Traeth Penbryn Beach

Golden sand stretches for nearly two miles along this refreshingly uncommercialised stretch of the Ceredigion coast, backed by grassy dunes and clifftops that feel properly wild. Unlike some of Wales' more famous beaches, Traeth Penbryn remains blissfully free of car parks carved into the clifftops or rows of beach huts. You'll need to work for your visit - the walk down from the clifftop path takes about ten minutes and it's a proper climb back up.

Families with young children might find the trek a bit much, especially with all the beach kit in tow. This is really one for walkers and those who don't mind earning their seaside time. The beach faces west, so sunset views can be spectacular on clear evenings, and the rockpools at the northern end keep older kids busy when the tide's out.

Being just a short drive from Cardigan, it makes a decent day trip from any of the holiday parks scattered around the area - Llety Caravan Park and Brynawelon are both within a few miles. The lack of facilities means bringing everything you need, but that's rather the point. Some days you'll have huge stretches entirely to yourself, which feels increasingly rare on the Welsh coast.