New Quay Beach

Clear blue water laps against a proper sandy stretch that curves around New Quay's colourful harbour - this is Cardigan Bay at its most appealing. The beach sits right below the town centre, making it brilliantly accessible for families staying at nearby parks like Haven Quay West or Ocean Heights.

Kids will love the rock pools at low tide, while the gentle slope into the water makes it safe for paddling. The harbour wall provides decent shelter when the wind picks up, which it often does along this bit of the Welsh coast. Dolphins are regularly spotted from the beach - no joke, this stretch of Cardigan Bay is one of the best places in Britain to see them from shore.

Parking can be tricky in summer, but most of the holiday parks within walking distance offer a proper base without the car shuffle. The beach gets busy during school holidays but never feels cramped. Early morning walks are lovely, especially when the fishing boats are heading out.

It's free, obviously, and the facilities in town are decent enough - cafes, chip shops, the usual seaside bits. Allow a full day if the weather's good, though an hour's paddle might be enough if you're just breaking up a drive along the coast. Well worth combining with a trip to nearby Llangrannog or Mwnt if you're beach-hopping.