'Almost secret' beach where dolphins are regularly spotted with 'best waves'
'Almost secret' beach where dolphins are regularly spotted with 'best waves'
Porth Ceiriad is a stretch of gold in a sandy cove with big waves, even bigger views and a good chance of spotting dolphins under the setting sun. But few people can find it.
Beautiful Porth Ceiriad beach lies on a remote stretch of coastline on the Llŷn Peninsula
(Image: Google )
Porth Ceiriad, by all accounts, should be bustling as one of north Wales' most popular beaches. This golden stretch in a sandy cove boasts large waves, expansive views, and the chance to see dolphins as the sun dips below the horizon.
It's often hailed as the most beautiful beach on the Llŷn Peninsula in Gwynedd, with Tripadvisor reviews glowing despite the absence of amenities, the lengthy walk through fields, and the daunting steps required for access.
The solitude of Porth Ceiriad is one of its main draws. On a weekday visit, you may find yourself in blissful isolation.
A visitor last week shared her affection for the spot: "One of my favourite places! True mind escape. No mobile connection, no wifi, love it."
Despite its appeal, the beach remains uncrowded, much to the relief of its admirers. Its proximity to Abersoch, nestled between imposing cliffs, belies the challenge in locating this hidden gem, reports North Wales Live.
Reaching Porth Ceiriad can be quite the escapade. The local community is familiar with the frustration of tourists battling unreliable satnavs and perplexing maps, leading to the term "Porth Ceiriad Mystery Tour" for the quest to find the beach.
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A baffled reviewer from Newcastle upon Tyne admitted, "Don't ask me how we found the beach," Similarly, a couple from England recounted their own odyssey: "Bit of a journey to find it (even using Ordnance Survey map and satnav! ! ! )," but they ultimately described Porth Ceiriad as their "stunning almost secret beach".
The beach is often described as a "hidden gem" in reviews, and for once, this label is well-deserved. A recent survey by outdoor retailer Millets ranked Porth Ceiriad fifth on its list of "Wales hidden gems", a judgement that was spot on.
The Llŷn Coastal Path runs above Porth Ceiriad beach
(Image: Chris Andrew/Wiki )
So, how do you get there?
From Abersoch, take the Lon Sarn Bach road and continue straight at the Sarn Bach crossroads. From here, turn left down a narrow lane called Lon Groes about 0.7 miles further along, just past the green electricity substation.
Down this lane, a contactless payment barrier (£3) at the now-closed Nant Y Big campsite opens up a track leading to the beach. Above the folded rocks of the surrounding cliffs is a car park that leaves many visitors feeling like they're about to drive off the edge.
There's an earlier left turn towards Bwlchtocyn, beyond which lies another, smaller car park for the beach on the other side of the village, accessed via cattle grids and equally narrow lanes. This car park only accepts coins (£2-£4 for up to four hours, £5 for the day).
One visitor commented, "It's an adventure to get there on single track country roads. Good luck with the tractors coming through in the opposite direction. But, wow, it's worth the trek!".
Porth Ceiriad is famed for having arguably the finest surf in the Llŷn Peninsula. While it presents a rather sheltered and gentle seascape in the summer months, come winter, this south-facing strand really comes alive: given the right conditions, its unique topography and sharp drop-off can generate formidable waves.
Unlike its neighbour Porth Neigwl (Hell's Mouth), the breakers here entice the more adept surfers seeking significant challenge. Though holidaymakers do venture into the water, they must be mindful of rip currents, much like those at the larger adjacent beach.
On a recent weekday sojourn, a couple on holiday observed they had the beach to themselves; upon their departure, only two others had made an appearance. However, summertime Saturdays paint a different picture — the bay bustles with various watercraft, including kayaks, jetskis, and sailboats, as watersports enthusiasts flock to the peninsula.
Boats oftentimes offer easier access than cars, though hikers are rewarded by the picturesque spot just off the Llŷn Coastal Path.
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Nonetheless, those who discover Porth Ceiriad are almost invariably charmed by its allure. One visitor gushed, "This beach is incredibly beautiful," and praised it as "Probably one of the best I've been to in the UK. If you like your beaches secluded, surrounded by a bit more wilderness, then this is for you."
Echoing this sentiment, a family from Manchester lauded Porth Ceirad as the "best UK beach by miles" sharing: "Been coming here for 45 years, and it's our fav beach in the whole world. Dramatic. Off the beaten track and simply stunning."
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