A Guide to Family Beach Adventures Near Penrhos Park

Staying at Penrhos Park puts you in prime position to explore some of West Wales’ most beautiful and family-friendly beaches. From sweeping sandy shores perfect for sandcastles to charming coves ideal for rockpooling, there’s a coastal gem waiting for every family adventure.

Here’s our spotlight on the best beaches near Penrhos Park for a memorable family day out:

1. New Quay: A Dolphin Hotspot with Family Favourites

Just a short drive south from Penrhos Park, the charming harbour town of New Quay is a must-visit for families.

• Harbour Beach (Blue Flag): This is New Quay’s main beach, and it’s a real winner for families. Tucked below the village and sheltered by the harbour wall, it boasts soft, fine sand and clean, clear water with a designated safe swimming area. It’s perfect for building sandcastles, paddling, and enjoying the lively atmosphere.

• Dolau Beach (Seaside Award): Located just to the west of the harbour, Dolau Beach is another fantastic sandy option, also a Seaside Award winner. It offers gentle slopes into the water and rocky areas for kids to explore. Plus, it’s dog-friendly all year round!

• What makes it great for families? New Quay is famous for its resident bottlenose dolphins, and boat trips from the harbour offer an exciting chance to spot them. The town itself has plenty of amenities, including shops, cafes, and places to grab a delicious ice cream or fish and chips.

  
  

2. Aberaeron: Picturesque Harbour and Pebble Shores

A delightful Regency town with colourful buildings, Aberaeron offers a unique coastal experience.

• Aberaeron South Beach (Seaside Award): While primarily a shingle beach, particularly at high tide, Aberaeron South Beach still offers a pleasant place to relax and enjoy the sea. At low tide, the shingle gives way to some sand, and it’s a popular spot for experienced surfers and bodyboarders further out.

• What makes it great for families? The charm of Aberaeron lies in its picturesque harbour and friendly atmosphere. Kids will love crabbing off the harbour wall, and there are plenty of cafes and shops just a stone’s throw from the beach. The promenade is perfect for a stroll, and the town regularly hosts events.

  
  

3. Borth Beach: Miles of Golden Sand

Heading north from Penrhos Park, Borth offers a vast expanse of sand that’s a true playground for families.

• Borth Beach (Blue Flag & Seaside Award): At low tide, Borth reveals almost three miles of golden sand, making it incredibly spacious for all sorts of beach activities. The shallow waters are ideal for paddling and safe swimming, and lifeguards are on duty during the summer season (July to September).

• What makes it great for families? There’s ample room for everyone, whether you want to run, play games, or simply relax. It’s also known for its ancient submerged forest, which can be seen at very low tides – a fascinating natural wonder!

  
  

4. Llanrhystud Beach: A Local Gem

Just a few miles from Penrhos Park, Llanrhystud offers a more relaxed beach experience.

• Llanrhystud Beach (Green Coast Award): This popular beach features a long bank of pebbles, which gives way to sand at low tide. It’s a great spot for a quieter day by the sea and offers beautiful coastal views.

• What makes it great for families? While it might not have the extensive facilities of larger resorts, its proximity to Penrhos Park makes it a convenient choice for a quick beach trip. It’s a good spot for walks and enjoying the natural beauty of the Ceredigion coastline.

  
  

5. Other Worthy Mentions Further Afield:

If you're happy to venture a little further for a specific beach experience, consider these:

• Llangrannog: A charming village with sandy beaches divided by a distinctive rock formation. Popular with families and surfers, with cafes and pubs overlooking the beach. Lifeguards are on duty in summer.

• Tresaith: Another Blue Flag sandy beach known for its beautiful waterfall cascading onto the shore. Great for swimming, surfing, and rockpooling, with facilities including toilets, a café, and a pub.

• Penbryn: A National Trust beach offering a mile of soft sand at low tide, sheltered by wooded slopes. It’s less developed, providing a more natural experience, with rockpools and a smuggler’s cave to explore. There’s a café and toilets at the car park.

• Mwnt: An idyllic, secluded cove with sweeping views and a sheltered sandy beach reached by steps. Famous for dolphin spotting, it has basic facilities like an ice-cream kiosk and toilets at the car park.

  
  

Essential Tips for Your Family Beach Day:

• Check the Tides: For sandy stretches and rockpooling opportunities, always check the tide times before you go.

• Pack Essentials: Sunscreen, hats, towels, snacks, drinks, and beach toys are a must!

• Facilities: While many popular beaches have toilets and cafes, some of the smaller coves may have limited or no facilities, so plan accordingly.

• Lifeguards: If swimming is a priority, opt for beaches with lifeguard patrols during the summer season.

• Dog Restrictions: Be aware that many beaches have seasonal dog restrictions, especially on main sections during peak summer months. Always check local signage.

  
  

With such a diverse range of stunning beaches within easy reach, your family holiday at Penrhos Park is sure to be filled with unforgettable seaside fun!