Rhossili Bay: Wales’ Majestic Coastal Gem
Experience the breathtaking three-mile sandy beach and iconic tidal island of Rhossili Bay, a natural wonder on Wales’ Gower Peninsula.
Rhossili Bay, located at the southwestern tip of the Gower Peninsula in Wales, is a stunning three-mile stretch of golden sandy beach backed by dramatic cliffs and sand dunes. Known for its panoramic views, iconic Worms Head tidal island, and rich natural heritage, it offers excellent opportunities for walking, surfing, wildlife spotting, and photography. Managed by the National Trust, the bay combines natural beauty with historical significance, making it a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
A brief summary to Rhossili Bay
- GB
- Duration: 1 to 5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 3 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit at low tide to explore Worms Head tidal island safely and enjoy the spectacular blowhole on the outer head.
- Wear sturdy footwear for the steep paths and rocky steps leading down to the beach, especially if planning to surf or walk extensively.
- National Trust members can park for free in the large clifftop car park; otherwise, pay & display charges apply.
- Bring binoculars for seal and bird spotting along the shoreline and cliffs.
- Check tide times before crossing to Worms Head and stay close to marked paths to avoid steep cliff edges.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Swansea to Rhossili Bay takes approximately 40 minutes via narrow country lanes on the Gower Peninsula. The National Trust car park near the bay charges £4 for up to 2 hours or £8 for longer stays; National Trust members park free. Parking can be busy in summer, so booking in advance is recommended.
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Bus
Public transport is available via the 118 bus from Swansea city center to Rhossili village, running Monday to Saturday. The journey takes about 1.5 hours, but the final walk to the bay involves steep and uneven terrain, limiting accessibility for some travelers.
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Walking
For walkers, coastal paths connect Rhossili Bay with nearby villages and viewpoints. The paths include steep sections and rocky steps, requiring good fitness and sturdy footwear. Walking times vary from 1 to 3 hours depending on the route.
Rhossili Bay location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Rhossili Bay
A Coastal Masterpiece on the Gower Peninsula
Rhossili Bay is a spectacular natural bay that curves gracefully along the southwestern edge of the Gower Peninsula, the UK’s first designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The bay’s three-mile expanse of fine golden sand is framed by towering sandstone cliffs and backed by extensive sand dunes, creating a vast and varied landscape shaped by the Atlantic Ocean. At low tide, visitors can explore the skeletal remains of the Helvetia, a Norwegian barque shipwrecked in 1887, adding a poignant historical layer to the beach’s pristine environment.Iconic Landmarks and Dramatic Views
Dominating the southern end of the bay is Worms Head, a serpentine tidal island rising sharply from the sea. Accessible only at low tide via a narrow causeway, Worms Head offers adventurous visitors a chance to explore its rugged terrain and witness a powerful blowhole that sprays seawater high into the air. Overlooking the bay is Rhossili Down, the highest point on the peninsula at 193 meters, providing breathtaking panoramic views stretching across the bay, the Gower coastline, and on clear days, as far as Lundy Island and the North Devon coast.Outdoor Activities and Wildlife Encounters
Rhossili Bay is renowned for its consistent surf conditions, making it one of the premier surfing spots in Wales. The bay’s three distinct surf areas cater to various skill levels, with the southern end offering more sheltered waves. Beyond surfing, the bay is a haven for walkers who enjoy cliff-top trails with sweeping vistas, seal-spotting along the shore, and birdwatching. The surrounding fields and downs are dotted with prehistoric remains, including Iron Age hill forts, enriching the natural landscape with cultural heritage.Visitor Facilities and Accessibility
The National Trust manages a large car park atop the cliffs, offering some of the best views in the UK even before descending to the beach. Parking costs are modest, with options for National Trust members to park free. Facilities include 24-hour public toilets with accessible features and baby-changing amenities. While access to the beach involves a steep path with steps, alternative relatively flat coastal routes provide easier walking options. The nearby village of Rhossili offers food and drink establishments, and the area welcomes dogs year-round, though visitors are advised to be cautious of livestock and cliff edges.Natural Beauty and Conservation
Rhossili Bay’s status within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty ensures ongoing conservation efforts to protect its fragile ecosystems and wildlife habitats. The bay’s dark skies make it a favored spot for stargazing, with minimal light pollution enhancing the experience. The National Trust encourages responsible tourism, emphasizing respect for the local environment and community, including adherence to tide times when exploring Worms Head.Timeless Appeal and Cultural Significance
Beyond its natural allure, Rhossili Bay holds cultural significance as the birthplace of Petty Officer Edgar Evans, a member of Scott’s Antarctic expedition. The village and surrounding landscape are steeped in history, from neolithic times through to modern-day conservation. This blend of stunning scenery, outdoor adventure, and rich heritage cements Rhossili Bay’s reputation as one of Europe’s great beaches and a jewel of Welsh coastal tourism.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Rhossili Downs
1.4 km
Experience breathtaking coastal panoramas and ancient heritage atop the highest point of Wales' Gower Peninsula.
Whiteford Lighthouse
9.0 km
A rare cast-iron lighthouse standing in the tidal estuary of the Gower Peninsula, reachable only at low tide across vast sands and saltmarsh.
Gorsedd Circle
14.2 km
A modern stone circle in Llanelli celebrating Welsh culture, poetry, and the spirit of the National Eisteddfod.
Glamorgan History Society
20.9 km
Explore Glamorgan’s rich history through dedicated research, publications, and community events at the heart of Swansea’s heritage.
The Baltic Inn & Restaurant
21.6 km
A welcoming countryside inn in Pontyates offering cozy rooms, hearty dining, and a peaceful Welsh village atmosphere.
Delta Hotels Swansea
24.9 km
Stylish waterfront hotel in Swansea’s Maritime Quarter with modern comforts, stunning bay views, and versatile event spaces.
Cwtsh Hostel
25.2 km
Modern, friendly, and centrally located hostel offering comfortable stays and social spaces in the vibrant heart of Swansea.
Cathedral Church of Saint Joseph (Eglwys Gadeirlan Siôseff Sant)
25.4 km
A majestic Gothic Revival cathedral in Swansea, symbolizing faith, history, and community since 1888.
Premier Inn Swansea City Centre hotel
25.4 km
Comfortable city-centre hotel on vibrant Wind Street, with spacious rooms, tasty dining, and easy access to Swansea’s cultural and coastal highlights.
Premier Inn Swansea Waterfront hotel
26.1 km
Modern comfort and scenic marina views combine at Premier Inn Swansea Waterfront, your gateway to Swansea’s vibrant coastal charm.
Kilns of Mynyddcerrig
26.5 km
Explore the historic limekilns of Mynyddcerrig, a window into Carmarthenshire’s rural industrial heritage and traditional limeburning craft.
Dyfed Menswear
28.8 km
Explore Llanelli with ease at Dyfed Menswear, a central bus stop connecting you to the town’s vibrant culture and attractions.
St Clears Castle
29.2 km
Explore the earthwork remains of St Clears Castle, a Norman motte-and-bailey fortress steeped in medieval Welsh history at the rivers’ confluence.
Imperial Hotel, Tenby
29.4 km
Historic hotel on Tenby’s ancient walls with stunning sea views, modern comforts, and a vibrant seaside dining experience.
Tenby Town walls
29.7 km
Explore Tenby’s medieval town walls, a stunning coastal fortress that tells the story of centuries-old Welsh defense and heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Rhossili bay Beach
0.6 km
Discover Rhossili Bay’s stunning three-mile sandy beach, dramatic cliffs, and iconic views on Wales’ breathtaking Gower Peninsula.
Wreck of the Helvetia
0.8 km
Discover the haunting remains of the Helvetia, a 19th-century Norwegian barque wrecked on Rhossili Beach amidst the wild beauty of the Gower Peninsula.
National Trust - Rhossili and South Gower Coast
1.2 km
Discover Rhossili’s breathtaking three-mile beach, dramatic cliffs, and iconic Worms Head on Wales’ stunning South Gower Coast.
Worm's Head
2.2 km
Experience the wild beauty and tidal adventure of Worm's Head, a dramatic island at Rhossili Bay accessible only at low tide.
Burry Holms
3.6 km
Discover Burry Holms, a tidal island rich in ancient history and stunning coastal views at the northern end of Rhossili Bay.
Weobley Castle
7.9 km
Explore the windswept ruins of Weobley Castle, a fortified medieval manor with stunning views over Gower’s saltmarshes and rich Tudor history.
King Arthur's Stone
8.5 km
Discover the enchanting myth of King Arthur at King Arthur's Stone, a historical landmark where legends meet breathtaking Welsh scenery.
Gower National Landscape
9.2 km
Explore the UK’s first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, where dramatic coastlines, ancient history, and diverse habitats create an unforgettable Welsh landscape.
Castell Oxwich
9.5 km
Explore Castell Oxwich, a grand Tudor manor house blending mock-fortified elegance with stunning coastal views on Wales’ Gower Peninsula.
Pembrey Country Park
11.6 km
Explore 500 acres of award-winning woodlands and an eight-mile Blue Flag beach with family-friendly activities and scenic coastal trails.
Three Cliffs Bay
13.0 km
Discover the wild beauty and iconic limestone cliffs of Three Cliffs Bay, a serene coastal escape on Wales’ Gower Peninsula.
Giant's Grave
13.0 km
Explore a 6,000-year-old Neolithic chambered tomb nestled in a tranquil Welsh valley, revealing ancient burial rites and prehistoric heritage.
Pobbles Bay
13.3 km
A hidden limestone cove where effort rewards you with solitude, soft sand, and sweeping coastal views.
Pennard Castle
13.7 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Pennard Castle perched above Three Cliffs Bay, where medieval history meets wild coastal beauty and shifting sands.
Plas Llanelly House
15.1 km
Explore Llanelli’s finest Georgian townhouse, a beautifully restored heritage site blending history, architecture, and vibrant cultural experiences.
Essential places to dine
Beach House Restaurant
9.9 km
Michelin-starred fine dining with stunning Oxwich Bay views, showcasing the best of Welsh seasonal produce in a rustic-chic beachside setting.
Fredricks Bar & Brasserie
13.9 km
Relax and dine in style with stunning golf course views at Fredricks Bar & Brasserie, Llanelli’s refined yet welcoming culinary spot.
The Lighthouse Bar & Kitchen And Lounge
22.1 km
Seaside dining with stunning views, fresh flavors, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Mumbles, Swansea.
Inn At The Sticks
22.4 km
A historic Welsh inn blending innovative local cuisine, warm hospitality, and cozy accommodation in the scenic village of Llansteffan.
The Bird In Hand
23.2 km
A welcoming country pub in Swansea offering hearty British fare, friendly service, and a lively bar in a family-friendly setting.
The Secret Beach Bar & Kitchen
23.4 km
A vibrant modern British beachside bar and kitchen with stunning Swansea Bay views and a welcoming, dog-friendly atmosphere.
Garden Room Restaurant
23.6 km
A bright, plant-filled restaurant inside Pontarddulais Garden Centre, serving generous British classics and Sunday roasts in a relaxed, family-friendly setting.
Lezzet Authentic Restaurant
24.1 km
Experience authentic Turkish cuisine in a bright, welcoming setting with expertly crafted dishes and attentive service in Swansea.
The Farmers Arms
24.5 km
A cozy Welsh country pub in Llanybri offering hearty traditional dishes, warm hospitality, and a charming rural atmosphere.
Morgans Restaurant
25.5 km
Elegant European dining and refined bar experiences in a historic Swansea hotel near the marina and city centre.
The River House
25.8 km
Scenic waterfront dining with seasonal modern European cuisine and award-winning cocktails in Swansea’s vibrant SA1 district.
Abadam Arms
29.1 km
Traditional Welsh pub and cozy B&B in Carmarthen offering hearty home-cooked meals and warm local hospitality in a tranquil rural setting.
The Butchers Arms
29.1 km
A welcoming Welsh country pub in Llanddarog offering traditional oak-beamed charm, local cuisine, and a cozy fireplace.
Hollol Gymraeg
29.5 km
Discover authentic Welsh flavors and warm hospitality at Hollol Gymraeg, a family-run culinary gem near Carmarthen.
Billycan
29.5 km
A stylish restaurant and boutique hotel in Tenby offering generous portions, fresh flavors, and a welcoming atmosphere near the beach.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Parc Pemberton Retail Park
16.3 km
Llanelli’s vibrant retail park offering leading brands, leisure spots, and easy access near Parc Y Scarlets stadium.
Choices
24.1 km
Choices is a charming gift shop in Laugharne offering unique local crafts and souvenirs in a welcoming atmosphere, open daily from 9am to 5pm.
Quadrant Shopping Centre
24.9 km
Swansea's covered shopping destination blending high street chains with independent boutiques in a modern, accessible setting.
Treasures Of Munro
26.5 km
Discover unique Welsh gifts, beauty products, and charming souvenirs at Treasures Of Munro, a cozy boutique in the heart of Tumble, Llanelli.
Wax 2 Relax
27.6 km
Discover handcrafted candles, bespoke perfumes, and unique local crafts in a cozy Morriston boutique that celebrates artisan creativity.
Obsessive Koi Disorder
28.4 km
A vibrant Swansea shop blending koi fish expertise with unique aquatic-themed gifts and apparel for enthusiasts and pond keepers alike.
Welsh Slate & Gift Boutique
28.5 km
Explore the charm of Wales at the Welsh Slate & Gift Boutique, where unique handcrafted slate treasures and local gifts await your discovery.
Little Shop of Wishes
29.2 km
Bespoke personalised keepsakes and decorations crafted in South Wales for every celebration.
The Range
29.3 km
A spacious and affordable homewares and leisure store in Swansea offering everything from furniture to crafts and garden supplies.
The Nook
29.3 km
Discover handcrafted treasures and unique gifts in Tenby’s charming boutique, The Nook, where local artistry meets coastal inspiration.
Joys Of Tenby
29.5 km
Explore Joys Of Tenby, a charming gift shop offering unique souvenirs that capture the essence of this beautiful coastal town.
The Welsh Gift Shop
29.5 km
Discover authentic Welsh crafts and heritage treasures in the heart of Tenby at The Welsh Gift Shop.
Inspired Aroma
29.7 km
Explore the enchanting world of scents at Inspired Aroma, Swansea's beloved candle shop, where every fragrance tells a story.
Best-one Convenience Store
29.7 km
Discover the Best-one Convenience Store in Swansea - your go-to spot for local snacks and essentials while exploring the area.
The Funny Gift Store
29.9 km
Discover quirky, handmade novelty gifts that bring laughter and joy to Swansea and beyond at The Funny Gift Store.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Uplands Tavern
23.5 km
Experience the vibrant local spirit and classic British pub charm at Swansea’s Uplands Tavern, a lively hub for great drinks and live music.
Noah's Yard
23.5 km
Discover Swansea’s quirky Noah's Yard—a vibrant bar blending artistic charm, live jazz, and a welcoming community spirit.
Maltsters Arms
24.8 km
Cozy and vibrant pub in Swansea’s Cwmbwrla, offering local ales, hearty food, and a warm community atmosphere.
Hogarths
25.2 km
Discover Hogarths Swansea, a lively Victorian gin palace offering over 120 gins, cozy booths, and a vibrant city centre atmosphere.
The Perch
25.2 km
Experience Swansea’s energetic live music scene and rustic charm at The Perch, Wind Street’s vibrant bar with cocktails and great vibes.
No Sign Wine Bar
25.3 km
A cozy, character-rich Swansea pub blending real ales, live music, and acclaimed Sunday lunches in the heart of Wind Street.
Bambu Beach Bar
25.3 km
Experience Swansea’s vibrant Latin tiki nightlife with tropical cocktails, rooftop dancing, and unforgettable party vibes at Bambu Beach Bar.
Peppermint
25.3 km
Sophisticated cocktails, vibrant nightlife, and exclusive VIP lounges in the heart of Swansea’s city centre.
Pump House
25.5 km
Classic British pub fare and refreshing drinks with stunning views of Swansea Marina in a lively, dog-friendly setting.
BeerRiff Brewing co
25.8 km
Discover innovative craft beers and vibrant community spirit at BeerRiff Brewing Co, Swansea’s waterside brewery and taproom.
The Ship Inn
25.8 km
Experience authentic Welsh hospitality and hearty local ales in the cozy, welcoming atmosphere of The Ship Inn in Swansea.
The Wern Inn
25.9 km
Friendly traditional Swansea pub with hearty food, a lively atmosphere, and a spacious beer garden, newly refurbished in 2025.
Ivorites Arms
26.1 km
Cozy Welsh pub in Swansea’s Plasmarl offering local ales, hearty food, and warm hospitality in a friendly, inviting atmosphere.
The Mansel Arms
28.1 km
A traditional Welsh pub offering hearty meals, real ales, and a warm, lively atmosphere in the heart of Carmarthenshire countryside.
The Copper Pot
28.5 km
A friendly Swansea pub offering hearty meals, generous portions, and a relaxed atmosphere in the heart of Swansea Enterprise Park.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Rainbow Rooms Bar & Club
20.9 km
Experience lively nights and vibrant music at The Rainbow Rooms Bar & Club, Gorseinon’s premier destination for unforgettable nightlife.
Sin City
24.6 km
Energetic Swansea nightclub with live music, affordable drinks, and a lively atmosphere on Dillwyn Street.
Cuba Escape
24.8 km
Experience Swansea’s vibrant nightlife at Cuba Escape, where live music, energetic crowds, and a colorful atmosphere come together for unforgettable nights.
PlanB
24.8 km
Swansea’s energetic two-floor nightclub with a focus on dance music, lively DJs, and great drink deals for a night to remember.
Popworld - Swansea
25.3 km
Experience Swansea’s energetic retro nightclub with affordable cocktails, themed events, and a lively dance floor in the heart of the city.
Prince Of Wales
29.6 km
Tenby’s iconic late-night nightclub blending lively music, classic charm, and a spirited atmosphere in the heart of Town Wall Arcade.
Lucifer's Nightlife
31.0 km
Experience Carmarthen's vibrant nightlife and fast food fusion at Lucifer's Nightlife, where music, dancing, and late-night bites come alive on Queen Street.
Savannah's Night Club
31.0 km
Experience Carmarthen’s vibrant nightlife at Savannah's Night Club—where music, dance, and stylish vibes create unforgettable Saturday nights.
Sands Nightclub
31.3 km
Saundersfoot’s lively nightclub with dance, drinks, and a vibrant atmosphere near the beach.
Comlongon
34.5 km
Experience vibrant nightlife in the charming village of St Florence with Comlongon, Tenby’s energetic nightclub gem.
The Arch Bar & Nightclub
35.3 km
A lively Neath hotspot blending nightclub energy, live music, pub charm, and Thai cuisine in one vibrant venue.
Jimmy's Bar
35.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and live music scene at Jimmy's Bar, Port Talbot’s lively local hotspot with a welcoming atmosphere.
Paddles
44.0 km
Experience Pembroke’s vibrant nightlife at Paddles, the go-to nightclub for late-night music, drinks, and social energy in the town center.
The Star Club
46.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Star Club, Pembroke Dock's premier bar for unforgettable evenings filled with music, drinks, and fun.
The Top Club
49.3 km
Experience Blaengarw’s vibrant nightlife at The Top Club, where electrifying entertainment meets community spirit in the heart of South Wales.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Adventurous
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
