Find the rocky coves, tiny sandy beaches and turquoise blue waters of your dreams; hidden places that are hard to access or little known, strung all along the glorious Welsh coastline
Wales has what no other country can claim – 870 miles of uninterrupted coastal path along its entire coastline, from Chepstow to a couple of miles outside Chester. Tucked within this expanse are around 150 beaches, many of which remain a well-guarded secret and require some perseverance to get to. But all have something worth discovering, from dramatic sea views and cliffside walks to suntrap coves ideal for basking on in balmy weather. At others you’ll find formidable waves and stretches of velvety sand that disappear at high tide. These are the unfiltered, rarely seen beaches of Wales.
WILDLIFE HOTSPOT CWMTYDU BEACH, NEAR NEW QUAY, CEREDIGION
Cwmtydu’s surroundings – cliffs, caves, and lime kiln remains – hint at its smuggling background and to a time when cargo ships unloaded heavy goods here. Today, it’s a nucleus for migrating birds, Atlantic grey seals, pearl-bordered fritillary butterflies, red kites, ponies, and glow worms that, at night, make the grass glimmer with green lights. Kayakers, paddle-boarders and anglers will likewise notice the active marine life, while sun worshippers will love it too.
TOP TIP: Bring binoculars to spot seals and dolphins.
WHERE TO STAY: Llainfran Fach (or farm) offers four B&B rooms, sea-view cottages and space for five touring caravans. llainfran.co.uk
SECLUSION GUARANTEED PORTH IAGO, LLYN PENINSULA
On the Llyn Peninsula – an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty – is the easily accessible and dog-friendly Porth Iago beach. Facing west and flanked by Dinas and Graig Ddu headlands, it’s ideal for enjoying the sun. The silky sand and turquoise water add a Mediterranean feel to watersports and fishing, but the vibe is wild and there are no toilets, lifeguard or shop. Above the beach is a pay-and-display car park – excellent for wild camping.
TOP TIP: Pack plenty of fluids and snacks before you go.
WHERE TO STAY: Book a classy pod for two at glampsite Glampio Coed. glampiocoed.com
SANDCASTLES AND SUNBATHING SCOTT’S BAY, CARMARTHEN, CARMARTHENSHIRE
Concealed behind Llansteffan Beach’s headland is the barely visited Scott’s Bay. Cut off from Llansteffan at high tide, the Wales Coastal Path leads from the Llansteffan car park, with its facilities and eateries, through woodland enveloped in wildflowers. On the beach, the River Taf trickles out to sea – excellent for paddling. Its mile
