Many people are used to going abroad, jumping on a plane, and heading to some faraway shore or sunnier climate in Europe. But with travel trends changing so much, many of us are looking to embrace the staycation this year, and for good reason – a Wales staycation is the perfect option for a domestic holiday.
Planning a Wales staycation is a great opportunity to explore your own country and surroundings, and discover so much more about an area you might never have considered travelling to or exploring before.
Planning staycations in the UK have helped so many of us realise that we live in a fabulous country with so much more to see and do than we ever gave it credit for before.
Wales is a popular location for a staycation and boasts some of the world’s best beaches and countryside.
Here are a few reasons why you should consider staycations in Wales:
- Breathtaking views form some of the highest points in the country
- National parks giving you the chance to get up close to nature and wildlife
- Perfect walking trails and hiking opportunities that can suit all ages and abilities
- Excellent bars and restaurants with many focusing on local produce and cuisines
- Some of the best coastline you can find in the UK
- Plenty of activities in Wales for couples, children and whole families to enjoy
- Feel like you are actually abroad in some locations.
When thinking about a Welsh staycation, you often want flexibility and plenty of things to do, and heading to Wales can offer you all of those things and much more. So if you are considering a staycation in Wales, here are some of the best staycations in Wales to give you some inspiration.
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something. While clicking these links won’t cost you anything, they will help us to keep this site up and running! See the full disclosure policy for more details.
The Best Holiday Places in Wales for a Staycation
Use this list to plan your staycation, Wales itinerary and best places to add to your trip.
Anglesey
Anglesey can often feel like you are heading away to somewhere completely different and feels a far cry from a standard staycation you might have envisaged.
First of all, the very thought of heading to an island can give you that feeling of going abroad without actually needing your passport.
Anglesey has so much to offer. There are breathtaking walks with fabulous scenery and some of the most stunning beaches Wales has to offer. Towns such as Benllech are full of quaint shops, fabulous fish and chip shops, and even better spots for ice cream. It can be the holiday you want it to be filled with adventure and exploration or more traditional where you and the family seek out rock pools or go crabbing.
There is so much to see and do, that Anglesey does have it all, making it one of the best places in Wales for a holiday. You could also embrace camping or find yourself a cosy cottage. An ideal staycation for families and couples.
Pembrokeshire
This county has often been a popular spot for a staycation in Wales and indeed the whole of the UK. Back in 2019 it was voted as the world’s second-best coastline, so it is worthy of a visit.
Pembrokeshire is home to some fabulous towns and coastlines, offering plenty to see and do. There are an array of options when it comes to choosing the perfect beach location. If you are a fan of movies such as Robin Hood or Harry Potter, then heading to Freshwater West could be the ideal spot. Or if you like the idea of water sports then heading to Whitesands Bay could be the spot for you.
Pembrokeshire has many locations to stay including Tenby. In Pembrokeshire, it isn’t just about the beaches, like most locations in Wales you also have the picturesque countryside to explore. So if you are one of those people who love the idea of walking trails or being closer to nature then Pembrokeshire can tick that box for you. With plenty of accommodation options to suit all types of holidays, you can’t go wrong with a staycation here.
Llyn Peninsula
If you are wanting something a little more undiscovered then head to the top left corner of the Welsh coast. There you will find a stunning peninsula that has been voted as a place of outstanding natural beauty.
Surrounded by crystal blue waters of the Irish Sea, Cardigan Bay is the main beach location that you might want to include on your visit. However, don’t be fooled into thinking that is all there is to experience.
There are little islands to explore, quintessential villages, including nearby Portmeirion, and other stretches of white sandy beaches that are not hugely on the tourist radar.
The ideal staycation location in Wales if you are wanting a slice of heaven and a quiet more peaceful staycation with your friends, family, or partner.
North Wales
North Wales is one of the most iconic locations in Wales. While Anglesey falls into the North Wales parameter, it is fair to say that this section of Wales has so much more to offer as well, including Conwy, Llandudno, and Snowdonia.
All three very different locations offer you great options for your staycation, North Wales is full of gems to suit every type of traveller, holiday and family group.
Conwy has many attractions within the town. One of the most popular things to see is Conwy castle. However, the town itself has many shops, bars, and restaurants and can offer you a little more of a social aspect to your staycation.
Llandudno is a more traditional coastal town. Here you can climb the Great Orme via the free cable car and get panoramic views across the town and sea. The beach itself is lovely, and there is a real family atmosphere to the place.
Snowdonia is one of those locations perfect for the more adventurous. Perhaps a couple or family who enjoys camping, hiking, and general exploration of rugged terrain and rolling countryside. You don’t have to climb Snowdonia if you don’t want to. A Victoria train can take you up to the summit where you will find amazing views. Then climb down and enjoy the walk at your own pace. Find out more details here.
North Wales staycations have something to offer for everyone, find out more things to do in North Wales.
Cardiff
Last but not least, we have to mention the capital of Wales, Cardiff. The bustling city is full of shops, bars and restaurants, and plenty of museums and art galleries for people who want to learn and see new things. The city is full of life and is perfect for people looking for that city break without having to leave the country.
A Cardiff staycation is also a great option to use as a base while you explore the surrounding areas of Wales like the Brecon Beacons, the Gower Peninsula, Swansea or the Wye Valley.
Summary: Staycation Wales
Hopefully, this has given you some inspiration for areas of Wales to go on holiday and where to find some of the best staycations Wales has to offer.
Pin this to save it for later and help you plan your future trip!
