August – Beaches

If you’re planning to explore North Wales by train this summer, you’re in for a treat. With many of the region’s most popular tourist attractions within easy reach by train you might be surprised to learn that several of our best beaches are just a short walk from our stations too. So if you’re craving a proper day at the seaside this summer, grab your bucket and spade, don your sunnies and slap on that suncream, we’re headed to the beach!

Don’t forget! When planning your day at the beach by train, we recommend you check with Traveline Cymru for the most up-to-date public transport and travel information before you go.

Nearest station: Llandudno

Llandudno boasts not just one, but two stunning beaches. North Shore, with its traditional seaside amusements, usually captures the crowd. Yet, a brief stroll from the station in the opposite direction takes you to Llandudno’s hidden gem: West Shore.

Known by locals as a quiet haven and sought out by tourists wanting a less crowded seaside day out, this beach offers stunning mountain views of the Carneddau and Eryri (Snowdonia), gently sloping sands, a promenade, a modern play area, and an outdoor gym. Let’s not forget the charming boating lake with its friendly ducks and occasional swans!

We love: after a busy day on the beach, head over to West Shore Beach Cafe to refuel and watch the sun dip towards the horizon from the cafe’s panoramic terrace.

Nearest station: Conwy

Situated on a vast bay at the mouth of the Conwy Estuary, Conwy Morfa reveals an expansive sandy beach at low tide, attracting dog walkers, horse riders and tourists. A pleasant thirty-minute walk from Conwy Station, head to Conwy Quay and join the Coastal Path heading west to reach the Morfa. It’s a lovely walk with gorgeous views towards Llandudno along the way. Do note, the tempting waters conceal strong currents and a steeply shelving shoreline here.

We love: midway between Conwy town and the Morfa you’ll find the family-friendly Mulberry Pub at Conwy Marina. Drop in for a drink and engage in a spot of ‘yacht envy’ as you gaze over the moorings below!

Nearest station: Penmaenmawr

This former quarry town near Conwy might not be your first choice for a beach day. Yet, just beyond the bustling A55 expressway and a short walk from the station, a beautiful Blue Flag beach awaits you. This shingle beach transforms into a vast golden swathe at low tide and, despite attracting numerous visitors, its size ensures it never feels busy. Penmaenmawr Beach offers a variety of other activities too, including a children’s play area, a paddling pool, a popular beachside café and watersports.

We love: during holiday season you can rent a beach hut by the day from Penmaenmawr Beach Cafe. These colourful huts have recently undergone extensive renovations and are a perfect spot to chill out!

Nearest station: Bodorgan

Surrounded by extensive dunes designated as a Special Area of Conservation, this beach feels remote without being so which just adds to its charm. You’ll walk through the dunes from the village to reach this beach to be rewarded with a wide, sandy beach that never feels overcrowded even in peak season. Kids will love frolicking in the waves while grown-ups will enjoy the picturesque views of Caernarfon Bay and Eryri (Snowdonia).

We love: this tiny Anglesey village is famous for its biscuits of the same name. Believed to be centuries old, the Aberffraw biscuit is similar to shortbread but is always made in the shape of a pilgrim’s clam shell. You can buy them here.

Nearest station: Rhosneigr

The west coast of Anglesey is a watersport enthusiast’s dream. Rhosneigr is home to two sandy expanses, Traeth Llydan and Traeth Crigyll, both of which are really popular in the summer months. Rhosneigr is a vibrant village that attracts both the bucket and spade brigade and watersports fans, there really is something here for everyone. In the summer it’s the place to see and be seen too!

We love: with a sandy beach and safe waters, Rhosneigr is the ideal place to try your hand at watersports. Several specialist retailers such as Gecko Surf and Funsport provide equipment for a range of water activities.

Nearest station: Valley

Porth Dafarch, cared for by the National Trust, sits on Anglesey’s ruggedly beautiful south coast. This Blue Flag beach, just outside the quaint coastal village of Trearddur Bay, offers safe, clean waters and intriguing rock pools – perfect for adventurous kids! Due to its location, amenities here are basic – there are toilets and you might just get a visit from the ice cream man too.

We love: the views! This little gem of a beach boasts amazing views of Anglesey’s Holy Island as well as the Llyn Peninsula and Eryri (Snowdonia). We suggest you just sit back, relax and take it all in.

While we all love a day at the beach, it’s important to bear in mind that there are dangers – no matter how tranquil the weather and how calm the waves. Be mindful of tide times to avoid being cut off, try and choose a beach with a lifeguard present, and know who to call in an emergency. Check out the RNLI’s beach safety guidelines for tips on staying safe.