About This Place

Barry Island is located at the very southern tip of Wales, ten miles along the coast from Cardiff. Sandwiched between two limestone headlands, the golden sands of Whitmore Bay are a popular location for sunbathers and swimmers alike. The famous Pleasure Park is just behind the beach, and there is plenty of entertainment, including amusement arcades, crazy golf, and horse and carriage rides. There are also beach huts for hire and wheelchairs for loan, a climbing wall, and various events to keep the whole family entertained. --> If you get hungry, there are plenty of options, and the environment is known for being clean and generally litter free. This beach has a seasonal lifeguard service available, and dogs are not allowed from around the start of May to the end of September. Fans of Gavin and Stacey will also enjoy spotting some of the filming locations from the TV series. Or, of course, you can just enjoy the glorious views to the Bristol Channel and a walk along the sand or promenade, or enjoy rock pooling and building sandcastles. It can be pretty windy on occasion, though, so be prepared! There’s easy parking, and if you’d rather take the train, it’s around a thirty minute journey from Cardiff. And of course, once you get there, this was the setting for many of the scenes in the Gavin and Stacey TV series. The beach holds a Blue Flag, and Barry Island Seafront and Friary Point have been awarded a Green Flag.

💡 Our Take

Headed to south Wales with your best friend? DogParkUK suggests Whitmore Bay in Barry! This sandy beach welcomes dogs year-round, making it a perfect off-season escape. Ample parking nearby simplifies arrival, with shops and cafes just a short walk away for a quick bite. The gentle waves are generally safe for swimming, but always supervise your dog, especially during rougher weather. Whitmore Bay, with its sandy expanse, is ideal for playful pups and energetic big dogs looking for a good run. *Tip:* Bring a long lead as sometimes it can get busy!