Coming in all shapes and sizes, Wales’ coastal towns cover the whole beautiful spectrum. Each one equally as inviting as the next for a seaside retreat, they range from the cute and quiet to the bold and beautiful. So how do you choose which one to visit? Helping you to decide where your next holiday destination should be, we’ve picked out the top ten towns for a coastal holiday in Wales. Croeso!
1. Conwy
Conwy is a walled market town set near the mouth of the River Conwy in North Wales. Cocooned by ancient walls and overlooked by one of the best-preserved Medieval castles in the country, this is a town that radiates history and intrigue. Along its cobbled streets, expect to find a wealth of historic buildings (including the 14th-century Aberconwy House) and plentiful shops and eateries. Of course, must-sees are the 13th-century Conwy Castle itself (listed as one of our best things to do in Wales), as well as the smallest house in Britain.
2. Beaumaris
As the name suggests, Beaumaris is a “beau” little seaside town known for its attractive mix of Medieval, Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian architecture. Overlooking the Menai Strait and North Wales on the eastern side of the Isle of Anglesey, it provides a visual feast at every turn with views as far as Snowdonia National Park. Top of the list of things to see here are its 13th-century moated castle, Victorian prison, old courthouse and 170-meter-long pier.
3. Abersoch
Abersoch is a popular seaside resort on the Llŷn Peninsula, and though technically a village not a town, we couldn’t not include it on our list. With gorgeous sandy beaches overlooking Snowdonia National Park and Cardigan Bay, some of the best water sports and sailing grounds in Wales and absolutely stunning scenery, it is easily one of the best places in Wales for a coastal retreat. Adding even more allure is Abersoch’s abundance of great restaurants, many of which serve local seafood and fish. All this makes Abersoch a top choice for memorable staycations in Wales.
4. Barmouth
“Where the mountains meet the sea”, Barmouth is the postcard-perfect seaside town. Boasting incredible scenery, far-reaching sea views and world-class sunsets, it’s one that’ll appeal to the beauty seekers of all ages. What’s more, while there’s plenty going on in the town itself, the atmosphere stays chilled year-round. Spend the days, walking, cycling, paddleboarding, swimming or simply relaxing by the sea and enjoy all that makes Barmouth, Barmouth.
5. Aberystwyth
A popular student town in Ceredigion, the harbour town of Aberystwyth (or “Aber”, as locals call it) takes pride of place between the Cambrian Mountains and Cardigan Bay. One of the largest towns in Mid Wales, it benefits from a huge array of attractions for daytime activity, as well as an equally thriving night scene. Of course, no stay in the town would be complete without a wander along its mile-long Victorian promenade, home to the oldest pier in Wales (built in 1864).
6. New Quay
With its staggered rows of multi-coloured houses that nestle into the side of greenery-cloaked cliffs, the town of New Quay is one of the prettiest towns in Wales – effusing the kind of endless appeal that makes it a year-round destination. As well as being attractive to land-based visitors, this seaside town is also a hotspot for marine wildlife, with its waters regular visited by pods of dolphins. Boat trips run out from the harbour here to offer a closer glimpse of these amazing marine mammals.
7. St Davids
Okay, we’ve pushed it again, St Davids in Pembrokeshire isn’t a town but a city. That said, with its impressive 12th-century cathedral, 13th-century bishop’s palace, Iron Age hut circles, nearby Whitesands Beach and whole host of shops and attractions, you’ll understand why we had to put it on our list. And, if all that wasn’t enough, you can also head to nearby St Justinians and enjoy a boat trip across the Ramsey Sound to Ramsey Island, learning all about the island’s wildlife and hidden shipwrecks.
8. Tenby
Tenby in Pembrokeshire is probably one of the most recognisable towns in Wales, thanks to its colourful houses, lifeboat station and St Catherine’s Island. Encircled by Medieval stone walls and steeped in history, this vibrant town is full of stories and rich in activity. Make the most of its plentiful attractions including boat trips, wildlife parks, golf and coastal walks, or simply weave your way around its maze of streets before bagging yourself a spot on one of the beaches at the foot of the town.
9. Laugharne
Laugharne is an enchanting little town perched on the south coast of Carmarthenshire at the mouth of the River Taf. So magical is its setting that it became the home of the Welsh writer, Dylan Thomas, who described it as “a timeless, mild, beguiling island of a town”. You can still visit his writing hut overlooking the estuary to this day. A walk around Laugharne Castle is also highly recommended during a holiday here, before popping into one of the town’s cafés for a hearty plate of Welsh rarebit.
10. Porthcawl
Porthcawl in Bridgend is the perfect destination if you’re looking for a family-friendly holiday by the sea in Wales. With a great watersports centre, surf school, world-class golf course, beachside amusement park and more, it has something to keep all generations active and entertained. Along its high street, shoppers and foodies can also take advantage of the wide range of both independent and well-known outlets and eateries.
Book a Coastal Break in Wales
Take a holiday in one of these top coastal towns for a memorable holiday in Wales. We have loads of holiday cottages to rent beside the sea and in the surrounding countryside in all of these wonderful destinations. For a special treat, hire a Welsh holiday home with a hot tub or bag one of our cottages with the best sea views in Wales. Start your search for Welsh holiday lets.
