10 Best Surf Beaches in Wales

Wales is probably one of the best surfing meccas in the United Kingdom. It has many wild bays that are pounded by the Atlantic so you will be spoilt for choice when it comes to surfing beaches. The best news is that because there are so many of these surf beaches none of them get overcrowded so there are no line ups when it comes to catching that perfect wave.

Here’s a list of our 10 best surfing beaches in Wales starting in the Gower Peninsula, moving north to Pembrokeshire and finally up into North Wales.

Petes Reef

Petes Reef on the Gower Peninsular is famous for its perfect curled waves and consistent breaks in both directions. This beach is not for the faint hearted and should only be attempted by the more advanced surfer due to the number of rocks on the reef. However, every surfer should go there just to experience these waves be it as a spectator or a lucky wave rider.

Llangennith Beach

Llangennith Beach is one of the most popular beaches on the Gower Peninsula to surf, yet still isn’t crowded like many of the popular surf spots are in Cornwall. Thanks to its enormous size, there is more than enough space for all levels of surfers. In fact, each zone of this two-mile-long beach caters for a different level of expertise from beginners to experts, with gentle waves stretching to the west end of the beach. Spectators will appreciate the incredible views over Worms Head and the tidal island of Penryhn Gwyr.

Caswell Bay

Caswell Bay is the ideal place for the less experienced or younger surfers to hone their skills. You will find that there are several different sized waves to choose from at different times of the day, depending on the tide and the direction of the swell. Caswell is safe and has very little rip current.

Llantwit Major Beach

The most experienced surfers who want a challenge should head to Llantwit Major beach. This beach has a right-hand point break, making it highly favourable with the Surfing Federation for its competitions. There is a reef and a rip tide here so only the very confident should attempt it, or you can come and watch the pros here before settling for one of the less intense beaches.

Freshwater Beach

Freshwater Beach in Pembrokeshire is the home of the Welsh National Surfing Championships. Even so, if you're not an expert don’t be put off because there are all levels of surfers here, from beginners to the surfing elite. This is an incredibly beautiful part of the coast, lined with dramatic cliffs, which provide a spectacular backdrop to an amazing surfing experience.

Manorbier Beach

Manorbier Beach is another fabulous surfing beach in Pembrokeshire. The waves here are clean and reliable and perfect for all levels depending on which tide you choose. At high tide the waves can reach three and a half metres, which is perfect for the advanced level, while at low tide the swell is perfect for the newbies.

Newgale Beach 

The favourite beach in Pembrokeshire must be Newgale Beach, which lies at the furthest end of St Brides Bay. It is two miles long and has a gentle slope, making it suitable for all levels of surfers, especially in the summer when the ocean is calmer.

Whitesands Bay

Whitesands Bay is officially the beach that serves St Davids in Pembrokeshire. The winds on this beach are sheltered to some extent by Ramsey Island, which creates very favourable conditions, especially for the beginners. Waves can reach well over three and a half meters in height but if that sounds overwhelming make sure you arrive at mid tide and enjoy the gentler waves. Onlookers will enjoy the fabulous views across the bay from the Pembrokeshire Coastal Path just above the beach. 

Cardigan Bay

Port Neigwl Beach is also known as Hells Mouth and is well known for its big waves. This is a great spot for those who want to get away from the crowds in the North Wales resorts and the shore enjoys a gentle shelving, which makes it relatively safe for newbies on low swell days.

Rhosneigr Beach

Rhosneigr Beach in Anglesey is one of the best surfer beaches in North Wales thanks to its reliable waves all year round. The swell never gets very high, but surfers will enjoy its consistent breaks which often come in both directions.