The Hidden Coves Of The Llyn Peninsula

Wales is known for its beautiful beaches, but there are some hidden coves on the Llyn Peninsula that are truly extra special. Some of these are a little off the beaten track, but that only adds to their appeal, so if you like the idea of a waterfall cascading onto the beach, or sand that whistles under your feet, you might like to explore the hidden coves of the Llyn Peninsula.

PORTH IAGO

With crystal clear waters and golden sands this idyllic beach is much photographed and it’s easy to see why, it could easily be mistaken for somewhere in the Med. Truly a hidden gem, this secluded, sandy beach is flanked by grassy headlands which provide shelter from coastal winds. It’s a good choice for kayaking and canoeing, as well as swimming, and is a popular sunset spot. Access is from a farm where there is parking which you will need to pay a nominal fee for.

PORTH YSGO

At the back of the beach is an impressive 40ft waterfall that falls onto the sands. At high tide, the beach itself is pebbly (good for stone art), but low tide makes way for a great expanse of sand. Access to this one is down a long flight of steep steps – it’s not easy access, but then the reward of spending time on this beach outweighs the journey down, or more to the point, back up! There is a carpark in the farm at the top of the cliff.

PORTH OER

Porth Oer, AKA Whistling Sands, so called as the sand can be heard to squeak under foot due to the unusual shape of the sand particles. This large, sandy beach is truly stunning with clear waters and a great range of rocks to explore and jump from, and when the conditions are right it’s popular with local surfers. There is a cafe/ beach shop located right on the sands. Access is from the National Trust car park located a few minutes’ walk away at the top of a short but steep hill.

PORTH DINLLAEN

Best known as home to the Ty Coch pub, this beach is full of character. Watch as the local fishermen bring in their catch or venture around the coastal path to neighbouring Lifeboat Bay, home of the Porthdinllaen RNLI lifeboat. Access is via a pleasant walk along the golf course or across the beach from Morfa Nefyn. There’s always a great atmosphere here so if you want an afternoon of sun, sea, food and music, then this is definitely for you.

PORTH TOWYN

A large, sandy beach, located near Tudweiliog on the northern coast, this is a good spot for body boarding and will suit those who want to avoid the more well-known Hell’s Mouth. Often quiet, even in the summer season, this is a great choice for families with plenty of rocks to climb and tidal pools to explore. Access is through Towyn farm and down a grassy slope onto the beach. Cwt Tatws shop and cafe, located at the farm, provides takeaway drinks, sandwiches and snacks. 

PORTH YSGADEN

A short way along the coast from Towyn, Porth Ysgaden is a little known cove, formally a small port where ships delivered essential supplies and collected the local produce of salted herrings, which is how this delightful beach got its name, as ysgaden is Welsh for herring. Accessed via a lane from off the Tudweiliog to Aberdaron road this tiny beach is great for taking a quick dip and also a popular fishing spot.