Barry Island in Wales is close to Cardiff, so it’s a great place to stop on your way into South Wales. There are so many fun things to do. Here’s how to have a great day on Barry Island.
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How to get to Barry Island
Barry Island isn’t far from Cardiff, and it’s only about 20 minutes off the M4 motorway. It’s a perfect place to stop for the day if you’re on your way to another place in South Wales, such as the Gower Peninsula or the Brecon Beacons. Alternatively, you could spend your whole holiday there. There’s so much to do, and it’s the perfect destination for a fun-filled family holiday. There’s a great beach and loads of other fun attractions as well.
Where to park
There’s plenty of parking near the beach at Barry Island. It’s all well signposted so it’s easy to find. I’d recommend Barry Island Pay and Display Car Park. It’s £1 for 1 hour, or £6 for all day. I always prefer paying for all day, so then I’m not limited for how long I can spend there. I ended up spending a lot longer here than I thought I would, just because it was so nice. So I’d definitely recommend paying to park for the whole day so you’ve got the time and freedom to explore as much as you like.
What are the best things to do for a great day on Barry Island?
If you’re heading to Barry Island, I’d recommend taking this great guide to Wales (affiliate). It has a good section on Barry Island, and can give you ideas for the rest of your trip as well.
1. Walk along Barry Island Beach
The best part of Barry Island has to be it’s stunning beach. I loved just relaxing on the beach in the sun. It’s a huge expanse of golden sand. It’s also lovely to walk along the promenade to get beautiful views over the beach. Dogs aren’t allowed on the beach 1st May – 30 September, so if you’re visiting with your dog, it’s best to visit outside of these times so your dog can fully enjoy the beach.
2. Eat fish and chips on the beach
No trip to Barry Island would be complete without enjoying some classic fish and chips. There are plenty of places to choose from along the promenade behind the beach. I’d recommend O’Shea’s Fish and Chip cafe – it’s right on the seafront and always seems busy, which is always a good sign! The beans and chips were a great option there.
3. Enjoy the amusement arcade games
Wherever you are on Barry Island, you’ll never be far from some fun arcade games. There are loads of places To choose from. Enjoy classic arcade games like basketball, whack-a-mole, the 2p machines, and so much more. Hours of fun await you!
4. Go on funfair rides at Barry Island Pleasure Park
If you want even more fun, check out the Barry Island Pleasure Park. It’s a really child-friendly selection of rides. Rides include the big Ferris wheel, and a dragon rollercoaster. If your kids enjoy funfair rides, this is the place to go.
5. Admire the Barry Island beach huts
To the east of the main beach are the colourful Barry Island beach huts. The beach huts and so beautiful with their bright colours, and just make you feel happy to be at the seaside.
6. Walk to Friars Point
Continue your day by walking out to Friars point. It’s a gentle walk that only takes about 10 minutes and is definitely worth it for the views. It’s also lovely to walk a bit further to the next beach over from the main Barry Beach. Dogs are allowed on this smaller beach all year round, so it’s perfect if you’re visiting with a dog.
7. Play pirate-themed crazy golf
Back on the main promenade is another fun attraction. The pirate-themed crazy golf course is really impressive, with great models and a really interesting golf course. It’s just another fun activity for a great day, and great fun for all the family.
8. Walk to Barry Docks lighthouse
Finish your day with a walk to Barry Docks lighthouse. This walk goes to the East of the main beach towards Barry Docks. I enjoyed the views of the lighthouse and over the rocks down to the sea.
Enjoy a great day on Barry Island! Make sure you take some time to explore more of the beautiful scenery in Wales. I’d recommend getting this guide (affiliate), which gives details of Barry Island and all the other great things to do in Wales.
If you’re looking to enjoy more of the nearby coast, why not check out my guide to the Gower Peninsula. Or you can head over to the beautiful coastline of Cardigan Bay. Alternatively, the nearby Brecon Beacons National Park has some beautiful mountain scenery.
That Pirate Themed Adventure Golf sounds like fun to do. And a walk on the beach is always perfect.
Barry Island looks like such a fun, relaxing spot! I’d love to see the lighthouse and play some mini golf. Thanks for sharing!
It’s definitely a great place for a fun day out or holiday!
I adore a good seaside ferris wheel where you can see the best views of the water! Looks like such a fun spot to spend a day. Can visitors stay in those colorful huts or are they shops?
It’s a really fun place! The beach huts are just for people to use for the day, I loved how colourful they are.