Ah, the joys of a beach holiday! Sun, sand, and sea rejuvenating both the body and the spirit. A beach vacation in Wales is a uniquely special experience — one that combines coastal beauty and relaxation with the opportunity to engage in traditional Welsh culture. If you’re thinking of planning a beach trip to Wales, here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your Welsh vacation.
1. Choose your Beach Wisely
Wales has a stunning coastline, with plenty of lovely beaches to choose from — some of which are better-suited to particular types of travelers than others. If you’re looking for a lively adventure, for instance, the city of Rhosneigr is renowned for its windsurfing and kitesurfing. Here, you’ll find several popular beachfront resorts, as well as bars and restaurants nearby.
For a more serene beach holiday experience, consider Barafundle Bay. Often neglected as a tourist destination, this tiny beach is well and truly off-the-beaten-track. It’s also absolutely stunning — boasting clear water, golden sands, and spectacular views of the countryside.
2. Enjoy the Local Cuisine
Wales is known for its traditional local dishes — from Welshcakes and cawl to laverbread and Welsh rarebit. As you explore the area, make sure you sample some of these provincial specialties. And, if you’re feeling adventurous, why not learn how to make them? Most towns and villages throughout Wales have cooking classes available.
3. Take a Dolphin-Watching Tour
If you’re up for a memorable adventure, there’s no better way to spend an afternoon than with a boat tour off the coast of Cardigan Bay. Here, you’ll find large pods of dolphins, basking sharks, grey seals, and many other types of marine life. Spend a few hours aboard one of the local boats, marveling at the wildlife as you cruise around the bay. It’s an experience you won’t soon forget!
4. Explore the Coastline
Wales’s coastline is the perfect spot for nature walks. While it might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of beach vacations, the Welsh coast is home to some truly spectacular views and stunning scenery.
A great way to explore the coast is by taking part in the ‘Welsh Coastal Path’. This 870-mile trail runs from Chepstow in the south all the way up to the tip of Angle Peninsula in the north. Along the path, you’ll find numerous spots and sites of interest — from historic castles and monuments to seabirds and wildflowers.
5. Go Island-Hopping
Wales is also home to some