10 of the best Cardigan Bay beaches

Beaches

Posted by Clare Willcocks on 16th April 2024

View of Mwnt Beach from the cliffs, showing the sand and houses lining the beach.

A vast portion of the West Wales coast overlooks Cardigan Bay, a broad, arching inlet which harbours numerous delights, including leaping dolphins, a few islands, wonderful stretches of coast path, lots of things to do and, the reason you’re here, an abundance of beautiful Welsh beaches.

Read on to discover the best dog-friendly beaches in Cardigan Bay, the best beaches to visit with family and the top beaches near New Quay, Aberystwyth, Cardigan and the other important towns of Ceredigion.

Fill up the car with buckets, spades, swimming gear and towels, and buckle up while we take you on a whistle-stop tour of the best Cardigan Bay beaches. And if you’re looking for somewhere lovely to stay, have a browse of our Cardigan Bay cottages.

Cardigan Bay cottages


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Three photos of Mwnt Beach: the steep steps down the rocks, the square-shaped beach from above, and a drone view of the beach and surrounding cliffs on a sunny day

Mwnt Beach

Beautiful and sheltered, Mwnt is one of the most picturesque beaches in Cardigan Bay. Owned by the National Trust, it’s a renowned dolphin-spotting location, so keep your eyes trained on the dazzling blue water and you might be lucky enough to spot tell-tale dorsal fins breaching the waves.

Steep grassy cliffs surround the beach, meaning the only access is via a set of steep steps. Despite being off the beaten track and requiring some effort to reach, it remains popular with families, who find it a haven for sandcastle building and splashing about in the summer months.

Good to know

  • Location: SA43 1QH
  • Type of beach: Sand
  • Facilities: Cafe open February half-term–October half-term; car park; WC. Access to beach via a series of steep steps.
  • Dogs: Restrictions apply May–September
  • Lifeguards: No

Drone view of Gwbert Beach on a sunny day, with turquoise water and surrounded by fields

Gwbert Beach

Gwbert (pronounced goo-bert), also known as Gwbert-on-Sea, is a village which harbours several small beaches near Cardigan, making it a pleasant spot for a beach-hopping day trip. The small village overlooks the coast, and offers up three secluded beaches: Morgan’s, Cowley and Evelyn’s coves.

The largest of these, Morgan’s Cove, is furthest from the village and is modest and sandy, surrounded by dramatic shale cliffs, down which a set of carved stone steps provide the only land access. Evelyn’s is closest to the village – a pebble cove which is often overlooked in favour of the other two Gwbert beaches, the last of which, Cowley, is located between Evelyn’s and Morgan’s. Cowley is a sandy inlet carved into the cliffs, again accessed via steep steps.

This trio of Gwbert beaches is perfect for those who like their seaside escapes more on the rugged and remote end of the spectrum. Their relatively tricky access means that they’re not overrun and can be counted among the many dog-friendly beaches in Cardigan Bay.

There is also another beach that is sometimes referred to as Gwbert Beach or Patch Beach. This is a stretch of sand along the estuary to the south of the village, close to the yacht club. While it’s not a bucket-and-spade beach, it is good for water sports, fishing and birdwatching. It is more easily accessible than the other Gwbert beaches due to being able to drive onto the beach and park along the top edge (careful when the tide is in!).

Good to know

  • Location: SA43 1PR
  • Type of beach: Sand and rock
  • Facilities: None on the beaches. Limited roadside parking for Morgan’s, Cowley and Evelyn’s, or park and walk from the Viewpoint car park. Parking available on Patch Beach. Lunch and dinner available at The Cliff Hotel.
  • Dogs: Allowed all year round on all mentioned beaches
  • Lifeguards: No

Holiday cottages in Gwbert


Three photos: Children happily running away from the gentle waves; an aerial view of Aberporth's two beaches, split by the headland; and a view of the beach, with pools and foliage to the right

Aberporth beaches

Dyffryn and Dolwyn are Aberporth’s two beaches, which would be a single stretch if it weren’t for the stubby headland that chops it in two. At low tide, the two beaches become one, allowing children (and inquisitive adults) to explore the rock pools which are revealed as the tide recedes.

The beaches are sheltered, and as such are ideal for trying your hand at surfing, stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking, as well as taking a refreshing swim. Like many beaches in Cardigan Bay, you may be able to spot dolphins frolicking off the coast here.

Good to know

  • Location: SA43 2DD
  • Type of beach: Sandy
  • Facilities: Public WCs in beach car park on headland, cafes, pub and village amenities
  • Dogs: Dyffryn – allowed all year round, Dolwyn – restrictions apply May–September 
  • Lifeguards: Yes, check patrol times

Holiday cottages in Aberporth


A waterfall cascading down the water-worn rocks to one end of Tresaith Beach, with the sea and a rocky outcrop in the distance.

Tresaith Beach

Tresaith Beach lies to the east of Aberporth, overlooked by a little village with a pub perfect for a late lunch after a sunny morning on the sand. The small sandy bay is bordered by cliffs, with rocks on both sides providing plenty of scope for rock pooling. A small waterfall cascading down the cliffs adds interest; the beach makes a pleasant stop on a walk along the coast path. If you time your visit right, you can walk all the way along the beach at low tide to neighbouring Penbryn Beach.

Swimmers, surfers, sailors and windsurfers make the most of Tresaith’s scenic location, with seasonal lifeguards making it a safe and enjoyable place to enjoy with your family. Temporary membership is available for visiting sailors at Tresaith Mariners Sailing Club, a well-established club with regular events.

Good to know

  • Location: SA43 2JL
  • Type of beach: Sandy
  • Facilities: Public WCs, pub, cafe, shop, sailing club, limited parking on beachfront, public car park at top of village
  • Dogs: Restrictions apply May–September 
  • Lifeguards: Yes, check patrol times

Holiday cottages in Tresaith


Three photos: Boats in the estuary near Poppit Sands; a view out to sea at sunset; and Poppit Sands Beach with rocks in the foreground.

Poppit Sands

If you’re looking for beaches near Cardigan, Poppit Sands is a good bet. Just 3 miles out of the town, lying on the Teifi Estuary, the attractive sandy beach is backed by dunes. It offers plenty of space for relaxed beach days, particularly at low tide when the sea recedes into the distance.

It’s good to know that Poppit Sands marks the start of the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, so if you feel inclined to embark on the 186-mile seaside ramble, you can set off from here on the first stretch towards Newport.

Good to know

  • Location: SA43 3LR
  • Type of beach: Sandy
  • Facilities: WCs, cafe, beach car park, RNLI shop
  • Dogs: Allowed all year round on some of the beach, restrictions apply on the western end May–September
  • Lifeguards: Yes, check patrol times

Holiday cottages in Cardigan


Pretty view of Llangrannog Beach, backed by houses with a green rounded hill and woodland in the background.

Llangrannog Beach

Llangrannog is one of the best beaches in Cardigan Bay for a scenic escape. The little village comes alive in summer, with cafes, shops and pubs offering options for beach snacks or something a little more filling. The seasonally lifeguarded beach is a favourite for families, with a sandy expanse ideal for pitching up with picnic blankets for a day of traditional seaside fun.

If you fancy stretching your legs, the coast path links Llangrannog with neighbouring Cilborth Beach, which can also be accessed via the sand when the tide is out. Walk further still, out onto the dazzling peninsula of Ynys Lochtyn and you may spot the resident seal colony.

Good to know

  • Location: SA44 6SN 
  • Type of beach: Sandy
  • Facilities: WCs, cafes, pubs, public car park
  • Dogs: Allowed all year round on some of the beach, restrictions apply west of the stream May–September
  • Lifeguards: Yes, check patrol times

Holiday cottages in Llangrannog


Three photos of Aberaeron: an aerial view showing the harbour and beaches either side; and two photos of the groins, taken on the two beaches.

Aberaeron beaches

There are two beaches in Aberaeron to choose from – North Beach and South Beach – separated by the harbour inlet. A series of groynes runs along both beaches, which are rugged expanses of shingle and rock: great playgrounds for rock pooling and seaside adventures with kids who don’t like to sit still.

Aberaeron South Beach is generally considered to be the best for a beach day, and offers a good vantage point from which to spot dolphins and porpoises. The exposed beach is popular among experienced surfers and can get busy when the conditions are ripe. North Beach is backed by a pleasant promenade – a lovely spot for a walk, whatever the season.

Good to know

  • Location: SA46 0BE
  • Type of beach: Shingle and rock
  • Facilities: WCs, cafes, pubs, shops, yacht club and public car parks
  • Dogs: Allowed all year round on North Beach and some of South Beach, restrictions apply between the Harbour Walls and the groyne to the south of Beach Parade May–September
  • Lifeguards: No

Aerian view of New Quay, showing Harbour Beach and Dolau.

New Quay beaches

If you’re looking for beaches near New Quay, Wales, you’ll be spoilt for choice with three beautiful options, all of which have their own distinct qualities. If sunbathing with the family is on the cards, make a beeline for Harbour Beach, where boats bob in the clear water and its sheltered location makes it a haven for swimming.

West of the harbour wall is Dolau, a modest beach which is a great spot for anyone researching dog-friendly beaches in Cardigan Bay. A favourite for dog walkers, it’s a stone’s throw from the town, making it perfect for morning walkies if you’re staying nearby. The final beach of New Quay’s trio is Traeth Gwyn. Vast and rugged, a romp along the whole stretch makes for a lovely long dog walk, but the tide can come right in when it’s high, so keep your wits about you.

Good to know

  • Location: SA45 9PS 
  • Type of beach: Harbour Beach – sandy, Dolau – shingle, sand and rock, Traeth Gwyn – sandy
  • Facilities: WCs, cafes, pubs, shops, yacht club and public car parks
  • Dogs: Allowed all year round on Dolau and Traeth Gwyn, restrictions apply on Harbour Beach May–September
  • Lifeguards: Yes, on Harbour Beach, check patrol times

Three photos: Narrow channel between cliffs looking out of Cwmtydu Beach; a mother and son looking at stones; a view of the cliffs around Cwmtydu Beach.

Cwmtydu Beach

Also known as Seals Bay, Cwmtydu is a picturesque cove with an intriguing history. The cliffs, with their hidden caves, were once hideouts for smugglers and their loot of brandy and salt. Nowadays, the beach harbours a treasure of a different kind: grey seals which often rest on the beach or stay there with their pups during breeding season from August to December.

Cwmtydu lies to the southwest of New Quay, making it a lovely place for a trip out of the town. Take a walk along the National Trust-owned trail at the top of the cliffs and keep an eye out for the restored lime kiln – a vestige of a more honest industry than the aforementioned smuggling! A stream runs down to the sea on the west side of the beach, adding even more interest.

Good to know

  • Location: SA44 6LQ
  • Type of beach: Shingle
  • Facilities: WCs within 200 metres of the beach, public car park alongside the beach
  • Dogs: Allowed all year round
  • Lifeguards: No

A dog waiting for a ball to be thrown on a shingle beach.

Cwm Silio Beach

Cwm Silio Beach is also known as Traeth Soden. The most remote beach on our list of beaches in Cardigan Bay, it is accessible via a woodland walk through the valley or along the cliff path from Cwmtydu Cove. Either side of the beach are cliffs topped with greenery, which paired with its peaceful seclusion, give it a desert island feel.

Traversing the beach is a little stream, which sometimes forms a pool. The coast path stretches out along the cliffs in either direction. Pick the route west and soon you’ll come across Castell Bach Bay, a scenic spot with folded strata cliffs and an interesting rocky knoll.

Good to know

  • Location: SA44 6LH
  • Type of beach: Sand and shingle
  • Facilities: None
  • Dogs: Allowed all year round
  • Lifeguards: No

Map of the best beaches in Cardigan Bay

Find all of the above beaches with the help of our handy map.

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Stay in Cardigan Bay

With a plethora of Ceredigion beaches to choose from, stretching all along the coast of Cardigan Bay, there is no end of new places to explore and you’ll find some of the best dog-friendly beaches in Wales here. Off-the-beaten track coves and popular family beaches are reflected in the variety of properties we have to offer in the area, from cosy enclaves tucked away in peaceful spots, to large family homes where you can invite all the clan. Discover all of our Cardigan Bay cottages via the link below.

Cardigan Bay cottages

Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing, please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.