Three Cliffs Bay Beach

Three Cliffs Bay is one of the most photographed coastal landscapes in Wales, known for its dramatic limestone cliffs, sweeping sandy beach and winding river estuary. Located on the Gower Peninsula, the bay forms part of the UK’s first designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and offers striking views in every direction.

Three Cliffs Bay Beach itself is a wide stretch of golden sand framed by the distinctive trio of limestone peaks that give the bay its name. At low tide, the beach expands dramatically, revealing sandbanks, rock pools and the meandering Pennard Pill stream, creating an ever changing coastal scene popular with walkers, photographers and nature lovers.

Dogs are allowed at Three Cliffs Bay Beach all year round.

Parking at Three Cliffs Bay Beach

The bay is split into two by Pennard Pill, which flows down through the valley into the sea. The eastern side is home of the iconic Three Cliffs, Pennard Castle, Pennard Golf Club, and the smaller Pobbles Bay.  Across on the western side is where you'll find the main beach area and Three Cliffs Holiday Park.  You can cross between the two sides by stepping stones close to the beach (however these are covered at high tide) or via a wooden footbridge near Parkmill.

You have three main options to choose for parking, so bear the above in mind where choosing to park, as well as checking the tide times.  Make sure you bring some cash as a few of the parking options are honesty boxes at times.

Parkmill - there are three car parks here: Shepherds Cafe, or the car park just opposite, both of which are £3 for the day, or park at Gower Heritage Centre for £5.  From here it is around 2km to walk to the beach (around 25 minutes).

Penmaen - limited free parking is available near St John the Baptist church, which is around a 1km walk to the beach, or you can park at Three Cliffs Holiday Park which is a little closer.

Southgate National Trust Car Park - ideal for National Trust members as parking is free, otherwise £8 for the day.  This car park also has a cafe and toilets, and is around 1.6km walk to the beach.

Facilities

There are no facilities at the beach, so this may affect where you decide to park.  The closest toilets are at Three Cliffs Holiday Park, which is around 400 metres away, or if you're in need of snacks & drinks the closest options are at Parkmill or Pennard, depending on where you’ve walked from.