7 of the Best Coastal Walks in South Wales

A coastal walk in South Wales promises to spoil its visitors with a diverse landscape, stirring history and unique wildlife.

We have selected 7 of our favourites to ensure that you have an unforgettable experience during your visit to South Wales; from the bright city lights of Cardiff, striding through to the breath-taking Gower Peninsula towards Britain’s only coastal National Park, Pembrokeshire. Our selected coastal walks in South Wales promise to be the perfect way to get away from it all and to immerse yourself in Welsh scenery.

Read on to discover 7 of the best coastal walks in South Wales…

Coastal Walks near Cardiff

1. Penarth Pier to Sully Island

Start at: Penarth Pier, CF64 3AU

Length: 5 Miles

A coastal walk in the Vale of Glamorgan promises a picturesque blend of historic beauty, rugged coastlines and an abundance of Welsh wildlife.

Begin your linear walk at Penarth’s Art Deco Pavilion, where you can look forward to discovering the vision of wealthy Victorian and Edwardian landowners who earned the town’s reputation as “The Garden by the Sea”.

Proceed along the esplanade, where the path boasts breath-taking views of the pier and towards Cardiff Bay. From here, make your way past St Lawrence Church and continue across the path which leads to Lavernock Point, a 14-acre area of Site of Special Scientific Interest.

After walking the path, find yourself at Sully Island by walking over a natural rock causeway, boasting an entirely natural and undisturbed appearance.

After soaking up the scenery of this corner of Cardiff, catch the bus back to Penarth and refuel at one of superb restaurants within the town.

2. Limpert Bay to Barry Island

Start at: Limpert Bay car park, CF62 4QT

Length: 7 miles

From the bustling beaches of Barry to the hidden coves of the Vale of Glamorgan coast, this coastal walk is undoubtedly one of the finest routes on the South Wales coastline.

The linear route is perfect for families seeking to immerse themselves in the dramatic scenes of this diverse coastline and to enjoy a traditional coastal afternoon at Barry Island.

Begin the walk at Limpert Bay car park before following the sea wall and reaching the bridge across the Afon Ddaw to be rewarded by views of the Ley Ponds. Climb the steps up the cliff and follow the path towards Rhoose Point, the most southerly point on the mainland of Wales.

From here, follow the promenade to the steps of Cold Knap Way, before reaching Barry Island Beach, one of the best beaches in South Wales. Spend the rest of the day soaking up the sun on the glorious sands, or while away few hours at Nessa’s Slots before rewarding yourself with chips and curry sauce from Boofy’s.

Coastal Walks near Swansea

3.  Rhossili Bay to Mewslade

Start at: Rhossili car park, SA3 1PP

Length: 3 miles

This circular walk can be found on the Western edge of the Gower Peninsula, offering an opportunity to enjoy the breath-taking view of Rhossili Bay.

This easy, family-friendly coastal walk takes you through grassy paths, dramatic clifftops and at low tide you can look forward to spending time at the glorious Mewslade Bay Beach. A perfect spot for a cooling dip on a summer’s afternoon.

 4. Mumbles Circular

Start at: Oystermouth Castle, SA3 4BA

Length: 3 miles

Beginning just south of Swansea is one of the best circular walks in South Wales, starting near the magnificent Oystermouth Castle.

Head along the coast to the famous Mumbles Head and stop off to walk along the pier and admire the views of the historic lighthouse and visit the lifeboat station.

Soak up the views as you continue to walk along the coastal path, where you will pass the beautiful Bracelet Bay and the long stretch of the picturesque Limeslade Bay.

Coastal Walks in Tenby

5. Tenby to Saundersfoot

Start at: Tenby Station, SA70 7LZ

Length: 4 miles

Combining the exciting seaside town of Tenby with the dramatic scenery of the Pembrokeshire coastline is this wonderful walk lined with twists and turns.

Begin the walk above North Beach which is surrounded by a selection of excellent restaurants and pubs, offering a superb starting point for refuelling before tackling this South Wales coastal walk.

If the tide permits, stroll along the sands before walking along a paved path to reach the endearing valley of Waterwynch. The path will then take you towards Monkstone Point, passing through a busy woodland before finishing your walk at Saundersfoot Bay. Here, you will be delighted by the beautiful scenery and the friendly community spirit.

From here, you can choose to walk the path back to Tenby or catch the bus from the Arcade bus stop.

Coastal Walks on the Pembrokeshire Coast

6. Stackpole Head

Start at: Stackpole Quay car park, SA71 4HH

Length: 5 miles

This walk along the stunning Pembrokeshire coastline promises a seamless blend of blue sea, sandy beaches, lush grasslands and lily ponds, all of which are complemented by the region’s endearing wildlife.

After climbing the steps from the car park, take a moment to admire the views overlooking the Stackpole Quay, as well as the old Red Stone which is found to your left.

Continue along the Barafundle coastal path and walk along the beach before entering the tranquil woodland. From here, pause to soak up the South Welsh coastline from Stackpole Head where during the spring months you can often catch glimpses of breeding seabirds, including guillemot chough and peregrine falcons.

For those wishing to explore further, walk along the expanse of Stackpole Warrens grassland before stopping off at Bosherston Causeway. Here, you will be rewarded by the picture postcard lily ponds, a perfect spot for a picnic before crossing the Eight Arch Bridge.

7. St Davids Head

Start at: Whitesands car park, SA62 6PS

Length: 3 miles

You will begin this South Wales coastal walk at the “Jewel in the Crown of North Pembrokeshire”, Whitesands Bay beach. As you and your loved ones explore this path, look forward to admiring the magnificence of St David’s Head which has been forged by volcanic rock.

After parking up at the beach car park, follow the National Trust sign to discover the crest of the hill where views of Carreg Coetan Arthur can be enjoyed.

The geology of this area is truly highlighted by Carn Llidi and the rocky islands of Ramsey, Bishops and Clerks. For those feeling slightly more adventurous, scramble up Carn Llidi to discover further, far-reaching views of this spectacular coastline.

During the highest point of the walk, the peak of Pen Beri, you will be met with views of Cardigan Bay in the distance. From here, follow the descending path to re-join the coastal path and head towards St David’s Head. You can also join the Pembrokeshire Coast path to Newgale which is considered one of the best walks in the UK!

If you are looking for somewhere to rest your head whilst exploring these superb coastal walks, have a browse of our selection of South Wales holiday cottages. Don’t forget to share your coastal snaps by tagging us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram!

Image Credits: Stewart Black – (CC BY 2.0)