Traeth Soden

Rocky outcrops frame this sweeping stretch of sand and pebbles just outside New Quay, where the Ceredigion coast shows off one of its quieter moods. Traeth Soden feels properly wild compared to the busier beaches further south - you'll often have whole sections to yourselves, especially if you venture beyond the main access point.

Families with younger children might find the mixture of sand and stones a bit tricky for sandcastle building, but older kids love the rock pools that appear at low tide. The beach stretches for a good mile, giving everyone space to spread out and find their own patch. Dog walkers particularly rate this spot since there's plenty of room for a proper run.

Getting down to the beach requires a bit of a walk from the clifftop car park - nothing too strenuous, but worth noting if you're laden with beach kit. The views back towards New Quay's harbour are lovely on a clear day, and you can often spot seals bobbing about in the bay.

For those staying at nearby holiday parks like Ocean Heights or Haven Quay West, it's an easy drive and makes a nice change from the more developed beaches. The lack of facilities means bringing your own refreshments, but that's all part of the appeal of this unspoilt stretch of Welsh coastline.