If you're thinking of a coastal break away with the kids then look no further than Wales. Whether you want to feel the sand between your toes, admire the beachy views or get busy with waterfront activities, it's all here. We've round up 10 of the best places for a seaside holiday. So rather than heading for foreign climes this year, why not find some beach bliss at one of these brilliant destinations?
1. Gower Peninsula
Photograph VisitWales.com
When you're not marvelling over the beauty of Gower's beaches - there are LOADS by the way - snap up a surfing lesson, tuck into a lovely meal in Swansea's Maritime Quarter and enjoy a scoop of must-have ice cream in Mumbles.
2. New Quay
photograph walesonline.co.uk
Go dolphin watching with an organised boat trip from the harbour, have a browse of the boutique shops and enjoy some of the finest fish and chips going. Mmm, lush.
3. Tenby
photograph Walesonline.co.uk
You can't go wrong with this golden stretch, perfect for building sand castles all day long. When you do venture away from the beach, you can get the adrenaline pumping at Oakwood Theme Park or take your pick of a collection of castles.
4. Aberaeron
photograph WalesonLine.co.uk
One of the prettiest coastal towns in Wales, this little gem is well worth a visit. Count the coloured houses that line the streets, have waterside fun at the harbour and enjoy top notch food in the popular Harbourmaster Hotel.
5. Laugharne
photograph Dailymail.co.uk
Overlooking the estuary, it's no wonder that the quirky town and its views inspired Dylan Thomas. Write your own chapter with a visit to the poet's boathouse and the impressive Laugharne Castle.
6. St Davids
photograh Walesonline.co.uk
Wales' smallest historic city is a seaside haven that the whole family will love. Pack a picnic and walk your way around the peninsula, head to the ruins of a medieval palace or go offshore with a boat trip to one of the neighbouring islands.
7. Barafundle bay
photograph Visitpembrokeshire.com
This pristine beach is isolated which means no facilities; so everything you take has to come back up over the cliffs. Swathes of golden sand and crystal clear waters, Barafundle has been voted many, many times as one of the best beaches in Britain and the world; it’s often likened to a Caribbean beach!
8. Mwnt
photograph Walesonline.co.uk
Mwnt is an idyllic spot on the Cardigan coast, with sweeping views across Cardigan Bay from the summit of the conical hill (Foel y Mwnt) that rises above the sandy sheltered beach. Mwnt is a top ‘Special Place’
9. Cefn Sidan
photograph DiscoverCarmarthenshire.com
There’s a lot more to Carmarthenshire than just its gorgeous green countryside, Cefn Sidan is a long sandy beach in the Pembrey Country Park, stretching from the Gower and Kidwelly, looking southwards over Carmarthen Bay.
10. Abereiddy
Photograph Walesonline.co.uk
Pebbles and extraordinarily dark sand made of pounded grey slate form this rural beach. The same slate gives a brilliant deep blue colour to the water in the 'Blue Lagoon'; a beautiful little harbour - popular spot for coasteering, climbing along the cliffs at sea level, leaping into the sea if you reach an impassable bit.
Take your pick from the best of the Welsh beaches -there's nothing stopping you and the kids enjoying something special nearer to home. But do remember that if you are seeking for an adventure holiday then please make arrangements with a suitable adventure operator.