For a beach holiday brimming with natural beauty, culture, and plenty of spectacular coastal scenery, Wales is an excellent choice. From the north of the country to the south, you’ll find plenty of quaint seaside towns along the Welsh coast. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or an action-packed family break, Wales is an ideal choice for a beach holiday. Here’s a guide to some of the best Welsh seaside towns to explore on your next holiday.
Porthmadog
At the southern end of Wales, not far from the Welsh-English border, is the charming harbour town of Porthmadog. It’s known for its wide sandy beach, Black Rock Sands, which is located directly in the centre of the estuary. It’s great for swimming, sunbathing, and playing beach games, but it’s also a popular spot for windsurfing and kite surfing. With a number of attractions to explore, including the Welsh Highland Heritage Railway, the Cob, and the nearby historic town of Harlech, Porthmadog is ideal for a relaxing beach holiday.
Aberdovey
Located near the Dyfi estuary in the west of Wales, Aberdovey, also known as Aberdovey, is an attractive resort town with plenty to offer. Its expansive sandy beach, Dovey Estuary, stretches for 7 miles and is perfect for a day out with the family. For those looking to explore further afield, nearby you can find the tranquil Ysgol Dyfi Important Bird Area. The town itself has plenty to do, with the Aberdovey Golf Club and the Aberdovey Adventure Centre providing plenty of activities for all ages.
Barmouth
For dramatic coastal scenery, there’s no better destination than Barmouth. Situated on the mouth of the Mawddach estuary, Barmouth is known for its magnificent beaches and stunning views out to sea, making it an ideal spot for a romantic getaway or family holiday. You can explore the pretty harbour where small wooden boats rest, take a boat tour around the estuary, or try your hand at water sports like sailing and windsurfing. There are plenty of activities to keep you busy, including horse riding, fishing, and walking.
Aberaeron
If you’re looking for a classic seaside holiday, Aberaeron on the Cardigan coast is the perfect spot. It’s known for its colourful harbour filled with pastel-hued buildings, boat trips along the coast, and its wide sandy beach. Here you can try a variety of waters sports, go crabbing on the beach, or simply relax in the sun. There are plenty of attractions to explore too, including the 12th-century Cilgerran Castle, the Aberaeron Wildlife Centre, and the peaceful Teifi estuary.