The Best Beaches in Anglesey: An Expert Guide
From sand dunes to sheltered bays, there really are some special beaches here
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There’s nothing better than spending a fun-filled day at the beach, and with 125 miles of captivating coastline, you won't find a better place to spend that day than on the beaches of Anglesey. Whether you're bringing your buckets, spades, and ball games, or simply a book and a picnic basket, Anglesey’s award-winning beaches are the perfect place for it. However, with so many sandy strips around the island, it can seem a little overwhelming when picking one to visit - but fear not, because that’s where we come in. Being the destination experts that we are here at Plum Guide, we’ve put together the ultimate guide to the best beaches in Anglesey, so you look forward to your trip with full confidence that you've got all the expert knowledge you need. You're welcome.
Benllech Beach
A view of the clear blue sea and green hills at Benllech Beach, Anglesey, Wales, UK
Benllech is a large village on the east coast of Anglesey, and boasts one of the most popular beaches on the entire island - its Blue Flag main beach, Benllech Beach. With fine golden sands and clear blue waters, you’d be forgiven for thinking you've just set foot on a beach in the Mediterranean. The sea here is very safe for swimming and paddling, although we will admit that the water isn’t as warm as the Med. At low tide, the sand stretches for miles, so there’s tons of space for ball games, building sandcastles, or just lying back with a book. There are also plenty of rock pools for kids to hunt for crabs, starfish, and other sea critters.
Llanddwyn Beach
Llanddwyn Beach is another Blue Flag beach, but this one can be found on Anglesey's south coast. Backed by impressive sand dunes and the Newborough National Nature Reserve, this beach is definitely one of the most scenic on the island. Whether you want to try out kite-surfing and windsurfing, or just sunbathe and enjoy the spectacular views of Snowdonia National Park, Caernarfon, and the Llyn Peninsula, this beach caters perfectly for you. If you fancy a little walk, there are footpaths leading from the beach which take you through the grassy hills to the nature reserve. Just a short distance away is the historical site of Ynys Llanddwyn, a small tidal island with the ruins of St Dwynwen’s Church. A beach and an adventure? We're really spoiling you here.
Rhosneigr (Traeth Crigyll) Beach
A row of colourful terraced beach houses at Rhosneigr Beach, Anglesey, Wales, UK
If you’re looking for a beach with an abundance of things to do, Traeth Crigyll (Town Beach) is undoubtedly one of the best beaches in Anglesey. Located just to the west of the village of Rhosneigr, there’s easy access to the beach from the nearby shops and cafes, so stock up on nibbles before you find your sunbathing spot for the next few hours. With a huge expanse of golden sand, this beach is a great location for watersports, especially kitesurfing, windsurfing, surfing, and canoeing. Walk further down the coast and you’ll find a stream where the Afon Crigyll meets the sea - the perfect spot to build a dam. Rhosneigr is also home to Traeth Llydan, which lies on the east side of the village. It’s slightly smaller than Traeth Crigyll, but still has more than enough golden sand to play on. There are a few rocky outcrops at either end, as well as low dunes which back onto fields, giving the beach a quieter, more rural feel.
Borthwen Beach
Situated on the southern coast of Holyhead, Borthwen Beach is perfect for families, or just those of you looking for somewhere flat and sandy. A rocky headland shelters the bay from prevailing southwesterly winds, making it a safe beach for swimming and paddling, with very gentle currents when tide is going out. With rock pools for the kids to play in, and soft sand for sandcastle building, Borthwen Beach provides hours of entertainment. For adventure seekers, the beach is a good launching pad for canoes, kayaks, and dinghies - if you want to explore the coast from the water.
Porth Swtan (Church Bay) Beach
Porth Swtan is one of the best beaches in Anglesey if you’re looking for a rural, unspoilt spot to relax in (and who isn't?). Nestled on the north-west coast of Anglesey, this Blue Flag beach gets its name from the nearby St Rhuddlad's Church in Llanrhuddlad, which is visible from the bay. This sand and pebble beach is edged with rock pools and backed by cliffs, making for a dramatic, picturesque backdrop. The Isle of Anglesey Coastal Path runs along the top of the cliffs, and access to the beach is via a steep footpath - so this may not be suitable for those with limited mobility. Porth Swtan’s water quality is excellent, making it a popular place for swimming, surfing, sailing, and fishing.
Lligwy Beach
Two kayaks on the sand in front of the sea at a beach
Just north of the village of Moelfre is Lligwy Beach, a sheltered bay on the east coast of Anglesey. The beach measures over half a mile at its widest point, so there’s ample room for all kinds of coastal activities. Have a go at windsurfing, kitesurfing, kayaking, and canoeing, or get out your fishing rod and catch your own dinner (remember, patience is key). Surrounded by limestone rocks and backed by low sand dunes and agricultural lands, Lligwy Beach has a wild, open feel to it. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins and porpoises leaping playfully from the water, to catch a truly unforgettable sight.