Coastal Walks in Wales

Wales might be small in size, but its 870-mile coastline packs in an extraordinary variety of landscapes—from limestone cliffs and sweeping beaches to ancient woodlands and flower-rich grasslands. The Wales Coast Path, completed in 2012, made Wales the first country in the world to have a dedicated footpath along its entire coastline. This remarkable achievement has opened up countless opportunities for walkers to experience some of the UK's most spectacular coastal scenery.

Pembrokeshire Coast Path: The Crown Jewel

Often rated among the world's finest long-distance trails, the 186-mile Pembrokeshire Coast Path winds through Britain's only coastal national park.

St. Davids Peninsula Circuit

This 10-mile circular walk takes you around Britain's smallest city (really a village with a magnificent cathedral). Starting from St. Davids, follow the path to St. Justinian's lifeboat station, then along dramatic cliffs with views to Ramsey Island. Continue past the hidden beach at Porthselau to Whitesands Bay, one of Wales' finest beaches. The return leg crosses prehistoric fields with evidence of Iron Age settlements. Look out for seals in the autumn and a wealth of seabirds including choughs, fulmars, and peregrine falcons throughout the year.

Stackpole and Barafundle Bay

Often voted one of Britain's most beautiful beaches, Barafundle Bay is accessible only on foot. This 6-mile circular walk begins at Stackpole Quay, following the coast path past the perfect golden arc of Barafundle, framed by dunes and pine trees. Continue to Broad Haven South beach, then loop around the Bosherston Lily Ponds, a series of scenic lakes created in the 18th century and now teeming with wildlife. The variety of landscapes on this walk is remarkable, from rugged cliffs to pristine beaches and calm, lily-covered waters—all within a relatively short distance.

Marloes Peninsula

For a wilder experience, this 5-mile circuit around the Marloes Peninsula offers spectacular cliff scenery and views to Skomer Island, famous for its puffin colony (April to July). The walk takes you past dramatic rock formations like Gateholm Island, accessible at low tide, and Jack Sound, a treacherous stretch of water with powerful currents. The beach at Marloes Sands featured in the film "Snow White and the Huntsman" and offers fascinating geological formations and rock pools at low tide.

Gower Peninsula: Britain's First Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

Designated in 1956, the Gower Peninsula west of Swansea was Britain's first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Its compact size (19 miles long) means you can experience diverse coastal landscapes in relatively short walks.

Rhossili and Worm's Head

Perhaps Wales' most iconic coastal view, Rhossili Bay is a three-mile sweep of golden sand backed by green downs. This 5-mile route follows the headland providing stunning views along the beach to the tidal island of Worm's Head. Named by Vikings (Wurm means "dragon" or "serpent"), this snake-like promontory can be crossed at low tide only—check tide times carefully at the visitor center, as being stranded is a real risk. The walk includes the remains of a 13th-century church and offers spectacular wildflower displays in spring and early summer, with the downs transformed by bluebells, yellow gorse, and pink thrift.

Three Cliffs Bay

This 4-mile circular walk takes in one of Britain's most photogenic beaches, where three limestone cliffs frame a perfect bay with a river flowing across the sand. Start from Southgate, following the coast path to the ruins of Pennard Castle, with its commanding views over the bay. Descend to Three Cliffs and cross the river (check tide times) before climbing back up through Pennard Burrows, a network of sand dunes rich in wildflowers and butterflies. The combination of castle ruins, river, sand dunes, and distinctive cliff formations makes this a perfect introduction to Gower's diverse landscapes.

Anglesey Coastal Path: Island Adventure

Circling Wales' largest island, the 130-mile Anglesey Coastal Path (part of the Wales Coast Path) offers more gentle walking than Pembrokeshire but with equally stunning views.

South Stack and Holyhead Mountain

This 5-mile route on Holy Island combines spectacular sea cliffs with panoramic mountain views. Starting from the RSPB reserve at South Stack, admire the dramatic lighthouse built on a tiny island accessed by 400 steps cut into the cliff. The cliffs here are home to thousands of seabirds—guillemots, razorbills, and puffins nest here in summer. Continue along the coast before turning inland to climb Holyhead Mountain (220m), where on clear days you can see the Isle of Man, the Wicklow Mountains in Ireland, and the Lake District. The route passes prehistoric hut circles and the remains of an ancient Roman watchtower.

Newborough Warren and Llanddwyn Island

This 7-mile route explores one of Britain's largest sand dune systems before reaching the magical Llanddwyn Island. Start at Newborough Forest, following paths through pine woodland where red squirrels can sometimes be spotted. Emerge onto Newborough Beach with views across to Snowdonia's mountains. At low tide, follow the beach to Llanddwyn Island (not a true island as it remains connected at all but the highest tides). This narrow finger of land contains the ruins of St. Dwynwen's Church (patron saint of Welsh lovers), a lighthouse, pilot cottages, and crosses. The island's beauty is enhanced by its mythology—Dwynwen's story of lost love and devotion has made this a pilgrimage site for Welsh lovers for centuries.

Llŷn Peninsula: Where Mountains Meet the Sea

Stretching into the Irish Sea from northwest Wales, the Llŷn Peninsula offers dramatic walking where the mountains of Snowdonia seem to plunge directly into the sea.

Nefyn to Porthdinllaen

This easy 3-mile walk follows the coast to one of Wales' most distinctive villages. Starting from Nefyn, the route passes the dramatic golf course perched on a narrow headland before reaching Porthdinllaen, a National Trust-owned fishing village with houses built right on the beach. The famous Ty Coch Inn, voted one of the world's top ten beach bars, makes a perfect refreshment stop. The village has no road access, enhancing its timeless quality. Return along the beach at low tide or via the headland, with views across to Snowdonia and sometimes dolphins or porpoises in the bay.

Aberdaron and Bardsey Island View

This 6-mile circuit explores the westernmost tip of the Llŷn Peninsula, an area rich in spiritual heritage. Starting from the ancient pilgrim church at Aberdaron, follow the coast path as it climbs to Mynydd Mawr (the "Great Mountain"), with its spectacular views to Bardsey Island. Known as the "Island of 20,000 Saints," Bardsey was one of the most important pilgrimage sites in medieval Britain. The route passes a former coastguard lookout, now a bird observatory, where you can spot choughs, ravens, and migrating seabirds. The maritime heathland here erupts with heather and gorse in late summer, creating a purple and gold carpet against the blue sea backdrop.

Practical Advice for Welsh Coastal Walkers

Weather and Equipment

The Welsh weather is famously changeable. Even on sunny days, carry waterproofs, wear layers, and pack sun protection. Proper walking boots are essential for the more rugged sections of coast path. Always carry water and snacks, as facilities can be limited on remote stretches. A fully charged mobile phone is important for safety, but be aware that signal can be patchy in more remote coastal areas.

Tides and Safety

Many Welsh coastal walks involve beaches or headlands that are affected by tides. Research tide times before setting out, especially for walks including Worm's Head or Llanddwyn Island. The path sometimes diverts inland around estuaries at high tide, so check for alternative routes. Cliff edges can be unstable, particularly after heavy rain, so keep a safe distance—especially when taking photographs.

Public Transport

The Pembrokeshire Coast Path is well-served by the Puffin Shuttle and other seasonal bus services that allow for one-way walks. The Gower has regular bus services from Swansea, while Anglesey's buses tend to serve main towns rather than coastal areas. For the more remote sections of the Wales Coast Path, you may need to arrange transportation or plan circular routes.

Accessibility

While many sections of the Wales Coast Path involve steep climbs and rough terrain, others are suitable for those with limited mobility. The Millennium Coastal Path near Llanelli offers 13 miles of flat, wide paths with stunning views across the Gower Peninsula. Parts of the Anglesey Coastal Path near Beaumaris and the north coast of the Llŷn Peninsula also offer more accessible walking with spectacular views.

• Best Time to Visit: April to October offers the most reliable weather, with May and June ideal for wildflowers and birdwatching.
• Accommodation: Book ahead in coastal villages during summer months, as options are limited and demand is high.
• Navigation: While the Wales Coast Path is generally well-marked with distinctive dragon shell symbols, carrying OS maps or a reliable walking app is recommended for more remote sections.
• Wildlife Watching: Bring binoculars to spot seabirds, seals, and dolphins, which are frequently seen from the Welsh coast path.

Walking the Welsh coast offers an immersive way to experience the country's natural beauty, rich heritage, and distinctive culture. Whether you're tackling a challenging section of cliff-top path or enjoying a gentle stroll to a hidden cove, Wales' coastal landscapes provide some of the UK's most rewarding walking experiences. As the Welsh saying goes, "Cerddwch yn araf, gwelwch fwy" ("Walk slowly, see more")—sound advice for making the most of Wales' spectacular coastline.