What visit to Bridgend would be complete without heading to one of the many beautiful beaches in this part of South Wales? With so many beaches to choose from, it can be hard to decide where to go first if you’re planning a day out of family fun.
Centrally located Trecco Bay Holiday Park benefits from a Blue Flag beach right on its doorstep, meaning you’ve got amazing coastal views and seaside fun just steps from your caravan - plus when you’re not enjoying the beach, you’ll find a whole host of activities and facilities on park, from bungee trampolines to an outdoor climbing wall!
If you’re planning to explore the local coastline, our handy guide to the best beaches in Porthcawl and Bridgend is a must-read.
Porthcawl Rest Bay Beach
- Type of beach: Sandy
- Lifeguard service: Yes
- Dog-friendly: No dogs allowed between May 1st and September 30th from Rest Bay point to Golf Bay
- Parking: Yes
- Toilets: Yes
- Accessible from car park/road: Yes
- Activities: Kayaking, fishing, swimming, surfing and windsurfing
Rest Bay Beach, a classic Welsh gem, offers an exhilarating experience with its often epic waves, making it a prime spot for surfing and windsurfing. Contrary to its seemingly tranquil name, this beach is brimming with action. Surrounded by low cliffs and facing west towards the Atlantic, it stands out as one of Wales' wilder and more adventurous beaches. Yet, don't fret; it's not always rough seas here. In fact, Rest Bay is a popular destination for families seeking fun-filled activities like splashing around, swimming, and kayaking, thanks to the designated water sports area.
Moreover, young explorers will delight in the abundance of rock pools, perfect for adventurous kids armed with nets and buckets. Located on the outskirts of Porthcawl, about a mile away from the bustling shops, Rest Bay, also known as Porthcawl Beach, and benefits from a cafe, perfect for grabbing a bite to eat when taking a break from the action.
Newton Bay Beach
- Type of beach: Sand and rock
- Lifeguard service: No
- Dog-friendly: Yes
- Parking: Yes, a short walk away
- Toilets: No
- Accessible from car park/road: Yes
- Activities: Kite surfing and windsurfing
Newton Bay Beach is a delightful and untamed coastal treasure adorned with a mix of sand and rocks. Locally known as Black Rock Beach, it is conveniently situated just a ten-minute stroll away from the charming village of Newton. This beach is a magnet for windsurfers, jet skiers, and power boat enthusiasts, yet it retains a peaceful ambiance that sets it apart from the other bustling beaches nearby. Moreover, its year-round dog-friendly policy makes it a perfect retreat for families seeking tranquil walks and a respite from the typical tourist crowds.
While amenities are limited, the sheer natural beauty of Newton Bay Beach makes it an unforgettable destination that beckons to be explored.
Trecco Bay Beach
- Type of beach: Sand and rock
- Lifeguard service: Yes
- Dog-friendly: No dogs allowed between May 1st and September 30th
- Parking: Yes
- Toilets: Yes
- Accessible from car park/road: Yes
- Activities: Kite surfing, swimming, windsurfing - plus if you’re staying at Trecco Bay, you’ll have access to all of the on-site activities too!
The nearest beach to Trecco Bay Holiday Park offers an ideal location for families to create wonderful memories by the seaside. With its child-safe and pristine Blue Flag status, it provides ample space for exploration and a chance for the kids to burn off their energy. The best part is that it's just a stone's throw away from your accommodation, allowing you to visit as often as you like without the hassle of packing everything you need. You can conveniently return to the holiday park whenever you wish, whether to indulge in some mouthwatering Thunderbird Fried Chicken or or simply to treat yourself to an ice cream from Scoops!
The fun doesn't stop at the beach. Within the holiday park, a wide array of activities await, from pirate crazy golf and high ropes courses to bungee trampolines, laser tag, family carts, and the ever-popular Bear Grylls Survival Academy. Additionally, you can enjoy thrilling experiences with battle blasters or bumper zorbs, and even challenge your skills with mini dronez or hover archery. It's truly a remarkable offering, with a plethora of incredible activities to enjoy once you've had your fill of building sandcastles. Trecco Bay is unbeatable when it comes to finding a beach destination with so many activities near by.
Ogmore Beach
- Type of beach: Sand and pebble
- Lifeguard service: Yes
- Dog-friendly: Yes
- Parking: Yes - free during the summer months
- Toilets: Yes
- Accessible from car park/road: Yes, there is a ramp from the car park
- Activities: Kayaking, diving, snorkelling, fishing, swimming, rock pools and surfing
Discover another gem along the coast from Porthcawl: Ogmore Beach, nestled by the village of Ogmore-by-Sea. This idyllic beach boasts a pristine shoreline with a mix of sand and pebbles - making it a popular choice for visitors to the area.
Ogmore Beach stands out as a haven for water sports enthusiasts, offering activities like scuba diving and snorkelling in its inviting waters. For those who prefer to stay on land, there's no shortage of things to do, from rockpooling to hunting for fossils. The cliffs that overlook the beach are also an ideal for walkers, offering views out to sea and over the River Ogmore - keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife. Nearby, Grade I listed Ogmore Castle’s ruins from the 12th Century stand as a testament to local history.
Whether it’s the sand between your toes, the fresh sea breeze or the activities and sights nearby, Porthcawl and its surrounding areas boast a collection of brilliant beaches - making it an ideal destination for seaside lovers. The question is, which beach will you explore first? Head over to our TikTok and Instagram pages for inspiration and to start planning your unforgettable beach adventure.