As we wait for Boris Johnson to unveil the details of the government's traffic light system [1] for foreign travel this year, it's still unclear how much we will be able to travel in summer 2021. Under the current plan for easing lockdown restrictions, foreign trips are banned until 17 May; however, the government advises people not to book summer holidays abroad "until the picture is clearer" [2].
Regardless of the outcome, it doesn't mean you can't get some beach time this summer. If you're looking for the next best thing to Europe, you don't have to look very far. Wales, which those of us living in the UK will most likely be allowed to travel to from 12 April [3], is actually home to some of the best beaches in the world. No, the weather isn't nearly as reliable as it is in Ibiza, and yes, the water is slightly cooler, but if you love the beach as much as you claim to, it's easy to overlook these things: especially when you have a three-mile beach all to yourself (i.e. the total opposite of what you would have in Ibiza). The best part? You can reach them all by car [4].
So pack your bags, prep your Spotify playlist (or check out some of these great audiobooks [5]), and get ready to hit the road this summer. We've found 13 beaches in Wales that are just as good (if not better) than the most popular beaches in Spain.
Porthdinllaen, Gwynedd
Along the Llŷn Peninsula lies Porthdinllaen, a picturesque fishing village overlooking calm waters. A far better alternative than the overly commercial Costa de la Sol, this sleepy seaside village is the ultimate place to escape the crowds. Pull up a chair at the Ty Coch Inn, and dig into their fish and chips while you take in the view.
Tenby Harbour Beach, Pembrokeshire
Tenby is full of beautiful beaches, but if you're looking for that postcard moment, you'll find it at Tenby Harbour Beach. Located in west Wales, the pretty seaside town overlooking the harbour is full of coloured buildings while the harbour itself is full cute old boats. With clear blue water and golden sand, everywhere you look, it's pure beauty. Head to North or South Beach if you're more interested in swimming or sunbathing.
Barafundle Bay, Pembrokeshire
Barafundle Bay in the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park has been voted one of the best beaches in Britain [6] (and the world!) time and time again and for good reason. Surrounded by greenery, its sparkly blue waters rival those in Majorca, and its remote location means it's never overly crowded.
Porth Iago, Lleyn Peninsula
The coast of the Lleyn Peninsula — located in north-west Wales — is a protected "Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty", and it's not hard to see way. Porth Iago, in particular, is a great example of the area's picturesque clear waters and fine, white sands, which in this case is tucked within a cove between two cliffs that jut into the sea. Enjoy a day of sunbathing and water sports, and then if you'd like, wild-camp at night — as long as you pay the honesty-box fee (which you will see as you pass the farm).
Rhossili Beach, Swansea
Located along the Gower Peninsula, Rhossili Beach is only 30 minutes from Swansea. But this is anything but a city beach, beating out Barcelona's beach by a mile (literally). A hotspot for walkers and watersports, this three-mile stretch of golden sand is hands down one of Wales's best beaches and also one of the most dog-friendly. A total must if you haven't been.
Llanddwyn Island, Gwynedd
Llanddwyn Island is no Ibiza, but it definitely has its own charm — namely its somewhat secret beach coves. Being a tidal island, you can only get to Llanddwyn Island by foot during low tide (when it's not actually an island), but once you're there, you can easily explore it within an hour or so. Each cove is as cute as the next, but we like the small beach next to Tŵr Mawr lighthouse best.
Aberffraw (Traeth Mawr), Anglesey
Located on Anglesey island off the north-west coat of Wales, Aberffraw, e.g. Treath Mawr (which means Big Beach) is known for being one of the most dog-friendly beaches in the UK. It's also ideal for long, scenic walks. Backed by extensive low sand dunes, the beach feels like it stretches for miles and miles, and you have access to the Anglesey Coast Path, which runs from the beach in both directions.
Porth Wen Beach, Anglesey
Another beach located on the island of Anglesey, Porth Wen beach is a hidden gem on the north coast that brings to mind ruin-speckled beaches along the Aegean Coast. Dramatic rock formations and the remains of an abandoned brickworks provide a lot to explore — both on land and in the water — and spectacular photos ops.
Dinas Dinlle, Gwynedd
Boasting views of Snowdonia National Park mountains to the east, there's always a lot going on at Dinas Dinlee in north-west Wales. From jet-skiing and snorkelling to windsurfing and fishing, there's space for everyone — even those of us who just prefer to grab a book and lie on the beach. BYO picnic and stay all day.
Hell's Mouth, Gwynedd
Known for its waves, Hell's Mouth is a surfer's paradise. But that doesn't mean it's only for those who want to catch some waves. Not to be confused with Hell's Mouth in Cornwall, this four-mile beach is particularly stunning at sunrise and sundown. Head down a long the coastal path for seriously Instagram-worthy views.
Mwnt, Ceredigion
If you're in Wales, Mwnt is an absolute must. Slightly off the beaten track, this secluded beach in Ceredigion offers a backdrop of cliffs and parklands and is particularly popular with locals. With a tropical island feel (yes, really) and plenty of dolphin spotting opportunities, once you throw your towel down, you'll never want to leave.
Dunraven Bay, Glamorgan, Wales
Fans of TV's Doctor Who may recognise this long, rocky beach as "Bad Wolf Bay," where Rose and The Doctor said their final goodbyes. It also stood in for alien landscapes in various episodes. Backed by dramatic cliffs, this is perfect for keen walkers who love the dramatic scenery.
Freshwater West, Pembrokeshire, Wales
One of Wales's top surfing locations, Freshwater West is the place to head if you're serious about riding the waves. It's also been used as a filming location. Ridley Scott's Robin Hood crew once took over the beach, and in the final two Harry Potter [7] films, Shell Cottage was constructed here, ready for some emotional scenes starring Dobby the house elf.