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Image of an aerial view of South Stack Lighthouse on the Ise of Anglesey

Whether you’re an avid rambler or a complete hiking novice, our carefully compiled list of the best coastal walks in North Wales is sure to have you dreaming of your next seaside escape.

Boasting magnificent castles and awe-inspiring landmarks, it’s little wonder this beautiful region has become a mecca for both outdoor enthusiasts and holidaymakers across the globe. Uncover striking lighthouses and picture-perfect coastal towns, as you venture across miles of unspoilt beaches and luscious rolling hills, all whilst admiring breath-taking views of the tranquil Irish Sea.

Read on to discover our top 9 coastal walks in North Wales… 


Anglesey Coastal Walks

1. Aberffraw to Llŷn Rhos-Ddu

Lighthouse on Llanddwyn Island North Wales

Spanning 13 miles, the walk from Aberffraw to Llŷn Rhos-Ddu starts on the sandy dunes of Traeth Mawr, crossing the pretty river of Afon Cefni as you wander along the Malltreath Cob. Spot beautiful red squirrel and towering Corsican pine trees as you make your way through the magnificent woodland of Newborough Forrest, before arriving at the beautiful Llanddwyn Beach, boasting unrivaled views of both Snowdonia National Park and the Llŷn Peninsula.

Take a detour onto the arresting island of Ynys Llanddwyn where you can explore the Grade II listed Twr Mawr Lighthouse, before ending your walk at the pretty lake of Llŷn Rhos-Ddu.

2. Beaumaris to Red Wharf Bay

Trywyn Du Lighthouse in North Wales with Puffin Island in the background

Covering 14 miles of coast and country, this dramatic walk begins with a tour of the impressive architecture of the 12th century Beaumaris Castle 

Follow the path along to the captivating ruins of the Penmon Priory and make your way up to Penmon Point to see the prominent black and white tower of Trwyn Du Lighthouse, warranting stupendous seascapes with views of the incredible Puffin Island.  

Continue inland, passing the limestone hill of Bwrdd Arthur before finishing your walk on the vast sands of Red Wharf Bay, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty surrounded by imposing cliffs where you can delight in a spot of birdwatching as you recall your highlights of the day. 

3. Holyhead to Trearddur Bay

South Stack Lighthouse on the Isle of Anglesey

The captivating 12-mile walk from Holyhead to Trearddur Bay covers some of the most magnificent parts of the Wales Coast Path. Start your journey at the medieval structure of St Cybi’s Churchmaking your way towards the bustling Holyhead Marina to watch as boats bob happily in the clear blue waters.

Stroll 1.7 miles along the Holyhead Breakwater, the longest in the UK, before passing through the picturesque Penrhos coastal park and rising the glorious Holyhead Mountain to reach the highest point on the Anglesey coastal path. 

After exploring the Iron Age fort of Caer y Twrhead for the RSPB-owned Elin’s Tower and begin your descent down the cliffs for a detour to the iconic Southstack LighthouseCross the headlands of Penrhyn Mawr and enjoy a peaceful wander along the National Trust-owned beach of Porth Dafarch 

End your walk in the popular village of Trearddur Bay and indulge in a mouth-watering meal at The Black Seal,  enjoying sweeping views othe sea as you recover from a thrilling day on the coast.  

Inspired to take on an Anglesey coastal walk? Book your Anglesey holiday cottage now.


Ceredigion Coast Path

4. Barmouth to Llwyngwril

Barmouth Bridge, North Wales

Set over 8.6 miles, the walk from Barmouth to Llwyngwril begins at the attractive Barmouth Harbour. Watch as the river meets the sea at Mawddach Estuary as you cross the Grade II listed Barmouth Bridge and spot the iconic Morfa Mawddach Railway.

Make your way across the marshy lands to Fairbourne and discover the sandy terrain of Fairbourne Point and Fairbourne Beach, home to the remarkable historical structure of the Dragons Teeth that proudly line the peaceful shore.

Head inland as you trek through pretty woodland and make your way toward the famous former quarry of Llŷn Glas to admire enchanting blue waters, before a quaint and cobbled path leads you down to the quaint village of Llwyngwril.

5. Aberystwyth to Aberaeron

Set about this 16-mile hike at the wondrous ruins of Aberystwyth Castle, trekking across the flat white sands of Tan-y-Bwlch Beach. Challenge yourself to a 600-metre climb up to the traditional Welsh village of Llanrhystud and be rewarded with the extraordinary scenery of the Penderi Cliffs as you unearth the spectacular arc of Monk’s Cave. 

Continue south towards the coastal village of Llansantffraid and venturover the open cliffs of Graig Ddu, arriving at the colourful village of Aberarth with its beautifully painted houses that line the pleasing streetsEnd your walk in the town of Aberystwyth on the buzzing North Beach and tuck-in to a delicious portion of local fish and chips from Chips on the Pier, a favourite amongst many of the locals. 

6.   Aberaeron to New Quay

Coastal path down to Aberaeron village

The shortest coastal walk in our expansive list, the journey from Aberaeron to New Quay comprises 6.5 miles of beautiful shores and panoramic views of both the coast and countryside.  Starting out in Aberaeron town, a charming and vivid town, admire the quintessential fishing boats that line the harbour as you begin this peaceful stroll.

Take your time to appreciate your surroundings as you travel south along the clifftops bragging spellbinding views, before descending onto pebbled sands of Llanina Beach and proceeding on to the lively seaside town of New Quay, completing this walk with a wander along the serene bay.

Dreaming of strolling along the Ceredigion Coast Path? Find your ideal cottage near Ceredigion.


Llŷn Coastal Path

7. Porth Oer to Aberdaron

Aberdaron Beach on the Llŷn Peninsula

Starting on the whistling sands of Porth Oer Beach, this 8.5 mile hike to Aberdaron proves to be quite the challenge with this route continuing along the coast and ascending around 600 meters, as you climb the imposing hill of Mynydd Anelog, well worth it for the spectacular panoramic views that you will treated to at the top of the hill. Head back down to sea level as you make your way towards Porth Llanllawen and delight in views of the Ynys Enlli, otherwise known as Bardsey Island. 

Venture along the cliffs to Pen y Cil, before descending to the National Trust-owned cove of Porth Meudwy and continue along the shores to reach your final destination of Aberdaron. Catch a boat across to the Ynys Enlli to meet the friendly colony of charming grey seal and spot some of the 310 species of bird that call the island home, the perfect way to end the perfect coastal walk. 

8. Abersoch to Pwllheli

Views of the coast from Abersoch Beach

Boasting 8.5 miles of breath-taking beaches, this easy-going walk starts off in the upmarket town of Abersoch, a firm favourite amongst many tourists to the area. Spot the headland of Trywn Llanbedrog as you venture across the smooth sands of Abersoch Beach, before skirting Mynydd Tir Cwmwd and embarking on an exciting detour up to the summit to spot the famous Tin Man of Llanbedrog. 

See the iconic, brightly-coloured beach huts of Llanbedrog Beach, stopping off for a quick break at the Aqua Beach Bar for a refreshing pint before continuing across the clifftops, arriving at Pwllhelli’s South Beach 

9. Clynnog Fawr to Porthdinllaen

Image of Nefyn Gwynedd in North Wales

Begin this exhilarating 15.4-mile hike on a scenic walk towards the picturesque village of Trefor, enjoying fantastic seascapes along the way. Follow the path along the Llŷn Coast, crossing pleasing fields as you make your way up the Yr Eifl mountains, leading onto the rocky beach of Porth y Nant.

Climb the headland of Penrhyn Glas to discover a fascinating quarry and the 6th century St Beuno’s Church at Pistyll, before descending into the town of Nefyn and continuing onto Porthdinllaen, where you can indulge in a pint at the best pub in wales, the Ty Coch Inn.

Can’t wait to explore the Llŷn Coastal Path? Find your perfect Llŷn Peninsula holiday cottage now.


If our favourite walks along the North Wales Coastal Path have you dreaming of a scenic stay in North Wales, why not take a look at our extensive range of holiday cottages in North Wales and start planning your trip today with the help of our handy North Wales travel guide.

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