to do in Pembrokeshire
7.) Porthor Beach (Whistling Sands)
Known in English as the Whistling Sands, Porthor Beach (in Gwynedd) is famous for the squeaking sounds that the sand makes when you step on it. Yeah, you heard that right – the sand squeaks!
Though, truth-be-told, there’s more to Porthor Beach than little noises as you walk, the whole area is stunning and you might even spot dolphins from the shore.
Plus, you can park up at the National Trust Car Park that’s around a 10-minute stroll from the shoreline.
Read more: Best things to do in Wales
8.) Pendine Sands
Pendine Sands, in Carmarthenshire, has been thought of as one of the best beaches in Wales for as long as I can remember!
Having developed a reputation for car racing, and known for being the location where Sir Malcolm Campbell set the world record for land racing speed, the straight-edged beach has earned the nickname “Sands of Speed”. This still persists to this day despite the fact that you won’t see any car racing nowadays.
After a day on the beach, take a drive over to the gorgeous ruins of Carew Castle. It’s only around a 25-minute drive from Pendine Sands and well worth a gander at sunset when the castle is bathed in orange hues.
Read more: Best things to do in Pembrokeshire
9.) Porthdinllaen Beach
Not too far from Porthor Beach, Porthdinllaen Beach is located in the coastal area of Porthdinllaen. Stretching north into the Irish Sea, it’s totally beautiful and dotted with colourful beach cottages that have been awarded, one of Wales’ Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty – and for good reason.
The gorgeous sandy beach and calm, blue water contribute to a peaceful, secluded feel. For those craving a quick tipple without straying too far from the sand, hop over to the Ty Coch Inn, a local pub that’s great to wet your whistle.
Read more: Best places in Wales to visit
10.) Three Cliffs and Pobbles Bay Beaches
Three Cliffs Bay is a gorgeous spot on the Gower Peninsula coastline that’s too stunning to miss.
To get down to the beach, you will have to make their way through the trails that can be a little rough in wetter weather. That being said, it’s worth if for the beach – it’s just iconic!
Once you get down to the shore, you’ll be greeted by stunning views of the salt marsh, soft sand and limestone cliffs that are just beautiful.
Also, on your stroll, be sure to explore the historic Pennard Castle ruins that date back to the 12th Century.
11.) Tenby’s Beaches
The historic fishing village of Tenby is one of my favourite towns in all of Wales!
Not only is it steeped in history, but it’s also perfect to gallivant around the medieval town walls.
Plus, with it being home to a lively harbour, Tenby is a great place to spend a long weekend break.
With pastel-painted houses that line the beach from the cliff tops, it’s totally stunning to visit.
Though, we mustn’t forget the beaches!
Once here, be sure to hop over to Tenby’s North Beach and the much longer South Beach. Both hug Tenby itself and they’re just stunning. You can’t miss them.
Read more: Best things to do in Tenby
12.) Marloes Sands
Right in the heart of Pembrokeshire National Park, Marloes Sands is one of the best beaches in Wales to visit whilst exploring the West Wales coastline. The whole strip is just beautiful and well worth a visit for a day out at the beach!
Afterwards, you can head for a ramble along the Pembrokeshire Coast Path or explore nearby Skomer Island via one of the boat trips that run seasonally.
Just be sure to pack some snacks and water, there isn’t too much in terms of restaurants or cafes here.
Read more: Best things to do in Wales
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