New Quay is a picturesque seaside town in Ceredigion overlooking Cardigan Bay. It is a popular destination thanks to its coastal charm and three beautiful beaches.
The three beaches have very different characters, offering diverse experiences for every kind of visitor.
Harbour Beach
Harbour Beach is New Quay’s main beach – with its lush golden sands and sheltered waters, it’s not hard to see why it is so popular. As of 2026, Harbour Beach has a Seaside Award, which is given in recognition of its excellent water quality and public facilities.
As a particularly safe, clean and sheltered beach (thanks to the harbour wall), this beach is ideal for families. The range of nearby facilities, including cafes, shops and toilets, makes it a great spot to set up for a day of seaside fun.
Things to Do at Harbour Beach, New Quay
Harbour Beach is known as a haven for watersports and wildlife, providing plenty to do and see.
- Dolphin Watching: New Quay is famous for its bottlenose dolphin sightings. Look out for them from the harbour, or take a boat tour to see them up close.
- Cardigan Bay Watersports Centre: Located just behind the beach, this watersports centre offers sailing, paddleboarding, kayaking and powerboating sessions.
- Swimming: The calm, sheltered waters are great for swimming and relaxed bathing. The beach is patrolled by RNLI lifeguards during the summer.
- Fishing: It’s also a popular spot for fishing, with the harbour wall offering a good place to cast off from.
Is Harbour Beach Dog Friendly?
Dogs are not permitted on Harbour Beach during the summer season between May 1st and September 30th. This restriction covers the main beach from the Pier to Penpolin, the smaller pier by the lifeboat station.
Outside of this season, dogs are permitted on Harbour Beach.
Traeth Gwyn
Also known as Llanina Beach is located at the eastern end of New Quay’s bay. This wide sandy beach spans almost a mile, heading towards Llanina Point. Backed by shingles and boulders, with the potential to disappear at high tide, it has a much wilder feel than Harbour Beach.
Famed for its sweeping views of the bay, it’s a popular spot for walkers and those seeking a quieter alternative to some of the busier family beaches. With panoramic scenes out to sea, it’s another good place for dolphin watching.
The beach here is part of the Ceredigion Coast Path. The route between New Quay and Aberaeron is one of the most popular and has strong connections with the iconic Welsh poet Dylan Thomas, who often walked this way to a favourite writing haunt.
Is Traeth Gwyn Dog Friendly?
Dogs are allowed on Traeth Gwyn all year round. With its sandy stretches, it’s ideal for a leisurely stroll with four-legged friends.
Dolau
To the west of New Quay’s harbour, you’ll find Dolau Beach, also known as South Beach. Located just under the main car park and with ramps for easy access, the small beach here has rock pools, pebbles and slightly coarser sand.
Like with the previously mentioned beaches, here you can take in idyllic views, look out for wildlife and enjoy a spot of swimming or watersports in the gentle waters. Dolau is a great alternative to Harbour Beach if you’re after something slightly quieter.
Is Dolau Dog Friendly?
Dogs are allowed on Dolau all year round without restrictions.
Visiting New Quay, Ceredigion
For more local recommendations, check out our guide on things to do in New Quay. With a great selection of cafes, pubs, chippies and shops, New Quay has everything you need for a glorious beach holiday.
Ready to book your trip? Browse our selection of New Quay holiday cottages, many with the beach right on your doorstep, to start planning your West Wales adventure!
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Take a look at our wonderful holiday cottages in New Quay.
