With hundreds of miles of coastline (including 870 miles of coast path), Wales is always high on our list when it comes to seaside breaks. Covering the whole spectrum, its salt-kissed catalogue includes everything from miles-long stretches overlooking hazy mountain ranges to hidden coves sheltered by cliffs covered with tangled greenery.
Needless to say, whether your idea of heaven is kicking back with a book on the sand, heading off for a surf or playing games by the shore with the family, you’ll find just the right beach to tick all your boxes in Wales – not too big, not too small, but just right. Wales really is an ideal seaside staycation destination with its gorgeous beaches, breathtaking sea views at every turn and an amazing selection of stunning coastal holiday homes.
But which are the best beaches in Wales?
For connoisseurs of all things beachy, we’ve put together a list of some of the best beaches in Wales for you to add to your bucket and spade list for your next coastal escape.
Best Beaches in North Wales
Harlech Beach, Gwynedd
At 4 miles long, Harlech beach is a natural attention-grabber. Coupled with the presence of the 13th-century Harlech Castle (a World Heritage Site) and the Morfa Harlech National Nature Reserve (Wales’ only growing dune system), it’s completely irresistible to nature-lovers and peace-seekers. If you’re lucky, you may also be able to catch sight of the leatherback turtles who arrive here in the summer months to feast on the local supply of jellyfish.
Llanddwyn Bay, Anglesey
Llanddwyn Bay (also known as Newborough) can be found at the southernmost tip of Anglesey Island, flanked by rolling dunes and overlooked by the legendary island of Ynys Llanddwy. With its proximity to Newborough Nature Reserve and forest, this stunning spot is one of the few beaches in Wales where wildlife watching includes everything from red squirrels to minke whales. It also boasts outstanding views of Snowdonia National Park, Caernarfon and the Llŷn Peninsula to boot.
Llanbedrog Beach, Llŷn Peninsula
Famous for its attractive rows of brightly coloured beach huts, Llanbedrog is one of the most picturesque beaches on the Llŷn Peninsula. With a gently sloping shore, a woody backdrop and gorgeous views over Cardigan Bay, its sheltered aspect and picture-perfect aesthetics have won over generations of beach-goers. Head on over with your towel and a picnic and pick your favourite spot, ready to enjoy a day by the shimmering sea.
Best Beaches in South Wales
Rhossili Beach, the Gower
It’s hard to find a list of the top beaches in Wales without finding Rhossili Beach – and that’s because it truly is one of the most beautiful in the country, if not the world. Considered to be one of the finest in Europe, this 3-mile-long sandy beach on the Gower Peninsula is blessed with the kind of showstopping looks that regularly sees it smacked on the cover of global travel magazines. That said, because of its size, this dog-friendly beach rarely feels crowded. Rhossili is a must-visit.
Three Cliffs Bay, the Gower
Not far from Swansea on the Gower Peninsula is Three Cliffs Bay, a scenic, dog-friendly sandy bay named after its three limestone cliffs. With a mixture of dunes, salt marsh and sandy foreshore, this is one of the most ecologically rich beaches in the country and home to a wide array of wildlife. It’s also one of the most photogenic beaches in Wales too, inspiring photographers from near and far to come and capture some of its magic through the lens.
Rest Bay Beach, Porthcawl
Just outside of the seaside resort town of Porthcawl, Rest Bay Beach is a real favourite. Backed by low cliffs, layered with golden sand and adjoined by neighbouring beaches at low tide, it offers plenty of space to bag a private spot and provides the idyllic setting for a beachy escape – all whilst being a stone’s throw from the town’s amenities. Pack a picnic, take advantage of the beach’s café, or head into Porthcawl for a wide selection of shops and eateries to fuel your adventures by the sea.
Best Beaches in West Wales
Barafundle Bay, Stackpole
With its turquoise seas, powdery sands and leafy backdrop, Barafundle Beach is often likened to the Caribbean and regularly ranks as one of the best beaches in the world. Sitting a little off the beaten track, it’s not the easiest to reach, but this makes it all the more appealing for those looking for a hidden gem in which to while away the hours. If you’re travelling with a four-legged companion, you’ll also be pleased to hear that this stunning Pembrokeshire beach is dog-friendly year-round too.
Tenby Beach, Tenby
Tenby South Beach is one of four stupendous beaches lying at the foot of one of Wales’ most vibrant towns. Along with its neighbours of Tenby North Beach and Castle Beach, this spacious sandy beach offers great proximity to a whole range of amenities and attractions, whilst also benefitting from lots of space for seaside fun. Ideal for families and those looking to stick close to the action, this Tenby beach offers the best of all worlds and is one all generations will enjoy.
Mwnt, Ceredigion
When it comes to jaw-dropping scenery, Wales definitely didn’t miss the memo. Amongst its array of world-class beaches is Mwnt – a sheltered beach tucked between the craggy folds of the Ceredigion coast. Home to a 14th-century chapel and shouldered by the dome-shaped headland of Foel y Mwnt (from the top of which you can sometimes spot dolphins, basking sharks and porpoises out at sea), it offers a visual feast at every turn.
Book a Beach Holiday in Wales
This is only a shortlist of hundreds of beautiful beaches dotted along the Welsh coastline. Book a holiday cottage in Wales to enjoy the soft sand, clear waters and dramatic scenery of this wonderful seaside destination. Whether you choose North Wales, South Wales or West Wales, you will not be disappointed with a beach holiday in this spectacular country.
