Discover Porthcawl – azure bays, surfy sands, and a classic promenade by the sea
If you are looking for hotels in Porthcawl, you will find everything from simple seafront stays on the Esplanade to family-friendly holiday parks by the dunes. Porthcawl is a lively Welsh resort of Blue Flag beaches, bucket-and-spade fun, and year-round coastal walks. It’s also home to one of the UK’s most prestigious golf courses, Royal Porthcawl, plus nature reserves and miles of Wales Coast Path to explore.
Crashing waves at Porthcawl
Where to Stay in Porthcawl
Porthcawl’s seaside unfolds across several neighbourhoods, each with its own character.
Esplanade & Town Centre – Classic promenade living beside the lighthouse and harbour. Stay here for step-out access to the seafront, cafés, and the Victorian walkway, with sunsets from the breakwater and easy links to the coast path. Great for first-timers who want everything within walking distance.
Rest Bay – A Blue Flag beach with Atlantic-style waves and a modern watersports hub. Ideal for surfers, wild-swimmers, and walkers who want quick access to the path towards Sker Beach and nature reserves. Cafés and board-hire make days simple and sandy.
Newton & Newton Beach – A quieter corner by the 12th-century village of Newton. Long sands and shallow waters suit families and dog walkers, while pubs around the square make relaxed evenings. Good for a peaceful base close to town but away from the bustle.
Nottage – A charming inland village with traditional inns and local character, just a short walk from the Esplanade. Perfect if you prefer pub dining and quiet nights after beach days.
Trecco Bay Holiday Park – A self-contained resort on a sandy bay east of town. Expect pools, splash zones, entertainment, and direct beach access. Spot-on for families who want everything on-site and stress-free.
Trecco Bay Holiday Park, Porthcawl
Best Hotels in Porthcawl
Porthcawl’s hotel scene blends traditional promenade stays, boutique countryside inns, and full-service family resorts. Whether you want sea views, golf weekends, or relaxed comfort, there’s a perfect stay for every traveller.
Best Beachfront Hotels in Porthcawl
Fairways Hotel (3-star) – A long-standing favourite on the Esplanade with panoramic bay views and a relaxed restaurant. Rooms are comfortable and bright, just steps from the beach and harbour. Ideal for couples and friends who love coastal sunsets.
Olivia House (4-star guesthouse) – A stylish boutique stay near the promenade, offering elegant rooms with sea views and thoughtful touches. Guests praise the warm welcome and proximity to both beach and town centre.
For travellers seeking a simpler option, the Seabank Hotel (2-star) offers basic seafront rooms at excellent value.
Best Boutique and Guesthouse Hotels in Porthcawl
The Great House, Laleston (4-star) – A restored 16th-century manor offering fine dining, period charm, and landscaped gardens. Perfect for romantic breaks or spa-style weekends near the coast.
Rose & Crown (3-star, Nottage) – A characterful country inn with exposed beams, hearty food and a friendly atmosphere. Couples love its mix of history, comfort, and location just minutes from the seafront.
Best Family-Friendly and Holiday Park Hotels in Porthcawl
Trecco Bay Holiday Park (4-star resort) – One of the UK’s largest family resorts, featuring pools, play zones, restaurants and direct beach access. Lodges and caravans suit families and groups looking for full facilities and seaside fun.
Fairways Hotel (3-star, family rooms) – Spacious rooms and a beachfront location make this hotel a convenient, comfortable base for families who want sea views and town access.
Best Hotels for Golf and Spa Weekends in Porthcawl
The Great House, Laleston (4-star) – Ideal for couples or golfers combining Royal Porthcawl rounds with luxury downtime. Enjoy gourmet dining, elegant rooms, and easy access to championship links courses.
Royal Porthcawl area hotels (4-star typical) – Golfers often stay near the Esplanade or countryside to access Royal Porthcawl’s world-class course. Many combine morning tee times with spa relaxation or fine dining nearby.
Top Things to Do in Porthcawl
- Surf and swim at Rest Bay – A Blue Flag surf beach with lifeguards, board hire, and a sleek watersports centre. Great for beginners and families alike.
- Walk the Wales Coast Path – Head east to Newton and Merthyr Mawr’s dunes or west past Rest Bay to Sker and Pink Bay for wild, empty sands.
- Play Royal Porthcawl Golf Club – Championship links golf with sweeping sea views. A must-visit for golf enthusiasts.
- Explore Kenfig National Nature Reserve – Miles of dunes, lakes, and wildlife trails, perfect for walkers, photographers, and nature lovers.
- Stroll the Promenade to the Lighthouse – Enjoy sea air, arcades, and panoramic views of the Bristol Channel, ending with a photo stop at Porthcawl’s iconic white lighthouse.
- Join the Porthcawl Elvis Festival (September) – One of Europe’s biggest Elvis celebrations, transforming the town with music, costumes, and a brilliant atmosphere.
(Note: The former Coney Beach Amusement Park has now closed, but the promenade and beaches remain open for scenic walks and seaside fun.)
The dunes of Kenfig National Nature Reserve
Getting to and Around Porthcawl
By Train or Bus: Porthcawl has no railway station. The nearest stations are Bridgend and Pyle, with local buses connecting to the town centre.
By Car: Leave the M4 at Junction 37 (Pyle) and follow signs to Porthcawl – it’s about a 10-minute drive to the coast. Parking is available in town and at many hotels.
Getting Around: The promenade and beaches are walkable from most hotels. Local buses serve Newton, Nottage, and Bridgend. Short drives or coastal walks connect all main sights.
When to Visit Porthcawl
Spring (Mar–May): Mild and bright with wildflowers and quieter beaches. Great for walking and early surf lessons.
Summer (Jun–Aug): Peak season brings lively promenades, warm seas, and long evenings. Perfect for families and classic beach holidays.
Autumn (Sep–Nov): Warm seas linger, crowds thin, and the Elvis Festival adds colour. Excellent walking weather with dramatic coastal light.
Winter (Dec–Feb): Quiet and atmospheric, ideal for storm-watching or peaceful coastal breaks. Many hotels offer great off-season deals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Porthcawl have a train station?
No. The nearest stations are Bridgend and Pyle, both connected by local bus services.
Which beach is best for surfing and lessons?
Rest Bay is the go-to surf beach, offering lifeguards, equipment hire, and a modern surf centre.
Is Porthcawl good for families?
Yes – the promenade, sandy beaches, and Trecco Bay resort make it perfect for family breaks.
Where should golfers stay?
The Esplanade is convenient for Royal Porthcawl Golf Club, or choose a countryside hotel nearby for a relaxed retreat after your round.
What happened to Coney Beach Amusement Park?
The park closed in 2025, but the promenade and beaches remain open and vibrant.
Can I book Porthcawl hotels with free cancellation?
Yes, most Easystay listings include flexible cancellation options – check for “Free Cancellation” when you book.
Book Your Stay in Porthcawl Today
A hotel in Porthcawl means sunrise beach walks, surf sessions at Rest Bay, and cosy nights overlooking the sea. From classic promenade hotels to family resorts, your perfect Welsh seaside stay awaits.
Browse thousands of verified hotels and book with confidence via our trusted partner Booking.com.