Surrounded by over 125 miles of stunning coastline and speckled with idyllic towns and villages, the Isle of Anglesey (Ynys Môn) is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Wales.
From vast golden sands and award-winning Blue Flag beaches to quiet hidden coves where you can escape the crowds, Anglesey beaches offer something for every type of visitor. Families will love the safe swimming spots and wide-open sands, while adventurers can enjoy surfing, kayaking and scenic coastal walks along the Anglesey Coastal Path.
Dog owners aren’t left out either, with plenty of dog-friendly beaches in Anglesey to explore year-round.
Whether you fancy a spot of sunbathing, taking a dip in the sea, or catching a wave or two… We’ve got you covered with our guide to the best beaches in Anglesey!
Best Beaches in Anglesey
Whether you’re planning a traditional bucket-and-spade beach day, a watersports adventure, or a scenic coastal walk, this guide covers the best beaches in Anglesey for families, couples and dog owners, including popular spots like Trearddur Bay, Benllech Beach and Llanddwyn Beach.
Don’t forget to check out our cottages near the beach for your next seaside holiday.
Trearddur Bay Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Anglesey, known for its wide stretch of soft sand and easy access from the nearby village. Located on the island’s west coast, it’s a go-to spot for both locals and visitors looking to enjoy a classic seaside day out.
What makes Trearddur Bay stand out is its balance between natural beauty and convenience. The sheltered bay offers calmer waters than much of the surrounding coastline, making it ideal for swimming and paddling. Backed by a friendly village atmosphere, you’ll find plenty of places to eat, drink and relax just a short walk from the shore.
This is a sandy beach with plenty of space, even during busier periods. Facilities are close by, including cafés, toilets and shops, along with nearby parking options. Dogs are restricted on parts of the beach during peak summer months, but there are still sections where they are welcome, particularly outside of these dates.
Trearddur Bay is best suited to families thanks to its safe bathing conditions and easy access, though it’s also a great choice for couples and those looking for a relaxed beach day with amenities close at hand.
Parking
Large pay-and-display car park next to the beach (Postcode: LL65 2YU)
Dog Rules
- Dogs restricted from part of the main beach between 1st May – 30th September
- Dogs allowed on the western side of the beach
- Dogs must be kept on leads on the promenade
Lifeguard
Yes, seasonal cover (May – September)
Nearby Attractions
South Stack Lighthouse & RSPB Reserve
Holyhead Breakwater Country Park
Trearddur Bay Golf Club
Nearby Property Recommendations
Church Bay Beach, also known as Porth Swtan, is a small and peaceful cove on the north-west coast of Anglesey. Tucked away from the busier tourist spots, it offers a quieter setting that feels a little more off the beaten path.
This beach stands out for its unspoilt feel and scenic surroundings. Framed by low cliffs and grassy headlands, it’s a great place to slow down and enjoy the coastline at a gentler pace. The nearby village adds to its charm, with a couple of well-regarded places to eat within easy reach.
Church Bay is a sandy beach, though it can be mixed with pebbles in places, especially towards the edges. Access is via a short walk down from the car park, and while facilities are more limited than larger beaches, there are toilets and a café nearby. Dogs are generally welcome, though it’s always worth checking seasonal restrictions before visiting.
Church Bay is best suited to couples, walkers and dog owners looking for a quieter coastal spot. It’s also a good choice for those who prefer a more relaxed beach day away from the crowds.
Parking
Pay-and-display car park located a short walk from the beach (Postcode: LL65 4EU)
Dog Rules
- Dogs allowed year-round
- No official beach ban areas
Lifeguard
Yes, seasonal cover
Nearby Attractions
Swtan Heritage Museum
Anglesey Coastal Path
St Cybi Church
Nearby Property Recommendations
Benllech Beach is a large and welcoming sandy beach on the east coast of Anglesey, popular with visitors looking for easy access and plenty of space to relax. Sitting on the edge of the village of Benllech, it’s a well-loved spot for traditional seaside days.
One of the main draws of Benllech Beach is its size and accessibility. Even during the busier months, there’s usually enough room to spread out and enjoy the surroundings. The gentle slope into the sea makes it a safer option for paddling and swimming, while the nearby promenade offers a pleasant place for a stroll with views across the bay.
The beach’s Blue-Flag waters are safe for swimming, with lifeguards on duty in summer, and the large sandy stretch is perfect for sandcastle building, beach games, and long walks along the shoreline. At low tide, rockpools appear at the edges of the beach, offering hours of fun for little explorers. For those seeking more activity, Benllech is also a hub for watersports, including paddleboarding, kayaking, and sea fishing.
The Anglesey Coastal Path runs directly through Benllech, offering a fantastic way to explore the surrounding coastline. Head north to the village of Moelfre, with its maritime history and lifeboat station, or south towards Red Wharf Bay, a vast sandy estuary teeming with birdlife.
Benllech also offers a great choice of food and drink, with options to suit all tastes. For relaxed dining with sea views, Pebbles Bistro serves up fresh, modern dishes made with local produce. The Bay Café, right by the beach, is a favourite for breakfast, light bites, and coffee breaks between swims. Meanwhile, Beachcomber Bar & Grill is perfect for hearty meals and a family-friendly atmosphere.
And if you’re in the mood for something sweet, you’ll find beach cafés serving ice creams and snacks just a short stroll from the sand.
Benllech Beach is ideal for families thanks to its safe conditions and nearby amenities. It’s also well suited to couples and anyone looking for a relaxed beach day with everything within easy reach.
Parking
Pay-and-display parking available at Benllech Square Car Park (Postcode: LL74 8QE)
Lifeguard
Yes, seasonal cover
Dog Rules
- Dogs restricted on main section of beach between 1st May – 30th September
- Dogs allowed outside restricted areas
- Dogs must be kept on leads on the promenade
Nearby Attractions
Moelfre Seawatch Centre
Red Wharf Bay
Oriel Mon Llangefni
Nearby Property Recommendations
4. Traeth Llydan
Traeth Llydan is a wide, sandy beach found on the south-west coast of Anglesey, stretching out towards the smaller island of Cribinau. Located close to Rhosneigr, it offers a quieter alternative to some of the more popular beaches in the area. Backed by sand dunes and stretching for nearly a mile, this award-winning beach is a magnet for watersports enthusiasts and is a former winner of the Green Coast seaside award.
Traeth Llydan is particularly popular with surfers, windsurfers, and kite surfers thanks to its consistent waves and breezy conditions. Kayaking, paddleboarding and snorkelling are also common here, making it a lively choice for thrill-seekers. If you’d prefer a slower pace, the dunes are a peaceful place for a walk or picnic, with wildlife such as wading birds and butterflies often spotted.
Rhosneigr itself is a vibrant village that makes an ideal base for an Anglesey beach holiday. Beyond the sands, you can try your hand at golf at Anglesey Golf Club, take a walk around Llyn Maelog, or head to the nearby RAF Valley lookout point to watch fast jets take off and land.
Rhosneigr has a fantastic food scene, with plenty of options for families, couples, and solo visitors. The Oyster Catcher is the standout, a dune-side restaurant serving modern dishes crafted from local Anglesey produce, including fresh seafood, Welsh lamb, and seasonal specials.
For a more casual experience, try The Surf Café, perfect for breakfast, sandwiches, and ice cream with sea views. Meanwhile, Starvation Bay is a lively option for American street food and cocktails, and Scarletts Fish & Chips is ideal for a classic seaside takeaway while strolling along the sand.
Parking
Pay-and-display parking available in Rhosneigr village car park (Postcode: LL64 5JR)
Dog Rules
Dogs allowed all year round
Lifeguard
No lifeguard cover
Nearby Attractions
Anglesey Golf Club
Llyn Maelog
Traeth Crigyll
Nearby Property Recommendations
5. Llanddwyn Beach
Llanddwyn Beach, also known as Newborough Beach, is one of the most well-known beaches in Anglesey, set along the island’s south-west coast. Backed by the vast Newborough Forest, it offers a long stretch of sand with views across to Llanddwyn Island.
This Blue-Flag beach sits on a narrow peninsula and is part of the Newborough Warren National Nature Reserve, making it a haven for wildlife, including red squirrels, ravens, and a variety of wading birds. With its soft sand, calm waters, and views of Snowdonia and the Llyn Peninsula, Llanddwyn is perfect for families, walkers, and dog-friendly beach visits outside seasonal restrictions.
The beach is also steeped in history, with the ruins of St Dwynwen’s Church and the famous cross commemorating Wales’ patron saint of lovers. The Anglesey Coastal Path runs through the area, offering scenic walks along dunes and coastline. Nearby, Newborough Forest provides shaded trails for walking or cycling.
Llanddwyn Beach has a range of food options both in the village and nearby. The White Lion Hotel is ideal for hearty meals, sandwiches, and coffee before a long walk along the dunes. Anglesey Model Village Café offers light bites and cakes, perfect for families visiting the model village and surrounding attractions.
Parking
Newborough Beach Car Park (Postcode: LL61 6SG)
Dog Rules
- Partial restrictions between 1st May – 30th September
- Dogs not allowed west of the main beach access
- Dogs allowed on other sections of the beach and dunes
Lifeguard
No lifeguard cover
Nearby Attractions
Newborough Forest
St Dwynwen’s Church & Cross
Anglesey Model Village
Nearby Property Recommendations
Cemaes Bay is a charming seaside town with two sandy beaches, Traeth Mawr and Traeth Bach, ideal for family-friendly beach days or dog walks. The beaches are backed by gentle hills and offer calm waters for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The area is also popular for fishing, with stingray angling trips often leaving from the harbour.
Cemaes Bay is rich in history and local character. You can explore the pretty town, wander along the Afon Wygyr, visit the Cemaes Heritage Centre, or enjoy a stroll along the harbour. The surrounding coastline offers peaceful walks and stunning views of the Irish Sea.
Cemaes Bay has a variety of options for visitors looking to eat locally. Ye Olde Vigour Inn is a traditional pub serving classic British dishes with a cosy atmosphere, while The Stag Inn offers hearty meals and fresh seafood, popular with families and walkers. For lighter options or a quick coffee, Caffi Bach serves cakes, sandwiches, and refreshments with views of the bay. Local takeaway options are also available for ice cream, fish and chips, or a picnic to enjoy on the sand.
Cemaes Bay Beach is best suited to families thanks to its sheltered waters and nearby amenities. It’s also a great option for couples and visitors looking for a quieter beach with a traditional village atmosphere.
Parking
Free parking for 2 hours on Victoria Road, Cemaes (Postcode: LL67 0ND)
Dog Rules:
- Partial restrictions on main beach between 1st May – 30th September
- Dogs allowed on Traeth Bach (smaller beach)
- Dogs must be on leads on the promenade
Lifeguard
No lifeguard cover
Nearby Attractions
Cemaes Heritage Centre
Cemaes Bay Harbour
Nearby Property Recommendations
7. Porth Dafarch Beach
Situated on the western side of Anglesey’s Holy Island, Porth Dafarch Beach is a small but stunning sandy bay owned by the National Trust. Surrounded by rugged cliffs, it’s a paradise for adventurers, snorkellers and kayakers, as well as anyone looking to enjoy peaceful coastal walks along the Wales Coast Path. Wildlife enthusiasts may spot grey seals and porpoises offshore, while the headlands are home to seabirds, including guillemots and razorbills.
History buffs will enjoy the Irishmen’s huts and the wreckage of the steamer Missouri, the largest shipwreck in Anglesey, both easily accessible from the beach. Porth Dafarch is also perfectly located between Trearddur Bay and South Stack, allowing visitors to explore multiple beaches and viewpoints in one trip.
Porth Dafarch Beach is best suited to couples, walkers and those with an interest in water activities. It’s also a great choice for dog owners looking for a smaller, quieter beach away from busier spots.
While Porth Dafarch itself has no cafés directly on the beach, nearby options are excellent for a meal before or after your visit. Lola’s in Trearddur Bay offers freshly prepared breakfasts, sandwiches, and coffee. For a more substantial lunch, the Seacroft serves traditional Welsh dishes and seafood in a cosy setting. Those heading towards Trearddur Bay can also stop at Ocean’s Edge for a scenic dining experience with sea views.
Parking
Free parking available in the beach car park (Postcode: LL65 2LS)
Dog Rules
- Restricted areas between 1st May – 30th September
- Some sections of beach do not allow dogs during summer months
Lifeguard
No lifeguard cover
Nearby Attractions
Irishmen’s Huts & Missouri Wreck
South Stack Lighthouse & RSPB Reserve
Trearddur Bay Beach
Nearby Property Recommendations
On Anglesey’s southwest coast, Aberffraw Beach (also called Traeth Mawr) is a spacious sandy bay backed by wildlife-rich dunes, making it a haven for family beach days, dog walks, and birdwatching. With clear waters popular for swimming and surfing, and views stretching towards Snowdonia, it’s one of the island’s most scenic locations.
The surrounding village has a quiet, traditional feel, offering opportunities to explore local history and culture. Visitors can walk along the dunes, spot birds in the salt marshes, or discover the Bronze Age burial mound of Trwyn Du. Aberffraw is ideal for a peaceful Anglesey beach holiday while still being accessible enough for a full day out.
Aberffraw offers several charming options for eating out. Llys Llewelyn Cegin Bar serves hearty Welsh meals, perfect after a day on the sand. For lighter options, the village has cafés and takeaway spots offering sandwiches, cakes, and ice cream. Families often enjoy a picnic on the dunes with provisions from local shops.
Free parking in Aberffraw Dunes Car Park (Postcode: LL63 5EX)
Lifeguard
No lifeguard cover
Dog Rules
Dogs allowed all year round
Nearby Attractions
Trwyn Du Bronze Age Burial Mound
Salt marshes and dunes
Aberffraw village
Nearby Property Recommendations
9. Lligwy Beach
Just north of Moelfre lies Lligwy Beach (Traeth Lligwy), a long sweep of golden sand backed by dunes, making it one of the most popular family-friendly beaches in Anglesey. With shallow waters, rockpools, and plenty of space for games, it’s perfect for children, while watersports enthusiasts come for surfing, kayaking, and even kitesurfing.
History lovers will enjoy the nearby ruins of St Gallgo’s Church and the ancient Capel Lligwy burial chamber, adding a cultural element to a day at the seaside. The beach also connects to stretches of the Anglesey Coastal Path, making it a fantastic starting point for scenic walks.
Lligwy has a relaxed beachside café, The Lligwy Beach Café, known for its fresh crab sandwiches, Welsh cakes, and hot drinks with sea views. For a sweet treat, visitors often stop by the Moelfre Ice Cream Parlour in the nearby village, while Ann’s Pantry is a much-loved café serving homemade meals, cakes, and excellent coffee. For a heartier option, The Kinmel Arms is a cosy pub offering classic Welsh dishes and local ales, making it the perfect place to round off a day at the beach.
Parking
Pay & Display parking available right next to the beach (Postcode: LL72 8NN)
Dog Rules
Dogs allowed all year round
Lifeguard
No lifeguard cover
Nearby Attractions
Capel Lligwy Burial Chamber
Moelfre village
RNLI Seawatch Centre
Nearby Property Recommendations
Tucked away on Anglesey’s north coast, Bull Bay (Porth Llechog) is a small shingle and rocky cove with spectacular views over the Irish Sea. Known for its fishing and boating, the bay has a large slipway providing easy access to the water. It’s also a popular stop for walkers on the Anglesey Coastal Path, who pause to take in the rugged scenery and abundant marine life.
Golf enthusiasts will find the nearby Bull Bay Golf Club, an 18-hole championship course with panoramic coastal views. The area is also rich in history, with the nearby town of Amlwch showcasing its copper mining past.
Bull Bay itself is quiet, but nearby Amlwch has several places to eat and drink. Caffi Pen Dref serves hearty breakfasts and lunches, while The Market Tavern offers traditional pub meals in a relaxed setting. For a more unique experience, head to the Sail Loft Café, perched above the harbour, which serves fresh seafood and homemade cakes. Visitors exploring the area often bring a picnic to enjoy while overlooking the bay, especially during sunny afternoons.
Parking
Roadside parking nearby (Postcode: LL68 9SN)
Dog Rules:
Dogs allowed all year round
Lifeguard
No lifeguard cover
Nearby Attractions
Bull Bay Golf Club
Copper Kingdom Centre
Mynydd Parys
Nearby Property Recommendations
Best Beaches for…
👨👩👦👦 Family-Friendly Beaches in Anglesey
Some beaches are particularly well suited to families thanks to safe swimming areas, facilities and large sandy spaces.
- Trearddur Bay
- Benllech Beach
- Lligwy Beach
These beaches offer lifeguards (in season), nearby cafés and plenty of room for sandcastle building and beach games.
🏄 Best Beaches for Watersports
Anglesey’s west coast is particularly popular for surfing and watersports thanks to its Atlantic swells.
- Traeth Llydan (Rhosneigr)
- Lligwy Beach
- Trearddur Bay
👉 Read our full guide to watersports in North Wales »
🌊 Quieter Beaches in Anglesey
These beaches offer some of the most spectacular coastal scenery without the crowds.
- Bull Bay
- Church Bay
- Aberffraw Beach
🐶 Dog-Friendly Beaches in Anglesey
Most Anglesey beaches welcome dogs outside the summer restriction period (1 May – 30 September), making the island a fantastic destination for dog-friendly coastal holidays.
Anglesey is a fantastic destination for dog owners, with many beaches allowing dogs outside peak summer restrictions.
Popular dog-friendly beaches in Anglesey include:
- Cemaes Bay
- Lligwy Beach
- Newborough / Llanddwyn Beach (outside restricted areas)
👉 Read our full guide to dog-friendly beaches in Anglesey »
Beaches Near Famous Anglesey Attractions
Many of Anglesey’s best beaches are located close to iconic landmarks:
- Trearddur Bay – near South Stack Lighthouse
- Llanddwyn Beach – near Newborough Forest and Ynys Llanddwyn
- Bull Bay – near the Copper Kingdom
FAQs About Beaches in Anglesey
What is the nicest beach in Anglesey?
Many visitors consider Llanddwyn Beach to be the most beautiful thanks to its views of Snowdonia, historic ruins and wildlife-rich surroundings, and of course the walk over to Ynys Llanddwyn.
Are Anglesey beaches dog-friendly?
Many beaches welcome dogs outside the main summer months. Some beaches such as Cemaes Bay and Porth Dafarch are popular year-round with dog walkers.
Which Anglesey beaches have lifeguards?
Seasonal lifeguard cover is usually provided at Trearddur Bay, Benllech Beach and Church Bay.
Can you walk to Llanddwyn Island?
Yes — at low tide you can walk across to Llanddwyn Island and explore the lighthouse, ruins and coastal paths.
When is the best time to visit Anglesey’s beaches?
For fewer crowds and dramatic sunsets head in winter or autumn. For family fun, water sports and sunny weather, go in spring or summer.
What’s the quietest beach on Anglesey?
Away from the main tourism hotspots, there are a number of Anglesey beaches where you can enjoy a quiet beach day. Some of these include the likes of Porth Eilian, Porth yr Ogof and Porth Penmon.
What are the best family-friendly beaches on Anglesey?
When it comes to a memorable family day at the beach, some of the island’s best offerings include Benllech Beach, Traeth Bychan, Traeth Lligwy, Traeth Llandwyn (Newborough Beach) and Church Bay (Porth Swtan).
What is the weather like in Anglesey?
Ahead of your coastal adventure, check out the latest weather forecast for Anglesey from the Met Office. Don’t worry if there is a drizzle during your getaway, you will have plenty to do in our guide for things to do in Anglesey in the rain.
Has our list of beaches in Anglesey inspired you to book a coastal getaway? We have an excellent choice of Anglesey holiday cottages to choose from, which includes plenty of different types of properties from dog-friendly Anglesey cottages to Anglesey cottages with hot tubs and more. Not only that, but there’s also plenty of other cottages across North Wales and coastal cottages too!
If your four-legged friend is joining you on your adventure, check out our guide to dog-friendly beaches in Anglesey. Or for further inspiration, check out our ultimate guide for things to do in Anglesey or answer questions like Where is Anglesey? in our top 10 facts about this idyllic island.
What are you waiting for? Book your dream holiday with Menai Holiday Cottages today!
