I hope this gives you some ideas...
http://www.qualitycottages.co.uk/index.php

Where are you starting from? It can be difficult to travel diagonally across Wales so it might be an idea to set a target which can be easily reached.

We have been to Solva in Pembrokeshire (West Wales) many times and would recommend it, it's lovely. There are some beautiful beaches around - White Sands, Newgale, Broadhaven are all very close to Solva and there is a harbour with a small beach in Solva, it's a small village with some lovely cafes, restaurants, pubs. St Davids city is about 5 - 10 mins drive from Solva where there is a cathedral, a boat trip around Ramsey Island, shops, resturants etc. The Pembrokeshire coastal path is fabulous to walk along the coastline, this runs past Solva.

We can recommend a lovely apartment on INVALID URL which has a shared garden, when we've been there it has always been really peaceful. It's walking distance to the restaurants and coastal Pembrokeshire path.

We'll be travelling from the Midlands. I am leaning towards Pembrokeshire. It does look loverly.

I'm really looking forward to it.

Thanks for all your advice guys. Much appreciated!

I think your best bet would be somewher in Pembrokeshire. Have you tried Tenby - it's lovely. Try googling FBM holidays. Their website has a host of cottages in and around Pembrokeshire. I would definitely consider Tenby. Let me know if you need any more info on it.

I agree with Shirley - Tenby & Saundersfoot would seem to fit your requests perfectly, fantastic scenery, friendly people & charm. We've stayed many times in both places in an assortment of accommodation. Never been disappointed yet. Here's the website we always use. http://www.fbmholidays.co.uk/

Or possibly Cardigan Bay, my brother stayed in Aberaeron at half term and it matches your description (inc. rock pools) but he was in B&B. My neighbours are keen on Aberdyfi/ Aberdovey and I know that gets some great sunsets. These would be less travelling from the Midlands.

steve- I love Aberaeron too & you have the options of visiting nearby New Quay & Aberystwyth. Of course there's also the Gower Coast, & Mumbles.

http://www.ruralretreats.co.uk and search for Cwm Bach.

Close to sea
Lots of beaches and rockpools
Plenty of places to eat
Outside area for bbqs, sitting and watching the sunset.

On Google Earth its at

52° 0'9.79"N
4°54'40.22"W

we are going to Barmouth.... the link is http://www.beautifulwales.com - will write a review when i come back

we are going to Barmouth.... the link is http://www.beautifulwales.com

Didn't realize Barmouth was in Wales and I live here shows what my Geography's like. I always thought it was just inside the English border. Where exactly is it please?

We stayed there for one night last year. We had one day at Criccieth, 1 at Barmouth & 1 at Aberystwyth. We enjoyed our night there, & had lovely accomodation. shirley I think its approximately 45 mins further up than Aberystwyth.