The Llŷn Peninsula holds many treasures, but Nefyn Beach might just be its crown jewel. This sweeping stretch of golden sand curves around a sheltered bay, with the dramatic peaks of the Rival Mountains (Yr Eifl) standing guard in the distance.
Two miles of pristine sand stretches before you, just waiting to be explored. The beach, tucked behind the protective arm of Nefyn Headland, offers the kind of tranquility that’s becoming harder to find along Britain’s coastline. Here, the sound of gentle waves and calling seabirds replaces the usual seaside soundtrack of amusement arcades and ice cream vans.
Speaking of those waves – they’re something special. The crystal-clear waters of Nefyn Bay are perfect for a paddle or a proper swim, especially if you’ve got little ones in tow. The shelter of the headland keeps things calm and inviting, though local windsurfers and kitesurfers know just where to catch a decent breeze when conditions are right.
We recommend timing your visit with the falling tide. As the sea retreats, it reveals a wonderland of rockpools teeming with marine life. Bring a net and a bucket, and suddenly you’re leading your own marine biology expedition.
For those who love a good coastal walk, the Llŷn Coastal Path runs right along the beach. Follow it for stunning views across the bay to Garn Boduan, an Iron Age hillfort that reminds us just how long people have been drawn to this magnificent coastline. The colourful beach huts add a splash of cheerful seaside charm to the scene – they’re prime spots for a bit of people-watching or seeking shelter from a surprise shower.
The village of Nefyn sits just a short walk away, offering a selection of welcoming pubs, shops, and cafes when you’ve worked up an appetite. Now, a few practical tips to help you make the most of your visit. Getting to the beach involves a steep track down Lon Y Traeth – wear sensible shoes, and remember what goes down must come up! There’s a car park at the end of the track with public loos nearby, which is always good to know.
Dog owners, take note – your four-legged friends are welcome on the eastern side of the beach near the harbour, but there’s a seasonal ban on the rest of the beach from April through September.
The Welsh weather likes to keep us on our toes, so even on sunny days, pack layers. The wind can pick up quite suddenly, though the headland does a decent job of keeping the worst of it at bay.
But perhaps Nefyn Beach’s greatest charm lies in what it doesn’t have. No noisy attractions, no rows of souvenir shops, just nature showing off with a stunning combination of mountains, sea, and sand. It’s the kind of place where you can properly switch off, where building sandcastles becomes an art form, and where time seems to slow down to match the rhythm of the waves.
Come and discover this Welsh coastal gem for yourself – just don’t tell too many people about it. Some secrets are worth keeping.
A big thank you to Arosfan Nefyn for the lovely photos, and for suggesting this article!
