Here’s a handy beach guide for North Wales, covering some of the best spots along the coast — from lively family-friendly resorts to hidden coves for quiet escapes:

Kinmel Bay (Sandy Cove)

Also known as Sandy Cove, Kinmel Bay lies on the western side of the River Clwyd just across the estuary from Rhyl. The sandy beach is a popular spot with summer visitors and is used all year round by watersport enthusiasts. 

Nature lovers should keep a look out for the occasional grey seal which might be spotted bobbing up and down in the water offshore, and the beach is also a good spot for skylarks, kestrel and a variety of wading birds.

Alongside the beach is a narrow promenade which passes the Kinmel Dunes Nature Reserve, which provides a habitat for a number of maritime plants including sea holly, rest harrow and bird’s foot trefoil.

The beach benefits from a large car park with toilets and in summer there is a beach kiosk open along the promenade.  An Asda supermarket can be found very close to the beach. 

In the nature reserve dogs must be kept on leads and the beach itself has dog walking restrictions from May to September.

Pensarn Beach (Abergele)

The shingle beach of Pensarn is situated in front of the town of Abergele.

A promenade runs along much of the beachfront and Pensarn is also located on the Wales Coastal Path meaning that walkers of all abilities can enjoy the sea views.

As well as the Wales Coastal Path the area is also serviced by Cycle Route 5 which skirts along the beach and means that you can take in the seascapes which stretch to the Great Orme as you cycle for several miles along the coast.

There are a good range of facilities along the seafront but if you visit the town you can expect to find shops, eateries, and a range of local pubs.

Part of the beach was designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) in 1977 as it was fine example of a vegetated shingle bank. Several plant that are not found elsewhere in Wales can be seen here, such as Ray’s knotgrass, Sea kale and Sea radish.

Splash Point (Rhyl) Beach

Rhyl is a traditional family seaside resort, offering miles of clean, sandy beaches and plenty of amusements and amenities.  There is a harbour and more. 

The beach at Splash Point, starting around the north end of Old Golf Road, is part of a longer stretch of sand, interspersed with wooden groynes and backed by a sea wall,  running from the town’s main beaches which are closer to the town centre.  This beach, being that little bit further away is generally a bit quieter. 

A promenade runs west from the beach. The beach is used by families, fishermen and watersport enthusiasts. Dog walkers are a common site on the stretch of sand between Old Golf Road and Prestatyn.

The closest toilets are found just off the promenade, heading towards Old Golf Road.  Rhyl Station is approximately 1 mile away.