Coastal eateries in Cymru worth going out of your way for

Wales’ coastline is dotted with lively seaside resorts, colourful harbours and scenic waterfronts, with plenty of memorable places to eat along the way. Explore some of the best coastal destinations for beach cafés, harbour-side pubs and dining with a sea view, grouped by region to help you plan your next coastal escape.

 Surrounded by more than 125 miles of coastline, Ynys Môn (Anglesey) is a paradise for anyone who enjoys combining great food with spectacular sea views. On the eastern shore, The Tavern on the Bay occupies an enviable spot overlooking the sweeping sands of Traeth Coch (Red Wharf Bay), where diners can enjoy one of the island's largest beaches. 

On the west coast, The Oyster Catcher near Rhosneigr is perfectly placed for exploring Anglesey's dune-backed beaches and water sports hub. Its contemporary setting and coastal outlook make it a popular stop after a day spent beside the sea.

For a different perspective, head to Holyhead Marina, where The Harbourfront Bistro looks out across the harbour and moored boats. The waterside setting, paired with a menu that showcases local seafood, makes it one of the island's most atmospheric places to eat.

Located just a few miles from each other on the north coast of Wales, Llandudno and Bae Colwyn (Colwyn Bay) are Victorian-era resorts beloved by beachgoers and a popular base for exploring the Eryri National Park. Head to Bae Colwyn’s smartly regenerated seafront and you’ll find Bryn Williams at Porth Eirias, a cool and contemporary Michelin Bib Gourmand-awarded bistro run by the celebrated chef. The menu is packed with local Welsh produce, while the panoramic sea views make for a memorable dining experience.

Further inland, Bodysgallen Hall, located just outside Llandudno, provides the complete, elegant, country manor house experience with exemplary fine dining. Conwy also has plenty to tempt food lovers, including Michelin Guide-listed The Jackdaw, known for its Welsh tasting menu. For a more relaxed coastal stop, head to Tŷ Coch Inn at Porthdinllaen, a waterfront pub overlooking a beautiful sandy bay on the Llŷn Peninsula that's regularly listed among the world's best beach bars.

As you’d expect from a town nestled on the stunning Pen Llŷn (Llŷn Peninsula), Abersoch is all about the seafood. The Potted Lobster serves up freshly-caught lobster straight out of Cardigan Bay, or head to The Dining Room, a bistro with a local and seasonal menu.

Ceredigion’s largest town, Aberystwyth (or Aber as it is known by locals) is a must-visit stop along The Coastal Way. Enjoy a stroll along the Victorian promenade, take a trip up the longest cliff railway in Britain and visit the National Library of Wales.

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, head to Ultracomida, a delightful Spanish/Welsh tapas bar and deli with a cult following.

There’s a great choice of pubs in Aber, including the Glengower, a traditional seafront inn where you can enjoy a pint with ocean views, and the White Horse nestled in the streets just behind the promenade.

There’s something about Dinbych-y-pysgod (Tenby). With old school charm and nostalgia in (buckets and) spades, not to mention some great beaches, it’s been a stalwart of the Welsh holiday scene for decades. 

For ice cream, Fecci’s Ice Cream Parlour has been around since the 1930s and specialises in old-fashioned sundaes. Further down the road get your crab sandwiches from The Stowaway Coffee Company and enjoy eating them on the harbour walls.

Close to the harbour is Plantagenet House, which is possibly the oldest building in Dinbych-y-pysgod. Dogs are allowed in the Quay room. 

Just over the headland in Llanusyllt (Saundersfoot) you’ll find Lan y Môr Restaurant, which brings together Hywel Griffith, the man behind Michelin-starred Beach House in Gŵyr (Gower), with Gerwyn Jones, former Head Chef at award-winning Grove of Narberth. 
This is an incredible seaside location and an impressive menu, with fresh fish playing a starring role. It’s generally lauded as one of the best places to eat in Wales. 

Also in Llanusyllt is the St Brides Spa Hotel. Enjoy a bite to eat in the restaurant, which sits above an infinity pool, taking in the stellar views of Saundersfoot Bay.

Set on the shores of Oxwich Bay, Michelin-starred Beach House is led by Chef Director Hywel Griffith, whose seasonal menus showcase the best Welsh produce against a spectacular coastal backdrop. Floor-to-ceiling windows and a beachfront terrace showcase views across Oxwich Bay, making this a memorable spot to dine by the sea. 

The coastal town of Ynys y Barri (Barry Island, it’s actually a peninsula) owes much of its fame to the smash hit TV series Gavin & Stacey, and it's a popular resort in its own right. If you’re after some traditional seaside eats, grab a bag of chips to munch on the promenade, followed by a delicious ice cream at Zio's Gelateria

A little down the coast you’ll find the Blue Anchor Inn, a thatched 14th-century inn that frequently appears in the ‘best pubs in Wales’ lists, and serves up hearty fare and an impressive selection of real ales. 

Hickmans is a gastropub located in the heart of the town with a good atmosphere. Enjoy drinks on the rooftop terrace after lunch or dinner. 

Bryn Williams' The Touring Club is open Wednesday to Sunday. It’s a great place to enjoy local produce with delicious breakfasts and lunches. In the evenings the terrace is the perfect place for savouring small plates and cocktails. 

For a small seaside town, Penarth has a wealth of fine eateries to choose from. After a stroll around the town and some sea air on the stunning Victorian pier and fully-restored Art Deco pier pavilion, head to the funky Bar 44 for some tapas.

The Custom House sits next to the impressive Bae Caerdydd (Cardiff Bay) Barrage. It boasts two restaurants, La Marina and El Puerto, serving up a constantly changing selection of dishes made from seasonal and locally-sourced ingredients. 

Looking for more coastal food inspiration? Explore our guide to the best places to eat seafood in Wales, featuring harbour-side restaurants, beach cafés and waterside spots serving some of Wales' freshest catch.