1 week Ago By [email protected] (Bethany Gavaghan, Ellen Jenne)
Cefn Sidan Beach in Pembrey, Carmarthenshire, has visitors raving about its stunning scenic beauty, often likened to the best of Europe and even compared to amazing American sands. This Welsh "hidden gem" boasts a staggering eight miles of sandy perfection and offers breath-taking views across the Bristol Channel. The beach is so highly regarded it has even drawn comparisons to California's iconic golden coast, said Pembrey County Park and Beach.
With bragging rights as the first Welsh beach to net the prestigious blue flag award, Cefn Sidan forms part of the picturesque Pembrey Country Park. It's a nature enthusiast's paradise, with woodlands, sand dunes, and coastal paths beckoning for exploration, whether on foot or by bike. West Wales Holiday Cottages weighs in, having previously crowned it one of "Europe's best beaches".
With scenery this spectacular, it's easy to see why it's become such an Instagram-worthy hotspot. But that's not all - the beach is also fantastic for paddlers and treasure hunters, thanks to its gently sloping sands and shallow waters, making it perfect for families or that romantic day out. And for those addicted to capturing the moment, Cefn Sidan is the ideal setting for both dazzling selfies and expansive landscape photography - a must-visit destination that should be on everyone's bucket list, reports Wales Online .
Cefn Sidan beach, with its endearing name meaning "silken back," is a haven for those looking to indulge in seaside strolls or basking in the sun on its incredibly smooth sands. The moment you arrive, you're greeted with its striking expanse, which stretches so far that it's even accommodated aircraft landings notably a Royal Air Force Lockheed C-130J 'Super Hercules' pulling off tactical manoeuvres. But there's more than meets the eye at Cefn Sidan.
The beach is steeped in history, dotted with shipwrecks that whisper tales of its maritime heritage, inviting visitors to explore and capture their haunting beauty in photographs. Visit Wales paints the picture of an idyllic coastal spot on their website: "The extensive flat sandy beach lends itself to a wide range of activities, swimming, fishing and kayaking take place in zoned areas and the beach also hosts sandcastle competitions and parakarting and sand yachting events. Refreshments and shops are available nearby.
" "There are clear panoramic views across Carmarthen Bay to the Gower and Carmarthenshire coast. You can still see the remains of the hull of the SS Paul when the tide is out. There is a charge for vehicles to gain access to the beach through the country park although it is free for pedestrians and bikes.
"The dunes and surrounding area are designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and include a number of walking trails. Cyclists and pedestrians can use the Millennium Coastal Path / Celtic Trail to access the Park from Llanelli and Burry Port." If you want ideas and inspiration to plan your next UK adventure plus selected offers and competitions, sign up for our 2Chill weekly newsletter here.
