Freshwater West, noted for its strong waves and currents, is one of Wales' top surfing locations.

The rocky outcrop at the southern part of the bay near the car park is known as Little Furznip, and has a seaweed-drying hut on the clifftop.

[2] The headland between Sheep Island in the northwest and Linney Head in the southeast consists primarily of red sandstone, which "form[s] irregular, steep cliffs with fallen rocks at the back of beaches".

[3] At almost a mile long, Freshwater West is flanked by extensive sand dunes and rock pools.

The land in the area consists of dunes with fens, grassland, reedbeds, purple moor grass, rush pastures, and maritime cliffs, and is inhabited by wildlife such as waders, chough, overwintering northern lapwing, and grey seal.

[2] Freshwater West is one of the top surfing locations in Wales due to its consistent swell and strong waves.