Discover Boats

A question often asked by visitors is which Anglesey beach would a local person recommend to make their stay on the island one to remember. There are in fact many outstanding beaches on this island in the Irish Sea off North Wales, boasting over 125 miles of exquisite coastline. And significantly many of them regularly win European Blue Flag and Resort Seaside Awards as well as Green Coast Beaches for water quality.

The most popular beaches of Anglesey are not necessarily the easiest to reach, yet the struggle to get there is well worth the effort. Take Llanddona beach on the east coast, a soft sandy expanse which sweeps in a north easterly arc and surrounded by high lush green hills and trees, yet the road is a narrow one and a challenge for the driver. A large quantity of silver coins was recently discovered on this beach, and more may be hidden, while there is a tale of the Witches of Llanddona which has fascinated people over the years.

Llanddwyn is an Anglesey beach situated on the south east corner of the island, approached through Newborough Forest, an impressive collection of conifers where some red squirrels still survive. When you reach the beach the vast expanse is breathtaking, whether you arrive here on a blustery winter day or in the heat of the mid summer sun. A nearby rocky island is home to an old white lighthouse and derelict church, where Demi Moore filmed scenes from her paranormal Half Light movie.

A visitor on an island beach may notice bright orange life rings placed at strategic points which are there to ensure that in an emergency someone in danger of drowning in the sea can be assisted. Anyone seeing a life ring damaged needs to call the local council immediately. Just think that in 2008, thirty eight people lost their lives off the island coast when in difficulty.

If you travel to the west of Anglesey at Church Bay there is an interesting Green flag beach, where the coastal path runs along high cliffs which surround this narrow cove popular with swimmers. Often you will see some kayaks gathering at the beach ready to begin a coastal exploration, or perhaps go further to the Skerries Rock lighthouse. On your way to Church Bay you will drive along a narrow country lane, decked with flowers, and on arrival you cant miss the Lobster Pot restaurant.

In the south west is Holy Island where you find the Port of Holyhead and two Blue Flag beaches at Porth Dafarch and Trearddur Bay. To celebrate the Millennium, a Celtic cross was erected in the marram grass at Trearddur. These two beach locations also have dog free zones operating between May and September, which is a facility asked for by a number of people.

Some thoughts about what to do and not to do when you are on an Anglesey beach: it is not advisable to go out to sea in an inflatable dinghy, especially if the wind is offshore. Eating a large meal before swimming is not a good idea, and remember beach wardens are on hand to answer your questions. Do drink plenty of non-alcoholic fluids in hot, sunny weather to avoid dehydration, and dont leave pets in parked cars in hot weather.

Some folks look forward to leisurely walks along the coastal path, and watching beautiful sunsets, while others are keen to test their skills in various adventure sports like sailing, diving, coasteering, surfing and kayaking. For everyone, however, it is likely that you will always treasure something special about your time on an Anglesey beach.