The South Wales Coast 

Spectacular cliffs lead to secret coves and sweeping sands, scattered with harbour towns and ancient landmarks. The South Wales coast curves around from the Irish Sea at Pembrokeshire into the Bristol channel, taking in National Parks, surfing hotspots and wildlife-rich wetlands on its way to the English border. Find out more about the South Wales seaside in our insider’s guide. 

Mumbles sits neatly in Swansea Bay (Bae Abertawe), blending a traditional Welsh feel with relaxed, Mediterranean living. Browse the quirky shops and bijou eateries, before catching the sea breeze on Mumbles’ prom and pier. As the “Gateway to the Gower”, just a few steps take you from the winding streets to the coast path. 

For a small place, Mumbles is rich with places to find local food and drink. Days start with a reviving brew from Mumbles Coffee, just around the corner from the Seasalt shop. Add a pastry to your order before settling down at one of their home-from-home tables. 

Right in the middle of the village, Oystermouth Castle rises above the rooftops on a dramatic limestone ridge. Come here for the views across the village and bay as well as the history. Recent restorations revealed a hidden staircase and medieval graffiti. 

The Gower Peninsula was the first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in Britain. From the sweep of Rhossili Bay to dappled ancient woodlands, the Gower’s landscape is as varied as it is beautiful. Mumbles makes a good base for a rewarding walk, easily leading you onto the Gower Coast Path. Try the gorse and flower-filled Langland to Caswell route, looking out for choughs and buzzards as you walk. 

From Mumbles, we head west towards Carmarthen Bay (Bae Caerfyrddin). Tenby’s colourful house jumble leads down to the harbour, where the soft sands and shallow waters of Castle Beach call out to families. Its Welsh name, Dinbych-y-Pysgod, means “Little Fortress of the Fishes”, speaking to both Tenby’s heritage and its appealing scale. We love exploring its narrow old streets, sparkling shores and craggy coastline. 

Tenby has more than its share of inviting places to eat. We love Allium Tenby, a family-run café that serves wonderful local ingredients. It’s a good place to start the day (we recommend the Eggs Benedict), and their superb coffee is roasted just up the road in Ammanford, by Coaltown Coffee. The courtyard garden is a fragrant haven on sunny days, while indoors the wood burner keeps away the winter chills.  

Just two minutes’ walk from Seasalt Tenby is narrow little Sergeant's Lane, with its postcard-perfect painted shutters and hanging baskets. The quaint setting feels just right for Welsh Otter, a homeware and gifts brand that specialises in traditional and sustainable textiles. Call in for luxurious blankets, throws and cushions. 

Head for the harbour and catch a boat to Caldey Island. The 20-minute crossing takes you to the small, verdant island, home to a Cistercian Order. Try the two-mile circular West Cliffs walk and make the most of the picnic tables near the lighthouse. 

Back on the mainland, head back to Sergeant’s Lane and seek out refreshments from Tenby’s own brewery, Harbwr. Tour the microbrewery in its 18th-century warehouse, sampling ales while hearing tales of Tenby’s trading past. Relax with a Caldey Lollipop or North Star in their welcoming taproom.  

Where are your favourite places along the South Wales coast? Tell us on Facebook or Instagram and share where you’re #WearingSeasalt