Pwll Du Beach 

Pwll Du Beach is a secluded National Trust Bay in South Gower, with the beautiful sandy beach being accessible at low tide, it is commonly known as one of the safest swimming beaches on the Peninsula due to its curious rock formation, known as the Needles, at the western end of the bay. Pwll Du Beach does not have any lifeguards. 

Pwll Du is largely backed by a substantial pebble bank, flanked by limestone cliffs. The pebble bank has partially blocked a stream which has formed a large pool just behind the beach, given the bay its name which translates to Black Pool. The pool filters through the pebble bank onto the beach. 

The bay is steeped in history having once been a haven for local smugglers, there is a nearby gully called Graves End which is marked by a circle of limestone rocks, so called due to the burial of several people who were found dead on the bay following a ship called The Caesar ending up wrecked upon the shore in 1760. The Caesar was an Admiralty tender ship on a recruitment mission, when rough sea conditions on the channel drove it against the headland of Pwlldu. Although a few officers of the ship escaped with their lives, around 90 press ganged men all imprisoned below deck on the ship, were not so lucky. Later, during the 19th century, it was a centre for Limestone quarrying and its these rocks that give it it’s unique topography. Near the top of the cliff on the west side is the now overgrown remnants of one of the quarries which is reportedly a fascinating place to explore if you can find a way to access it. There are two cottages situated on the Western side of the beach known as Seven Slades, these cottages were originally inns called “The Ship and The Beaufort”. 

It is one of the more remote beaches and is not easily accessible by car but there are three narrow footpaths leading down to the beach. There are no facilities at the beach, but there is a small shop at Pyle Corner about a mile away. Dogs are allowed all year around. 

Mewslade Bay 

Mewslade Bay is a small sandy beach facing SSW in the west of the Gower Peninsula, Wales. It lies south of Middleton and southwest of Pitton, from which footpaths lead to the beach. At low tide the beach is joined to the smaller Fall Bay to the west. Thurba Head is at the east end of the beach, and beyond it the small rocky Butterslade beach. 

The beach is popular with surfers but is almost completely submerged at high tide. The main access is a rocky, partly wooded path which is often muddy in places. It is the quietest place where photographers can shoot their photos without disturbing other families or the privacy of the other people. It is the great place for the people who want to enjoy alone time. Here you will not hear any traffic horns, noise and any other disturbance.  You can enjoy the beauty of the nature. 

It is often recommended for snorkeling due to its clear waters and abundant marine life. High tide is often recommended for better visibility and calmer waters.  It is a sheltered bay, which helps in reducing wave action and sediment stirring, leading to clearer waters. It’s important to be aware of currents and tides, especially in open bays. While Mewslade is generally safe, it’s always good to be aware of potential currents, especially if snorkeling further out. Be mindful of water quality, as some areas can have issues with sewage. It’s always a good idea to check local weather and tide reports before heading out. Make sure you have the right snorkeling gear, including a well-fitting mask, snorkel, and fins. A good snorkeling kit including a comfortable mask, snorkel, and fins is crucial. Moreover, using baby shampoo or an anti-fog spray on your mask can significantly improve your experience. 

Oxwich Bay 

Oxwich Bay is a stunning beach located in the Gower Peninsula, near Swansea. It’s a popular destination for both locals and tourists due to its beautiful scenery and various activities. It is known for its long, sandy beach and clear waters. The bay offers lovely walks with breathtaking views. It offers breathtaking views and a long stretch of golden sand, making it perfect for nature lovers. The area is known for its diverse wildlife and plant life, adding to its natural charm.

There are several places to eat around Oxwich, including a beachfront restaurant and a chip shop. The beach has excellent amenities, including toilets and outdoor showers. You can take boat trips from Oxwich Bay to explore the coastline. There is a large car park right on the beach, making it very accessible. The Oxwich Bay Hotel and the Beach House restaurant offer great dining experiences, though they can be a bit pricey. 

Caswell Bay 

Caswell Bay is a popular destination in the Gower Peninsula, known for its beautiful beach and various activities. It is generally considered more suitable for beginners due to its gentle waves. The surfing conditions can vary significantly with the tide. There are a few surf shops nearby that offer board rentals. 

It is also a decent spot for finding sea glass, especially when the tide is out. Sea glass hunting is a popular and enjoyable activity for many people. Look for beaches with a mix of sand and gravel. Sea glass can be found in many coastal areas, but the quantity and quality can vary significantly depending on the location and recent weather conditions. Storms and high tides often bring more sea glass to the shore, so it’s worth checking the forecast and visiting after such events. Sea glass pieces can vary in colour, size, and shape. Common colours include green, white, and brown, but you might also find rarer colours like blue or red. Sea glass can range from relatively young pieces to very old ones. The older pieces tend to be more weathered and frosted. Some collectors prefer to leave sea glass on the beach to allow it to weather further, while others are happy to take it home. 

Langland Bay 

Langland Bay is a popular destination in Swansea, Wales, known for its beautiful beach and various activities. Langland Bay is a great spot for swimming, especially at high tide. Snorkeling is also popular, with many people recommending it at high tide for the best experience. While Langland is not as famous for surfing as some other nearby beaches, it can be decent, especially for beginners. Enjoy the sandy beach and clear waters perfect for swimming. While not as famous as other surf spots, Langland can still offer some decent waves. The bay is also great for paddleboarding, especially on calmer days. Langland Beach is known for its stunning views and well-maintained surroundings. It’s a popular spot for families due to its clean sands and gentle waves. Langland Bay is renowned for its picturesque sunsets and natural landscapes. 

Three Cliffs Bay 

Three Cliffs Bay is a stunning natural attraction in Swansea, Wales, known for its dramatic cliffs, sandy beach, and scenic views. The main attraction itself, known for its dramatic cliffs and sandy shores. Enjoy a scenic walk along the Wales Coast Path, which offers breathtaking views. The bay is accessible via a scenic walk, which many find enjoyable. Some visitors are drawn to the historical and mythical aspects of the area. Swimming can be dangerous due to strong currents and riptides. The beach can get quite crowded, especially during peak seasons. The bay is more suited for experienced swimmers and those comfortable in potentially rough conditions. 

While Three Cliffs Bay is beautiful, it’s not the safest option for swimming due to strong currents. It’s best suited for experienced swimmers or those looking to enjoy the beach and nearby hikes. For a safer swimming experience, consider visiting Oxwich Bay or Rhossili Bay. 

Culver Hole in Swansea 

Culver Hole, also known as Smugglers’ Cove, is a fascinating historical site located in Swansea, Wales. Culver Hole is believed to date back to the 13th or 14th century. Initially, it was thought to be a dovecote, a structure built to house pigeons. However, some theories suggest it might have been used for smuggling. There are legends of secret tunnels connecting Culver Hole to nearby locations, such as the salt house at Port Eynon, used for smuggling goods and sending messages via carrier pigeons. It is situated on the Gower Peninsula, a beautiful coastal area in South Wales. The site is quite inaccessible, which adds to its mystique. Some people have noted its resemblance to a location from the popular TV series “Game of Thrones.” Despite its remote location, it is a notable tourist spot, attracting visitors interested in history and scenic views. 

It is rumored to have been used as a secret tunnel connected to a nearby salt house for smuggling purposes. While some believe it was a smugglers’ hideout, others suggest it was originally a dovecote. The location of Culver Hole offers stunning coastal views, making it a picturesque spot. The cave-like structure is a natural formation that has been shapedke by the sea over centuries. Some visitors have noted its resemblance to a location from the popular TV series.

Whether it was used for smuggling, as a dovecote, or both, Culver Hole offers a unique glimpse into the past. Culver Hole is in the Gower Peninsula, which is a beautiful area with many other attractions. Despite its romantic name, Culver Hole is believed to have been a dovecote rather than a smugglers’ hideout. Some locals believe it was used for smuggling and secret communications. As this site is quite remote, which adds to its mystique. Be prepared for a bit of a hike to reach Culver Hole. It’s advisable to wear comfortable shoes and check the weather conditions before you go.  

It offers several parks and outdoor spaces that are great for kids. While Culver City is a great place to live, it can be expensive. The rental market is competitive, and finding a place within budget can be challenging. Culver City has a significant number of young families, making it a great place for kids to grow up. The city often hosts family-friendly events and festivals, which can be a great way to get involved in the community. While Culver City is centrally located, traffic can be a concern. Culver City is generally considered safe, but like any urban area, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings.  

Penllengear Woods 

Penllergaer Woods in Swansea is a popular spot for nature enthusiasts and outdoor lovers. It has numerous trails suitable for different fitness levels. The woods are also home to a cherry tree growing project, making it a beautiful place to visit during spring. The area is popular among dog owners, with many trails to explore. It’s crucial to keep dogs on a lead, especially in areas where other dogs or people are present. It has opportunities for volunteering, which can be a great way to get involved and meet people. The scenic beauty of the woods makes it a great place for photography enthusiasts. There is ample parking available, which makes it convenient for visitors. The all-access paths make it suitable for visitors with mobility issues. Many visitors park in the layby by Lezzet’s Cafe. It’s generally safe for cars, but opinions vary on the safety of parking motorcycles or bicycles there. You can also park further down on the bypass, near a pizza restaurant, and access the woods through a gate. If you don’t mind a short walk, McDonald’s offers two hours of free parking. 

Dylan’s Thomas’s Birthplace  

Dylan Thomas’s birthplace in Swansea is a significant cultural and historical site. This is the main attraction, where you can see the house where the famous poet was born. The house has been meticulously restored to reflect the period when Dylan Thomas lived there. The house has been meticulously restored to reflect the period when Dylan Thomas lived there. The birthplace often features exhibits related to Dylan Thomas’s life and works, including original manuscripts and personal items. There are some interesting exhibits inside, including original manuscripts. It’s advisable to book your visit in advance, especially if you are traveling during peak season. Book in advance to avoid disappointment.

The birthplace sometimes hosts special events or performances, so check their calendar before your visit. They sometimes have special events, so it’s worth checking their website. Consider visiting other nearby attractions to make the most of your trip. For example, you might want to explore Swansea city center or visit the Dylan Thomas Centre. You can also combine your visit with a trip to the Dylan Thomas Centre in Swansea. 

Joe’s Ice Cream Parlour 

Joe’s Ice Cream Parlour in Swansea is a beloved local institution with a rich history and a strong community presence. Joe’s Ice Cream has been serving the Swansea community for over a century. It was founded by Italian immigrants and has been passed down through generations. The parlour is still run by the original family, maintaining its authentic Italian roots.  Joe’s is famous for its traditional Italian-style ice cream. Popular flavors include vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry, but they also offer a variety of other options. They often feature seasonal and special flavors, keeping the menu fresh and exciting. 

Joe’s is more than just an ice cream parlour; it’s a community gathering spot. Many locals have fond memories of visiting Joe’s as children and continue to bring their families. The parlour has a nostalgic charm, with vintage decor and a cosy atmosphere. 

The original Joe’s Ice Cream is located on St Helen’s Road in Swansea.  Joe’s has expanded to other locations in and around Swansea, including a popular spot in Mumbles. Joe’s Ice Cream is a source of local pride, often mentioned in discussions about the best things to do in Swansea. It attracts tourists who are eager to experience an authentic Swansea tradition. 

Many people believe that the ice cream from the parlour is significantly better than the frozen tubs sold in stores. Some speculate that the frozen version might have a different recipe to preserve it, but the consensus is that fresh ice cream is superior. The parlour ice cream is often described as creamier and smoother due to being freshly made. 

 

 

At the end there are a lot of hidden gems in Swansea from beaches to hills and the restaurants. It offers a calm environment for the introverts, a sport place for divers, an opportunity for a sea glass collector and a perfect picnic place for the families and the couples. Swansea is the great place to visit for a short-term stay.