Wales’ south coast is a dream for walkers—rugged cliffs, golden beaches, and sweeping views of the Celtic Sea. If you’re looking to explore the area like a local, Swansea and Carmarthenshire offer some of the most stunning and diverse coastal paths in the UK. From dramatic promontories and hidden coves to pine forests and salt marshes, here’s your essential guide to the best coastal walks.
Where: Western tip of the Gower Peninsula, near the village of Rhossili
Why locals love it: One of the most iconic coastal views in Britain, often voted among the world’s best beaches.
Walk details:
Distance: ~5 miles return
Difficulty: Moderate (some rocky and tidal sections)
Highlights: Rhossili Down views, tidal causeway to Worm’s Head, seals, and seabirds
This route takes you across Rhossili Down to the famous Worm’s Head—a dragon-shaped tidal island that juts out into the sea. Time your visit carefully: the causeway is only accessible for about 2.5 hours either side of low tide.
Where: South Gower, near Parkmill
Why locals love it: Wild beauty, dramatic limestone cliffs, and a winding river that meets the sea.
Walk details:
Distance: 3–6 miles depending on route
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: Pennard Castle ruins, sand dunes, estuary views
Start from the Gower Heritage Centre or Southgate and follow the cliff paths for stunning panoramas over this cinematic bay.
Where: South Gower coast
Why locals love it: A peaceful, less touristy stretch of coastline with woodlands and quiet coves.
Walk details:
Distance: ~4 miles one way
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: Nicholaston Woods, Slade Bay, old salt house ruins
End your walk with local ice cream or a pint in the seaside village of Port Eynon.
Where: Mumbles area, Swansea
Why locals love it: Family-friendly and accessible with sweeping sea views.
Walk details:
Distance: 1.5 miles return
Difficulty: Easy
Highlights: Coastal cafés, paddleboarding, and rock pools
Perfect for a shorter stroll with plenty of pit stops for coffee or a cream tea overlooking the ocean.
Where: From Swansea Marina to Mumbles Pier
Why locals love it: Paved, flat, and bike-friendly—great for walking, running or just enjoying the breeze.
Walk details:
Distance: ~5 miles one way
Difficulty: Easy
Highlights: Marina views, Blackpill Lido, Verdi’s gelato
A relaxing, urban-meets-nature route offering glimpses of both sea life and city life.
Where: Near Llanelli, Carmarthenshire
Why locals love it: A huge expanse of pine forest, dunes, and an 8-mile Blue Flag beach.
Walk details:
Distance: Up to 8 miles
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Highlights: Shipwreck remnants, wide sandy beach, forest trails
This walk blends forest and coastline with accessible paths, picnic areas, and even a dry ski slope nearby.
Where: Millennium Coastal Park, Llanelli
Why locals love it: Birdwatching heaven with flat, well-maintained paths.
Walk details:
Distance: ~13 miles total (choose segments)
Difficulty: Easy
Highlights: Llanelli Wetland Centre, Machynys Peninsula, Burry Port Harbour
A great option for those looking for long but level walks with lots of nature and coffee spots along the way.
Where: Carmarthenshire coast
Why locals love it: Quiet, rural route with estuary views and ancient ruins.
Walk details:
Distance: ~4.5 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: Kidwelly Castle, tidal flats, River Towy
End the day in Ferryside, a sleepy estuary village with views across to Llansteffan Castle.
Where: North Gower, near Llanmadoc
Why locals love it: Secluded and wild, with marshes and a remote cast iron lighthouse.
Walk details:
Distance: ~6 miles return
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: Pine woods, sand dunes, wildlife-rich salt marshes
Bring good boots—this path can get muddy but rewards with solitude and raw natural beauty.
Where: Laugharne, Carmarthenshire
Why locals love it: Dylan Thomas country, with poetic views and a peaceful estuary.
Walk details:
Distance: 2–3 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Highlights: Laugharne Castle, Boathouse, salt marshes
A must for literary lovers and anyone who wants a slow-paced ramble with history at every turn.
Whether you're seeking windswept cliffs, forested dunes, or sleepy seaside villages, Swansea and Carmarthenshire offer some of the finest and most varied coastal walking in the UK. These trails blend drama, tranquillity, and a sense of timeless Welsh charm.
If you're planning a walking holiday and want a home-from-home with flexible check-in, dog-friendly options, and local flair, consider booking your accommodation through Pass the Keys. As a trusted short-let management service, they offer well-managed, unique stays across South Wales—including the Gower and Carmarthenshire—perfect for coast-loving explorers.