Wales has always had an important relationship with the sea around it.  For centuries, inhabitants have made their living from the coastline around Wales.  It has also provided the opportunity for enjoyment; developing a reputation as a challenging destination for those interested in more ambitious sports.  This was realised towards the end of the twentieth century, for example, with the opening of the Plas Menai National Watersports Centre for Wales in 1983.  The centre provides facilities for water activities such as sailing, surfing and windsurfing, canoeing and water-skiing.

There are sailing clubs dotted along the Welsh coastline which provide an opportunity for locals and visitors alike to venture out onto the sea.  Regattas are frequently held by these clubs and they are a chance for their members to display the array of vessels which are kept in Wales.

Surfing developed in Wales during the 1960s with the sport increasing in popularity towards the end of the decade. Surfing beaches around the coast of Wales today spread from the Gower peninsula through Cardigan Bay to the north coast.

Tourism to the coast is important to the economy of Wales and was crucial to the development of seaside towns.  Since the nineteenth century, towns such as Llandudno, Rhyl and Barry, have drawn crowds of holidaymakers from the industrial towns of England and south Wales.  The network of paths along the Welsh coast is also an enticement to more energetic tourists.