Kenfig National Nature Reserve

Starting out from Kenfig National Nature Reserve, you have an instant opportunity to stock up for your walk thanks to the local Hyde Out Coffee & Cake Bar – take your pick from locally sourced coffee or their signature smoothie bowls.

There’s an abundance of routes to choose from as you set off, though we recommend taking in nearby Kenfig Pool (keeping the reserve building on your left), especially so your pup can cool off and have a good sploosh.

The coastline stays in view for much of your walk, so keep heading straight – whether you cut through the fairways of Pyle & Kenfig Golf Club or wind your way along the sandy paths and dunes – and within 15–20 minutes you’ll arrive at Sker Beach.

Renowned as one of the best surfing beaches in South Wales, it offers tranquillity and plenty of open space for your pooch to stretch their legs. On a clear day, you’ll spot The Mumbles to your right, but it’s left you’ll want to go, where the route rejoins the reserve with impressive views of Royal Porthcawl Golf Club and Rest Bay.

Keep the bright yellow Sker House on your left, and a small gate will indicate the start of the Rest Bay boardwalk. From here, you’ll have the best seat in the house along some of Royal Porthcawl’s most iconic holes, and within 10 minutes, you’ll reach yet another gem of a beach. It can get busy in summer with surfers and beach goers, so bear that in mind. And it’s best to stick to the boardwalk in warmer months to observe the local no-dog zone.

With 4–6 km banked already, you might want to refuel at the sheltered kiosk area of The Rest Café Bar (note: dogs aren’t allowed inside) before turning back to explore a different route through the reserve. Take your pick from rolling dunes or wildlife-rich paths.

Whilst dogs are allowed off lead throughout the nature reserve, don’t be surprised to bump into a horse or two along the way, so make sure your pooch’s recall is well-practiced. The same goes for sheep and cows who can be found grazing between Sker House and Sker Beach. Be sure to bring some water as there aren’t many shady spots to hide.

You can access the nature reserve all hours of the day (although your coffee fix will only be available at 9am or 10am depending on the time of year). Sker Beach is dog friendly all year round as are Sandy Bay and Pink Bay – the two little coves you will find immediately to your right when you hit the boardwalk. Head back up onto the boardwalk in the summer months when you approach Rest Bay to observe the local dog restrictions.

Parking can be found on the nature reserve itself, with a small charge for the day. Alternatively you can get lucky opposite the entrance on one of the local streets.