Wales is an absolutely gorgeous place to travel through, and it has one of my favorite British coasts. The nicest beaches in Wales are spread out around the coastline, with their white sand beaches, towering cliffs, and secret sandy coves.
You’ll be completely spoiled for choice when it comes to places to stop, regardless of whether you’re traveling through South Wales, Pembrokeshire, or greater West Wales.

To avoid transforming your trip to Wales into a frantic sprint to every beach, I wanted to offer some absolute hidden treasures worth looking at. Doing so lets you prioritize the beaches you visit while still visiting some of Wales’ top locations.
20 Best Wales Beaches
The top 20 Wales beaches are listed here for your viewing pleasure. Just remember to bring your swimsuit!
1. Three Cliffs Bay
The Gower Peninsula’s Three Cliffs Bay is a breathtaking location that is too beautiful to pass up.

You will need to navigate the trails, which can be a little difficult in inclement weather, in order to get to the beach. However, the three cliffs bay beach alone is worth it because it’s so well-known!
Once you descend to the shore, you’ll be met with breathtaking views of the salt marsh, plush sand, and breathtaking limestone cliffs. To get to its sands from the car park, you must hike for about a mile along the clifftops, but because of the distance, there won’t be many people on this breathtaking stretch.
Explore the historic Pennard Castle remains, which date back to the 12th century, while out for a stroll. It is one of the best beaches in Wales.
2. West Shore Beach
Looking for North Wales’ top beach? With its Victorian pier and expansive promenade, Llandudno’s North Shore Beach is the coastal resort’s most well-known length, but if you want to avoid the crowd, head to West Shore Beach.

This stunning Blue Flag beach, which is backed by dunes and displays Llandudno’s more sedate side, has a wide expanse of sand and is well-known for its sunsets. It is one of the best wales beaches.
Accommodations
Book a 10-person townhouse with sea views and a hot tub for your group retreat. One dog is also welcome at this luxurious accommodation for a pet-friendly getaway close to one of Wales’ top beaches.
3. Broad Haven (St Brides Bay)
Safe swimming conditions and breathtaking views of St. Brides Bay can be found at this family-friendly beach.
The beach is very large with craggy cliffs at either end when the tide is completely out. Broad Haven is downright brazen in comparison to some Welsh beaches; visit it for classic, delightful British seaside enjoyment.

Accommodations
For inexpensive lodging, the YHA in Broad Haven is located on private grounds approximately 100 meters from the Blue Flag beaches.
For family vacations, The Hayloft is close to the beach and surrounded by fields. It’s ideal for youngsters because it has two bedrooms and a lovely garden. It is one of the best wales beaches.
For accommodations that welcome pets, consider Timber Hill Self Catering Cedar Lodges, which are elegantly spread out among mature parkland and conveniently close to the beach. Each lodge comes with three bedrooms.
4. Barafundle Bay Beach, Pembrokeshire
One of the top beaches in Wales and the entire UK is Barafundle Bay, a rounded portion of the Pembrokeshire Coast. It has even been compared to Caribbean beaches due to its magnificent sand dunes, golden sand, and glistening clean waters. It is one of the best wales beaches.
On a cool summer day, it is very obvious why. Most of the time, however, it feels much windier, and a rum punch is frequently absent. Barafundle Bay is not the easiest place to get to; you must walk half a mile from the closest parking to reach the beach.

After that, proceed to the Green Bridge of Wales, a sizable sea arch perched on a stunning rock. Although this is a military region, don’t be worried if you drive by “tank crossings.”
There are no amenities at the Pembrokeshire beach, and parking requires a half-mile hike over cliffs, but it’s worth it to take it all in.
Accommodations
This cottage is cozy, sleeps four people, and is perfect for small families. It is only a 10-minute drive from Barafundle Bay and close to another fantastic Welsh Beach, Freshwater East.
5. Rhossili Bay Beach
The Rhossili Bay Beach of Gower Peninsula is situated in one of my favorite places in Wales and is utterly stunning.
Rhossili Beach is not a place for amateur swimmers because of its rugged surroundings and choppy, crashing surf. Having said that, it’s fantastic for surfers who want to put their abilities to the test.

Just be cautious as you down the rocky, steep route to the shore because it might get slick in bad weather. We won’t argue with the description of Rhossili Bay as the “supermodel of British beaches.”
Feeling hungry?, Drive east around the Gower Peninsular to Mumbles, a charming beach town just outside of Swansea. Along the shore are numerous small bars, eateries, and cafes. Your choice! It is one of the best wales beaches.
6. Porth Iago
Porth Iago, one of North Wales’ top beaches, is known for its crystal-clear, turquoise seas, which make swimming there a treat.
One of Wales’ many “hidden” beaches of Llŷn Peninsula is a must-see. The beach is viewed from an ancient hill fort lookout, and the rocks on its northern side make for fantastic fishing spots where bass have been known to be caught. It is one of the best wales beaches.
Even wild camping is permitted here; just put money in the honesty box as you travel through the farm. The well-known white-sandy bay of Porth Oer (also known as “Whistling Sands”), which has a small store and café, may be reached by strolling west along the coast.
Accommodations
This charming rural property is a tranquil cottage about a 13-minute drive from Anelog and is ideal for couples, families, or a group of friends. It has five beds, lots of character, and beautiful views of the countryside.
7. Llangrannog Beach
Llangrannog beach, formerly a smuggler’s hangout, is now a kid-friendly, protected sandy cove at the mouth of a small valley.
At low tide, you can stroll around another beach. For walkers, the Ynys Lochtyn headland offers a great round route that can be taken.

Traditional pub fare with a view of the ocean and homemade ice cream are also available at the beach cafe. It is one of the best wales beaches.
Accommodations
A six-bedroom cottage is available on Airbnb and is about 100 yards from Llangrannog Beach. Bunk beds for younger guests, a cozy living and eating area, and a terraced garden area with breathtaking views are all included in the rental.
8. Whitesands Beach, Pembrokeshire
One of the top surfing sites in the nation is this magnificent Pembrokeshire beach, a broad expanse of fine white sand with a Blue Flag designation.
Whitesands’ quieter south end has excellent sheltered coves, while the north end has a rocky point to climb on. It is one of the best wales beaches.
Six persons can sleep at Wdig Farmhouse, a Grade II-listed Georgian farmhouse that has been refurbished. With white panel floors and beams, a contemporary white-washed kitchen, and an attached dining room conservatory, it is just a short walk from the beach.
9. Freshwater Beach
One of the nicest beaches in Wales for everyone is Freshwater East Beach, which is protected from the winds by sand dunes. Ponies graze on its dunes, known as the Burrows, during the winter.

Families and kids love going to this beach because they can go fossil hunting and go canoeing in the stream that flows into the sea. Additionally, the beach is an excellent place for windsurfing, sailing, and fishing. It is one of the best beaches in Wales.
Accommodations
Annwyl is a beautiful beach cabin in a tiny vacation park across from the coast that sleeps four people. There are two bedrooms, an open-concept living area, a kitchen, and a place for families to unwind over supper or a game of cards.
10. Barmouth Beach
This magnificent beach has it all: sand dunes, mountains, and a microclimate. Barmouth is another of the best beaches in North Wales that you should add to your list.
It is situated at the mouth of the Mawddach Estuary, in the southwest part of the Snowdonia National Park.

Even during the busiest months, the expansive beach seldom feels crowded and the frequently huge waves make it excellent for surfing. It is one of the best wales beaches.
Accommodations
Enjoy the views from a charming Georgian apartment that is close to the beach, the harbor, and restaurants. This home has all you need for a beach getaway to Barmouth and sleeps four people.
11. Pendine Sands
Pendine Sands is a stretch of level golden sand flanked by the commanding comfort of the dunes, offering space for everyone who visits this charming area of Carmarthen Bay.
The beach’s length and geography made it a natural choice as a site for attempts to break the world land-speed record, and several illustrious records were set there in the 1920s.

The Pendine Museum of Speed honors these risk-takers. It is one of the best wales beaches.
Accommodations
The Cors Country House is located in the Laugharne hamlet, less than a 15-minute drive away. The five-bedroom home boasts a movie room, a well-stocked kitchen, and 2.5 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens, making it perfect for entertaining big parties and families.
12. Llanddwyn Beach, Anglesey
The picturesque Llanddwyn, also known as Niwbwrch (Newborough) Beach, is surrounded by the vast dunes of the Newborough Warren National Nature Reserve.
Views of Snowdonia National Park and the Llŷn Peninsula may be seen from the beach. There is also a road leading to the rocky promontory of Ynys Llanddyn (Llanddwyn Island) and its former lighthouse, which marks the western entrance to the Menai Strait.

Choose Glan Morfa Lodge & Wildlife Experience in Dwyran offers cozy, self-catering cottages if you’re looking for a romantic getaway. For family vacations: With six bedrooms, huge gardens, and proximity to the beach, the spacious Clynnog House is ideal for bigger families.
Gwyllt Cottages offer pet-friendly lodging close to beaches and 30 minutes from Snowdonia National Park. It is one of the best wales beaches.
13. Harlech Beach
Big, serene Harlech Castle, a World Heritage Site, watches over this seashore. From the car park, a 440-meter path leads to the stunning sand dunes of Harlech Beach.
The beach, a National Nature Reserve and Site of Special Scientific Interest, is perfect for kids to play on and adults to unwind on.

Nearby amenities include a store, a café, and the Royal St. David’s Golf Club, one of Britain’s top links courses. It is one of the best wales beaches.
Accommodations
The two-person apartment Branwen, which is a part of the Harlech Apartments, offers breathtaking views of Harlech Castle. It is fashionable inside and the ideal place to people watch.
14. Llansteffan Beach
Llansteffan is a sizable, serene beach that offers both soft sand for lounging and strong sand for sandcastle construction. It is a well-kept secret with views of Ferryside across the River Towy.
Build a grand sandcastle in this family-friendly area by taking inspiration from Llansteffan Castle, which towers above the shore.
The cockle shell-covered beach and the vibrant rock pools make them ideal for family outings. It is one of the best wales beaches.
Accommodations
You may reserve a place at Cockleshell, a four-bedroom vacation home that overlooks the churning sea and old castles. The inside is chic, with modern furnishings and a kitchen.
15. Mwnt Beach
This beach, where you may frequently spot dolphins from its sand, will appeal to nature enthusiasts.
One of the best beaches in Wales for extended days in the sun with the family is Mwnt.

The Wales Coast Path runs along the cliffs above this charming cove, providing walkers with stunning views. It is one of the best wales beaches.
Accommodations
A large vacation home with space for seven people is located less than two kilometers from magnificent Mwnt Beach. It is a cozy location near four lovely beaches that is a part of a cottage complex.
16. Freshwater West Beach
Don’t be surprised if you start to recognize the sands on Freshwater West beach.
The beach served as the backdrop for the French Invasion in the 2010 adaptation of Robin Hood, and it also played a significant part in the final two Harry Potter films.

The beach is more likely to entertain would-be surfers than movie stars at any given time; after all, this is the top surfing location in Wales. It is one of the best wales beaches.
17. Rest Bay
Few people are aware of all that this welcoming tiny county between Cardiff and Swansea has to offer. Rest Bay is a little stretch of tranquil, sandy beach outside of Porthcawl’s downtown.
With waves that may compete with those in Newquay and Swansea, it is quickly gaining popularity as a surfing and kiteboarding destination. The elite Royal Porthcawl golf club is also located nearby.

Accommodations
The Rose and Crown Porthcawl is a classic seaside inn with cozy rooms and a bar that is only a short stroll from the beach. For cheap lodging, consider the Caravan Porthcawl, which is at the Trecco Holiday Park in Porthcawl and provides access to a heated indoor pool.
Choose 19 Mary Street in Porthcawl for a unique stay because of its individually designed rooms, welcoming ambiance, and close proximity to the beach. It is one of the best wales beaches.
18. North Beach, Tenby
Look no further than scenic Tenby and North Beach in the harbor town for the nicest beaches in South Wales.
Because of its exceptional sand and Goscar Rock that protrudes in the center of it, the unmatched coastal setting is one of the most photographed locations in Wales.

It has a Blue Flag for its quality of water and is watched over by the town of Tenby. It is a sun trap even on windy days. It is one of the best wales beaches.
Accommodations
This contemporary condo accommodates six people and has breathtaking views from various locations. It is located directly on North Beach and is a genuinely remarkable vacation cottage.
19. Marloes Sands, Pembrokeshire
Marloes Sands, a broad, curved National Trust beach with breathtaking landscape and fauna to explore, is a hidden gem on the western tip of Pembrokeshire.
You can go swimming safely, enjoy magnificent walks down the shore that begin at the parking lot, and keep an eye out for seals and seagulls.

Sandstones and volcanic rocks make up the distinctive beach’s outstanding geology. It is one of the best wales beaches.
Accommodations
A four-bedroom property with six bedrooms is only a short drive from Marloes Sands. The village bar is close by and may be reached on foot from here.
20. Rhosneigr Beach
Rhosneigr Beach, one of the top beaches in Wales, is tucked away on the shores of Anglesey and has garnered a number of accolades.

Kitesurfers, windsurfers, and surfers looking for adrenaline are rather common along the entire shoreline here. Rhosneigr Beach, however, is also fantastic for more laid-back beachgoers who want to explore the coastline and have a swim in the water.
After that, take the really gorgeous Anglesey Coastal Path to explore greater Anglesey. This path, which includes some of the island’s loveliest locations near the shoreline, is ideal for walkers and ramblers. It is one of the best wales beaches.
Final Remark
In conclusion, Wales has some of the best beaches in the world. With stunning coastlines, beautiful villages, and plenty of activities to enjoy, it’s no wonder why so many people flock to Wales every year.
If you’re looking for a summer vacation destination that won’t disappoint, be sure to add the best Wales beaches to your list.
Last Updated on July 11, 2024 by Sathi Chakraborty