Photographic view of the bay in Llandudno

Planning a trip to Wales this autumn or winter? Discover some of the “warmest” beaches on offer, perfect for soaking up the last of the summer sun before the colder months set in.

 

Autumn in Wales: What to expect

Autumn in Wales offers a magical experience for visitors and locals alike. With the hustle and bustle of the peak season gone, it’s the perfect time to explore all that Wales has to offer. Most shops, cafés and facilities remain open as usual, offering the same warm welcome and local delights you’d expect during the summer months, but with fewer crowds.

This season sees the Welsh countryside come alive with misty mornings and crisp, clear skies, while the rugged coastlines are even more breathtaking with dramatic sunsets over the sea. It’s a season that truly brings out the best of Wales’ natural beauty.

Whether you’re after a quiet seaside stroll or want to explore charming coastal towns, autumn in Wales offers a more relaxed, intimate experience without the busy summer rush. Plus, you can expect many of the best Welsh beaches to be bathed in sun well into October, November and beyond. Our recent research into the warmest beaches in Wales to visit in autumn highlights the temperatures you can expect when visiting its top beaches.

 

Wales’ warmest beaches in October

Despite the nights drawing in and the clocks going back, shorter days in October don’t have to put an end to your Welsh beach trips. In fact, Wales has some of the warmest beaches in the UK, due to its position along the Gulf Stream, which brings warmer water from the Atlantic Ocean, creating a milder climate along its coastlines.

October

Beach

Nearest train station

Average maximum temperature

West Shore Beach Llandudno (approximately 1.5 miles away)

14.8°C

Angel Bay Llandudno (approximately 3.5 miles away)

14.8°C

Rhos-on-Sea Beach Colwyn Bay (approximately 1.5 miles away)

14.8°C

Rhossili Bay Gowerton (approximately 16 miles away)

14.75°C

Pembrey Country Park & Beach Pembrey & Burry Port (approximately 2 miles away)

14.75°C

Pendine Sands Whitland (approximately 10 miles away)

14.75°C

Tenby Castle Beach Tenby (approximately 0.5 miles away)

14.75°C

Freshwater East Lamphey (approximately 3.5 miles away)

14.75°C

Llangennith Beach Gowerton (approximately 15 miles away)

14.75°C

Oxwich Bay Gowerton (approximately 12 miles away)

14.7°C

Aberavon Beach Port Talbot Parkway (approximately 2 miles away)

14.7°C

West Shore Beach, Angel Bay in Llandudno and Rhos-on-Sea Beach (also known as Colwyn Bay) rank as some of the warmest beach locations in Wales during October, with maximum temperatures reaching 14.8°C. These coastal gems offer a combination of natural beauty, adventure and peaceful atmospheres, with something for everyone to enjoy.

West Shore Beach is a quieter spot that boasts soft sandy shores. With a cafe nearby, it’s the perfect spot for an autumnal adventure. The beauty of this beach truly comes alive in autumn, when you can experience dramatic sunsets casting vibrant hues over the sea.

Angel Bay is a hidden gem that offers more than just beautiful scenery. It’s widely recognised for its seals – you can spot them all year round, but they’re most commonly seen between September and December.

Along the coast lies Rhos-on-Sea, with plenty of amenities including cafes and shops. It boasts some lovely, picturesque views of the coast, so don’t forget to pack your camera.

 

Wales’ warmest beaches in November

As we edge into winter, November is the perfect time to explore many of Wales' stunning beaches. Just remember to pack some warm layers, and you're all set for a truly unforgettable trip. Head to Pendine Sands, Tenby Castle Beach and Freshwater East for the warmest spots this November.

November

Beach

Nearest train station

Average maximum temperature

Pendine Sands Whitland (approximately 10 miles away)

11.85°C

Tenby Castle Beach Tenby (approximately 0.5 miles away)

11.85°C

Freshwater East Lamphey (approximately 3.5 miles away)

11.85°C

West Shore Beach Llandudno (approximately 1.5 miles away)

11.8°C

Angel Bay Llandudno (approximately 3.5 miles away)

11.8°C

Rhos-on-Sea Beach Colwyn Bay (approximately 1.5 miles away)

11.8°C

Barafundle Beach Pembroke (approximately 6 miles away)

11.5°C

Freshwater West Pembroke (approximately 9 miles away)

11.5°C

Broad Haven South Beach Pembroke (approximately 6 miles away)

11.5°C

Marloes Sands Beach Milford Haven (approximately 12 miles away)

11.5°C

Pendine Sands stretches an impressive seven miles. It’s a paradise for walkers and history enthusiasts. Did you know that in the early 1900s, these very shores were used as a race track where world land speed records have been broken? Today, it’s ideal for long walks and relaxing days out. Nature lovers can head west towards Gilman Point and explore the thriving rock pools, teeming with marine life.

Tenby Castle Beach is another must-visit destination, especially for those who appreciate pristine beaches. It’s been awarded the coveted Blue Flag for its cleanliness and water quality - perfect for a cool autumn dip perhaps? Nearby, the town of Tenby is filled with charming shops and relaxing cafes, ideal for warming up after your beach exploits.

Explore Freshwater East this autumn, known for its wide, sloping beach and natural sand dunes. It’s the perfect location for a soothing beach getaway, filled with pretty coastal walks with cosy pubs nearby.

 

Visit the best Welsh beaches by train

The beauty of Wales can be enjoyed all year round, not just during the peak summer months. We’re fortunate to have a number of breathtaking beaches and coastlines right on our doorstep. So long as you remember to pack a jacket, you can explore these locations later in the year too, for a quieter and less crowded visit.

Visiting a Welsh beach is the perfect autumn activity for families, couples and even solo travellers. Why not explore these remarkable beaches with seamless travel options, including our Rovers and Rangers passes, offering unlimited travel to all top locations?