There's not much of Porthcawl that isn't either kid-friendly or family-centric. With its panoramic views, its lovely sandy beaches, and its nearby heritage sites, there are plenty of things to do in Porthcawl that will keep the kids entertained.
Porthcawl is world-famous for being a traditional seaside resort, and for good reason - its golden beaches are perfect for a paddle, a swim, or just digging in the sand. And when you're ready for something a little more active, there's plenty to do nearby.
This article will explore some of the best things to do in Porthcawl with kids, so you can make the most of your time together as a family. It's time to build some memories that will last a lifetime!
Things to do in Porthcawl: The Beaches
Seven captivating beaches make up the coastline of Porthcawl. All with their own unique charm and atmosphere, each one is the perfect place to spend a lazy day with the family. From the lively Trecco Bay, which comes complete with an amusement park, to the more secluded and beautiful Coney Beach, there's a beach to suit every taste.
If your children are keen swimmers, they'll be in their element at Porthcawl. The water is clean, and the beaches are patrolled by lifeguards during the summer months, so you can relax and enjoy time with your family.
If you're looking for a place to build sandcastles, paddle in the waves, or just relax in the sun, Porthcawl's beaches are the perfect place to do it.
Here are some of the best beaches in Porthcawl:
● Rest Bay: A surfer's paradise, Rest Bay is perfect for the family that wants to catch some waves. It boasts plenty of space for picnics and games on the sand and is even home to Porthcawl Surf School. They offer surfing lessons as well as paddleboarding and kayaking, so the whole family can enjoy the water. Teeming with marine life, it's also a great place to go snorkeling and sea-watching.
● Newton Beach: stretches from the charming town of Newton all the way to the mouth of the Ogmore river. It is the most easterly of the Porthcawl beaches and remains quite sheltered from the strong south-westerly winds that frequent this part of the coast. Newton has miles of sand (as well as the occasional rocky stretch) and is often quieter than other beaches in the area, making it the perfect place for long uninterrupted walks.
● Coney Beach: A beautiful, secluded beach situated in the heart of Porthcawl, Coney Beach is the perfect place to really get the blood pumping. Coney Beach Pleasure Park is a huge draw for families, with its traditional fairground rides and attractions. The beach itself is also perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and sandcastle building.
(Read our Guide to Porthcawl’s Beaches blog post here!)
Things to do Near Porthcawl: Outdoor Activities
Porthcawl may be best known for its beaches, but there's plenty more to do in the great outdoors. Here are our top picks for things to do near Porthcawl!
Located just 15 minutes from Porthcawl, Margam Park is the perfect day out for the whole family! From exploring the vast gardens, stepping inside the 19th century mansion, spotting deer and wildlife to taking part in the numerous activities on offer, there is something for everyone - a great place to visit whilst staying in Porthcawl.
Can you beat the clock and solve the puzzles in time, without murdering each other? The Escape Game is perfect for families who love a challenge. With four themed rooms, you'll have to work together as a team to solve the clues and make your escape.
Go Ape is the epitome of outdoor fun. With its high ropes courses, zip wires, and tree-top adventures, it's the perfect place to let off some steam. There are also segway safaris and forest ranger activities available, so the whole family can find something they enjoy.
This is truly one of the best things to do near Porthcawl for families who love the great outdoors!
Located in Porthcawl, Adventures Wales offers a very wide range of adventure activities to suit all ages and abilities. Choose from a range of activities, packages and facilities. If you need a rest, you can enjoy a coffee and watch the activities from their all-weather viewing area. A great day out for the whole family!
Places to Visit Near Porthcawl: Museums and History
Feeling cultured? There are plenty of places to visit near Porthcawl that will satisfy your craving for knowledge. This land boasts a rich and varied history, with an array of museums and historical sites to explore in Porthcawl and the surrounding areas.
See some of our favorites below!
Nestled in the heart of Porthcawl, this time-honored Museum is a great place to learn about the history of this seaside town. Housed in what was once the town's police station, Porthcawl Museum allows for ample opportunity to explore, with plenty of exhibitions on offer.
Examine old police cells and find a variety of captivating displays ranging from local history to maritime, to World War II and archeology. Entrance is only £2 for adults and a cheap 50p for children under 16, so it's perfect for a family day out on a budget.
This historic lifeboat station has been in operation since 1860 and is now one of the busiest in Wales. With two lifeboats and a team of dedicated volunteers, the RNLI does vital work in saving lives at sea. You can also catch the volunteers participating in a training session if you visit on a Sunday morning. There's also a gift shop on-site, so you can support the RNLI while picking up some souvenirs for friends and family back home!
Just outside Porthcawl, Ogmore Castle overlooks the picturesque river Ogmore crossing, still marked by a series of ancient stepping stones, fortified in stone in the early 13th century. This is a great place for a family day out - walk through the grounds and climb through the ruins and enjoy stepping over the stones across the river.
Where to Stay When Visiting Porthcawl
The world is your oyster in Porthcawl. With its beautiful beaches, stunning scenery, and wealth of things to do, the whole family will fall in love with this Welsh seaside town. But where should you stay to make the most of your trip?
We at Avenue Holidays, have a great range of self-catering accommodation in Porthcawl, from cozy homes to spacious apartments. We also offer a selection of pet-friendly properties, so you don't have to leave anyone behind!
Our team is on hand 24/7 to help you find the perfect place to stay, with plenty of local knowledge to help you make the most of your trip. Book your perfect Porthcawl getaway today!
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