10 best beaches in Wales

Exploring the beautiful beaches of the Welsh coast

Wales is not just known for its beautiful countryside and historic landmarks, but also for its stunning beaches. With miles of sandy beaches and picturesque shores to explore along the Wales Coast Path, the country offers some of the most picturesque and serene seaside destinations in the UK. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot for building sandcastles and exploring rock pools or a hidden cove for peaceful picnics and romantic sunsets, Wales has something for every type of beach break. So, grab your sunscreen, pack your towel and get ready to discover the best beaches in Wales with our list of the 10 highest rated on Tripadvisor.

Searching for the perfect base for your Welsh beach break? Discover our holiday parks and lodges in Wales or cottages in Wales and start planning your dreamy seaside getaway today!

1. Rhossili Bay, Gower Peninsula

Occupying the most westerly spot on the iconic Gower Peninsula - the UK's first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty - Rhossili Bay is a true gem along the Welsh coastline, so it's no wonder it's taken the top spot on Tripadvisor as the highest-rated beach in Wales. With its 3-mile stretch of golden sand and stunning views of the rugged coastline, Rhossili Bay offers visitors a perfect blend of beauty and tranquillity. Whether you're a surfer catching the waves or a family building sandcastles, this stunning beach has something for everyone. It's also a great spot for visiting Worm's Head, a popular hiking destination where you can see a variety of wildlife including seabirds such as guillemots, razorbills and puffins. Seal pups can also be spotted basking on the rocks at low tide! So, don't miss the chance to visit this breathtaking part of Wales and experience the magic of Rhossili Bay for yourself.

Tripadvisor rating: 5/5 from over 1,900 reviews
Postcode: SA3 1PP
Lifeguards: There is no lifeguard patrol
Dogs: This beach is dog-friendly all year round

Already picturing yourself strolling in the sand along Rhossili Bay? Check out our Gower Peninsula holiday parks for your seaside stay.

2. Barafundle Bay Beach, Pembrokeshire Coast, West Wales

Barafundle Bay Beach awaits those seeking paradise on the Welsh coastline. Nestled along the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, this picture-perfect beach captivates visitors with its crystal-clear waters and pristine white sands. Whether you're basking in the sun, exploring the surrounding cliffs, or simply taking a leisurely stroll along the shore, this remote sandy beach located in Pembrokeshire promises a day of pure bliss. Make memories that will last a lifetime at Barafundle Bay Beach, where every moment is a postcard-worthy scene waiting to be enjoyed!

Tripadvisor rating: 5/5 from over 1,000 reviews
Postcode: SA71 5LS
Lifeguards: There is no lifeguard patrol
Dogs: This beach is dog-friendly all year round

Our Pembrokeshire holiday parks and lodges are ready to welcome you for a memorable coastal break near the beautiful Barafundle Bay!

3. Barmouth Beach, Gwynedd, North Wales

Barmouth Beach is a stunning stretch of coastline that overlooks Cardigan Bay and is backed by the majestic mountains of Snowdonia National Park. This is a great family beach, thanks to its wide expanse of soft sand, gentle waves and clean water. There are plenty of amenities and shops nearby, including restaurants, cafes and ice cream parlours, making it easy to spend a full day at the beach with the kids. With its picturesque views and family-friendly atmosphere, Barmouth Beach is a must-visit destination for those looking to enjoy a day by the sea on one of the best beaches in North Wales.

Tripadvisor rating: 4.5/5 from over 1,000 reviews
Postcode: LL42 1NE
Lifeguards: There is no lifeguard patrol
Dogs: There is a dog restriction on a small section of the beach from April to September, but the rest of the beach is dog friendly all year round

Enjoy a beach break on the North Wales coast at one of our Barmouth holiday parks and lodges.

5. Poppit Sands Beach, Pembrokeshire Coast, West Wales

Halfway through our list, we have Poppit Sands Beach in Cardigan Bay, a popular choice for both tourists and locals alike thanks to its wide sandy shores, gently sloping dunes and stunning views of the surrounding coastline and hills. This picturesque beach is situated at the mouth of the Teifi Estuary, and is known for its clean high-quality water, having retained its Blue Flag status for 2024. It is a great spot for swimming, surfing and sunbathing during the summer months, with a seasonal lifeguard patrol offering extra peace of mind for parents. Whether you're playing in the sand dunes, swimming in the crystal-clear waters or simply breathing in the fresh sea breeze as you walk along the Wales Coast Path, Poppit Sands Beach is sure to leave you feeling refreshed and invigorated.

Tripadvisor rating: 4.5/5 from over 850 reviews
Postcode: SA43 3LN
Lifeguards: RNLI lifeguards patrol the beach on a seasonal basis
Dogs: The beach is dog friendly all year round, except for the western section of the beach where there is a dog ban from May-September

Find your perfect accommodation near the beach with our choice of lodges and holiday parks in Cardigan and Ceredigion.

6. Harlech Beach, Gwynedd, North Wales

Harlech Beach, nestled along the North Wales coastline in the magnificent Snowdonia National Park, boasts a mesmerising backdrop of dramatic cliffs and soft sandy shores. Tripadvisor reviewers praise the unspoiled beauty and peaceful atmosphere of Harlech Beach, making it a must-visit for those seeking a tranquil escape in Wales. Whether you're strolling along the water's edge, watching the sunset over the Irish Sea or exploring the extensive dunes in the surrounding Morfa Harlech Nature Reserve, Harlech Beach promises a rejuvenating experience like no other.

Tip: Harlech Beach is overlooked by the impressive Harlech Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is just a short drive or a steep walk away. We've featured this mighty 13th-century fortress on our list of the best Welsh castles, so don't miss your chance to visit it after a fun day at the beach.

Tripadvisor rating: 5/5 from over 600 reviews
Postcode: LL46 2UG
Lifeguards: There is no lifeguard patrol
Dogs: The beach is dog friendly all year round, except for a small section in front of the holiday park which has a dog ban from April-September

Browse our Harlech holiday cottages to find accommodation near one of the best beaches in North Wales!

7. Oxwich Bay Beach, Gower Peninsula, South Wales

Get ready to be swept off your feet again as we introduce Oxwich Bay Beach, a firm favourite for beachgoers in South Wales! Nestled on the incredible Gower Peninsula, this pristine sandy cove is a paradise waiting to be explored, with its sparkling waters and mesmerising views. On clear days, it is possible to see all the way across the Bristol Channel to the Devon coastline. Birdwatchers and nature lovers will be delighted by the abundance of wildlife in this beautiful coastal setting, with a chance to see seabirds such as gulls, fulmars and cormorants, as well as marine animals like seals and dolphins. The bay is also home to a rich diversity of plant life, including rare orchids and coastal flora. Lose yourself in the beauty of this coastal treasure as you bask in the sunshine, go for a refereshing dip in the sea or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll along its soft shores.

Tripadvisor rating: 4.5/5 from over 1,000 reviews
Postcode: SA3 1LS
Lifeguards: There is no lifeguard patrol
Dogs: The beach is dog friendly all year round

8. Tenby Castle Beach, Pembrokeshire Coast, West Wales

Get ready to be amazed once more as we unveil Tenby Castle Beach, another of Wales's top-rated beaches in the coastal national park of Pembrokeshire. Located just a short walk from the centre of the charming seaside town of Tenby, overlooked by St. Catherine's Island and the ruins of Tenby Castle, this Blue Flag beach is steeped in history and surrounded by stunning medieval walls that add a unique charm to its already picturesque setting. With its pristine sands and turquoise waters, Tenby Castle Beach offers plenty of opportunities for both relaxation and exploration. From uncovering hidden coves to admiring the ancient castle ruins, every moment spent here is sure to create cherished memories.

Tip: Whilst your here, you can go beach hopping around Tenby, which is home to four beautiful beaches - Tenby Castle Beach, Tenby Harbour Beach, Tenby North Beach and Tenby South Beach.

Tripadvisor rating: 4.5/5 from over 900 reviews
Postcode: SA70 7BD
Lifeguards: RNLI lifeguards patrol the beach on a seasonal basis
Dogs: There is a seasonal dog ban in place from May-September. Dogs are welcome on the beach during the rest of the year

Discover our lodges and holiday parks in Tenby and get ready to explore the best beaches in West Wales!

9. Morfa Bychan / Black Rock Sands Beach, Gwynedd, North Wales

As we near the end of our round-up of the 10 best beaches in Wales, the penultimate beach on our list is Morfa Bychan, also known as Black Rock Sands Beach. Tucked away in the North Wales country of Gwynedd, not far from the popular Welsh harbour town of Porthmadog, this beach offers a unique experience with its expansive shoreline and distinctive black rocks that contrast beautifully against the golden sands. You can also take in exceptional views of the Llyn Peninsula and admire the scenic backdrop of the Snowdonia mountain range. Whether you're a thrill-seeker looking to try watersports or a sun-worshipper seeking serenity, Morfa Bychan beach has something for everyone.

Tripadvisor rating: 4.5/5 from over 1,000 reviews
Postcode: LL49 9YB
Lifeguards: There is no lifeguard patrol
Dogs: The beach is dog friendly all year round, except for the northen end of the beach which has a dog ban from April-September

Book one of our holiday parks in Porthmadog and stay close to this coastal gem in North Wales!

10. Aberavon Beach, Swansea Bay, South Wales

With golden sands stretching as far as the eye can see and consistent waves perfect for surfing, Aberavon Beach is a paradise on the South Wales coast. Relax under the sun, take a leisurely stroll along the promenade or try your hand at beach volleyball - Aberavon Beach offers endless opportunities for both fun and relaxation! Located in Port Talbot, on the east side of Swansea Bay, this beautiful sandy beach stretches for three miles and offers stunning views across the Bristol Channel. There's also plenty to keep you entertained here all day, with numerous cafes and shops within walking distance.

Tripadvisor rating: 4.5/5 from over 600 reviews
Postcode: SA12 6QP
Lifeguards: RNLI lifeguards patrol the beach on a seasonal basis
Dogs: There is a dog ban in place on part of the beach and the promenade from May-September

Our holiday parks in Swansea can provide the perfect place to stay for exploring this beautiful beach in South Wales.

Your next beach break awaits in Wales

In conclusion, Wales is home to a stunning array of beaches that cater to every type of holiday-maker. Whether you're looking for secluded coves with rock pools, bustling resorts with cafe-lined promenades or rugged coastlines with nature trails, the beaches of Wales offer breathtaking scenery and a true taste of the beauty of the British coastline. For even more incredible beaches in Wales, check out the limestone cliffs of Three Cliffs Bay on the Gower, the grassy dunes of Talacre Beach in North Wales or the colourful beach huts of Barry Island near Cardiff. So, what are you waiting for? Pick one of these Welsh wonders and start planning your unforgettable seaside experience in Wales now!

For more inspiration on Great British beach breaks, check out our choice of UK beach holidays, designed to suit a range of tastes, budgets and ages! And if you want to bring your pooch along, don't miss our selection of dog-friendly beach holidays.

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