Jackson's Bay: A Tranquil Sandy Cove on Barry Island
A peaceful sandy cove on Barry Island offering coastal charm, geological interest, and year-round dog-friendly visits.
Jackson's Bay is a charming 170-metre sandy bay located on Barry Island, near the town of Barry in Wales. Known for its peaceful atmosphere, it offers gentle sloping sands backed by cliffs and proximity to local landmarks such as the Barry Island Pleasure Park and Lifeboat Station. This bay is a quieter alternative to nearby Whitmore Bay, popular for coastal walks, fishing, and dog-friendly visits year-round.
A brief summary to Jackson's Bay
- Barry, GB
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during low tide to explore the sandy beach fully and discover rock pools along the shore.
- Bring sturdy shoes if you plan to explore the cliffs and mineral deposits behind the bay.
- Ideal for dog owners as dogs are allowed on the beach all year round.
- Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Barry Island Pleasure Park for family-friendly fun.
- Check the weather forecast before visiting, as the bay is best enjoyed in mild and clear conditions.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Bus
Take local bus services from Barry town center to Barry Island, with a journey time of approximately 15-20 minutes. Buses run frequently but check schedules for weekend and holiday variations. From Barry Island, Jackson's Bay is a short walk of about 10 minutes.
-
Car
Driving from Barry town center to Jackson's Bay takes about 10 minutes via the A4050. Parking is available near Barry Island, but spaces can be limited during peak seasons. No direct parking at the bay itself, so be prepared for a short walk.
-
Train and Walk
Take a train to Barry station from Cardiff or other regional hubs (journey times vary between 20-40 minutes). From Barry station, a 25-minute walk or a short local bus ride to Barry Island is required, followed by a 10-minute walk to Jackson's Bay.
Jackson's Bay location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Mild Temperatures
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Windy Conditions
Discover more about Jackson's Bay
Secluded Coastal Charm on Barry Island
Jackson's Bay is a small, tranquil sandy beach nestled on the southeastern coast of Barry Island in the Vale of Glamorgan, Wales. Measuring approximately 170 metres in length, it offers a peaceful retreat away from the busier Whitmore Bay nearby. The bay faces the Bristol Channel and is backed by gently rising cliffs, providing a natural, sheltered environment. Its sands slope gradually into the sea, making it inviting for casual paddling and beachcombing.Geological and Natural Features
The bay is notable for its geological interest, with minerals such as celestine, galena, gypsum, and sphalerite found sporadically in the marl cavities behind the beach. These rockfalls reveal fascinating mineral deposits, attracting geology enthusiasts. The surrounding cliffs and natural formations contribute to the bay’s scenic beauty and ecological value.Local Attractions and Surroundings
Located just below the Barry Island Pleasure Park and close to the Railway Heritage Centre, Jackson's Bay benefits from proximity to family-friendly attractions while maintaining a quieter ambiance. The nearby Lifeboat Station underscores the bay’s maritime heritage. The urbanized town of Barry lies inland, providing amenities and services without encroaching on the bay’s natural charm.Recreational Activities and Visitor Experience
Jackson's Bay is popular for leisurely coastal walks, fishing, and as a dog-friendly beach accessible all year round. Its calm waters and gentle beach slope make it suitable for families and casual visitors seeking a relaxing seaside experience. The bay’s quieter atmosphere compared to other Barry Island beaches makes it ideal for those looking to escape crowds.Accessibility and Practical Information
The bay is accessible by road via Barry Island, with parking and local transport options serving the area. Visitors can explore the nearby attractions or enjoy the natural coastal environment. Facilities such as restrooms and food options are available in the vicinity, primarily at Barry Island’s main tourist areas.Seasonal and Environmental Considerations
The bay is suitable for visits in most weather conditions, with mild temperatures typical of the Welsh coast. Its sheltered position helps reduce wind impact, and the beach remains a pleasant destination throughout the year. Wildlife habitats and coastal ecosystems are present, encouraging responsible and low-impact tourism.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
WWII Coast Artillery Search Light Emplacement
0.5 km
Explore a pivotal WWII coastal defense site in Barry, where history meets stunning views of the Bristol Channel.
Ship Weather Vane - Cardiff Bay Art Trail
10.4 km
A dynamic copper and steel ship weather vane celebrating Cardiff Bay’s maritime heritage atop the historic Pilotage Office.
The Scott Antarctic Memorial Cardiff Bay
10.5 km
A poignant memorial in Cardiff Bay honoring Captain Scott and his Antarctic expedition, set against a historic maritime backdrop.
The Open Boat 'Daffodil'
10.5 km
Explore Cardiff Bay aboard the 'Daffodil' for a unique boat tour experience filled with history, stunning views, and local insights.
St Fagans Castle
10.6 km
Explore the historic St Fagans Castle and immerse yourself in Welsh culture through its stunning architecture and beautiful gardens.
Mount Stuart Square
10.6 km
Victorian grandeur meets maritime history in Cardiff's iconic coal-trade square.
Pierhead Building
10.6 km
Explore the Pierhead Building, Cardiff's historic landmark showcasing Welsh maritime heritage and culture.
Roald Dahl Plass
10.6 km
Where industrial heritage meets modern culture—Cardiff's iconic plaza named for author Roald Dahl.
The Senedd
10.6 km
Discover The Senedd, an architectural gem in Cardiff, where modern design meets the heart of Welsh democracy and culture.
St. Fagans National Museum of History
10.7 km
Explore the heart of Welsh heritage at St. Fagans National Museum of History, an open-air museum showcasing the rich tapestry of Wales' past.
Wales Millennium Centre
10.7 km
Discover the artistic heart of Cardiff at the Wales Millennium Centre, a premier venue for live performances and cultural events in a stunning architectural setting.
Roath Lock
10.8 km
Discover Roath Lock, Cardiff’s iconic BBC drama village blending cutting-edge production with waterfront heritage charm.
Premier Inn Cardiff Bay hotel
10.8 km
Comfortable, accessible, and modern hotel steps from Cardiff Bay’s cultural and waterfront attractions.
Cardiff Central Train Station Water Tower
11.0 km
A historic Grade II listed water tower overlooking Cardiff Central Station and the River Taff, symbolizing the city’s rich railway heritage.
Water Towers by Amber Hiscott & David Pearl
11.1 km
Iconic blue sculptural towers in Cardiff symbolizing water through innovative glass and metal artistry.
Unmissable attractions to see
Jackson’s Bay
0.1 km
A serene sandy cove on Barry Island offering peaceful coastal walks, geological wonders, and year-round dog-friendly beach access.
Barry War Museum
0.7 km
Explore Barry’s wartime heritage through immersive exhibits and community stories at this free, volunteer-run museum near Barry Island.
Barry Island Pleasure Park
0.7 km
Classic seaside fun meets nostalgic charm at Barry Island Pleasure Park, a vibrant family-friendly amusement destination by the Welsh coast.
Whitmore Bay - Barry Island
0.9 km
Lively golden sands, family fun, and scenic coastal walks combine at Whitmore Bay, Barry Island’s beloved seaside retreat.
King Square, Barry
1.7 km
Historic King Square in Barry blends Edwardian civic pride with vibrant community life in the heart of this Welsh town.
Romilly Park
2.0 km
A historic Victorian park in Barry blending heritage charm with family-friendly recreation and tranquil green spaces.
Barry Castle
2.2 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Barry Castle, a medieval manor house with a storied past nestled in the heart of Barry, Wales.
Cold Knap beach
2.3 km
Tranquil pebble beach and serene gardens with scenic views, family-friendly walks, and free parking near Barry’s charming coastline.
Bronze age mound
3.0 km
Explore a commanding Bronze Age burial mound overlooking Porthkerry Bay, a silent witness to ancient Welsh funerary traditions and prehistoric life.
Porthkerry Country Park
3.4 km
Explore 220 acres of woodland, meadows, and pebble beach framed by a majestic Victorian viaduct in this vibrant coastal country park.
Cosmeston Medieval Village
6.1 km
Step into 1350 at Cosmeston Medieval Village, a free, wheelchair-friendly historic site nestled in scenic lakeside surroundings near Penarth.
St Lythans Burial Chamber
6.1 km
Step back 6,000 years at St Lythans Burial Chamber, a mysterious Neolithic tomb nestled in the tranquil Welsh countryside near Cardiff.
Cosmeston Lakes Country Park & Medieval Village
6.3 km
Explore tranquil lakes, vibrant wildlife, and a living medieval village in this scenic country park near Penarth.
The Garden Cafe
6.5 km
A peaceful garden retreat in Wenvoe offering cozy indoor and scenic outdoor dining nestled in nature’s embrace.
National Trust - Dyffryn Gardens
6.5 km
Explore 55 acres of Edwardian garden rooms, exotic plants, and woodland arboretum surrounding a grand Victorian mansion near Cardiff.
Essential places to dine
Finnegans Inn
0.8 km
Discover the perfect blend of delicious food and vibrant atmosphere at Finnegans Inn - your go-to grill and sports bar in Barry.
The Dining Room
0.8 km
A refined British dining experience blending coastal charm and fresh seafood in the heart of Barry’s vibrant seaside scene.
Barry Island Brewers Fayre
1.3 km
Classic British pub dining with family-friendly warmth, scenic waterfront views, and hearty meals near Barry Island Beach.
Premier Inn Barry Island Cardiff Airport hotel
1.3 km
Comfortable waterfront hotel near Cardiff Airport with easy access to Barry Island beaches, city attractions, and family-friendly entertainment.
The Little Olive
1.6 km
Cozy Italian dining with authentic flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Barry’s Broad Street.
Seashore Grill
4.6 km
Seashore Grill offers relaxed coastal dining with sea views, hearty meals, and live music in the heart of Sully, Penarth.
The Humble Onion
5.6 km
A hidden gem in Dinas Powys serving refined Welsh bistro dishes with masterful technique and warm hospitality.
Three Horseshoes Country Inn
5.9 km
A cozy countryside inn near Barry offering hearty food, comfy rooms, and family-friendly fun in a tranquil Welsh setting.
Ego at The Schooner Inn, Penarth
6.7 km
Mediterranean flavors meet coastal charm at Ego at The Schooner Inn, Penarth’s beloved seaside pub-restaurant.
Beefeater Walston Castle
6.9 km
A modern, family-friendly steakhouse in Wenvoe offering hearty British classics with warm service and a relaxed atmosphere.
Home
7.9 km
Experience innovative fine dining with a warm, intimate atmosphere at Home by James Sommerin in Penarth’s historic Royal Buildings.
The Fox and Hounds Pub
8.0 km
A cozy gastropub in scenic Llancarfan offering hearty food, warm hospitality, and charming rooms for a perfect countryside escape.
Sid’s Restaurant and Bar With Rooms
8.1 km
Seaside dining and cozy stays with stunning views on Penarth’s historic Esplanade, blending fresh cuisine and warm hospitality.
Harvester Cardiff Bay Penarth
8.6 km
A lively family-friendly British bar & grill in Penarth offering hearty meals and a welcoming atmosphere near Cardiff Bay.
Blue Anchor Inn
8.6 km
Discover Welsh hospitality at Blue Anchor Inn - where delicious food meets stunning views in East Aberthaw.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Hyper Value
0.7 km
Explore Hyper Value in Barry for unique gifts and discounts that capture the charm of the local culture, perfect for every tourist's shopping spree.
The Beach Hut/Barrybados Gift Shop
0.9 km
Discover authentic Welsh souvenirs and beach accessories at Barrybados, a charming gift shop capturing Barry Island’s seaside spirit.
The Beach Shop
1.0 km
Authentic Welsh gifts and seaside treasures on Barry Island's charming Western Shelter promenade.
Gallery Boutique
1.7 km
Discover unique women’s fashion and personalized service at Gallery Boutique, a stylish gem on Barry’s High Street.
Curiosity Shop
2.7 km
Explore timeless antiques and hidden treasures at Curiosity Shop, Barry’s charming destination for vintage lovers and history seekers.
The Queen B Boutique
8.1 km
Elegant occasion wear and personalized service combine at The Queen B Boutique, Penarth’s charming fashion and gift destination.
Gifts At No. 9
8.2 km
Discover charming, beautifully curated gifts with personal service at Penarth’s beloved boutique on Windsor Road.
Shore
8.2 km
A charming coastal gift shop on Penarth’s Esplanade, perfect for seaside souvenirs and nautical-themed treasures with a local touch.
Antoinette Antiques and Vintage Clothing
8.6 km
Discover Cardiff’s largest vintage hat collection and timeless antiques in a historic Pumping Station setting.
Cardiff Bay Retail Park
9.1 km
Value-packed shopping hub amid Cardiff Bay's waterfront allure—superstores, groceries, and easy parking for practical pit stops.
B&M Home Store
9.2 km
Discover incredible deals on home essentials and unique items at B&M Home Store in Cardiff Bay - your go-to discount shop!
Zia Boutique
10.5 km
Discover handpicked jewellery, homeware, and gifts at this independent gem in Cardiff Bay's Mermaid Quay—a stylish haven since 2011.
Gallery Gift Shop at the Norwegian Church
10.5 km
Discover unique Scandinavian-inspired gifts in the historic Norwegian Church Arts Centre, a cultural gem overlooking Cardiff Bay.
Hearth & Co
10.5 km
Discover handcrafted wonders blending Norwegian heritage and Welsh artistry at this gem within Cardiff Bay's iconic Norwegian Church Arts Centre.
Polka Dot
10.5 km
Discover dotted delights at this whimsical Cardiff Bay gift shop, where polka patterns meet playful souvenirs in a cozy waterfront nook.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bar Enzo
0.9 km
A cozy, friendly bar on Barry’s seafront offering Welsh lagers, cocktails, and a relaxed coastal vibe with inviting indoor and outdoor seating.
Cherry Orchard
2.2 km
A modern, family-friendly pub in Barry offering great ales, tasty meals, and a welcoming atmosphere in a charming historic setting.
The Sully Inn
3.4 km
A stylish gastropub in Sully offering locally sourced dishes and a warm, inviting atmosphere for dining and socializing.
Ocean Lounge
4.5 km
Charming coastal pub nestled in Porthkerry Caravan Park offering stunning sea views, local ales, and a welcoming atmosphere in South Wales.
The Captains Wife
4.6 km
Rustic coastal pub in Penarth offering hearty British fare, cask ales, and a cozy seaside atmosphere.
Star Inn
5.6 km
Cosy village pub in Dinas Powys offering classic dishes, a friendly atmosphere, dog-friendly spaces, and seasonal celebrations year-round.
The Flying Club
5.6 km
A friendly, affordable bar in Rhoose offering unique planespotting views and a cozy atmosphere near Cardiff Airport.
The Highwayman Inn
6.4 km
Rustic British pub in Rhoose famed for hearty portions, classic dishes, and a warm, lively atmosphere.
The Six Bells
6.7 km
Historic Welsh village pub with medieval roots, cozy fires, and locally sourced fare in the heart of Penmark.
Fontygary Inn
7.0 km
A friendly traditional pub in Rhoose offering hearty meals, local ales, and a vibrant community atmosphere in the heart of the Vale of Glamorgan.
Gin 64
7.9 km
Discover Penarth’s chic gin bar offering extensive selections, expert cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of town.
The Grange Pub
10.2 km
A vibrant community pub in Cardiff’s Grangetown, offering quality local beers, hearty British fare, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Lo Lounge
10.3 km
Industrial-chic waterfront bar in Cardiff Bay serving cocktails, street food, and live tunes amid stunning sunset views and pet-friendly vibes.
The Dock
10.5 km
A waterside bar and kitchen in Mermaid Quay — bright windows, bay views, live music and big‑screen sport for daytime dining through late-night sessions.
The Packet
10.6 km
Traditional Cardiff Bay pub with 160 years of history, darts, games, real ales, and homely vibes amid modern surroundings.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Coco Cubanas
1.6 km
Experience the vibrant weekend nightlife and energetic dance scene at Coco Cubanas, Barry’s premier late-night club on Broad Street.
Bar Cocoa
1.6 km
Experience Barry’s vibrant weekend nightlife at Bar Cocoa, a lively nightclub where music and dancing keep the party going until the early morning.
The Vaults
10.7 km
Dive into Cardiff’s iconic underground club housed in a historic former bank, where techno beats and vibrant nightlife come alive beneath the city streets.
Cabaret at Wales Millennium Centre
10.7 km
Dive into Cardiff Bay's sizzling hub of drag, burlesque, comedy, and live music at Cabaret – where inclusive performances sparkle with pop culture magic and high-energy fun.
Walkabout - Cardiff
11.2 km
Discover the ultimate sports bar experience in Cardiff, offering vibrant nightlife, delicious food, and live sports in a lively atmosphere.
Popworld - Cardiff
11.4 km
Dive into cheesy pop heaven at Popworld Cardiff—karaoke, half-price drinks, and dance floor anthems until 3am on vibrant St Mary Street.
Fuel Rock Club
11.4 km
Cardiff's unyielding rock fortress on Womanby Street: live metal mayhem, cheap drinks, and a beer garden for the faithful.
Clwb Ifor Bach
11.4 km
Cardiff's gritty Welsh club heart: live music legends, late-night dances, and cultural rebellion on historic Womanby Street since 1983.
Metros
11.4 km
Cardiff's alternative nightclub haven: cheap drinks, eclectic DJs, and non-stop rock, ska, and indie beats fueling wild weekends till 4am.
Revolution Cardiff
11.5 km
Discover the energy of Revolution Cardiff, where delicious food and innovative cocktails meet vibrant nightlife in the heart of the city.
For Your Eyes Only
11.5 km
Elegant and vibrant dance club in Cardiff’s city centre offering stylish interiors, live entertainment, and a lively nightlife atmosphere.
The Live Lounge Cardiff
11.7 km
Immerse yourself in the energetic atmosphere of The Live Lounge Cardiff, where live music, delicious cuisine, and vibrant nightlife await.
The CUBE
11.8 km
Cardiff’s vibrant nightclub hotspot offering dynamic music, dancing, and an electric atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Tiger Tiger Cardiff
11.8 km
A dynamic nightclub with themed rooms and diverse bars offering a vibrant nightlife experience in the heart of Cardiff.
Yates - Cardiff
11.9 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Yates in Cardiff, where great food, drinks, and sports come together in a lively setting.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Casual
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Dog Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly