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Aberafan Margam Sands

Neath Port Talbot, Wales


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Aberafan Margam Sands is a long sandy beach located near the town of Port Talbot, offering a unique blend of industrial and natural landscapes.

Aberafan Margam Sands is a long sandy beach situated to the south of Port Talbot. The beach is overlooked by a large steel works at its northern end, but as you move south, the surroundings transition to moorland, dunes, and the Kenfig Nature Reserve.

The beach presents a study in contrasts, with industrial influences in the north giving way to a more pristine natural landscape in the south. The southern section of the beach borders ecologically significant areas with diverse coastal wildlife, including rabbits, shorebirds, and foxes. The beach serves as an important feeding ground for wading birds, particularly during winter months.

Margam Sands experiences dramatic tidal variations, with the beach expanding significantly at low tide and reducing considerably at high tide. Visitors should check local tide tables before visiting. Unlike some nearby beaches, Margam Sands offers minimal facilities, with no permanent toilets, cafes, or lifeguard services. Visitors should come prepared with water, snacks, and other necessities.

The beach remains relatively quiet, even during peak summer periods, and is dog-friendly throughout the year. The wide open spaces make it perfect for energetic dogs, though owners should keep pets under control near sensitive dune areas and wildlife habitats. Limited designated parking areas are available, with the main access point located off Harbour Way. Alternative access is available via the Wales Coastal Path.

Harbour Sand

Weather and tides for Thursday 17 July

Today
Chance of rain 58%
Max temp. 20°C
(feels like 20°C)
Wind 11mph
Max UV Index
Tonight
Chance of rain 42%
Min temp. 18°C
(feels like 18°C)
Wind 4mph

The tide at Aberafan Margam Sands is currently falling. Low tide will be at approximately 5:26 PM, and the next high tide will be at approximately 12:01 AM tomorrow.

Today's air pollution levels are forecast to be Low

Approximate sea surface temperature:   18.5°C  

Detailed weather and tides »
  • Popular Activities

    Sunbathing
  • Features

    Country park Dunes Nature reserve
  • Parking

    Parking available towards the southern end of the beach.

  • Dogs

    There are seasonal restrictions at Aberavon: https://www.npt.gov.uk/PDF/DogExclusionZone.pdf

  • Lifeguard

    No information available

  • Water Quality

    Water quality not measured here

    Water quality not measured here

Recommended holiday cottages near Aberafan Margam Sands

Things to do and see in the area

Margam Park (1.9 miles)
Go Ape (2.1 miles)
The Margam Ghost Walk (2.2 miles)
Kenfig National Nature Reserve (2.9 miles)
Baked Bean Museum of Excellence (3.7 miles)
Adventures Activity Centre (4.5 miles)
Porthcawl Surf School (4.7 miles)
Porthcawl Museum (5.6 miles)

All distances are approximate

Other beaches nearby

Location: Cwrt-y-defaid

Location type: Village

Nearest village: Eglwys Nunydd

OS Grid: SS771846

Country: Wales

Local Authority: Neath Port Talbot

Parish: Margam Moors

Nearest postcode: SA13 2NT

(for sat-nav purposes only, a beach does not have a postal address!)

Important! Beach information is compiled from a variety of different sources and is correct to the best of our knowledge at the time of compilation. However, information may be incorrectly supplied by our sources or go out of date after publication. BritishBeaches.uk makes no warranty as to the accuracy of any information on this page.

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Visitor information for Aberafan Margam Sands, Neath Port Talbot, Wales. Weather, tides, visitor comments, beach facilities, photos, nearest postcode, beach information and nearby accommodation.

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18.97.9.170 Thu, 17 Jul 2025 12:31:31 +0100