Top 5 Stunning Beaches on the Llyn Peninsula
From surf spots to secluded gems, these are the best beaches on the Llyn Peninsula in north Wales - curated by a local insider!
The Llyn Peninsula shines as one of the UK's unsung beach destinations, challenging the charms of Cornwall with its pristine turquoise waters, sandy bays, and water sports.
This picturesque region showcases the best of the North Wales coastline, boasting breathtaking views of the Eryri (Snowdonia) mountains in the distance. Here, you'll also get a taste of some noteworthy sections of the Wales Coastal Path. This breathtaking walking route extends along the peninsula's nearly 100-mile shoreline.
The Llyn Peninsula is also a haven for natural wildlife enthusiasts, with ample opportunities for seal and dolphin watching.
You'll discover a delightful array of charming seaside towns tucked along the peninsula, such as Abersoch, Pwllheli, and Nefyn. Yet, the area's true appeal lies in its extraordinary beaches, which attract thousands of visitors year after year.
The southern coast of the peninsula is often referred to as the "Welsh Riviera", known for its calm, blue waters and a curated selection of seaside bars, restaurants, and cafes. In other parts of the Llyn Peninsula, you'll find beaches that cater to surfers, hikers, and explorers.
There's no shortage of adventures to be had in this stunning corner of the Welsh coast. Whether you're a surfer looking to ride the feisty Welsh waves or simply hoping to unwind with your family on the shoreline, read on to discover the best beaches on the Llyn Peninsula.
Best Beaches on Llyn Peninsula: Map
Top Beaches on the Llyn Peninsula
As a friendly heads up for my English readers, "Traeth" means "beach" in Welsh.
1. Traeth Abersoch
A favorite among Welsh beach-goers in the summer, this golden-sand beach in the idyllic coastal village of Abersoch is perfect for relaxation and soaking up the sun.
Famous for its watersports activities, visitors can enjoy jet-skiing, windsurfing, sailing, kayaking, and more. There are plenty of rental booths and tourist hubs scattered along the beachfront.
Abersoch is also celebrated for its town center, which is only a two-minute walk from the beach. You'll find an impressive assortment of boutique stores, independent cafes, high-end restaurants, and more.
Abersoch is conveniently located just a short drive from Pwllheli, making it an excellent base for exploring other parts of Llyn. Be sure to check out Abersoch Watersports for their guided SUP and coasteering tours, as well as surf lessons in the area.
2. Traeth Aberdaron
Homemade Welsh Village Favorite, Aberdaron is a stunning stretch of golden sand nestled at the very tip of the Lln Peninsula.
This mile-long beach is tailor-made for families, offering plenty of space for sunbathing and relaxing. Plus, there's no shortage of sea caves and rock pools to explore.
Aberdaron is a charmingly quaint Welsh village with a smattering of quaint cafes, an ice cream parlor, and a sweet shop. The village also boasts parking options, as well as excellent dining options such as Gwesty Ty Newydd (a fantastic spot to watch the sunset). It's an ideal place to end a perfect day in Llyn, with stunning campsites nearby.
Pro Tip: Aberdaron serves as the gateway to one of the best sections of the Wales Coast Path. Follow the trail along the cliffside on the right-hand side of the beach for spectacular views out to Ynys Enlli (Bardsey Island).
3. Porthdinllaen & Morfa Nefyn Beach
A visit to Llyn Peninsula is incomplete without a pilgrimage to what is known as the best pub in Wales: Ty Coch Inn on Porthdinllaen beach.
Accessed via the village of Morfa Nefyn, the picturesque fishing hamlet of Porthdinllaen offers a sandy stretch in a sheltered bay, known for the renowned red pub at its heart.
Visitors can only access the pub on foot, as the nearest car park is in Morfa Nefyn. But the reward for this brief 20-minute walk is a fantastic selection of local brews and delicious food, enjoyed right on the seashore.
Both the beaches at Porthdinllaen and Morfa Nefyn cater well to families. The sheltered bay offers numerous swimming opportunities, along with hiking and watersports.
Adventurous souls can take on the scenic circular walk along the Wales Coast Path from the beach, spotting incredible wildlife along the way.
4. Porth Iago
One of the prettiest hidden gems in Wales, Porth Iago is a golden cove highlighted by its crystal-clear turquoise water.
On a sunny day, its azure waters will remind you of a Mediterranean coastline. The soft, fine sand is some of the best on the peninsula.
This beach is one of the quieter beaches in the area, making it a local favorite and an ideal spot for families seeking serenity. It's also popular with kayakers and paddleboarders during the summer months.
Porth Iago is just a short drive from a nearby car park, where a pay and display machine operates. The beach can be reached by a steep path descent, so it may not be suitable for everyone.
5. Traeth Porthor: Whistling Sands Beach
Famous for its distinctive whistling sound, Porth Oer (also known as Traeth Porthor or Whistling Sands) is renowned for the unique sound heard underfoot when the wind blows the sand.
This striking sound is due to the rare sand particles found on this beach, a quality shared with just one other beach in Europe, on the Isle of Eigg in Scotland.
Located only 30 minutes from Pwllheli, this is an excellent beach for families in North Wales, featuring wide, sandy bays with accessible swimming spots, as well as a charming café for light refreshments.
This beach is also a popular spot for surfers, sharing this accolade with the nearby surfer's paradise of Porth Neigwl (Hell's Mouth). Surfboard rentals and lessons are available from Abersoch during peak season.
The first image at the top of this post is actually of Hell's Mouth Beach (Porth Neigwl).
More to Explore on the Llyn Peninsula
A Local's Guide to the Llyn Peninsula
19 of the Absolute Best Places to Visit in North Wales
10 of the Best Things To Do in Llanberis
12 of the Best Things To Do in Caernarfon
Written by the Author
This guide to the best beaches on the Llyn Peninsula was crafted by local travel writer Megan Tomas.
I'm a travel writer and content creator from a small village outside Caernarfon in North Wales. After graduating with a journalism degree from Cardiff University, I spent 4 years working as a digital producer at a Welsh production company. In 2020, I left my 9-5 to pursue freelance writing full-time, and am now slow-travelling the world (currently in Bali) as a digital nomad.
The Llyn Peninsula offers captivating experiences for travelers, with an extensive range of activities and scenic wonders. Alongside exploring its breathtaking beaches, one can embark on actions like kayaking, windsurfing, and coasteering (offered by Abersoch Watersports).
Stepping away from the coast, home-and-garden enthusiasts can immerse themselves in the charming beauty of Welsh villages such as Aberdaron, which features quaint cafes and picturesque campsites.
Meanwhile, nature lovers can catch glimpses of marine life, such as seals and dolphins, during their visit. The area boasts a stretch of the Wales Coastal Path, unparalleled views of Snowdonia, and a unique selection of seaside bars, restaurants, and cafes along the "Welsh Riviera."
In achieving a holistic appreciation for the Llyn Peninsula and its offerings, be sure to explore the local lifestyle emanating from its delightful seaside towns and distinctive home-and-garden experiences, all of which contribute to the region's genuine allure.
Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a taste of the North Wales way of life, the Llyn Peninsula stands as an unforgettable travel destination that cater to travelers, tourists, and those in search of a unique lifestyle experience.
