Coasteering along the Welsh Coast

Published: Tuesday 5th Jan 2016

For those of you not in the know, coasteering is often described as extreme rock pooling, climbing without a rope and surfing without a board. All the wet and wild fun you could imagine on the rocks; it’s all about rock hopping, cave exploring, shore-scrambling and yes, cliff jumping! Let's not forgot all the amazing wildlife you’ll get to see and the sights you’d never get a glimpse of if you were on foot. Essentially, it’s everything you were told not to do as kid.... Which makes us want to try it all the more!

With 870 miles of stunning coastline, Wales offers the perfect place to dip your toes in the water and give coasteering a try. There’s nothing better than an adventure, and if you're planning a holiday in one of our lovely welsh cottages, then this is the perfect opportunity to try something that's sure to get your adrenalin pumping.

Firstly, sorry to be a bore, but there are a few ground rules. Whilst we want you to have the holiday of a lifetime, we also want you to come back in one piece! There are plenty of accredited coasteering guides that you’ll need to use and will make sure you have the most fun whilst being safe in the process. You’ll be equipped with a helmet, a wetsuit and a buoyancy aid and their knowledge of tides, amazing caves and secret spots that are safe to explore and the areas to avoid.

If you're visiting Wales for a family break then as long as your little ones are over 8 years old then they can join you too! Although confidence in the water is helpful, all you really need is the ability to doggy paddle and the thirst for adventure. Many guides offer coasteering days suitable for the whole family, ranging to the more extreme routes for those feeling brave!

So now you know all the basics, here are some handy hints about where is best to try for the experience of a lifetime…

Holy Island, Anglesey

An Area of Outstanding National Beauty, coasteering at Holy Island gives you the chance to explore the largest sea cave in Wales. It boasts deep clean water, hidden beaches and sea cliffs. Get in touch with Anglesey Adventures where Grant will be happy to show you all the hidden gems that you’d never find on foot! If you're holidaying up in North Wales then it's something to pop on the agenda.

Llyn Peninsula, North Wales

With its low cliffs, Llyn is accessible for all. Swim through the passageway from the cave and there's a high chance you’ll get to play with seals! If all this talk of adventure is bringing out the Daredevil in you, Aberdaron is recommended for larger waves and bigger thrills! If this sounds like something you’re itching to try then get in touch with Llyn Adventures where there will be on hand help to get you in the water!

South St. Davids Head, Pembrokeshire

The birthplace of commercial coasteering, St David’s Head is sure to deliver a day that you’ll never forget. With its 500 million year old red sandstone cliffs set against the turquoise water, hidden caves and whitewater sports with a choice of accredited guides to make sure you have the time of your life without risking yours!

South Gower, West Wales

Big sea arches, massive tidal ranges and stunning wildlife. Gower is still a bit of secret destination when it comes to coasteering. Luckily for you this means you rarely see other groups and will get to enjoy the area around Three Cliffs Bay in peace and quiet. A true Adventure! Get in touch with RipnRock and they will tell you all you need to know!

All you need to do now is get your courage together, brace the Irish Sea and jump in!