Trusted source of coastal cottages for over 10 years
Professionally managed and regularly inspected
Book securely with the property manager
Wales has one of the most beautiful and varied coastlines in the UK. From sweeping sandy bays and rugged headlands to sheltered estuaries and charming seaside villages, it’s a destination where the scenery often rivals the food. Add a table by the window, the sound of waves or seabirds, and a menu built around local produce, and you have the recipe for an unforgettable coastal meal.
Whether you’re planning a short break, a special occasion, or simply want to build a seaside walk around a great lunch spot, this guide explores Wales’ best restaurants by the sea with a view. These are places where the setting is as much part of the experience as what’s on the plate. If you’re planning a self-catering escape to the region, then check out all the Wales seaside cottages listed with us.
The Beach House, Oxwich Bay
Often cited as one of Wales’ finest restaurants, The Beach House sits directly on Oxwich Bay, with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the sand and sea. The menu is refined but rooted in local produce, with seafood taking centre stage.
Dining here feels special without being stuffy, and timing your meal with the light changing over the bay is part of the magic. It’s a destination restaurant, so booking ahead is essential – especially if you want to enjoy the view at sunset.
Accommodation nearby: Mumbles seaside cottages >
The Secret Beach Bar & Kitchen, Swansea Bay
The Secret Beach Bar & Kitchen, Swansea Bay is a relaxed coastal eatery right on the sand, offering panoramic views of Swansea Bay and Mumbles Head. With a menu of fresh, seasonal dishes, locally sourced seafood and creative cocktails, it’s perfect for seaside lunches, sunset drinks or casual dinners.
Its laid-back vibe and unbeatable sea views make it a favourite with locals and visitors alike.
Accommodation nearby: Swansea seaside cottages >
The Shed Bistro, Porthgain
Porthgain is a tiny harbour village in Haverfordwest with big culinary appeal. The Shed Bistro, perched above the quay, offers wonderful views across the harbour and out to sea. The food is unfussy but beautifully executed, with a strong emphasis on local fish and shellfish.
It’s the kind of place where you can arrive in walking boots after a coastal hike and still feel perfectly at home. And if you are travelling with pets, check out our guide for the best dog friendly beaches in Pembrokeshire, your faithful hound will be glad you did!
Accommodation nearby: Pembrokeshire seaside cottages >
Lan y Môr Restaurant, Saundersfoot
The Lan y Môr Restaurant, Saundersfoot is a striking beachside restaurant set right on Coppet Hall Beach, offering panoramic views across Carmarthen Bay as the waves lap the sand below. Its modern, coastal-inspired menu celebrates Welsh produce – from fresh seafood and local meat to inventive small plates – all prepared with care and creativity.
With floor-to-ceiling windows and outdoor seating, it’s perfect for relaxed lunches, special dinners or sunset drinks by the sea.
Accommodation nearby: Saundersfoot seaside cottages >
Dylan’s, Criccieth
Dylan’s has become something of a Welsh coastal institution, and its Criccieth location is particularly scenic. Set right on the seafront, it looks out towards Criccieth Castle and across the bay.
The menu celebrates Welsh produce, from seafood to local cheeses and meats, all served in a relaxed, welcoming environment. It’s ideal for leisurely lunches or early evening meals as the light fades over the water.
Accommodation nearby: Abersoch seaside cottages >
The Ship Inn, Tresaith
The Ship Inn, Tresaith is a charming, traditional coastal pub nestled right on the edge of Tresaith Beach, where sea views and salty breezes are all part of the experience. Famous for its freshly caught seafood, hearty pub classics and welcoming atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot for a relaxed lunch or evening meal with views across Cardigan Bay.
With outdoor seating overlooking the waves and direct beach access, The Ship Inn combines seaside charm with great food and local character.
Accommodation nearby: Tresaith seaside cottages >
Dylan’s, Menai Bridge
Another Dylan’s standout, the Menai Bridge location sits right on the water overlooking the Menai Strait. From your table, you can watch boats drift past with views stretching towards Snowdonia’s peaks beyond.
The food mirrors the setting – welcoming, high-quality and proudly Welsh. It’s a brilliant place to linger, especially on a clear day when the mountains are reflected in the water.
Accommodation nearby: Anglesey seaside cottages >
The Oyster Catcher, Rhosneigr
Set near the dunes of Rhosneigr on Anglesey, The Oyster Catcher combines relaxed coastal dining with sea views and an airy, modern feel. It’s popular with surfers, walkers and families alike, offering hearty dishes and a laid-back atmosphere.
The views across the sands and towards the open sea make it a firm favourite for informal seaside meals.
Accommodation nearby: North Wales seaside cottages >
Langland’s Brasserie, Langland Bay
Overlooking one of Gower’s most popular beaches, Langland’s Brasserie offers elevated dining with uninterrupted sea views. It’s a versatile choice – great for brunch, lunch or dinner – and especially appealing for watching surfers and swimmers below.
The menu is varied, making it a reliable option for mixed groups who want good food with a great view.
Accommodation nearby: South Wales seaside cottages >
Verdi’s, Mumbles
A long-standing favourite, Verdi’s sits right on the promenade overlooking Swansea Bay. While known for its ice cream, it also offers casual meals, coffee and light bites, all best enjoyed while watching the tide and people stroll past.
It’s less about fine dining and more about soaking up the classic seaside atmosphere.
Accommodation nearby: Mumbles seaside cottages >
The Hive, Aberaeron
Although better known as a café, The Hive deserves a mention for its harbour views and focus on simple, local produce. It’s a lovely daytime stop for fresh seafood, cakes and coffee, with views across the water and the colourful Georgian houses nearby.
Accommodation nearby: Aberaeron seaside cottages >
The Ship, Aberporth
The Ship Bar & Grill is a highly-rated coastal pub and restaurant overlooking Dyffryn Beach in Aberporth. Renowned for spectacular sea views from its upstairs dining area and heated terrace, it offers a welcoming atmosphere for both locals and tourists.
The seasonal menu features locally sourced ingredients, specializing in fresh seafood, quality steaks, and varied vegan and gluten-free options. Dog-friendly in its traditional bar, the venue is a favorite for those walking the Ceredigion Coastal Path.
Accommodation nearby: Aberporth seaside cottages >
What Makes a Great Seaside Restaurant in Wales?
The best coastal restaurants in Wales tend to share a few key qualities:
-
A genuine connection to its location, often reflected in locally sourced ingredients
-
Views that enhance the meal, whether through large windows or outdoor terraces
-
Menus that suit the setting, from relaxed seafood lunches to special-occasion dinners
-
An atmosphere that invites you to linger, rather than rush
It’s not always about fine dining – sometimes a simple plate of fresh fish enjoyed with the sand between your toes is just as memorable.
Pairing Great Food with the Perfect Coastal Stay
One of the joys of dining by the sea is being able to walk back along the coast afterwards, or wake up the next morning to the same view you enjoyed over dinner. Staying nearby allows you to enjoy these restaurants without rushing, turning a great meal into part of a relaxed coastal break.
At Beach Stays, we specialise in coastal accommodation in some of the most scenic beach towns in Wales that puts you right by the sea – and close to some of Wales’ best seaside dining. Whether you’re planning a foodie-focused escape or simply want a memorable meal with a view, Wales delivers on every front.
From exposed clifftops to gentle bays, and from upmarket bistros to relaxed beachside cafe’s, Wales’ best restaurants by the sea prove that great food tastes even better with a view. To see more accommodation options listed with us, check out all of the Wales cottages by the sea, many that enjoy sea views and direct beach access.