Top Beaches in Wales

Wales may be more closely associated with rolling green countryside, snowy peaks and ancient castles, but it is also home to dozens of world-class beaches. To help you find the best ones to relax and catch a tan on during your cottage holiday here’s a run-down of some of Wales’ finest beaches.

Rhossili Bay, Gower

Rhossili Bay was named the best beach in the UK in a survey by TripAdvisor in 2014. Not only that, it featured in ninth place in a top 10 of the best beaches worldwide. Miles of sand are accompanied by ample facilities and a wide array of watersports.

Barafundle Bay, near Pembroke

Barafundle Bay may be lacking in facilities and it’s some way to the nearest town, but its sands are pristine and the waters that surround it have been compared to those of the Caribbean. If you’re looking for a secluded beach paradise in Wales, this may be it.

Barmouth Beach, Barmouth

Not only is the beach suitable for sunbathing and the waters for surfing, Barmouth Beach is blessed by some dramatic scenery across the Mawdach Estuary.

Castle Beach, Tenby

A Blue Flag beach with plenty of facilities and access to a range of boat trips. At low tide times you can walk across to St Catherine’s island.

Abersoch beach 

Abersoch beach has a sheltered location so it’s perfect for sunbathing. It’s also a popular destination for watersports, and hosts a number of sailing events and other occasions during the summer.

Benllech Beach

Benllech is one of the most popular seaside resorts in Anglesey. The beach has Blue Flag status and lifeguards patrol the shoreline. Surfing, windsurfing and other watersports are also popular here.

Rest Bay, Porthcawl 

Rest Bay is another favourite for surfing and is blessed by golden sands and rock pools.