Rest Bay

The stretch of sand at Rest Bay catches you off guard if you're expecting the typical South Wales beach experience. It's broader than many spots along this coastline, with proper golden sand that actually stays decent even after rain. The bay curves gently, and at low tide you get a fair bit of real estate to spread out on - a genuine rarity around Porthcawl.

This is walker territory first and foremost. The coastal path that runs through here is outstanding, especially if you're doing the longer circuit towards Porthcawl itself, just a couple of miles east. The cliffs provide decent shelter from the wind, which matters more often than not on the Welsh coast. Families with younger kids will manage a good couple of hours here - the sand's firm enough for running about, and there's enough variation in the bay to hold attention.

The real strength of Rest Bay is what it isn't rather than what it is. It's not rammed with deckchairs and ice cream vans. It's genuinely quiet, even during school holidays. That means if you're based at Trecco Bay Holiday Park - just over two miles away - this makes a solid alternative to fighting for space at the more built-up beaches nearby.

Timing matters here. Morning visits work best before the wind picks up. Parking is straightforward, and there's no faff about admission fees. Walkers should allow three hours minimum if you're tackling the full loop back towards town. It's that rare thing - a Welsh beach that actually delivers on the promise of a bit of peace.