Coney Beach Porthcawl – Surf & Seaside Vibes

Sandy Bay, also known locally as Coney Beach, is a wide, sandy, and gently sloping beach located in Porthcawl, Bridgend County Borough, Wales, offering stunning views across the Bristol Channel towards the North Devon coast.

This nearly mile-long beach is a popular destination for surfers, bathers, families, and stand-up paddle boarders due to its clean waters and array of attractions. With its Eastern Promenade, nearby amenities, and vibrant seaside atmosphere, Sandy Bay is a cornerstone of Porthcawl’s coastal charm.

Beach Characteristics and Activities

Coney Beach Pleasure Park in Porthcawl offers classic seaside rides and amusements, making it a popular stop for families visiting the South Wales coast.

The Blue Flag is awarded to beaches that meet high standards of cleanliness, safety, and water quality — a mark of international coastal excellence.

A family enjoys a peaceful walk along the shoreline at sunset, capturing the essence of a relaxed and joyful seaside escape. © Shutterstock

Sandy Bay is a predominantly sandy beach that gently slopes towards the sea, making it ideal for swimming during the summer months and surfing year-round. At low tide, several hundred meters of sand can separate the surf from the promenade, creating ample space for beach activities.

The beach is a hotspot for kite surfing, wind surfing, and crazy golf/putting, catering to a variety of interests. A small headland at the eastern end of the beach features rock pools, which are perfect for exploring marine wildlife at low tide.

The beach has earned a Marine Conservation Society Recommended award for its water quality, ensuring a clean and safe environment for visitors.

Lifeguard Services and Dog Policies

Dogs are welcome year-round at Sandy Bay in Porthcawl, though they must be kept on leads in designated areas during summer months.

Coney Beach Pleasure Park offers classic and modern rides, arcade games, and family fun right next to Sandy Bay in Porthcawl.

At Sandy Bay in Porthcawl, families love building sandcastles, splashing in the shallow waters, and soaking up the relaxed seaside atmosphere. © Shutterstock

RNLI Lifeguards patrol Sandy Bay from the end of April until the end of September, providing safety for swimmers and surfers during the peak season.

Dogs are welcome to exercise on the beach during the off-season, from October 1st to April 30th, but restrictions apply during the summer months. 

Amenities and Accessibility

Sandy Bay, also known as Coney Beach, is a peaceful stretch of coast in Porthcawl, South Wales, framed by sand dunes and ideal for families and walkers.© Adobe Stock

Sandy Bay is backed by an amusement arcade and a children’s play area, making it particularly appealing for families. The beach is easily accessible via a ramp next to the amusement park, and facilities include toilets, disabled facilities, and a promenade for leisurely strolls.

Parking is plentiful at the nearby Salt Lake Car Park, with additional roadside parking along the promenade or on a grassy area behind it. The beach’s postcode is CF36 5BY, with an OS grid reference of SS 8238 7679.

Nearby Attractions and Dining

Adjacent to Sandy Bay is Porthcawl’s Eastern Promenade, leading to the harbor and a picturesque lighthouse, both within a short walk from the beach. The recently refurbished Jennings building, located near the beach, houses several food and drink establishments, offering a modern dining experience.

 A short walk west leads to the rocky Town Beach and the fully accessible Esplanade, lined with numerous restaurants and shops. Beyond the harbor, visitors can explore the center of Porthcawl, which features additional shops, accommodations, and a museum dedicated to the town’s history.

Proximity to Other Beaches

Sandy Bay is conveniently located near other notable beaches, including Newton Beach (2 km away), Aberavon (15 km away), Prince of Wales Dock, Swansea (22 km away), and Langland Bay (23 km away). 

Conclusion

Sandy Bay, or Coney Beach, is a vibrant and versatile destination in Porthcawl, offering a mix of natural beauty, recreational activities, and convenient amenities. Whether you’re surfing the waves, exploring rock pools, or enjoying the nearby restaurants and amusements, this beach has something for everyone.

With its lifeguard services, accessibility features, and proximity to Porthcawl’s charming town center, Sandy Bay remains a must-visit spot along the Glamorgan coast.