Porth-y-Cŵch

The walk down to Porth-y-Cŵch takes you through proper coastal scrubland before the beach suddenly appears - and it's a corker. This small cove near Ty Croes feels genuinely off the beaten path, with golden sand backed by low cliffs and a decent stretch of shingle at high tide. The name means "pig's cove" in Welsh, though you're more likely to spot oystercatchers than livestock.

It's the kind of beach that rewards exploring. Rock pools scatter across the lower shore, making it ideal for families with young kids who'll happily lose an hour turning over stones. The southern end is quieter, backed by grassy dunes where you can sit out of the wind. Walkers get good value here too - the coastal path is manageable, and you can string together a decent loop if you fancy something longer than just a beach visit.

Go when the tide's out and you'll have space to breathe. Summer weekends attract day-trippers from nearby caravan parks like Shoreside or Y Fronydd, but even then it never feels rammed. Winter's better if you like solitude, though the weather's temperamental.

There's no cafe, no facilities, so bring what you need. The beach is free, obviously - it's just a matter of finding the car park and walking. Allow a good couple of hours if you're coming from one of the holiday parks within five miles. It's worth the detour if you want somewhere genuine rather than the polished beaches further south.