The best sunrise spots on the Gower Peninsula
Designated as Britain’s first area of outstanding natural beauty in 1956, the Gower is a magnificent stretch of coastline on the South Coast of Wales.
Hidden amongst the across the peninsulas rugged cliffs are over 25 beaches, sweeping panoramic vistas and a plethora of historic landmarks ranging from cast iron lighthouses to ruined castles.
This little slice of Wales has arguably some of the finest coastal views in the UK and is a haven for any landscape photographer or anyone looking to up their Instagram game.
In the blog post below I have listed my favourite and most accessible sunrise locations on the Gower Peninsula.
Three Cliffs Bay
The view from below Three Cliffs Bay Holiday park
Situated on the southern coast of the Gower, the serene shoreline of Three cliffs bay is one of the crown jewels of the peninsula.
This beach is special at any time of the day, but is worth an early start to catch its beauty under first light and to possibly have the beach to yourself.
If you are planning on visiting for sunrise then I would recommend heading to the west side of the beach just below Three Cliffs Holiday park. Depending on the time of year then the sun should rise from behind its iconic three peaks. Parking for this location is available behind Three Cliffs Care Home and from here its a short walk (10 minutes) down to the beach.
If you don’t fancy want to shooting directly towards the sun and want to capture the golden glow on the iconic three peaks, then I would head to the dune covered headland which separates Three Cliffs from the neighbouring Pobbles bay. This spot is best reached by parking in the village of Southgate and walking around or across Pennard golf course. This should take around 15-25 minutes depending on how close you park and how quickly you walk.
Langland Bay
Situated just outside the seaside village of Mumbles, Langland bay is the most accessible location on this list with both the beach and surrounding cliff path being wheelchair friendly.
With the beach being less than a 15 minutes drive from the city centre and the fact that there here’s a large pay and display car park situated 10m from the beach, Langland the perfect Sunrise spot if you’re a bit short of time or dont fancy a morning hike. It’s easy access also a great choice if you fancy an early morning sea swim.
Depending on the time of year you might be able to capture the sun rising above the horizon from the iconic green huts which lines its shore. If not, consider taking a short 5 minute stroll around towards Langland point which will give you a great view along the cliffs and back towards the beach.
Mumbles Lighthouse
Fun fact, the village of Mumbles derives from the French word mamelles, which translates into the English word for 'breasts'. This refers to the two islands which are situated off the mumbles headland, one of which houses the iconic mumbles lighthouse.
This is another easily accessible sunrise location which is perfect for those not wanting to walk far from their car. The location also has a variety of angles to capture the lighthouse from, make it great spot to keep returning back to.
There is a large pay and display car park right next to Mumbles pier which will easily allow you to reach the small beach in front of the lighthouse.
Another second option is to park behind the adjacent Bracelet bay, next to Castellemare Restaurant and to snap the lighthouse from its shores.
Finally, there is a car park next to the famous ‘Mumbles Apple’, a former takeaway kiosk shaped like an apple. From here you can make the short 30m walk up to the cliffs which over look the lighthouse (seen at the bottom of the image above).
Mumbles ligththouse and pier
The view of mumbles lighthouse over Bracelet bay
Swansea Bay
Swansea Beach stretches for five miles between the Maritime Quarter and "Knab Rock, a small rocky outcrop a couple of hundred yards from Mumbles headland. Although it’s far from the most idyllic beach on the Gower, Swansea Bay is actually a great spot to catch a sunrise from.
Its south-facing direction means you should be able to catch the sun rising from above the horizon. In addition, the entire length of the beach is backed by a promenade and a coastal road making access super easy.
Two spots on the bench that I would recommend parking at are either the secret beach café or to Swansea Observatory in the marina. If you do venture to the marina, don’t forget to call by Coast Cafe for some top quality coffee and the best Pain au Chocolat in Swansea.
Sunrise from Swansea bay near St Helens RFC
Did you find the blog useful? If you did I’d appreciate you giving it a share or giving me a follow on social media, every bit of support goes a long way.
For more travel, & photography inspiration around Wales check out my in-depth guides to each of my favourite regions below.