Broughton Bay Beach

The beach at Broughton Bay is one of those South Wales stretches that doesn't get the footfall of Swansea's main beaches, which makes it rather decent if you're after something less rammed. You'll find yourself on a proper sandy shore with the sweep of Gower beyond, backed by low dunes and scrubby vegetation that's been beaten about by Atlantic winds. It's a straightforward beach experience - no facilities to speak of, no arcades or ice cream vans - just sand, sea, and the occasional cormorant drying its wings on a rock.

This works best for walkers and families who don't mind a bit of self-sufficiency. You can easily spend a couple of hours here, though it's the sort of place you'd pair with a longer coastal walk rather than make your entire day of. The tide does its thing like everywhere else on this coast, so time your visit accordingly if you want maximum sand space. Arrival is straightforward enough from central Swansea - no charge for the beach itself, though parking arrangements I can't confirm with certainty.

If you're based at Whiteford Bay or Broughton Farm Caravan Parks, both within a quick drive, this becomes a natural extension of your holiday rather than a planned outing. The wider Gower area has better-known alternatives like Oxwich and Port Eynon if you want something with a bit more going on, but Broughton Bay suits those who prefer their coastal spots underdeveloped and a touch windswept.