28 best beaches in Wales and the cottages to book nearby

A large and tranquil beach with views across the River Towy to Ferryside, Llansteffan is a well-kept secret and offers soft sand to sit on and firm sand for building sandcastles (an essential for any younger beach goers). Use Llansteffan Castle, which looms above the beach, as your inspiration for building an epic sandcastle in this family-friendly location. The beach is covered with cockle shells and the rock pools are full of life, making this the perfect spot for exploring with little ones.

Where to stay: You can book this spacious four-bedroom holiday cottage beneath the ancient castles and overlooking the swirling sea. The interior is classic and comforting, with a contemporary kitchen and furnishings, plus a great games area for younger guests (or the young at heart) hidden away in the garage.

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A fabulous beach in Wales and home to the Afon Saith stream, which cascades over the cliff at the right-hand end it, Tresaith is a sandy stretch popular with locals and tourists alike for sailing, surfing and rock pooling. There's a cafe, a bucket-and-spade outlet and the Ship Inn, which serves up pub food and craft beers from the Brains brewery, as well as a guaranteed good-time atmosphere.

Where to stay: Splash out on a stay at amazing Edge House, a four-bedroom retreat with sea views, a short drive or walk from Tresaith. There's a clifftop hot tub from which to admire the views and perhaps enjoy a glass of something bubbly while you drink in the natural beauty.

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This seven-mile stretch of golden sand is the perfect spot for sunbathing, collecting shells and swimming. You'll find rock pools, dramatic walks along the Wales Coast Path and plenty of spots to lay your picnic blanket for an alfresco feast. It's also where Sir Malcolm Campbell set the world land speed record in the 1920s.

Where to stay: Cliff Haven is a two-bedroom apartment with a large balcony overlooking Pendine Sands. It's close to the beach, village pubs and restaurants, and offers all the modern essentials needed for a self-catering beach break.

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A lovely little south-west facing beach on Holy Island, Anglesey, Porth Dafarch has soft sands, rock pools and beautiful sunsets – what more could you ask for from the perfect Wales beach holiday? Those who are feeling adventurous can take to the path around the rocky headland, with Trearddur Bay beach, Rhoscolyn beach and the dramatic cliffs and RSPB reserve at South Stack lighthouse all nearby.

Where to stay: This beautiful white-washed cottage overlooks Porth Dafarch beach and Trearddur Bay with the hills of Snowdonia and the LLyn Peninsula on the horizon. There's space to sleep six in the three well-appointed and comfortable bedrooms.

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A wide expanse of fine white sand with Blue Flag status, this glorious Pembrokeshire beach is one of the best surfing spots not only in the area, but in the entire country. At the north end of Whitesands, there’s a rocky promontory to climb on and the quieter south end offers lovely sheltered bays.

Where to stay: Prospect Cottage is a lovely little spot for up to three people in the heart of St Davids, within easy reach of Whitesands (as well as Caerfai and the tranquil harbour of Porthclais). A great garden tops off the cosy cottage perfectly, where all can sleep peacefully in the double and single rooms.

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A former a smuggler's haunt, Llangrannog is now a family-friendly sheltered sandy cove at the mouth of a narrow valley. There's another beach that you can walk round to at low tide and for walkers, a wonderful circular walk that can be followed around the headland of Ynys Lochtyn. You'll find traditional pub food overlooking the sea and home-made ice cream at the beach cafe, too.

Where to stay: Driftwood Cottage is a delightful Airbnb located just a few minutes walk from LLangrannog’s two beaches. It has a cosy living and dining space with charming coastal touches, as well as two comfortable bedrooms (one double and one twin) that are perfect for family groups.

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No stranger to the best beaches in Wales lists, Rhossili Bay is three miles of dreamy sand and coastline on the Gower Peninsula that everyone, from walkers to watersports fans can appreciate. It's been voted the best beach in Britain and one of the 10 best in the world previously and never fails to impress, with its dramatic views and dog-friendliness. There's a steep walk down to it, which makes it unsuitable for pushchairs.

Where to stay: Go for something unlike anywhere else and check into Bunkershill, an amazing property for a group of 12 people (a bunk room makes a great spot for kids). It has glorious grounds with ponds, generous bedrooms and views over Mewslade Valley, the sea and even Devon in the distance. It's also a 25-minute walk to Rhossili Bay.

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Or experience the best of Gower from a cottage that sleeps six in Port Eynon, just 15 minutes away by car. There is well-sized kitchen and living areas, while outside a large, enclosed lawned garden with a patio area with outdoor furniture doubles up as a perfect playground for children and dogs as well as a scenic spot for al fresco dining (a charcoal BBQ is also available).

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Said to be a favourite spot of Catherine Zeta Jones, who owns a home overlooking the Mumbles' lighthouse with husband Michael Douglas, Bracelet Bay is one of Wales' most breathtaking beaches. There's a rocky shore, rock pools, a cave and a fossilised coral reef to explore while here. The beach boasts Blue Flag status and a seaside award – and is said to be where you can find some of the tastiest ice cream in the country.

Where to stay: Sea Mist Lodge, just a few minutes' walk away in Limeslade Bay, is a two-bedroom chalet with a hot tub, modern kitchen and enough space for four guests to base themselves during a seaside escape.

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Sheltered from prevailing winds and backed by sand dunes, Freshwater East Beach is one of the best beaches in Wales for all. Its dunes are known as the Burrows and are grazed by ponies in the winter. It's a very popular beach with families and children who can enjoy hunting for fossils and paddling in the stream that runs into the sea. The beach is also a great spot for sailing, fishing and windsurfing.

Where to stay: Annwyl is a charming beach chalet sleeping four people in a small holiday park opposite the coast. There's an open-plan lounge and kitchen, as well as two bedrooms and space for families to relax over dinner or a game of cards. Pembroke, with its array of shops, restaurants and the historic castle, is also nearby if you fancy a change of scene.

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This huge, peaceful beach is overlooked by mighty Harlech Castle, a World Heritage Site. A 440-metre path from the car park takes you to the beautiful sand dunes of Harlech Beach. A National Nature Reserve and Site of Special Scientific Interest, the beach is ideal for children to play and adults to sit back and relax. You'll find a shop, café and the Royal St David’s Golf Club, one of Britain’s finest links courses, nearby, ideal for anyone looking to work on their swing by the seaside.

Where to stay: Branwen, part of Harlech Apartments, is an apartment for two people offering impressive views of Harlech Castle, as well as the soothing image of the sea. Inside, it's stylish and the perfect spot for people watching.

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Looking for the best beach in North Wales? Llandudno's North Shore Beach is the seaside resort's most famous stretch, with its Victorian pier and wide promenade, but if you're after something without the crowds, head for West Shore Beach. Backed by dunes and showing off Llandudno's quieter side, this stunning Blue Flag beach offers a large expanse of sands and is famous for its sunsets.

Where to stay: Make it a big group getaway and check into a 10-person townhouse, with a wood burner, garden and hot tub to enjoy during nights of fun. This glam property is also just a short stroll from one of the best beaches in Wales, plus a good handful of independent pubs, restaurants and shops nearby.

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For the best beaches in South Wales, look no further than picturesque Tenby and the harbour town's North Beach. The unrivalled coastal spot is one of the most photographed locations in Wales thanks to its superb sand and Goscar Rock sticking out of the middle of it. A sun trap even on windy days, it has a Blue Flag for its water quality and is overlooked by the town of Tenby.

Where to stay: For a seriously impressive holiday cottage that sits right on North Beach, this modern apartment sleeps six and offers incredible views from various spaces. The lovely cobbled streets and quaint shops and traditional inns of Tenby are also within walking distance.

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This cliff-backed beach is another Tenby stretch that needs mentioning. Castle Beach can completely disappear at high tide but at low tide, it's an absolute delight to behold. The smallest of Tenby's three sandy beaches, it's just 150m wide and the cove is as scenic as they come, with the ancient ruins of Tenby Castle above it. Previously named the best beach in the UK, this one should be high on your list when it comes to the best sandy spots in Wales (and the world).

Where to stay: Try this lovely cottage that sits just a few minutes' walk away from Castle Beach (and a lovely selection of pubs and shops), which sleeps six and offers a cosy home from home.

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The very popular sandy beach of Saundersfoot is a favourite destination for families and has shallow water, ideal for swimming. A small seaside resort between Tenby and Amroth, Saundersfoot has a charm and character of its own. There's a busy harbour at the south end and a number of cafes, pubs, shops and restaurants nearby and along the beachfront.

Where to stay: Just a few metres from the beach is a two-person cottage (plus one dog allowed) for a romantic seaside escape in Wales. The detached cottage has pubs, restaurants and shops all within walking distance, plus plenty of lovely coastal trails to try.

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For something sleek and stylish, try this nine-person beach house with a hot tub. A short walk will get you to the sandy Glen beach, which adjoins the harbour in the centre of the village. There are also shops, pubs and restaurants.

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Sand dunes, mountains and a micro-climate, this glorious beach has it all. Located at the mouth of the Mawddach Estuary, in the south west corner of the Snowdonia National Park, Barmouth is another of the best beaches in North Wales to have on your list. There are often large waves that make it ideal for surfing and the sprawling beach never feels crowded, even during the busier months.

Where to stay: Take in the views from a lovely cottage that's close to the beach, harbour and restaurants. This one sleeps two and has everything you need for a beach break to Barmouth.

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A regular on the 'best beach' lists, Barafundle Bay offers all the wow factor you want from a trip to the seaside. It's backed by dunes and pine trees, with swathes of golden sand. It's often compared to beaches in the Caribbean and is pristine thanks to its isolated location. The Pembrokeshire beach has no facilities and parking is a half a mile walk over cliffs but it's worth it for taking all of this in.

Where to stay: Just a 10-minute drive from Barafundle Bay and close to another terrific Welsh Beach, Freshwater East, this cottage is homely, sleeps four and ideal for small families.

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Pretty Newport Sands is the perfect place for a family getaway, with plenty of rock pooling and crabbing competitions to keep younger ones entertained. This long, broad beach at the mouth of the River Nevern is a haven for grown-ups too, with dune-backed, sandy shores and plenty of space to explore at low tide.

Where to stay: Embrace the nautical theme with a stay in the beautifully restored Lightkeeper's Watch, a tiny but chic space with glorious views and its own private hot tub. The perfect space for two.

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This superb beach, located on the south-western tip of the island of Anglesey, is backed by Newborough National Nature Reserve and is known as one of the best beaches in North Wales. You'll find incredible views of Snowdonia National Park, with Llanddwyn Island located at the far end of the beach, which makes a great picnic spot.

Where to stay: Check into a former granary that has a unique location on a working vineyard in the south-west of Anglesey, around a 10-minute drive from Newborough Beach. It sleeps four, with two dogs allowed.

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A hidden gem on the western edge of Pembrokeshire, Marloes Sands is a wide, curved National Trust beach with amazing scenery and wildlife to explore. There's safe swimming and lovely coastal walks that start from the car park, plus you'll want to look out for seals and seabirds. The unique beach has sandstones and volcanic rocks for some of the most impressive geology around.

Where to stay: A short drive from Marloes Sands is a stylish three-bedroom beach Airbnb, finished with a minimalist Scandi-style aesthetic. The open-plan dining-living area is flooded with natural light and looks out onto the garden, which features a BBQ and raised sofa seating area.

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A gorgeous National Trust beach, Penbryn is one of the best beaches in Wales for its golden sand. It's almost a mile long and when the tide is low you can explore a cave at the right hand side. At very low tide there is a quiet beach you can access from the headland, but be sure to check the tide tables as there's no other way to leave the sandy cove.

Where to stay: The Granary Cottage is a stone cottage near the quaint village of Llangrannog near to Cardigan and offers stunning views of the sea. There's one bedroom, making it ideal for a solo or couples' escape.

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