The beautiful Conwy beaches you really shouldn't be visiting

North Wales Live

04-05-2025

A small pebbled cove on the Conwy coast has been celebrated as a top spot for observing seals in their natural habitat. But publicity about the 'truly special' place have left locals angry and indignant about the potential for disturbance by 'selfie-obsessed idiots'.
Some fear an invasion of unruly visitors leaving litter and dog poo in their wake. Most, however, are worried about the impact on Atlantic grey seals at the under-the-radar site, where fencing has been erected to prevent people scrambling down to the beach.
Local tensions have been simmering since the site near Llandudno was invaded by two people last month. Both were confronted by residents. An observer wrote online: 'They had crossed the barrier and one had gone down to the beach and scared seals and pups into the water, all for a TikTok.'
This was followed by another incident last week in which youngsters were spotted throwing pebbles and rocks down onto the beach. 'Parents encouraged them even after we commented about it,' said a regular visitor. 'Some people are just feral and should be banned from visiting.'
In recent years, seal disturbances have become more common at the cove as it becomes popularised on social media. Local people have complained of visitors throwing stones at seals and laughing at the effect this has on the wider colony. With each incident, there are fears the seals will be scared off and won't return.
A clifftop path leads to a vantage point from which the mammals can be observed sunning themselves on rocks or frolicking in waves. In autumn, up to 200 seals mass on the pebbles. The beautiful surroundings have even drawn Hollywood film crews to the cove, sparking more local anger over seal intrusion. Join the North Wales Live Whatsapp community now
Fanning the flames was a recent statement issued by a hotel booking website. Directing visitors to the cove, its CEO noted: 'British holidaymakers love a good seaside town and Llandudno has been a classic for generations. But just a short hike around the coast from its pastel promenade and Victorian pier is something truly special, and a real reward for nature lovers.'
Subsequent publicity caused uproar with local people describing it as 'totally irresponsible'. 'I've been going there for years, it's always been so quiet, 3-4 people max,' said a woman online. 'Now it's all over social media – on Easter Sunday it was rammed packed.'
Another added: 'Unfortunately many new visitors are not respectful and climb down the rocks shouting at each other and playing loud music. This isn't a Spanish summer attraction – soon the seals won't come if it continues.'
Similar complaints have been made at another steep-sided cove along the coast. Less celebrated for its seal colony, it's nevertheless one of the largest in North Wales. It too attacts stone-throwers and the occasional beach invader: one incident involved a paraglider, another saw police launch an appeal.
Llandudno Coastguard has previously warned over-excitable visitors to stay away when there are seals on the beaches. 'The seals are easily spooked and can injure themselves or other seals in trying to get away from people,' they said. 'And if you get too close, they can give a nasty bite.'
At this time of year, seals are leaving the coves to feed at sea, returning only occassionally to haul up for a rest. During summer, there are no restrictions on people visiting. But from late summer, when the breeding season gets underway completely between late August and January, visitors are urged to avoid the beach completely - especially if they have dogs.
Climbers are banned too, and this has been well observed, though there have been occasional complaints about kayakers and paddleboarders straying too close. As seals are protected by law, anyone found guilty of distrubance can be prosecuted,
Providing visitors keep their distance, the colonies can still be viewed from the clifftops. Many have lavished praise on Tripadvisor, describing the walk as breathtaking and the view from the top as awe-inspiring.
One reviewer said: 'Such a surprise, even though the only reason we visited was to see the seals. We never imagined so many of them lounging on the beach, taking little dips in the sea, barking and talking amongst themselves.'
Another visitor described the cove as 'absolutely beautiful with unreal views' especially at sunset. A local resident agreed, saying it is the 'most beautiful thing you will see and show your children'. Sign up for the North Wales Live newsletter sent twice daily to your inbox
Another added: 'If you do visit, please take your mess home and do not disturb the seals. Be mindful this is near a quiet housing estate with limited parking. The area is quite a wildlife haven for rare birds and plants, so please look after it if you want to appreciate and enjoy it.'