6 Must-Visit Beaches in Gwynedd

 

Picking out the 6 best beaches in Gwynedd isn't an easy task – this part of North Wales is full of scenic stretches of sand, cute fishing villages and historic seaside resorts. Few places in Wales – or, for that matter, in the whole of the United Kingdom – have such easy access to both sandy beaches and mountains, so wherever you end up venturing, Gwynedd's varied landscapes are unlikely to disappoint. We've put together a list of our 6 favourite beaches in Gwynedd below – be sure to check them out the next time you find yourself on holiday in this spectacular part of North Wales.

Check out campsites in Gwynedd near the beach, or keep your options open and explore every single Pitchup campsite in Gwynedd.

The Llŷn Peninsula

Abersoch

Referred to by some as the Welsh Riviera for its clement climate and rather special seascapes, the Llŷn Peninsula deserves an extensive beach guide all of its own. If you only have time to visit one seaside spot while you're here, though, make it Abersoch – with its fashionable seafront, watersports facilities, adorable beach huts and top mix of places to eat, there's always something to see and do in this smart coastal resort. 

Abersoch is also where to head for boat trips out to nearby Bardsey Island, so bring your binoculars and look forward to seeing an array of local wildlife. 

New to the area? Our guide to all you need to know about camping in Gwynedd is here to help. 

Porth Neigwl

Porth Neigwl doesn't have quite the same buzz as Abersoch, but that's why so many people like it. This beach is surrounded by countryside and is slightly less sheltered than Abersoch, making it a popular base for surfers and sea kayakers who like choppy waters. This beach has a mix of sand and pebbles and is very spacious, making it a good option to pursue if you fancy some time to yourself away from the crowds. 

The beach at Porth Neigwl doesn't have any facilities, so come prepared with snacks and drinks from home. There are no restrictions on dogs at Porth Neigwl throughout the year. 

Check out dog-friendly accommodation around the Llŷn Peninsula.

Mid Gwynedd

Morfa Bychan 

Also known as Black Rock Sands, Morfa Bychan is a two-mile stretch of beach backed by extensive sand dunes that have been designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest. At low tide, this spacious beach also has rockpools that the kids can trawl through, while other interesting geological features include a network of small caves. 

Morfa Bychan is a well-served spot by a river, with easy access to the sands, designated areas to launch boats and a range of pubs and cafés. The views here, which stretch over the water to the Llŷn Peninsula, really are quite something, making Morfa Bychan's beach a very popular spot for scenic seaside picnics. 

Find more family-friendly attractions and days out with these top things to do in Gwynedd.

Harlech beach

Harlech beach is next to a wild system of sand dunes as well as the more manicured landscape of the Royal St David's Golf Club, renowned as one of the fanciest links courses in North Wales. Harlech Castle also looms above the sands as a reminder of a less peaceful past. 

Head to Harlech beach and you'll be rewarded with an overwhelming sense of space, with plenty of room for the kids to play and for adults to find quiet corners to sink their teeth into a good holiday read. There are quite strong currents here, and sometimes the waves breaking on the beach can be quite sizeable, so please take precautions around the water. 

Have a look at Harlech’s best holiday accommodation, or see our Ultimate North Wales Camping Guide to explore more castles to visit in the region. 

 

Southern Snowdonia

Barmouth beach

Sitting in southern Snowdonia and within trekking distance of gorgeous lakes and mountains, Barmouth is a pretty seaside resort with views over Cardigan Bay and a well-preserved historic harbour. Barmouth beach is a mix of fine shingle and golden sand and faces west, making this little town a very good spot to watch the sun setting over the sea. 

Several great coastal walks of varying lengths start and end in Barmouth, or you can stick around in town to take advantage of donkey rides, traditional amusement arcades and vistas from Dinas Oleu viewpoint. 

Find camping and glamping near Barmouth beach.

Aberdyfi beach

Our final favourite Gwynedd beach is in Aberdyfi, where over three miles of sand stretch along the coast backed by dunes and mountains. The river Dyfi, which meets the sea here, is worth coming to admire in its own right and is home to plenty of wildlife, while the colourful pastel hues of the seafront terraces give the resort an appealing old-world feel. Note that parking in Aberdyfi is pay and display. 

Step out and explore more of Snowdonia with our list of the best walks to try in Gwynedd.