The utterly unique North Wales beach where only one group leaves negative reviews
Situated on the wilder north coast between Aberdaron and the increasingly popular Porth Iago the beach is famously known as 'Whistling Sands' in English.
The reason behind this is the sounds the sand (sometimes) makes while people walk along. National Trust - who own the beach - say it is derived from the squeak or whistle emitted by the peculiar shaped sand particles being rubbed together when walked on in warm weather.
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The sound can be made by stamping or sliding your feet on dry sand. According to Visit Wales it is one of only two beaches in Europe where people can experience this. (The other is Singing Sands Beach on the Isle of Eigg, Scotland)
It does not squeak on demand as the conditions need to be right so don't be too disappointed if you miss out. The good news is that there is so much more to the beach than the noise it makes underfoot.
It's a stunning spot on a peninsula with its fair share of glorious sandy bays. In addition it doesn't tend to get as busy as some others so people can usually find a decent stretch of sand for themselves.
The coastal path can take walkers along the coastline in either direction with seals a common sight and dolphins as well from time to time. The area around the beach is a stronghold for birds like the Chough, Razorbills, Guillemots, Kittiwakes, Cormorants, Shags and Yellowhammers.
In addition there's the remnants of a lime kiln on the path just off the beach. This is a glimpse into the past as Porthor was once a busy port, importing lime and coal. These type of beach kilns were generally used to convert limestone to quicklime by burning it, used for construction and to reduce soil acidity.
In return it dispatched farm goods such as butter, cheese, eggs and poultry. Join the North Wales Live Whatsapp community now
The water itself is obviously another pull - with clear blue waters on a sunny day. It doesn't have the large breakers you might get at Porth Neigwl (Hells Mouth) on the other side of the Llyn but there is the potential for bodyboarding or some surfing in the right conditions.
There is even a very well rated cafe next to the beach for refreshments after the fresh air and activities have tired you out.
The reviews are glowing and there is only one group that take issue with the beach - or rather one of the rules imposed. This is when it's worth mentioning the car park charges (£5) unless National Trust members and also the dog ban from April 1 to September 30.
When it comes to the very many good and excellent reviews (260 out of 290 of the reviews on Tripadvisor) words that pop out are "gem", and "stunning".
One recent review said: "We visited Porthor Beach recently and had a lovely time soaking in the natural beauty of the place. The beach itself is stunning – clean, peaceful, and set against a gorgeous backdrop of rolling hills. It's ideal for a relaxed day out, with crystal-clear water and soft, golden sand.
"Despite its nickname 'Whistling Sands,' the sand wasn't whistling during our visit – maybe it depends on the weather or how dry the sand is. Still, it was a scenic and peaceful spot well worth the trip."
Another said: "Beautiful, tucked away gem of a beach. Bit busy when we arrived,(late afternoon ), so would get there early morning next time. Stunning views, crystal clear turquoise water which is shallow till a long way out.
"If this beach was on the Med it would be surrounded by tourist hotels. Would definitely go again."
It is certainly well deserving of its 4.6 out of 5 rating on Tripadvisor.
With the small minority who don't leave sparkling reviews there is a common theme. It is not so much the beach they don't like but the no dogs rule, with odd moans over the £5 parking fee.
One angry reviewer said: "What is it with the National Trust and dogs? We used to be members but when we got a pooch we discovered there are restrictions and no go areas at nearly all NT sites. Most dog owners are responsible and clean up after their pups but it seems none of us are to be trusted! Really disappointing to drive all the way to the car park to be told dogs are not allowed on most of the beach."
Another added: "Sadly you can't take your dog on the beach, no matter how well behaved they are, so we had a wasted trip. A real shame as the beach is long enough to allow them at the far end."
One dog owner said: "£5 to park, irrespective of how long! Fine for a day out, but extortionate for a walk down the road to the beach and back (because info boards in the car park say vaguely 'dogs welcome except for summer months' and then you get to the beach where another board tells you 'summer' is April 1st - 30th September and that if you contravene the dog ban you risk a £1000 fine). The beach itself is beautiful, but so is every other beach on the Llŷn Peninsula and from my experience, all the others are much less hostile to dog owners. I suggest NT update the board in the car park and give me my £5 back."
However for most this location is a beach paradise and if you're lucky you may experience the magic squeaks. Sign up for the North Wales Live newsletter sent twice daily to your inbox
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