The 14 Best Holiday Parks in the UK for 2025
Looking to make unforgettable memories or a place that has it all? Then read our blog on the best...
From the glistening coastline of Anglesey to the hidden gems of Pembrokeshire, find a collection of the best beaches in Wales that you have to visit!
Wales boasts over 870 miles of coastline and 150 beaches for you to explore, including secret coves, sandy shores and pebble paradises. You’ll even find the first path in the world to follow a country’s coastline in its entirety!
Our guide features a hand-picked selection of the best beaches in Wales, so you can plan your next seaside outing with ease.
Read on to uncover the 17 best beaches in Wales…
North Wales
Mid Wales
South Wales
We’re starting off this list of the best beaches in Wales with this sandy delight. Resting on the edges of Harlech, this spot is one of several stunning beaches in Wales that you should visit.
From the car park, make your way along a 400-metre path, then the expansive sand dunes to reach the four-mile stretch of golden sands. Here, you can enjoy a peaceful outing, where paddling in its crystal-clear waters, views of Snowdonia and sunbathing can be enjoyed in abundance.
Harlech is a dog-friendly beach in Wales, so you can look forward to a scenic walk along the dunes with your pooch. Alternatively, make your way behind the beach to the historic wonder of Harlech Castle, where you can enjoy elevated, coastal views from the fortress. This is one of the finest castles in Wales!
Type of beach: Sandy
Car park: Yes
Dog-friendly: Yes, all year round
Postcode: LL46 2UG
Another top beach in Wales is Porthor Beach, also known as Whistling Sands. It’s well known for its sheer beauty, which draws visitors in from all over.
You can reach the beach by following a path from the nearby National Trust car park. The walk is a little challenging but you’ll soon be rewarded by the sight of this wonderful Wales beach! After taking in the views of the green cliffs and quaint meadows, kick back and unwind on the soft sands.
If watersports are your thing, you’ll be delighted to know that Porthor Beach is amongst the Wales beaches that enjoy fantastic surf. This means plenty of kayaking, windsurfing and body boarding can be enjoyed here.
This is just one of the many stunning beaches on the Llŷn Peninsula!
Type of beach: Sandy
Car park: Yes
Dog-friendly: Yes, between October-April
Postcode: LL53 8LG
Barmouth Beach is one of the best beaches in Wales when it comes to traditional seaside amusements! The promenade offers an ice cream parlour, classic arcades and donkey rides, making it a great day out for families.
The beach itself features a large belt of sand, making finding a place to sunbathe an easy task. After settling down on the sand, be sure to soak up those vistas of the Mawddach Estuary and venture to the water for a refreshing paddle.
Once you’ve made the most of this wonderful beach, why not venture into one of the nearby eateries for a bite to eat, board the land train or embark on a scenic hike along the Panorama Walk?
Type of beach: Sandy
Car park: Yes
Dog-friendly: Yes, between October-April
Postcode: LL42 1NE
Llanddwyn Beach is one of the most scenic Anglesey beaches, with its gorgeous features achieving a Blue Flag award. You can uncover this Wales beach on the edge of a forest near Newborough.
The beach is characterised by Tŵr Mawr lighthouse, an 1873 tower that rests on a small peninsula off the beach. Llanddwyn Beach is also a Site of Special Scientific Interest, thanks to its wealth of birds and wildlife. You’ll be able to spot these on a walk through the adjacent National Nature Reserve.
After exploring the historic landmark or going birdwatching, be sure to savour a sit-down on this sandy beach, where views of Snowdonia National Park await. Kite surfing is especially popular here, you may be able to see a handful of kite surfers soaring by!
Type of beach: Sandy
Car park: Yes
Dog-friendly: Yes, all year round
Postcode: LL61 6SG
Another best beach in Wales, this lovely set of sands is one of Rhosneigr‘s two main beaches. Rhosneigr Beach offers one mile of golden shores that are flanked by rugged outcrops. Its idyllic sight has been hailed as a ‘piece of Heaven on Earth’ by visitors.
The beach enjoys a dog-friendly status, meaning your canine companions can enjoy this beautiful place with you! The beach joins the Isle of Anglesey Coastal Path, so you can turn your beach outing into a day-long, coastal excursion with your furry friend.
If you’re a watersports fan, you’ll be happy to know that the beach is ideal for surfing, swimming, boating and snorkelling. After catching the waves, wander over to the Surf Cafe for a homemade cake with a side of sea views.
Type of beach: Sandy
Car park: Yes
Dog-friendly: Yes, all year round
Postcode: LL64 5QB
The mile-long, sandy beach of Llanbedrog was guaranteed to make this list of best beaches in Wales. The beautiful shore sits moments away from the village of Llanbedrog and is home to the iconic, vibrant Llanbedrog beach huts.
The Welsh beach has been a popular tourist destination since the late 19th century, and it’s easy to see why! Not only is it a wildlife hot spot, but it enjoys panoramic views of North Wales.
It’s also great for families, as the beach offers family adventure packs for you to borrow. These packs provide an array of things to do, from bug hunting to partaking in an Iron Man challenge.
The Plas Glyn y Weddw Gallery just behind the beach and its café offer a selection of mouthwatering, post-beach snacks!
Type of beach: Sandy
Car park: Yes
Dog-friendly: Yes, all year round
Postcode: LL53 7TR
This dramatic stretch of stones and sand make for another wonderful addition to this list of best beaches in Wales. You can reach Hell’s Mouth Beach by walking a short stretch of the Abersoch to Hell’s Mouth trail from Llanengan. Alternatively, you can bring the car and park it in the nearby car park.
Hell’s Mouth is a peaceful beach enjoying a four-mile expanse of sand and stones. Its quietness creates a tranquil spot for a beach day and also gives surfers plenty of space to ride the waves.
After spending time at the beach, you could embark on a hike to Rhiw, where the landmark of Plas yn Rhiw awaits. Alternatively, make your way to Llanengan for a hearty lunch at The Sun Inn.
Type of beach: Sand and pebble
Car park: Yes
Dog-friendly: Yes, all year around
Postcode: LL53 7LG
A marvellous Wales beach to add to this list, Borth Beach is truly something special! Perched a stone’s throw away from Borth, this lovely mixture of shingle and sand makes for a charming day out, and was bound be one of the best beaches in Wales.
The beach enjoys good water quality, making it perfect for watersports and wading through the waves! Additionally, a lifeguard is around during the peak summer season, making this a safe spot for a family day at the beach.
The Borth & Ynyslas Golf Club is nearby, so you can also look forward to a round of 18 holes accompanied by coastal views.
Type of beach: Sand and shingle
Car park: Yes
Dog-friendly: Yes, between October-April
Postcode: SY24 5HX
The unspoilt beauty of Mwnt Beach makes it one of Wales’ best beaches. The beach lies tucked away between dramatic cliffs and enjoys a large sandy area, so you can laze the day away with ease.
Due to the beach lying in Cardigan Bay‘s Special Area of Conservation, you could also be greeted by the amazing sight of porpoises, dolphins and sharks!
Due to Mwnt Beach being a sheltered cove, it can only be reached by descending a number of steep steps. However, the beach does provide parking, offers public toilets and is close to Mwnt’s coffee shops.
Type of beach: Sandy
Car park: Yes
Dog-friendly: Yes, between October-April
Postcode: SA43 1QH
This charming Wales beach rests slightly to the south of Aberaeron and is another fantastic spot for porpoise watching. As well as being able to enjoy the sights of wildlife, you can also indulge in the stunning views of Ceredigion Bay.
The beach has a handful of small pools for you to explore during low tide. Alternatively, during high tide, the beach makes for being one of the best surfing beaches in Wales, thanks to its great surfing conditions; perfect for watersports enthusiasts!
Aberaeron itself houses several amenities, including a variety of eateries and galleries for you to explore. The Allt y Graig Woodland Trail is also nearby if you want to turn your beach visit into a day out.
Type of beach: Rock and shingle
Car park: Yes
Dog-friendly: Yes, restrictions apply
Postcode: SA46 0BE
Amidst the best sandy beaches in Wales, Barafundle Bay is a breath-taking place for a seaside outing. The sandy beach has won multiple Blue Flag awards, enjoys unspoilt scenery and offers pristine sands; all of which have secured its place amongst this collection of best beaches in Wales.
Barafundle Bay attracts a wealth of visitors each year, however, it still enjoys a secluded feel, thanks to its flanking limestone cliffs and lack of road access. Despite the beach’s remote location, you can still get here by parking at the Stackpole Quay car park and walking the 0.5-mile trail to the scenic sands.
After reaching the beach, why not go for a walk through the sandy dunes, bask in the sun or go for a swim in the clear waters?
Type of beach: Sandy
Car park: No
Dog-friendly: Yes, all year round
Postcode: SA71 5LS
This gorgeous beach in Pembrokeshire attracts visitors from all over because of its picturesque scenery. The beach is also a family favourite, thanks to its seasonal ice cream stand and access to a National Trust forest.
When arriving at this coastal haven, you’ll soon see why it’s made this list of best beaches in Wales. The extensive dunes, soft sands and turquoise waves make this a truly beautiful place to be. Don’t forget to explore the boulders, caves and stunning springs on the western edge of the beach.
Even though the beach enjoys a secluded atmosphere, a handy car park with wheelchair access rests nearby; perfect for multi-generational outings.
Type of beach: Sandy
Car park: Yes
Dog-friendly: Yes, all year round
Postcode: SA71 5DR
Tenby North Beach is another best beach in Wales, enjoying the reputation of being one of the best-loved in the area. The beach is also known as being one of the most photographed areas on the coast, and it’s easy to understand why! Rocky cliffs, pristine sands and the renowned Goscar Rock make this a delightful spot for a beach day.
When it comes to accessing the beach, the North Beach car park rests close by, along with a concrete ramp for those with limited mobility to use. Once you’ve arrived at the sands, why not make use of the boat hire and wander into the waters via the slipway? Alternatively, stretch out on one of the deckchairs and soak up the sun’s rays.
A wealth of facilities are situated above the beach in Tenby, including public toilets and welcoming eateries. The beach also backs onto Tenby Harbour, where you can board a boat to Caldey Island.
Type of beach: Sandy
Car park: Yes
Dog-friendly: Yes, between October-April
Postcode: SA70 8AA
A welcome addition to this selection of top Wales beaches, Three Cliffs Bay is truly something special! This beach is one of the Gower Peninsula’s most photographed spots, thanks to its expanse of golden shores and unique three peaks. It is also recognised as one of South Wales’ best beaches!
This is the perfect spot for those looking for an active day on the beach, with kayaking, swimming, rockpooling and surfing being amongst the many things to do here. If you’re looking to relax instead, don’t worry, during low tide, the beach boasts plenty of space for sunbathing.
After relaxing amidst the gorgeous surroundings of the beach, make your way to the cliffs. You can then embark on the Three Cliffs Bay Walk or head to the Pennard Golf Club. If you’d prefer to unwind, be sure to visit the Three Cliffs Coffee Shop and savour an alfresco meal.
Type of beach: Sandy
Car park: Yes
Dog-friendly: Yes, all year round
Postcode: SA3 2HD
This Wales beach has made the list because of its high cliffs, rocky outcrops and glorious sands. It enjoys views of Gateholm Island and Skokholm Island, which can be seen while resting on the soft sands or during a walk along the nearby clifftop trails.
The beach also boasts Hollywood ties! “Snow White and the Hunstman” starring Kristen Stewart and Charlize Theron was filmed here, alongside the 1968 film “The Lion in Winter”.
Aside from its exceptional scenery and film connections, the beach is also known for its wildlife population. While visiting Marloes Sands, you’ll be pleased by the enchanting sight of ravens, kestrels and puffins. If you’re interested in marine life, be sure to visit the nearby Marloes Deer Park, where dolphins and seals await.
Type of beach: Sandy
Car park: Yes
Dog-friendly: Yes, all year round
Postcode: SA62 3BH
This Wales beach enjoys a mixture of rock and sand and is easily reached via the Pembrokeshire Coastal Path. A handy car park with a capacity for 30 vehicles is also a stone’s throw away.
A great beach for angling and boating fans, Sandy Haven Beach features a slipway for you to make the most of. Although, if you’d prefer to unwind in the peace and quiet, the beach offers sandy suntraps created by the surrounding, wooded cliffs; ideal for sunbathing!
The beach’s boardwalk is a must-see for those visiting with families. Here, you can look forward to crabbing accompanied by views of the pretty estuary.
Type of beach: Rock and sand
Car park: Yes
Dog-friendly: Yes, all year round
Postcode: SA73 3ST
Rhossili Bay is last but not least on this list of beaches in Wales. This is one of the Gower beaches in Wales that is so beautiful, it’s even considered one of the top ten beaches on the planet! A couple of sights may catch your eye during a visit, including the historic remains of the Helvetia shipwreck and sunbathing grey seals.
The beach lies on the western edge of the Gower Peninsula and offers three miles of sand for you to take advantage of. Not only does Rhossili Bay offer ample sand to unwind on, but it also enjoys great exposure to Atlantic swell, so surfing fans will love it here.
Finish off your visit to this stunning beach by heading to the Gower Inn for a well-deserved pint.
Type of beach: Sandy
Car park: Yes
Dog-friendly: Yes, all year round
Postcode: SA3 1PP
Are you tempted by this array of Wales beaches? Be sure to explore them from one of these coastal cottages in Wales or these Wales holiday cottages. Don’t forget to find more inspiration by checking out our Wales Travel Guide. If you want to discover more about the UK coast, browse our list of the best UK beaches.
Image Credits: Tom Parnell – (CC BY-SA 2.0); Robin Drayton – (CC BY-SA 2.0)
Hi, I'm Lola and I joined Sykes in 2021. My favourite holiday destination in the UK has to be Suffolk, I have so many happy memori...
Read More About Author
Sign up to receive exclusive offers, competitions and the latest news to your inbox, and you'll be entered into our monthly prize-draw 3 times!
Looking to make unforgettable memories or a place that has it all? Then read our blog on the best...
North Devon beaches are renowned for their outstanding natural beauty, with golden sands, secluded coves and rugged cliffs. A...
Despite the unpredictable weather, the English coastline boasts a vast number of beautiful beaches that draw in thousands of...
Are you on the phone to our call centre? Your Customer ID is:
Get involved in the Discussion