Holiday rentals in New Quay

Perched on a hill overlooking the turquoise waters of Cardigan Bay, the seaside town of New Quay sits on the rugged coast of West Wales. The history of the town — Cei Newydd in Welsh — is closely intertwined with the sea, starting off as a fishing town and becoming a thriving centre of shipbuilding. Although these traditional industries are no longer dominant, the town’s beaches and waters are still a haven for people travelling to the area in the summer months. There’s a choice of three beaches in New Quay, with Harbour Beach at its heart. This is a soft, sandy beach, protected by the harbour wall, where you can soak up the sun or build sandcastles, watched over by lifeguards during high season.

The town’s other beaches, Dolau and Traeth Gwyn, are wilder and popular among dog-walkers. As you make your way down the steep winding roads to the water’s edge, you will pass by gleaming white houses, cottages with local pebbles in their walls, and homes once painted in bright colours by men working at sea so that they could spot their houses from their boats.

The most popular time to visit new Quay is between June and September, when UK residents and international visitors alike head to the area to take full advantage of the higher temperatures, longer days, and warmer waters. The town’s winding streets are lined with people savouring the local fish and chips and watching the boats out on the water. The town is at its liveliest during the annual Cardigan Bay Regatta. This is one of the oldest sailing events in the country and takes place in New Quay over three days in the middle of August kicking off with a sandcastle building competition on the first day. During the autumn and winter months, more weather systems come in across the Atlantic, bringing higher levels of rainfall and stronger winds, perfect if you’re planning bracing walks along the coast.

Boat trips

If you want to appreciate the true beauty of New Quay, head out on a boat from the harbour and take in striking views of the town and the dramatic heritage coastline of Cardigan Bay. You will also be treated to the abundant marine wildlife, such as bottlenose dolphins and grey seals in the water, and seabirds including guillemots, choughs, and razorbills overhead.

Coastal walks

When you’re walking to the beach from the town of New Quay, you will see a bronze statue of a female figure called ‘Fair Winds and Following Seas’, marking the midpoint of the Wales Coast Path that winds its way around the whole country. As you follow the coastline in this area, you will see an array of natural wonders, from cliffs and beaches, to woodland, valleys, and waterfalls. Look out for bright yellow gorse with its heady coconut aroma.

Llanerchaeron Estate

Delve deeper into the history of the area and learn more about traditional Welsh life by visiting the Llanerchaeron Estate, around a 20-minute drive from town. The house itself dates back to the end of the 18th century, home to farm buildings, stables, and a walled garden brimming with fruit and vegetables.