Barry Island Beach

Photo by Melanie Hartshorn
Photo "Barry Island Beach" by Roy Haworth (CC BY-SA) / Cropped from original
Photo "Barry Island Beach" by Jeremy Segrott (CC BY) / Cropped from original


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.

Popular places to visit


Top Hotel Deals

The Mount Rooms

The Mount Rooms

4 out of 5
Porthkerry Road, Barry, Wales
The Mount Rooms
Barry Island Paget House · Barry Island Beachfront Getaway + Private Parking

Barry Island Paget House · Barry Island Beachfront Getaway + Private Parking

Vale of Glamorgan, Wales
Barry Island Paget House · Barry Island Beachfront Getaway + Private Parking
Gails Guest House

Gails Guest House

3 out of 5
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2 Bed House Near Beach with Free Parking

2 Bed House Near Beach with Free Parking

3 out of 5
7 Clos Y Fulfran, Barry, Wales
2 Bed House Near Beach with Free Parking
12 Clos Yr Wylan

12 Clos Yr Wylan

3 out of 5
12 Clos Yr Wylan, Barry, Wales
12 Clos Yr Wylan
Redlands House by Urban Hideaways | Beautiful coastal home, stunning ocean views

Redlands House by Urban Hideaways | Beautiful coastal home, stunning ocean views

Barry, Wales
Redlands House by Urban Hideaways | Beautiful coastal home, stunning ocean views
Goodstay Lodges by Urban Space

Goodstay Lodges by Urban Space

2 out of 5
Goodsheds, Hood Road, Barry, Wales
Goodstay Lodges by Urban Space
Goodstay Apartments by Urban Space

Goodstay Apartments by Urban Space

4 out of 5
Hood Road, Barry, Wales
Goodstay Apartments by Urban Space
Zebulun Suite by Koya Homes

Zebulun Suite by Koya Homes

Barry, Wales
Zebulun Suite by Koya Homes
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Barry Island Beach

Barry Island Beach offers a delightful mix of outdoor adventures and family activities, making it a perfect destination for all ages. Enjoy thrilling kite surfing, explore the adventure playground, or unwind at the lively bars nearby. With its sandy shores and vibrant atmosphere, there's something for everyone to enjoy during your visit to this charming Welsh beach.

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience near Barry Island Beach, visit St. David's shopping centre, located 12.9km away, offering a vibrant atmosphere. Cardiff Market, also 12.9km away, is perfect for local goods. If you’re up for a drive, Bray's Cider & Farm Shop, 48.3km away, is a charming stop.

Recreation

Experience the thrill of live sports at Principality Stadium, just 11.3km from Barry Island. For relaxation, visit Cardiff International Sports Village, 9.7km away, offering wellness activities. Alternatively, enjoy a round of golf at Brynhill Golf Club, situated only 3.2km from the beach.

Adventure

Embark on a thrilling hike at Lower Blaen y Glyn, located 9.7km from Barry Island Beach, where stunning scenery awaits. Experience the adrenaline rush of karting at TeamSport Cardiff, 11.3km away, or enjoy a scenic outdoor walk exploring churches, colleges, and lighthouses, situated 14.5km from the beach.

Nightlife

Barry Island Beach offers a vibrant nightlife with its charming pubs and seaside bars. Visit the popular Marco's for a lively atmosphere, indulge in tasty cocktails, or head to the Barry Island Pub for live music and a friendly crowd. Enjoy the coastal views as you unwind after a day of fun.

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

Find the best attractions near Barry Island Beach

Barry Island Beach offers a delightful blend of attractions for all types of visitors, from urban parks and historical castles to the scenic bay. Whether you're seeking cultural experiences, outdoor activities, or family-friendly fun, Barry Island has something for everyone. Don't miss the chance to explore Barry Beach and enjoy an unforgettable coastal getaway, making wonderful memories along the picturesque shoreline.

  • Cardiff Bay: Just 9.7km from Barry Island Beach, Cardiff Bay offers stunning outdoor scenery, perfect for leisurely walks along the waterfront. Enjoy vibrant cafés and picturesque views, making it an ideal spot to unwind while soaking up the local atmosphere.
  • Cardiff Castle: Located 12.9km away, Cardiff Castle is steeped in history and romance. Explore its enchanting grounds and impressive architecture, immersing yourself in Welsh culture and heritage, all while enjoying panoramic views of the city.
  • Barry Island Pleasure Park: Only 483m from the beach, this amusement park is perfect for families seeking adventure. With thrilling rides and fun attractions, it promises a day filled with excitement and laughter for visitors of all ages.

Best time to go to Barry Island Beach

The best time to visit Barry Island Beach can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Barry Island Beach falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Barry Island Beach falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January42.1°F (5.6°C)Light RainMostlySlightly LowSlightly Low
February42.4°F (5.8°C)Light RainMostlySlightly LowAverage
March44.6°F (7.0°C)Light RainMostlyAverageAverage
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 RainMostlySlightly HighSlightly High
July61.7°F (16.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August61.2°F (16.2°C)Light RainMostlySlightly HighAverage
September58.3°F (14.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October53.8°F (12.1°C)Light RainMostlyAverageSlightly Low
November48.0°F (8.9°C)Light RainMostlyAverageAverage
December44.4°F (6.9°C)Light RainMostlySlightly 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.
  • Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
  • Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.