6 things to do while visiting Llanddwyn Beach

Llanddwyn Beach, located at south-western tip of Anglesey, is an idyllic stretch of sand away from Wales’ tourist hotspots. With the magical Llanddwyn Island nearby with its excellent nature reserve, grand views of the Snowdonia National Park and ample outdoor pursuits to enjoy, Llanddwyn is a hidden treasure worth exploring. Here are six things to do while visiting this beautiful tip of Wales.

Dive into Anglesey’s outdoor watersports

The seas of Anglesey are regularly populated with watersports junkies. Kayaking, canoeing, kite surfing, swimming and wind surfing can all be found around the coastline with a long list of beaches catering to each activity – there are around 18 canoeing beaches alone. Whichever side of Anglesey you choose you are bound to find a beach to suit you, however the coastline’s westerly edge between the towns of Newborough and Holyhead is teaming with family-friendly stretches to visit, including Rhoscolyn (otherwise known as Silver Bay) and Porth Trecastle.

Look around the Newborough Warren Nature Reserve

The Newborough Warren Nature Reserve, located on Anglesey’s western coastline, was formed by several storms that buried most of the Newborough’s rich farmland during the fourteenth century. The lush pasture was replaced by the equally lush nature reserve which is now teaming with beautiful flora and forna, including Welsh mountain ponies, carpets of wild meadows, thick forest and sand dunes on the edge of the site. The reserve, which is open all year round, has a number of criss-crossing pathways throughout the space for visitors to enjoy as well as plenty of bird watching spots – songs of skylarks, which nest in considerable numbers, are a particular treat during the evenings. Visitors should look for ‘Newborough’ signs before turning onto the A4080 to access the entrance.

Travel along the Llanddwyn Island path

The beautiful Llanddwyn Island should be explored either by bike or on foot to make the most of the landscape. The island’s four-mile circular route steers you right around the coastline and through some green inland areas. Although you can walk the route in around two hours, we recommend that you give yourselves at least four hours to fully relax with a picnic and take everything in. Parking is available at Newborough Beach as well as toilets and disables facilities. Llanddwyn isn’t quite an island as it is still attached to the mainland, however it can be cut off from the rest of Wales during high tides so please be vigilant when you visit. Due to its position on the Welsh coastline near the Menai Strait, Llanddwyn Island is known for having a long maritime history. This history can still be relived today through the island’s old ruins and traditional little lighthouse, Twr Mawr, which was built in 1845.

Visit Llanddwyn Chapel

One of the oldest stories that echo across the island is that of Saint Dwynwen: the Welsh patron saint of lovers. She resided in the area during the 5th century and was one of 24 daughters of a Welsh prince, St. Brychan. After her passing, Llanddwyn’s old Chapel became a popular pilgrimage site – ruins of which can still be viewed today.

Take the kids to Anglesey Sea Zoo

Anglesey offers plenty of family-friendly attractions. One attraction which is definitely worth a visit is the Anglesey Sea Zoo - Wales’ largest marine aquarium with more than 150 species from around the Welsh coastline. Experiences and attractions as the Sea Zoo include encounters with sharks, observing conservation in action and getting up close to the Kelp Forest’s huge fish. Make sure to visit during its opening season from the start of February to early winter.

Spend the day at Beaumaris Castle

Beaumaris Castle is one of the most popular attractions in Anglesey and is often considered to be one of the finest Edwardian castles in the UK. Beaumaris has been linked to a colourful and sometimes turbulent past since its construction in 1295 during the times of King Edward I. Luckily the castle remains intact for people to enjoy today with events, projects and games held throughout the year.

We hope that this guide has given you a few ideas on things to do after a few fun-filled days at Llanddwyn Beach. If you are thinking of visiting the Isle of Anglesey, we recommend that you pitch your tent on the coastline to really make the most of the island’s stunning views.