Llŷn Peninsula Beaches Guide: Top Picks for Your Coastal Adventure

Immerse yourself in the breath-taking beauty of the Llŷn Peninsula’s beaches, where miles of unspoiled sand, crystal-clear waters, and stunning natural backdrops await.

With a coastline stretching over 100 miles, the Llŷn Peninsula boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the UK, offering something for everyone, from secluded coves to bustling resort towns.

Whether you are a family in search of a fun-filled day out or a solo adventurer in pursuit of tranquillity, this guide has got you covered with a detailed exploration of the top beaches in the area.

Discover the best Llŷn Peninsula beaches below…

Jump ahead to:

Llŷn Peninsula Beaches FAQs
The Best Llŷn Peninsula Beaches
Llŷn Peninsula Beaches Map

Llŷn Peninsula Beaches FAQs

The Best Llŷn Peninsula Beaches

1. Traeth Aberdaron (Aberdaron Beach), Aberdaron

Our guide to Llŷn Peninsula beaches begins with Aberdaron Beach! This beautiful expanse of sand is situated on the westernmost tip of the peninsula, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the Irish Sea.

Thanks to its broad surf, it’s an ideal spot for various water sports, such as surfing, windsurfing, and kayaking. If you’re looking for an unforgettable sailing experience, we recommend taking a day-long tour with the Bardsey Island Trust.

Alternatively, kick back and relax on the sandy shore and admire the view. For families with children, make sure to bring a bucket, so they can explore the hidden treasures of the rock pools.

Afterwards, we recommend going for a short walk along the scenic promenade and dipping into one of the local eateries. Baget ar y Traeth (Baguette on the Beach) is a local favourite, serving up a range of delicious sandwiches.

With so much to see and do, it’s little wonder that the beach is featured in our guide to the best beaches in North Wales!

Type of beach: Sandy
Dog-friendly: Yes, as long as they keep to the left of the slipway
Car park: Yes, for a charge
Public toilets: Yes
Postcode: LL53 8BE

2. Traeth Morfa Nefyn (Morfa Nefyn Beach), Morfa Nefyn

Another stunning gem, Traeth Morfa Nefyn enjoys a secluded position, nestled against the northern cliffs of the peninsula. Another beach that’s popular with watersports enthusiasts, Traeth Morfa Nefyn boasts a variety of surfing conditions to navigate.

Thanks to this Llŷn Peninsula beach’s sheltered sands, it makes for a sunbathing haven! So, find a spot along Traeth Morfa Nefyn’s two-mile shore and unwind amidst the coastal views.

After making the most of this beach, why not stop at the renowned Ty Coch Inn? This welcoming pub not only offers scenic views but serves up hearty meals for you to tuck into after a dip!

Type of beach: Sand and pebbles
Dog-friendly: Yes, on the northern side of the beach
Car park: Yes, for a charge
Public toilets: Yes
Postcode: LL53 6BY

3. Traeth Abersoch (Abersoch Beach), Abersoch

Situated next to the idyllic resort of Abersoch is another gem of a beach, Traeth Abersoch. This Llŷn Peninsula beach is perfect for family outings, thanks to its soft sands that stretch for miles.

Not only is there plenty of space for sunbathing but there is also a slipway for sailing and windsurfing enthusiasts to enjoy!

When it comes to facilities, this Llŷn Peninsula beach has everything you need for a hassle-free day out. Public toilets, a café, and a car park can all be found within a short walk from the beach.

After soaking up the sun at Traeth Abersoch, why not head to one of the many eateries and bars in Abersoch? The Zinc Café Bar & Grill is a great choice, offering a range of tasty treats.

Type of beach: Sandy
Dog-friendly: Yes, apart from 1st April – 30th September
Car park: Yes, for a charge
Public toilets: Yes
Postcode: LL53 7AT

4. Traeth Porthor (Whistling Sands), near Aberdaron

Traeth Porthor (also known as Porth Oer) is a beautiful, sandy shore situated on the Llŷn Peninsula’s north-western coast. Owned by the National Trust, Traeth Porthor is well-maintained and a tranquil spot for a day at the beach.

The beach has earned the nickname “The Whistling Sands” due to the high-pitched whistle often heard while strolling along the sand. This is caused by the beach’s sand grains making noise from rubbing against each other.

Due to its secluded location, it’s not only a relaxing outing but it’s a lovely, crowd-free hiking spot! Walk along the nearby cliffs and soak up the unrivalled views of the area with your canine companion at your side.

Type of beach: Sandy
Dog-friendly: Yes, apart from 1st April – 30th September
Car park: Yes, for a charge
Public toilets: No
Postcode: LL53 8LH

5. Porth Neigwl (Hells Mouth Beach), near Llanengan

One of the best Llŷn Peninsula beaches for surfing, Porth Neigwl was bound to make this list! Locals have playfully named the beach “Hell’s Mouth” due to its open-mouth shape and being the hotspot of 30 shipwrecks.

A small car park rests 200 metres away from the beach, so you’ll need to embark on a short walk to reach it. Please be aware that this Llŷn Peninsula beach has no facilities, so it’s a good idea to bring along a picnic!

The beach mainly consists of pebbles, but during low tide, an extensive set of sand is revealed. This beach has no dog restrictions, so why not bring your pooch along for a walk during this time?

After surfing or kayaking the day away here, be sure to head to the nearby village of Llanengan. Here, you’ll come across The Sun Inn, a dog-friendly pub serving up hearty meals and local ale.

Type of beach: Sand and pebbles
Dog-friendly: Yes
Car park: Yes, for free
Public toilets: No
Postcode: LL53 7LG

6. Llanbedrog Beach, Llanbedrog

Signified by its plethora of eye-catching beach huts, Llanbedrog is a must-visit Llŷn Peninsula beach. With views of Cardigan Bay and Snowdonia National Park, it’s a stunning spot for an open swim.

The mile-long beach is known as being the most sheltered in Gwynedd, making it perfect for sunbathing. It’s a shore that’s bound to be a hit with all the family too, providing family fun adventure packs to keep everyone occupied; these can be collected at the car park.

There are several things to do near the beach too, including a hiking trail around Llanbedrog viewpoint, a heathland area with far-reaching panoramas. Alternatively, enjoy an afternoon packed with culture by visiting the Plas Glyn y Weddw Gallery.

If you want to stay on the beach for a little longer, why not treat yourself to some drinks and nibbles at the Aqua Beach Bar?

Type of beach: Sandy
Dog-friendly: Yes, apart from 1st April – 30th September
Car park: Yes, for a charge
Public toilets: Yes, open between 1st April – 31st October
Postcode: LL53 7TR

7. Marine Beach, Criccieth

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Colin Coward (@colincoward)

Marine Beach, also known as West Beach, is located near the town of Criccieth. Thanks to its position, the shore offers views of mainland Wales along with the rest of the peninsula. There are even binoculars available – for a fee – if you want to take a closer look.

This Llŷn Peninsula beach backs onto the Marine Promenade, which provides access to a range of North Wales walks along the Wales Coast Path. The promenade also reaches Criccieth Castle, a historic castle in Wales that’s well worth a visit!

If you’re feeling peckish during your beach outing, make your way to Dylan’s. This eatery enjoys an idyllic, waterside location in a Grade II listed building. Come here to savour locally-sourced seafood, tacos and pizza.

Type of beach: Sand and shingle
Dog-friendly: Yes, however, dogs are restricted from the area behind the Marine Hall between 1st May – 30th September
Car park: Yes, for a charge
Public toilets: No, but there is one by Caffi Cwrt, LL52 0DA
Postcode: LL52 0HL

8. Traeth Penllech, near Pwlhelli

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Joe Miles (@joemiles)

One of the best Llŷn Peninsula beaches for unspoilt beauty, this stretch of sand enjoys a remote position, perfect for romantic and family outings alike. Rock pools rest at either end of the beach, giving the little ones lots of treasure-hunting opportunities.

The beach is backed by grassy cliffs, which offer a peaceful walk with stunning views of the unique rock formations lining the coast. A small waterfall can also be found here, creating a charming spot for a picnic.

Due to the lack of lifeguard cover, we recommend being cautious when swimming here. However, if you are a seasoned surfer, you can look forward to riding the waves, as the surf conditions are superb.

If you would like to enjoy an alfresco lunch with coastal views, head towards the car park, where you will find a few picnic benches along the way.

Type of beach: Sandy
Dog-friendly: Yes
Car park: Yes, for free
Public toilets: No
Postcode: LL53 8PA

9. Machroes Beach, near Abersoch

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Unmistakable North Wales (@unmistakablewales)

Last but not least on our guide to the best Llŷn Peninsula beaches is Machroes Beach. A long, sandy beach, it’s a popular spot for watersports lovers, as you can easily partake in jet-skiing, canoeing and windsurfing.

Due to its hidden position, this beach is perfect for couples. If you’re looking for a quiet and romantic spot for a proposal, we recommend choosing this beach. Continue the romance over in Portmeirion, an Italianate village which rests under an hour away and is one of the UK’s top honeymoon destinations.

Alternatively, enjoy a quiet beach day here before wandering along the coast to Abersoch’s beaches and attractions, including Abersoch Golf Club.

Type of beach: Sandy
Dog-friendly: Yes,  apart from May – September
Car park: Yes, for free
Public toilets: Yes
Postcode: LL53 7EU

Llŷn Peninsula Beaches Map

Feeling inspired by these Llŷn Peninsula beaches? Find even more stunning sands in our guide to beaches in Wales! Alternatively, discover more of the nation’s coastal gems with our guide to the best UK beaches.