If you fancy a change from your usual beach, then this could be just what you're looking for. It's got nothing like the profile of Wales' most popular beaches but is an absolute gem. Thanks to the relative difficulty of accessing it, it's rarely busy so you should be able to take your pick of perfect spots to enjoy the beauty of your surroundings.
You can only reach the beach at Monknash on foot, by walking down a footpath through woodland beside a stream called Nash Brook. Even before you reach the woodland, you'll need to walk a little while down a narrow country lane, having parked in a farmer's field (charges apply — there's an honesty box) or further away at the nearest pub (more on the pub later).
So while the walk can be a bit of a challenge for those of you carrying or pushing small children, you'll realise the effort was worth it when the beach opens up in front of you with a dramatic cliff backdrop. It's part of the Glamorgan Heritage Coast, and there are rocks and rock pools as well as wide open golden sands when the tide is out. You can see our pick of the 40 best beaches in Wales here.
