Barry Island Beach

Aerial panorama of Barry Island, Wales, UK
Aerial panorama of Barry Island, Wales, UK
Barry, South Wales.
Vale of Glamorgan. UK


If you’re looking for a quintessential Welsh seaside experience, look no further than Barry Beach in the picturesque Vale of Glamorgan.

Sun worshippers have been flocking here since Victorian times to what is essentially a small island, though joined now to the mainland since 1896 by a small pier. The site of a Butlins holiday camp during the 1960’s, Barry Beach is perfect for families, with its signature calling card being Barry Island Pleasure Park. Come here for crowds, candy floss and sticks of rock, the scream of the rollercoaster and the thump of the dodgems.

When the fun of the fair has worn you out, the Blue Flag winning Barry Island Beach offers great swimming, a range of seaside shops, delicious fish and chips, more ice cream than you can eat in a month of sundaes and wonderful views of the two craggy limestone headlands.

Barry Island Beach is the generic name for what are actually several distinct coves: Whitmore Bay, which lies between the two peninsulas of Friar’s Point and Nell’s Point Jackson Bay, nestling between Nell's Point and Little Island and Old Harbour beach around Friar's Point is the third destination, offering a massive expanse of sand at low tide.

Sporting activities enjoyed here include beach volleyball, snorkelling, windsurfing, sea-kayaking and some rather good fishing. Anglers catch whiting and even the odd sea bass when conditions are right here. In recent years, several TV shows have helped popularise this dramatic coastal area, in particular, the comedy show Gavin and Stacey.

Plan a trip to see Barry Island Beach

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Reviews of Barry Island Beach

4.2
Top destination
5 - Excellent
31
5 - Excellent 41%
4 - Good
28
4 - Good 37%
3 - Okay
15
3 - Okay 20%
2 - Disappointing
2
2 - Disappointing 3%
1 - Terrible
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1 - Terrible 0%

5/5 - Excellent

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Things to do near Barry Island Beach

Barry Island Beach offers a delightful mix of outdoor adventures and family activities, making it a perfect getaway. Visitors can enjoy kite surfing and explore the adventure playground, while lively bars provide a vibrant atmosphere for relaxation. Whether you're seeking thrilling water sports or leisurely days by the sea, Barry Island has something for everyone to enjoy.

Shopping

Mermaid Quay, located 11.3km from Barry Island Beach, offers a vibrant shopping experience with family-friendly entertainment. St. David's and Cardiff Market, both 12.9km away, provide a mix of business and city vibes, perfect for picking up unique gifts and souvenirs.

Recreation

Experience the vibrant energy at Principality Stadium, just 11.3km from Barry Island Beach, or find tranquility at Cardiff International Sports Village, 9.7km away. Enjoy the outdoor atmosphere at Brynhill Golf Club, only 3.2km from the beach, perfect for a relaxing round of golf.

Adventure

Embark on a thrilling hike at Lower Blaen y Glyn, nestled 9.7km from Barry Island Beach, where stunning scenery awaits. Experience family fun at Delta Force Paintball Cardiff, located 14.5km away, or enjoy the nostalgic Cardiff Bay Carousel, a delightful amusement ride 11.3km from the beach.

Nightlife

Barry Island Beach offers a vibrant nightlife with lively pubs and seaside bars along the promenade. Enjoy the atmosphere at venues like The Fontygary Inn and The Barry Island Pleasure Park, where you can relish cocktails, live music, and stunning views of the coastline as the sun sets.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Barry Island Beach

Discover the charm of Barry Island Beach, where you can explore urban parks, castles, and the stunning bay. This destination offers a delightful mix of culture, outdoor activities, and family-friendly experiences. Don't miss out on the iconic Barry Beach and take the time to enjoy unforgettable coastal getaways. With its beautiful surroundings and vibrant atmosphere, Barry Island is a perfect spot for every traveller seeking a memorable experience.

  • Cardiff Bay: Just 9.7km from Barry Island Beach, Cardiff Bay offers stunning outdoor scenery and a vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy leisurely strolls along the waterfront, indulge in local cuisine, or take a scenic boat ride, immersing yourself in the bay's natural beauty.
  • Cardiff Castle: Located 12.9km away, Cardiff Castle is a romantic historical gem, showcasing intricate architecture and rich culture. Explore its impressive grounds and learn about its fascinating history, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
  • Barry Island Pleasure Park: Situated only 483m from the beach, this amusement park is perfect for families seeking adventure. With thrilling rides and fun-filled attractions, it promises a delightful day out for visitors of all ages.

Best time to go to Barry Island Beach

The best time to visit Barry Island Beach is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January42.1°F (5.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
February42.4°F (5.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
March44.6°F (7.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April48.0°F (8.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May53.2°F (11.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
June58.5°F (14.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly High
July61.7°F (16.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August61.2°F (16.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
September58.3°F (14.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October53.8°F (12.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
November48.0°F (8.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
December44.4°F (6.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low

Tips to save on your trip to Barry Island Beach

  • Take advantage of package deals on Expedia and combine flights, hotels, or car rentals for a convenient and cost-effective trip to Barry Island Beach.
  • Consider traveling to Barry Island Beach during the low season (October and December to January) for more affordable options.
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