Welsh beach 'one of the best in Europe’ with eight miles of sand that's like Gold Coast California

Described as one of Europe's best beaches, is one of the hidden gems of the Pembrey Country Park.
-Credit: (Image: SashaFoxWalters/Getty)


With eight miles of sandy beach this "hidden gem" has been compared to the best in Europe and even the USA.

Cefn Sidan Beach, Pembrey located in Carmarthenshire, Wales, is one of the longest and most beautiful beaches in the country.

Stretching over eight miles, it offers soft golden sands and stunning views of the Bristol Channel and has even been compared to Californian Beaches such as the golden coast, according to Pembrey County Park and Beach.

Cefn Sidan was the first beach in Wales to achieve the coveted blue flag award and is part of Pembrey Country Park, making it the perfect place for nature lovers, as vistors can explore nearby woodlands, sand dunes, and coastal paths, perfect for hiking or cycling nearby as well as taking a stroll along the coast. West Wales Holiday Cottages says it has previously been described as one of "Europe's best beaches", and with views to die for, it makes sense why.

But as well as long stretches of sand this beach is full of other surprises. For the latest Welsh news delivered to your inbox sign up to our newsletter

READ MORE: The secluded Welsh beach where people camp overnight just to have it to themselves in the morning

READ MORE: The village in Wales where you can see giant leatherback turtles surrounded by views from another world

Cefn Sidan Sands a is long sandy beach and its dunes form the outer edge of the Pembrey Burrows between Burry Port and Kidwelly, facing southwestwards over Carmarthen Bay in South Wales.
Cefn Sidan Sands a is long sandy beach and its dunes form the outer edge of the Pembrey Burrows between Burry Port and Kidwelly, facing southwestwards over Carmarthen Bay in South Wales. -Credit:Getty

With a gentle slope and shallow waters, Cefn Sidan is great for paddling and beachcombing, so is an ideal place for a family day out, or a romantic stroll. It also looks like a picture perfect spot for some seaside selfies, or landscape shots, so definitely one to document if you are paying a visit.

The beach’s name, Cefn Sidan, translates to "silken back," which is seemingly reference to its smooth, fine sand that is ideal for long walks or sunbathing. The stretch of sand looks immediately impressive as soon as you get to the beach, and is actually so long that planes have landed in the area before, such as this Royal Air Force Lockheed C-130J 'Super Hercules' which performing tactical landings and take-offs from the public beach.

A Royal Air Force Lockheed C-130J 'Super Hercules'  at the public beach at Cefn Sidan Sands in West Wales.
A Royal Air Force Lockheed C-130J 'Super Hercules' at the public beach at Cefn Sidan Sands in West Wales. -Credit:Getty
The Paul is the largest remaining timber wreck to be seen on the Cefn Sidan sands of the 182 vessels are recorded as being wrecked here.
The Paul is the largest remaining timber wreck to be seen on the Cefn Sidan sands of the 182 vessels are recorded as being wrecked here. -Credit:Getty

But Cefn Sidan isn't just a pretty place. It's also full of history, and has the remnants of shipwrecks scattered along it, making it even more intriguing. These wrecks, dating back hundreds of years and serve as a reminder of the area’s maritime past, adding a touch of mystery to the scenic landscape with lots of people looking to capture them through photos.

Describing the picturesque beach, Visit Wales says on their website: "The extensive flat sandy beach lends itself to a wide range of activities, swimming, fishing and kayaking take place in zoned areas and the beach also hosts sandcastle competitions and parakarting and sand yachting events. Refreshments and shops are available nearby.

Cefn Sidan beach on a windy day -Credit:SashaFoxWalters/Getty
Cefn Sidan beach on a windy day -Credit:SashaFoxWalters/Getty

"There are clear panoramic views across Carmarthen Bay to the Gower and Carmarthenshire coast. You can still see the remains of the hull of the SS Paul when the tide is out. There is a charge for vehicles to gain access to the beach through the country park although it is free for pedestrians & bikes. The dunes and surrounding area are designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and include a number of walking trails. Cyclists and pedestrians can use the Millennium Coastal Path / Celtic Trail to access the Park from Llanelli and Burry Port."

Find great options for your family in your local area: