Secret Beaches of Snowdonia

Snowdonia is famous for its mountains, but its coastline is equally spectacular—and far quieter. Where the mountains of Eryri tumble into the Irish Sea, you’ll find some of Britain’s most dramatic and unspoilt beaches. These aren’t the typical tourist beaches with ice cream vans and deck chairs. They’re wild, rugged, and often completely deserted, backed by towering peaks and framed by ancient headlands.

This guide reveals ten secret beaches that even many locals don’t know about. Each offers something unique—from perfect swimming coves to rock-pooling paradises, from sunset spots to seal-watching havens. These are places where you can truly escape and experience the raw, untamed beauty of the Welsh coast.

1. Porth Dinllaen

Porth Dinllaen is a rare find in modern Britain—an unspoilt sandy beach with a working pub directly on its shores. The beach curves around a small headland on the Llŷn Peninsula, creating a perfect sheltered bay that catches the sun from mid-morning to sunset. What makes Porth Dinllaen special is its combination of natural beauty and conviviality.

The Ty Coch Inn sits right above the beach. It’s not a tourist pub trying to be “local”—it genuinely is local, serving proper Welsh ale and simple, excellent food. Bring a pint down to the beach and watch the boats bob in the harbour. The atmosphere is timeless—you could be in the 1950s or the 2020s, it doesn’t matter.

Swimming note: The water is remarkably calm here, protected by the headland. It’s one of the safest places to swim on the Llŷn Peninsula. In summer, the water reaches temperatures that are genuinely swimmable, especially in the shallows.

Wildlife: The headland is home to a colony of grey seals. They’re often visible from the beach, particularly at low tide. Don’t approach them, but watching from a respectful distance is a magical experience.

Getting there: Take the A499 to Morfa Nefyn, then follow signs to Porth Dinllaen. The final section is narrow and winding, but manageable. Parking is limited in the village—arrive early in summer.

2. Porth Oer (Whistling Sands)

Porth Oer, known locally as Whistling Sands, is named for the sound the sand makes when you walk on it—the silica content creates a distinctive whistling sound underfoot. What makes this beach special is its otherworldly quality. The sand is unusually white and fine, and the surrounding dunes create a landscape that feels almost desert-like.

The beach faces west, making it spectacular for sunset. Watch the sun dip below the horizon, painting the sky in dramatic shades of gold and orange, while the dunes glow in the last light. It’s genuinely spectacular and completely free.

Sand composition: The whistling sand phenomenon is rare globally—only about 30 beaches worldwide produce this sound. It’s caused by the particular grain size and shape of the silica sand. Try it—walk slowly and listen for the distinctive whistling noise.

Walking: The coastal path runs past the beach, offering excellent walking in both directions. Walk north for dramatic cliff scenery, south for quieter stretches of coastline. Either direction rewards with spectacular views.

Facilities: Very limited. There’s a small car park (free) and basic toilets. No shops, no lifeguards. Come prepared with everything you need.

3. Porth Iago

Porth Iago is a hidden gem on the north coast of the Llŷn Peninsula—a small, sheltered cove that feels completely isolated despite being relatively accessible. What makes Porth Iago special is its intimacy. The beach is small and enclosed by steep cliffs, creating a private feeling that’s rare on the British coast.

The water here is crystal clear and protected from the prevailing winds. It’s perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or just floating in the sun. The underwater visibility is surprisingly good—on calm days, you can see fish and crabs in the shallows.

Snorkeling: Bring a mask and snorkel if you visit Porth Iago. The rocky sides of the cove are home to small fish, crabs, and even the occasional seal. It’s not tropical diving, but it’s surprisingly engaging and completely free.

Secluded feel: Despite being accessible via a farm track, Porth Iago receives remarkably few visitors. On a busy summer day, you might share it with a handful of people at most. On most days, you’ll have it entirely to yourself.

Getting there: The access is via a farm track—look for the signed turn-off near Rhiw. The track is rough in places but manageable in most cars. Park in the designated area (small, fills early) and walk about 10 minutes to the beach.

4. Black Rock Sands

Black Rock Sands is an unusual beach—vast expanses of hard-packed sand that are perfect for walking, running, or even driving on (in designated areas). What makes it special is its dramatic backdrop—the mountains of Snowdonia rise directly behind the beach, creating one of Britain’s most spectacular coastal vistas.

At low tide, the beach extends for miles. You can walk from Porthmadog all the way to Criccieth along the water’s edge. The combination of flat sand, distant mountains, and changing light creates a photographer’s paradise.

Driving: A section of the beach is designated for vehicles. It’s an unusual experience to drive on sand with mountains as your backdrop. Note that vehicles must stay within the marked area and shouldn’t be driven on the softer sand near the water.

Cycling: The hard-packed sand is perfect for cycling. Hire a bike in Porthmadog and cycle along the beach at sunset—it’s an unforgettable experience. The light on the mountains as the sun goes down is genuinely spectacular.

Facilities: There are car parks at both Porthmadog and Criccieth ends, with toilets and sometimes ice cream vans in summer. However, much of the beach is completely undeveloped.

5. Porth Neigwl (Hell’s Mouth)

Despite its intimidating name, Porth Neigwl (known to English speakers as Hell’s Mouth) is a beautiful and relatively safe beach. What makes it special is its sheer size—the beach stretches for nearly four miles, backed by dramatic cliffs and rolling countryside. It’s the kind of beach where you can walk for hours without seeing another soul.

The beach faces south-west, making it exposed to Atlantic swells. This makes it popular with surfers, though it can be challenging for beginners. On a good day, you’ll see surfers of all abilities enjoying the waves.

Surfing: This is one of the best surfing beaches on the Llŷn Peninsula. The beach works in most wind directions and produces consistent waves. If you’re learning, take lessons from local instructors—this isn’t the place to teach yourself.

Walking: The beach is too long to walk in one go unless you’re very fit. Choose a section and enjoy it thoroughly. The coastal path runs along the cliffs above, offering spectacular views down onto the beach.

Facilities: Very limited. There’s a small car park near the middle of the beach, but no facilities beyond that. Bring everything you need.

6. Aberdesach

Aberdesach is a pretty beach on the north coast of the Llŷn Peninsula, offering the classic combination of sand, dunes, and clear water. What makes Aberdesach special is its excellent swimming conditions. The beach faces north-west and is protected by nearby headlands, creating calm water even when nearby beaches are choppy.

The beach is popular with local families, though it never gets crowded like the better-known beaches. There’s a genuine community feel here—people come regularly, know each other, and create a welcoming atmosphere for visitors.

Swimming: This is one of the safest swimming beaches on the Llŷn. The water is relatively calm, slopes gently, and there’s good visibility. In summer, it can genuinely feel like a Mediterranean beach.

Facilities: Better than most—there’s a small café (seasonal) that serves excellent coffee and simple food. Toilets and a reasonable-sized car park are available. No lifeguards, so swim sensibly.

Local tip: Walk west along the coastal path for about 15 minutes to reach a smaller, quieter beach called Port Nant. It’s rarely busy and offers a more secluded alternative when Aberdesach gets busy.

7. Porth Ceiriad

Porth Ceiriad is the kind of beach that requires a bit of effort to reach, which keeps the crowds away. What makes it special is its wild, unspoilt character. The beach is accessible only on foot, either by a steep coastal path or a longer inland route. The effort is absolutely worth it.

The beach is beautiful—a perfect crescent of sand backed by steep cliffs and framed by headlands. The water is crystal clear and the surrounding landscape is dramatic. It feels completely removed from the modern world.

Walking routes: The coastal path from Porth Oer takes about 45 minutes and offers spectacular views along the cliffs. Alternatively, take the inland path from Llanystumdwy—it’s longer but less exposed to the wind.

Seclusion: This is one of the quietest beaches on the Llŷn Peninsula. On many visits, you’ll have the beach entirely to yourself. In summer, you might see a handful of other people, but it’s never crowded.

No facilities: Absolutely nothing—no parking, no toilets, no shops. Come completely self-sufficient. Pack everything out with you.

8. Aberffraw

Aberffraw beach on Anglesey is something of a local secret. What makes it special is its dramatic setting at the mouth of the Afon Ffraw river. The beach is backed by extensive dune systems and framed by the impressive headland of Barclodiad y Gawres (Giant’s Knee).

The river creates interesting patterns in the sand as it meanders to the sea. At low tide, vast areas of sand are exposed, creating patterns that change daily. Photographers love this beach for the ever-changing compositions.

River: The Afon Ffraw is shallow and slow-moving, making it excellent for paddling and swimming, especially for children. The water is warmer than the sea in summer and the current is gentle.

Walking: The coastal path runs along the cliffs above the beach, offering spectacular views both east toward Holyhead and west toward the rest of Anglesey. The path is relatively easy and accessible.

Historical note: The village of Aberffraw was once the capital of the Kingdom of Gwynedd. While little remains visible today, the beach and surrounding landscape have witnessed over 1,500 years of history.

9. Llanddwyn Beach

Llanddwyn Beach is one of Anglesey’s most spectacular, though the part most visitors miss is the western end beyond the main car park. What makes this section special is its relationship to Llanddwyn Island. At low tide, you can walk across the sand to the island, home to a ruined chapel, a lighthouse, and spectacular views.

The beach itself is beautiful—golden sand extending for miles, backed by dunes and framed by the impressive mountains of Snowdonia across the Menai Strait. The combination of island, lighthouse, and mountains creates one of Britain’s most photogenic beach scenes.

Llanddwyn Island: The island is only accessible at low tide—check the tide times before you go. The ruined chapel is dedicated to St Dwynwen, the Welsh patron saint of lovers. The views from the lighthouse across to Snowdonia are spectacular.

Wildlife: The island is home to a colony of grey seals. They’re often visible from the beach, especially at high tide when they haul out on the rocks. Respect their space—don’t approach them.

Getting there: Follow signs for Newborough Forest and park at the car park. The beach is a 10-minute walk through the forest. Continue past the main area toward the island for the quietest sections.

10. Porth Dinllaen (Alternative Angle)

The final beach on this list is actually Porth Dinllaen again—but from a different perspective. Most visitors stop at the main beach and the pub. But continue walking east around the headland and you’ll discover a completely different character—rocky coves, sea caves, and dramatic coastal scenery.

This stretch of coast is rarely visited. The path can be narrow and steep in places, but the rewards are immense. You’ll find small hidden beaches, caves that you can explore at low tide, and views that stretch across to the mountains of the Llŷn Peninsula.

Sea caves: Several caves are accessible at low tide. They’re not huge but they’re atmospheric—light filtering through the water creates beautiful patterns on the cave walls. Never explore caves without checking tide times first.

Bird watching: The cliffs are home to guillemots, razorbills, and kittiwakes in spring and summer. Bring binoculars if you’re interested in seabirds. The nesting colonies are dense and noisy in a good way.

Photography: This stretch offers some of the most dramatic photography on the Llŷn Peninsula. The combination of golden light, dramatic rocks, and distant mountains creates spectacular compositions.

Beach Safety

Tides: Welsh tides are powerful and come in quickly. Always check tide times before visiting beaches, especially those accessible only at low tide. Never get cut off by the rising tide—stories of people trapped on headlands are common.

Currents: Even on calm-looking days, rips and currents can be dangerous, especially on surf beaches. If you’re not a confident swimmer, stay in shallow water. Watch the local lifeguards’ advice—where available.

Weather: Coastal weather can change rapidly. A calm, sunny morning can become windy and choppy by afternoon. Check the forecast and be prepared with warm clothing even in summer.

Wildlife: Respect seals and other wildlife. Never approach or try to touch seals—they bite. Keep dogs under control, especially near nesting birds and seal colonies.

Equipment: Wear appropriate footwear—many of these beaches have rocky sections or require walking over uneven ground. Bring sun protection even on overcast days—UV reflection from water and sand is strong.

Photography Tips

Light: Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light. Mid-day sun creates harsh shadows and can blow out highlights. The golden hour (hour after sunrise, hour before sunset) is magical.

Filters: A polarising filter is invaluable for coastal photography. It cuts glare from water and wet rocks, intensifies blue skies, and brings out colours. A neutral density filter allows long exposures to blur moving water.

Composition: Use foreground interest to create depth—rocks, seaweed, footprints in sand. The rule of thirds works well for seascapes, but don’t be afraid to break it for dramatic effect.

Weather: Don’t avoid bad weather—stormy conditions create dramatic, atmospheric images that capture the raw power of the coast. Just stay safe and protect your equipment.

Wildlife Watching

Seals: The Llŷn Peninsula and Anglesey are excellent for seal watching. Grey seals haul out on quiet beaches and rocky areas. Observe from a distance—seals are easily disturbed and pups can be abandoned if approached.

Birds: Coastal areas host diverse birdlife. Look for gulls, terns, and waders on beaches; seabirds on cliffs; and migratory species in autumn. A good field guide is invaluable.

Marine life: Rock pooling reveals a hidden world—crabs, anemones, small fish. Look in shallow pools around headlands and rocky areas. Always replace rocks carefully and return creatures to their pools.

Porpoises and dolphins: These are sometimes visible from the coast, especially from high points. Scan the water surface for dorsal fins and splashes. Calm, overcast days often offer the best viewing conditions.

Practical Considerations

Parking: Many of these beaches have limited or no parking. Arrive early in summer. Some beaches require walking from remote car parks—factor this into your planning.

Facilities: Most of these beaches have minimal or no facilities. Bring water, food, and other essentials. If you need toilets, plan your visit around locations that have them.

Dogs: Check local dog restrictions, especially in summer. Many Welsh beaches have seasonal dog bans. Even where allowed, keep dogs under control around wildlife and livestock.

Litter: Take all litter home with you. These beaches are unspoilt because visitors respect them. Be part of the solution, not the problem.

Access: Some beaches require walking across private land or along farm tracks. Respect access rights, close gates, and don’t disturb livestock.

Seasonal Guide

Spring: Quiet, with mild weather. Wildflowers carpet the cliffs and dunes. Water is too cold for most swimming, but beachcombing and walking are excellent. Birds begin nesting—observe quietly.

Summer: Peak season. Warmest weather, swimmable water (relatively speaking), longest days. Popular beaches get busy—head for the quieter ones. Lifeguards may be present on some beaches.

Autumn: Often the best time to visit. Sea is still relatively warm, crowds have gone, light is dramatic. Autumn storms create spectacular conditions for photography. Seal pups are born—observe from distance.

Winter: Dramatic and powerful. Winter storms create spectacular scenery, but conditions can be dangerous. Most visitors stay away—you’ll have beaches to yourself. Wrap up warm and enjoy the raw beauty.

Supporting Local Communities

Many of these coastal areas have fragile economies. Support local businesses wherever possible—buy provisions from village shops, use local cafés, respect access arrangements. The Welsh coast has a long tradition of hospitality—engaging with locals can enhance your experience and ensure these places remain welcoming.

The secret beaches of Snowdonia and the Llŷn Peninsula are treasures that deserve protection. Visit mindfully, travel lightly, and take nothing but photographs and memories. These wild coastal spaces are becoming increasingly rare in Britain—our responsibility is to ensure they remain unspoilt for future generations.

Explore, enjoy, but above all, respect. These beaches offer a taste of wild Britain that’s harder to find every year. Cherish them.