Wales Beach Holidays - Whitesands Beach

Beach Holidays in Wales: Top Destinations

12 November 2025

When it comes to Wales beach holidays, few things beat the clean, golden sands of a Blue Flag beach. These award-winning beaches guarantee pristine water, excellent safety and first-class facilities — perfect for families, couples, and anyone craving a seaside escape.

And with so many beautiful Wales cottages by the sea to choose from, you can wake up to the sound of the waves and spend your days exploring some of Britain’s most spectacular coastal scenery. From the island beauty of Anglesey to the charm of Tenby and the surf-ready bays of Swansea, here are the best destinations for a Wales coastal cottage getaway.

Abersoch Beach in North Wales

North Wales – Abersoch & Aberdovey

Abersoch

Located on the gorgeous Llŷn Peninsula, Abersoch is one of the best-known resorts in North Wales and a highlight of any Wales beach holiday. Its Blue Flag main beach is a sheltered bay with golden sand and shallow waters, ideal for swimming and paddle-boarding.

Boutique shops, beach cafés and a lively sailing scene give Abersoch a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere.

Stay nearby: Choose from modern apartments and traditional Abersoch cottages by the sea, many within a short walk of the beach — perfect for sunrise swims or evening strolls along the shore.

Aberdovey sea view cottage

Aberdovey (Aberdyfi)

A short drive south, Aberdovey sits where Snowdonia’s mountains meet the sea. Its vast sandy beach stretches along the Dyfi Estuary, perfect for long walks, beach picnics and water-sports.

This peaceful village is known for its colourful cottages, seafood restaurants and welcoming, laid-back feel.

Stay nearby: Here you’ll find a lovely range of self-catering Aberdovey cottages, from cosy harbour-view homes to family houses just steps from the sand.

Whitesands Beach in Pembrokeshire

West Wales – Pembrokeshire & Tenby

Pembrokeshire

For breathtaking coastal scenery, Pembrokeshire is unbeatable. Home to more Blue Flag beaches than anywhere else in Wales — including Whitesands, Newgale, and Broad Haven — it’s a paradise for walkers, swimmers, and adventure-seekers alike.

Spend your days exploring the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, kayaking under sea cliffs, or relaxing on beaches with water so clear it rivals the Mediterranean.

Stay nearby: The Pembrokeshire coastal cottages listed with us range from cliff-top retreats with sea views to charming stone cottages near hidden coves. Many properties are dog-friendly and offer direct access to the coast path.

Tenby seafront apartment with sea views

Tenby

If there’s one place that perfectly captures the spirit of the Welsh seaside, it’s Tenby. This iconic town boasts three Blue Flag beaches — North, South and Castle — each with golden sands, clear waters and unforgettable views.

Spend your mornings exploring the medieval walls, your afternoons swimming in the bay, and your evenings dining on fresh seafood overlooking the harbour.

Stay nearby: The Tenby sea view cottages listed with us are ideal for couples and families. Choose a colourful townhouse near the harbour or a luxury apartment with panoramic sea views — all within walking distance of the beach.

Anglesey cottage with sea views and beach access

Anglesey

Cross the Menai Strait and you’ll find the tranquil island of Anglesey (Ynys Môn) — home to some of Wales’s most beautiful Blue Flag beaches.

Benllech Beach is a family favourite with soft sands and shallow waters, while Trearddur Bay and Llanddona Beach offer great swimming, rock pools and fantastic coastal walks.

Anglesey is also a wildlife haven, with puffins, seals and dolphins often spotted along its 125-mile coastal path.

Stay nearby: Anglesey offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit everyone — from luxury seaside lodges with hot tubs to traditional cottages overlooking the Irish Sea. Many properties are just a few minutes’ walk from the sand.

Rhossili Bay and beach on the Gower peninsula

South Wales – Swansea & The Gower Peninsula

Just west of Swansea lies the Gower Peninsula, Britain’s first designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty — and home to some truly spectacular Blue Flag beaches.

Caswell Bay, Langland Bay, and Port Eynon all hold Blue Flag status, offering clean water, family-friendly facilities and superb surf conditions.

Langland’s colourful beach huts and cafés make it a lively spot for families, while Port Eynon offers a more peaceful village feel — perfect for walking and exploring the dramatic coastline towards Rhossili Bay.

Stay nearby: The Gower and Swansea Bay region offers a great mix of South Wales cottages by the sea, from chic coastal apartments to cosy stone cottages surrounded by countryside. Many boast incredible ocean views and easy beach access.

Anglesey Beach North West of Trearddur Bay

Why Choose a Blue Flag Beach in Wales?

A Wales beach holiday on a Blue Flag beach gives you peace of mind — safe swimming areas, clean water, and facilities that make life easy for families. These beaches are also some of the most scenic in the UK, offering rugged cliffs, dunes, and sparkling bays.

For couples, they’re romantic and peaceful; for families, they’re fun and safe; and for groups, they’re ideal for surfing, kayaking and exploring the coast.

Choosing one of our Wales coastal cottages means you can enjoy it all from your doorstep – morning dips, lazy lunches on the patio, and sunset walks along award-winning beaches.

Broad Haven beach view from cliff top

Tips for Planning Your Wales Beach Holiday

  • Book early: Blue Flag beaches are in high demand during summer. Secure your Wales coastal cottage early for the best choice.
  • Be prepared: Pack layers, beach shoes and waterproofs — Welsh weather can change quickly.
  • Try something new: Many beaches offer surf lessons, coasteering and kayaking tours.
  • Support local: Visit seaside cafés, markets and restaurants serving fresh Welsh produce.
  • Respect the coast: Help protect Blue Flag beaches by recycling and leaving only footprints.
Benllech beach on the island of Anglesey in North Wales

Find Your Perfect Coastal Escape

From the vibrant shores of Swansea Bay to the peaceful coves of Anglesey, Wales offers a coastline full of character and charm. Each Blue Flag beach promises clean seas, natural beauty, and unforgettable days in the fresh coastal air.

Whether you’re planning a short break or a week-long escape, you’ll find your dream stay among our hand-picked selection of Wales cottages by the sea.

Start planning your next Wales beach holiday today with Beach Stays – where the best Wales coastal cottages meet the country’s most beautiful Blue Flag beaches.