Want to find the best beaches in Wales for your next trip?
You are in the right place!
Wales is known for its rolling green fields, love of rugby, and magical waterfalls. But one of its most amazing features is its stunning coastlines. Wales has some of the best beaches in the UK, so you will find plenty of options. No matter if you want dramatic coastal walks or golden sand, there is something for everyone. But which ones are the best?
Here are the best beaches in Wales you should visit from a local to help you have the best day out at the seaside.
1. Rhossili Beach
Rhossili Beach in Wales, UK, is one of the most breathtaking beaches you will ever have the pleasure of visiting.
Located on the southwestern end of the Gower Peninsula, it offers spectacular views over three miles of golden sand stretching to the horizon and various rocky coves surrounded by grass-covered cliffs.
You can also enjoy a variety of activities here, from swimming and sunbathing to windsurfing and kite flying. You can also do some amazing walks in the area. The most popular and unique is Worms Head.
It is considered one of the best beaches in South Wales, so make sure you arrive early on a sunny day!
2. Barafundle Bay
For a stunning Wales beach holiday, look no further than Barafundle Bay.
Barafundle is known for its secluded sandy beaches and breathtaking views and is located on the country’s southwest coast.
Whether you’re taking a day trip or staying for a few days, there’s plenty to do here.
The beach itself is made up of sandy coves and clear blue waters, making it a perfect spot for swimming, kayaking, or simply lounging around with friends.
One of the best features of Barafundle Bay is its stunning scenery. You’ll be surrounded by lush green hills and rolling dunes – ideal for taking a leisurely walk.
3. Pendine Sands
This seven-mile stretch of golden sands is a must-visit destination located on the Carmarthenshire coast.
The scenery at Pendine Sands is also breathtaking. There’s plenty to explore and admire, from the dramatic cliffs to the rolling dunes.
Plus, with views across Carmarthen Bay and out towards Lundy Island, you won’t be short of breathtaking photo opportunities.
This is one of the best sandy beaches to relax and sunbathe, so make sure you pack all the beach essentials.
And if you are looking for somewhere great to eat in the area, book a table at The Kings Arms. This typical Welsh Pub has fantastic food, and dogs are welcome in the bar area!
4. Three Cliffs Bay
Many people want to know the best Gower beach options in Wales. This is one of them!
Located just half an hour’s drive from the city of Swansea, Three Cliffs Bay is one of the best beaches in Wales and boasts stunning views of Oxwich Bay.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day of sunbathing or an adventure filled with activities such as kayaking, this beach is sure to impress.
When you arrive at Three Cliffs Bay, the first thing that will catch your eye is its unique landscape. The curved bay is bordered by sand dunes and rocks, creating a beautiful backdrop for your beach day.
The secluded beach is perfect for those wanting to relax!
The best part of Three Cliffs Bay has to be the food. The Beach House Restaurant overlooks the iconic Oxwich Bay and offers some of the best views in Wales.
5. Freshwater West
This is one of the best beaches in Pembrokeshire for so many reasons!
This long sandy beach with sand dunes for privacy is the perfect place to unwind and relax.
The stunning clear and calm water makes it ideal for swimming, fishing, and all kinds of watersports.
And If you’re a fan of the Harry Potter films, then this beach is a must-visit for you as Dobby’s Grave is here!
To make your trip even better, grab a bite to eat at the award-winning CAFE MÔR truck located right on the beach. They serve up delicious, locally-sourced food, and you can even enjoy your meal as you take in the view of the ocean.
Be sure to make the most of this spot and explore the Pembrokeshire coast path; you won’t be disappointed!
6. Whitesands Bay
If you’re looking for the Best Beaches In Wales to visit in Wales, UK, Whitesands Bay in St Davids is the perfect spot.
Not only is it one of the best surfing spots in Wales, but it also offers stunning views and picturesque scenery.
The beach itself is made up of soft sandy shores with plenty of space to relax and enjoy the sunshine.
There is also private parking, so you can take your car down and drive right up to the beach.
Whether you are looking for a peaceful getaway or an adrenaline-filled adventure, Whitesands Bay has something for everyone.
7. Aberffraw Bay
Looking for the best beaches in Anglesey? Look no further than Aberffraw Bay.
This stunning and secluded spot is the perfect place to go to relax and enjoy the sunshine.
Whether you want to have a picnic, take a dip in the sea, or just soak up the natural beauty of this breathtaking bay, Aberffraw is the ideal destination.
And it’s a great spot for dog lovers too!
While you’re in the area, be sure to check out Llys Llewelyn Cegin Bar. This charming little bar is close to the beach and serves up delicious food and drinks.
8. Ogmore By Sea
The Bridgend area has some of the most underrated beaches in Wales, and this is one of them!
If you’re looking for a great place to enjoy some fun in the sun, Ogmore By Sea in Bridgend is the perfect spot!
This stunning beach has plenty of parking available, making it easily accessible.
Once you arrive, you can take your pick from amazing coastal walks that will take your breath away.
And the beach itself is great for swimming, sunbathing, and exploring the rockpools and hidden coves surrounding it.
The long beach allows dogs, so the whole family can join in on the fun. And when you’re done exploring, grab a bite to eat at Cobbles for an amazing sandwich – you won’t regret it!
9. Harlech Beach
Harlech Beach is one of the best beaches in North Wales for all!
This idyllic stretch of sand and dunes is tucked away on the north coast of Wales in the Snowdonia National Park.
It’s been designated a National Nature Reserve and Site of Special Scientific Interest due to its breathtaking beauty.
With miles of golden sand backed by rolling dunes, Harlech Beach is a wonderful spot for a beach day out.
You’ll not want to leave with the Snowdonia mountain range in the backdrop and the Irish Sea lapping at your toes.
And if you are looking for somewhere great to stay, this area has amazing cabins with hot tubs– perfect for relaxing after a beach day!
10. Barmouth
If you’re looking for a beach with breathtaking views, clear waters, and plenty of space for the whole family to enjoy – Barmouth is your ideal destination!
Located in Southern Snowdonia, it’s Wales’ most popular seaside resort and boasts stunning views of Cardigan Bay.
The beach itself is fantastic; with exceptionally clean water and dramatic views of the mountains, it’s a great spot for families.
The shallow waters are perfect for little ones to splash around in, while adults can relax on the golden sand or explore the rock pools.
For those with limited mobility, there is good access to all amenities as well as plenty of shops, cafes, and pubs within easy reach.
11. Abersoch Beach
Located on the southeast-facing side of the Llyn Peninsula in North Wales, this sheltered sandy beach is the perfect place to relax and unwind.
Whether you want to rent a beach hut for the day or week and just chill out or explore the nearby St Tudwal and Bardsey Island with a boat trip, Abersoch has it all.
Abersoch Beach has been awarded a blue flag beach for its excellent standards of water quality and facilities, so you can be sure to have an enjoyable time.
Plus there is a good range of shops, cafes, pubs and other services in the village, so you will never be short of something to do.
12. Tenby North Beach
Tenby North Beach in Pembrokeshire is one of the best beaches in Wales and a great day out for all the family.
Located just a 5-minute walk from the long-stay car park, it’s easily accessible via several sets of steps or a ramp, making it a perfect spot for those with mobility issues.
The beach itself is beautiful – lots of rock pools to explore, and the sea is crystal clear. It’s well-kept, so you can be sure that it will remain clean and tidy throughout your visit.
Plus, there are plenty of beach amenities such as free toilets and a café offering hot and cold snacks and drinks.
If you’re looking for something a bit more adventurous, why not try paddle boarding? Paddleboard hire is available on the beach so that you can explore the coastline from a different perspective.
When you’re done exploring the beach, you’re only a short walk away from Tenby Centre, where you can find plenty of great places to eat, drink and shop.
13. Rest Bay
Rest Bay in Porthcawl, South Wales, is one of the best beaches to visit!
Whether you’re a surfer or just looking for somewhere to relax and take in some beautiful scenery, Rest Bay has something for everyone. With its long wide beach, rock pools, and lifeguard service provided from 10:00 – 18:00, it’s an ideal spot for days out with the family.
Surfing is one of the main attractions at Rest Bay, and plenty of experts can help you hone your skills – Porthcawl Surf School offers some great lessons to get you started!
But be sure to check the tide times before you go, as the beach disappears at high tide – and it comes in quickly.
Once you’ve spent a few hours on the beach, there are plenty of great places to eat and drink nearby in Porthcawl. Fablas is the best place for ice cream, and if you’re looking for a home-cooked meal, head to the Salt Water Inn.
Wrap-up: The Best Beaches In Wales
The beaches of Wales are beautiful, diverse, and free to explore.
Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly beach, an adrenaline rush, or just quiet serenity – Wales has something for everyone.
People flock to see the stunning views and waves of all the incredible Welsh coastal retreats, and you can easily see why!
From high cliffs to sandy dunes, clear sea waters to wild roller coasts – there’s no shortage of amazing places along this great coast.
If you ever find yourself surrounded by the majestic beauty of Wales, be sure to get out and explore these 13 Best Beaches all locals love.
Author Bio
Lowri is the creator of the European road trip blog, Many Other Roads. Originally from Wales, you will now find Lowri exploring Europe with her border collie Scout, sharing in-depth knowledge and tips for those wanting to hit the road!
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I would love to visit the Freshwater West in Pembrokeshire as it’s safe for swimming, fishing, and all kinds of watersports. It’s definitely the best beach to unwind and relax.