The Very Best Beaches To Visit In Wales This Summer

There’s no shortage of beaches along the Welsh coast, and they all vary in size and character, making each one unique. If you’ve visited Wales before, chances are you’ve already come across some of them. But if you’re unfamiliar with the country or are planning a summer trip for the first time, here’s a guide to the best Welsh beaches not to miss – from the north coast all the way down to the south.

I’ve carefully selected a list of locations, each with its own unique features, history or landmarks, to give you as varied and non-repetitive an overview as possible. And yes, I’m aware that I may have left out a favourite or two – it’s not intentional, just a matter of being selective so the list doesn’t become overwhelming.

Without further ado, here’s our pick of the best beaches to visit in Wales this summer – whether you’re looking for a fun-filled family day out or hoping to discover hidden gems, complete with practical information.

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Please note that our list is arranged in geographical order from north to south.

Photo Credits

Photos of Talacre, Llangrannog, Mwnt, Pendine, Church Doors Cove and Rhossili, as well as select photos of Llanbedrog (Beach huts, Tin Man sculpture), Harlech (people walking, golf player), Tenby (aerial view, Castle beach, South beach and Penally beach) and Freshwater West (aerials), are from the Wales Asset database. © Hawlfraint y Goron / © Crown copyright (2022) Cymru Wales. Additional credits can be found on individual photos.

All the other remaining photos are property of Mathieu Gasquet / We Travel Wales.

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Talacre Beach

Flintshire, North Coast

There are many large beaches along the north coast, some connected to popular summer destinations such as Rhyl and Prestatyn. But for the first pick on our list, I think it’s hard to overlook Talacre. Not only is it the northernmost point of mainland Wales (also known as Point of Ayr, or Y Parlwr Du in Welsh), but it’s also home to an iconic lighthouse that continues to inspire both photographers and visitors alike.

Rising 18 metres from the sand and dating back to 1776, this Grade II listed lighthouse is now privately owned, having been decommissioned in 1884. According to local legend, numerous ghostly sightings have been reported over the years – with many claiming to have seen an old-fashioned lighthouse keeper standing in front of the glass dome – which only adds to its charm!

The sandy beach is expansive and surrounded by dunes designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest, home to rare species including a population of natterjack toads. Dogs are allowed all year round.

There are no amenities directly on the beach, but public toilets are a short walk away, and the adjacent village offers cafés and shops.

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Llanddwyn Beach

Anglesey, North West Coast

Llanddwyn is a truly special place and one of the most sought-after landscapes on the Isle of Anglesey. The Blue Flag beach, surrounded by sand dunes and grassy hills, offers magnificent views across Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park, Caernarfon, and the Llŷn Peninsula. It also borders a forest and boasts an extensive network of footpaths and cycle trails that will inspire you to walk and explore.

One of these paths leads to Ynys Llanddwyn (ynys means “island” in Welsh), a historic site featuring iconic lighthouses that photographers can’t get enough of. Technically, it’s a tidal island rather than a true island, remaining accessible except at the highest tides. Rich in legend, it is most famous for its connection to Dwynwen, the Welsh patron saint of lovers – the local equivalent of St Valentine – making this location the most romantic featured in this article. Among the historic buildings, you’ll find the ruins of St Dwynwen’s Church.

The most convenient place to park is at the Newborough National Nature Reserve, home to one of the largest and finest dune systems in Britain. It was also declared the first coastal National Nature Reserve in Wales in 1955, alongside Ynys Llanddwyn.

Please note that the road leading to the car park is narrow, and this is a very popular destination during school holidays or when the weather is good. The car parks often fill up by 11 a.m., so be sure to arrive early to avoid disappointment.

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Porthdinllaen

Llŷn Peninsula, North West Coast

Porthdinllaen is one of those small, hidden gems that stole my heart when I first visited a few years ago. This historic fishing village is perched at the end of a narrow strip of land that stretches out into the Irish Sea. The iconic Tŷ Coch Inn stands out in the landscape from afar, and there’s something truly special about spending time on the beach, dipping your feet in the water on a warm, sunny day, and enjoying a refreshing drink at an authentic, friendly pub.

But there’s more to Porthdinllaen than just a picturesque pub. Its sheltered bay makes it an ideal spot for boating, kayaking, and swimming. The beach looks out over one of the largest seagrass meadows in Wales, and the area is rich in wildlife – from nesting sand martins and cormorants to oystercatchers and even local grey seals.

To take in the full beauty of the surroundings, follow the circular marine trail, which offers stunning views in all directions. And don’t miss the RNLI lifeboat station at the northern end – a testament to the area’s seafaring heritage.

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Llanbedrog Beach

Llŷn Peninsula, North West Coast

The picturesque village of Llanbedrog leads to a stunning mile-long beach that has been enjoyed by generations since Victorian times. While it’s not the only beautiful seafront on the Llŷn Peninsula, the charm of its brightly coloured beach huts makes it a sight well worth seeing – and they can even be rented through the National Trust.

Llanbedrog is the most sheltered beach in North Wales and a popular destination for watersports such as windsurfing, kayaking, and sailing. The wide expanse of sand and shallow waters make it easily accessible and particularly safe for families.

Just a few minutes’ walk away, you’ll find Oriel Plas Glyn y Weddw – an arts centre with a gallery, café, shop, outdoor amphitheater and small museum that explains how the area became such a popular destination during the Victorian era.

Be sure to also walk up the hill to Y Dyn Haearn for breathtaking views over the bay, the Llŷn Peninsula, and Cardigan Bay. Don’t miss the iconic tin man sculpture, who enjoys the view every day, rain or shine.

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Borth-y-Gest

Gwynedd, West Coast (Cardigan Bay)

Borth-y-Gest is another hidden gem, located just south of the town of Porthmadog. Nestled on the edge of the River Glaslyn estuary, this small village, with its charming rows of Victorian houses, sits in a shallow bowl that gently descends to a sheltered bay.

If the village itself is half-hidden from Porthmadog, so too are its series of golden-sand beaches. You can reach them from the small harbour by following the Wales Coast Path signs heading south. Linked by a beautiful sandy woodland, these beaches are among the prettiest you’ll find in Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park – and they’ve captured the heart of every friend and family member I’ve taken there. On a clear day, you might even catch a glimpse of Harlech Castle in the distance.

There is a small car park in Borth-y-Gest, but another option is to park in Porthmadog, where larger parking areas are available. From the harbour, it’s just a 20-minute walk along Lombard Street before taking a short path uphill that reveals the village – as if you were stepping into a different world.

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Harlech Beach

Gwynedd, West Coast (Cardigan Bay)

If you’re looking for a vast, sandy, and peaceful beach in the most classic sense, Harlech quickly rises to the top of the list. It’s an ideal spot for families and children to play, relax, and enjoy the open space.

The beach is backed by some of the most beautiful and expansive dunes in Wales. In the distance, you’ll spot the mighty Harlech Castle – a World Heritage Site and one of the most impressive castles in the country. It’s definitely a must-visit if you’ve never been, offering rewarding views over the bay and the beach below.

The car park is located about 400 yards from the beach access point. There’s a shop and a café nearby, and for more amenities you can walk into the town – around 25 minutes on foot. And if you’re a golf enthusiast, don’t miss the renowned Royal St David’s Golf Club, one of Britain’s finest links courses, which lies nestled between the dunes and the town.

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Barmouth Beach

Gwynedd, West Coast (Cardigan Bay)

Welcome to Mid-Wales and southern Eryri’s (Snowdonia’s) most popular seaside resort – Barmouth. During the summer, half-terms, or any sunny weekend, expect large crowds filling the town and lining the promenade. It’s also a well-known favourite among bikers.

Fortunately, Barmouth boasts a spacious, Blue Flag-rated sandy beach. So, if it’s the sea you’re after, there’s plenty of room for everyone – and you can always walk a little further along the miles of unbroken sands to find a quieter spot. At low tide, it’s even possible to walk all the way north to Harlech, where another expansive beach awaits.

It’s an ideal location for swimming and enjoying a full day out with the family, building sandcastles and relaxing by the shore. There’s no shortage of entertainment along the promenade either – from an amusement park and arcades to numerous takeaways and cafés. Don’t miss the traditional donkey rides or the land train that takes you up and down the seafront in classic seaside style.

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Aberdyfi Beach

Gwynedd, West Coast (Cardigan Bay)

Aberdyfi is another highly popular seaside resort, often referred to as the Riviera of Mid Wales. It boasts a vast, golden sandy beach that stretches for five miles from the town centre to the mouth of the River Dyfi, with beautiful sand dunes running alongside the beach and the golf course. At low tide, it’s even possible to walk all the way to Tywyn (about an hour), which offers another large beach with unique features – including ancient peat beds visible in the sand.

Aberdyfi beach is ideal for a fun-filled day out with the family and little ones – whether you’re building sandcastles, sunbathing, paddling, or simply relaxing with a good book. There’s plenty of space for everyone, even on the busiest summer weekends. It’s also popular with water activities such as paddling, rowing and sailing.

The village centre is just a short stroll away, offering all the amenities you might need. Don’t miss Aberdyfi Ice Cream – one of the most popular spots in town, serving some of the best ice cream in the area.

• Be sure to check out our dedicated article on things to do in and around Aberdyfi.

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Llangrannog

Ceredigion, West Coast (Cardigan Bay)

Heading south along Cardigan Bay, you must stop at Llangrannog – an absolute treasure. Despite its small size, it’s a popular tourist destination and boasts not one, not two, but no fewer than seven deep, pale sandy beaches nestled into the cliffs. That said, apart from the second beach, each successive one is only accessible by wading, swimming, or boating from the previous – and only when the sea is calm and the tide is low.

The village centre offers two lovely restaurants, a few welcoming pubs, an ice cream shop, and an excellent pizzeria – Tafell a Tân – which is well worth a visit. Be sure to take the path up to the cliffside to enjoy fantastic views over the coast.

The car park directly in front of the beach is quite small and tends to fill up quickly. Fortunately, there’s a second car park further up the hill with a free park-and-ride service – a convenient option, especially during peak season.

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Aberporth

Ceredigion, West Coast (Cardigan Bay)

Continuing along Cardigan Bay, Aberporth is another popular destination for families looking for a safe beach to spend the day playing and relaxing. The peculiar aspect here is that the there are actually two Blue Flag awarded beaches, Traeth y Dyffryn and Traeth Dolwen, which get separated at high tides and re-united at low tide. You will also find rock pools and a few caves to explore at low tide, while divers and surfers will appreciate the location being sheltered from strong winds. And if you’re lucky, you may spot bottlenose dolphins coming close to the shore!

If two beaches aren’t enough, there is a third one to discover. East of Aberporth, take the costal path for a pleasant 30-minute walk until you arrive in Tresaith, a small seaside resort whose lovely sandy beach includes a majestic waterfall. Note that the first part of the walk from Aberporth is accessible for wheelchair users until the tarmac ends and the path begins a steep descent.

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Pendine Sands

Carmarthenshire, South Coast (Carmarthen Bay)

We’re leaving the west coast and heading south through Carmarthenshire to reach Pendine. At first glance, this location might not appear as picturesque or dramatic as others featured in this article – but it has a unique history that will fascinate anyone with a passion for cars or motorbikes.

Pendine Sands stretches for seven miles and is famed for its role in land speed record history. In the 1920s, when roads and race tracks became unsuitable for record attempts – drivers were reaching speeds of over 150 mph and needed smooth, straight surfaces of at least five miles – Pendine offered the perfect setting. Its compact and firm sand made it ideal for high-speed racing.

Numerous records were set here, including one by actor and motor enthusiast Idris Elba. While driving on the beach is now restricted to designated areas (depending on tide, weather, and sand conditions), the Museum of Land Speed, located just in front of the beach, offers a deeper look into Pendine’s exhilarating past and is well worth a visit. The beach also played a role during the Second World War, when it was used for D-Day landing rehearsals.

But if you’re not a petrolhead, don’t worry – Pendine still makes for a worthy seaside destination. It’s popular for swimming, exploring rock pools, and enjoying the dramatic cliffs. There’s a good playground and beachfront restaurants, and further inland, Morfa Bay Adventure offers activities including climbing, archery, axe throwing, a zip line, mountain biking, and more.

Keep in mind that limited beach parking is sometimes permitted in designated zones, subject to sand, tide, and weather conditions.

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Tenby Beach

Pembrokeshire, South Coast (Carmarthen Bay)

Tenby is that picture-perfect coastal town that makes the list no matter the topic — and rightly so, I might add, as it’s undoubtedly one of the prettiest towns you’ll come across in South Wales. And if it’s sand you’re after, you’re in luck: Tenby boasts no fewer than five distinct beaches to choose from. It really doesn’t get much better than that, does it?

North Beach is long and framed by cliffs on one side, with the town and its picturesque harbour on the other. It’s overlooked by a promenade and easily accessible from the North Beach car park. This Blue Flag beach features the striking Goscar Rock in the centre. It’s dog-free from May to September, and on sunny days you’ll find plenty of people playing games and enjoying the space.

If you’re after something smaller, Harbour Beach is just a few minutes away, nestled in the harbour and directly connected to the town. There are toilets and food outlets nearby, as well as St Julian’s Chapel, also known as the fishermen’s chapel.

A short walk east brings you to Castle Beach, tucked into a cove between Castle Hill and the East Cliff. It offers one of the most iconic views in Tenby — looking out over St Catherine’s Island, which is accessible at low tide. There’s a café, deckchair hire, and toilet facilities here. Castle Beach is also the departure point for boat cruises when the tide is low.

Finally, South Beach stretches for over a mile from Castle Beach — a vast, golden expanse with Blue Flag status. It continues on to join Penally Beach, forming one of the largest sandy stretches in the area.

All five beaches are within walking distance of the town centre, which is full of excellent restaurants, independent shops, and charming alleyways. You won’t be leaving in a hurry — I promise!

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Freshwater West

Pembrokeshire, South West Coast

Pembrokeshire offers stunning locations for beach lovers, including popular spots such as Broad Haven North and South, Saundersfoot, and many others. However, the beaches we’ve selected here each offer something truly unique.

The first is one for surfers who are always on the lookout for the perfect wave. Freshwater West is often described as having the best waves in Pembrokeshire, particularly along the south-westerly stretch. Be aware, however, that this beach is suitable only for the most experienced surfers and strong swimmers.

Surfing aside, it’s a popular beach with a lovely mix of golden sand, intriguing rocky reefs, and an extensive dune system. Please note that the dunes are fragile, so camping and barbecues are not permitted.

Freshwater West is also known for serving as the backdrop to several Hollywood productions, including Ridley Scott’s Robin Hood and Christopher Nolan’s Dunkirk (the beach was used as a stand-in location). Most famously, it featured in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, where Dobby’s Shell Cottage was built on site. Although the set was dismantled immediately after filming, you can still walk in the footsteps of Harry, Hermione, and Ron. You’ll also find a memorial known as Dobby’s grave, where fans have left stones and other items to pay tribute to the beloved character.

There are two small, free car parks, but do keep in mind that they fill up quickly when the weather is good for surfing!

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Church Doors Cove

Pembrokeshire, South Coast

To finish off the “small hidden gem” category with a bang, here’s a truly special place. Church Doors is a sandy and rocky cove framed by unique, towering cliffs, into which the sea has carved a colossal natural archway. Among the many geological wonders found in Pembrokeshire, this one certainly stands out.

You’ll want to access the beach at low tide to make the most of the limited sandy area — otherwise, it’s mostly covered, leaving just a rocky surface. Access is via a series of concrete and metal steps (note: dogs may struggle a little on the metal staircase). There is a handrail to assist with the descent and climb.

Another reason to visit at low tide is that it’s the only way to reach Skrinkle Haven Beach, which lies west behind the tall and narrow cliff, opposite to the “door”. The original steps on the far side have deteriorated and are no longer safe to use. Instead, you can pass through a small, narrow archway — easy enough to spot once you’re down — but take care: there is a 4–5ft drop into a rockpool on the other side, so caution is essential.

To find out more, read this very helpful article from Chris Knight.

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Rhosili Bay Beach

Gower National Landscape, South Coast

The Gower Peninsula was the first place in the UK to be designated a National Landscape (formerly known as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty), and wherever you go, you’ll be greeted by remarkable natural scenery. But if we had to choose just one spot, it would be the breathtaking Rhossili Bay — perhaps the most beautiful and inspiring location in the area.

Stretching over three miles, the sandy beach is complemented by dramatic clifftop meadows and sweeping views that make every walk along the headland unforgettable. When the tide is out, the more adventurous can cross the rocky causeway to the tidal island of Worm’s Head, where you may spot grey seals basking on the rocks.

There’s also plenty to explore inland: keep an eye out for a Neolithic burial chamber, Bronze Age cairns, and Iron Age forts along the coastline. A circular walk around The Vile — a restored medieval strip-farming system — will reward you with wildflowers and pollinators in abundance.

The car park is fairly spacious, but do note that this is a popular destination on warm days and during summer. Please be aware that the beach itself is not wheelchair accessible, as it involves a steep descent.

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Useful And Safety Information

Many of the beaches listed in this article are considered safe and family-friendly, but do remember that hazards such as strong currents and rip currents can occur. Always observe the red warning signs and follow RNLI guidelines.

Make sure you know where lifeguard patrols are located and who to contact in an emergency. If unsure, dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard.

Some beaches may be less accessible—or not accessible at all—at high tide. Be sure to check the tide times in advance to avoid being cut off by the water.

Some of the locations mentioned are accessed via narrow roads and may have limited parking. Please park responsibly and avoid blocking access for emergency vehicles.

Beware of fake mobile app stickers on pay-and-display car park machines. They may look genuine, but the QR code could direct you to a fraudulent website. Instead, search for the app in the official Apple or Google store (most of the car parks are with PayByPhone) and enter the location number manually.

A number of beaches have no bins, so please take your rubbish home with you to help keep these wonderful locations clean and pristine.

Some counties, such as Pembrokeshire, run a Beach Wheelchair scheme for people with mobility issues. These can often be hired free of charge.