Llanddona Beach: Worth the Tricky Journey?

With a forest backdrop, stunning views across Red Wharf Bay, and seemingly endless stretches of golden sand, Llanddona Beach is a real hidden gem. The beach is situated on the northeastern tip of Anglesey and is the last of several miles of interrupted beaches that start with Benllech Beach and include St. Davids Beach, Red Wharf Bay, Pentraeth Beach, and lastly, Llanddona Beach.

It’s accessed by one of two possible routes, both of which are steep, narrow, and winding, which puts many visitors off even attempting the journey. However, those who make the effort are rewarded with a truly beautiful and secluded spot.

So what makes Llanddona Beach worth the almost perilous trip?

Why Visit Llanddona Beach?

The first and most obvious reason is the breathtaking scenery. The golden beach is framed by a sand dune system at the rear and, further west, the dramatic Pentraeth Forest. Nestled at the end of a long cove, this beach delivers stunning panoramic views out across Red Wharf Bay.

The second reason is its unspoilt nature. This beach is relatively unknown and therefore remains largely untouched by tourism. That’s not to say that you’ll have the place to yourself, but it’s the perfect place to enjoy a quiet, relaxing day by the seaside. The sheer amount of space offered to beachgoers means even on a busy day; you’re unlikely to feel hemmed in.

The third reason is the facilities on offer. Other similar secluded beaches, such as Silver Bay Beach, offer next to nothing by way of amenities. However, despite the problematic access issues, the beach boasts an impressive-sized car park, public toilets, and a beach café.

So, if you’re looking for a quiet, scenic spot to while away a summer’s day, Llanddona Beach is definitely worth the tricky journey. So let’s address the elephant in the room. How bad is the journey really?

Getting to Llanddona Beach

As mentioned, Llanddona Beach is situated on the northeastern tip of Anglesey near the small namesake village of Llanddona. Access to the village itself is pretty good, but once you’re past the Yr Owain Glyndŵr pub, things get a little more tricky.

There are two similar single-track roads down to the beach, and neither is particularly pleasant. Not only are they exceedingly narrow, but they are also extremely steep, with gradients of 25% to 35% in places. While there are passing places, they’re not exactly generous, and you’ll also have to contend with walkers, cyclists, and other pedestrian traffic.

Ironically, the worst time to access Llanddona Beach is in the summer (when you’re most likely to visit), as the grass verges grow and encroaches on what little road space there is.

It’s not recommended, or even possible, to navigate these roads in anything larger than a people carrier. You might just get away with a Ford Transit or VW Transporter-style van, but a large motorhome is out of the question.

All in all, getting to Llanddona Beach is a bit of a mission and can be nerve-wracking, but the journey is worth it for the beach’s stunning views and unspoilt nature.

Rough directions from the nearest town, Beaumaris, are as follows:

From Beaumaris, take the B5109 up and out of the town.

After half a mile or so, take the right-hand turn to Llanddona (signposted).

Follow the unmarked winding road until it brings you to the village of Llanddona.

Make your way through the village until you see the Yr Owain Glyndŵr pub on your left-hand side.

Rather than following the main road round to the right, bear left and head onto the narrow road signposted Llanddona Beach.

Follow the road as it winds through the hedgerows and tight bends until it opens out and presents you with a view of the sea.

At this point, you’ll notice there’s a junction, with a road heading off to the left and the other heading straight on.

The left offers 25% inclines, very tight bends, and less in the way of passing places. If you decide to stay on the “main” road, you’ll be rewarded with 35% gradients, but an ever so slightly wider road, and more in the way of passing places (but still not many). Pick your poison.

Follow either road as it makes its way down the hillside. Once at the bottom, follow the road to the beachfront until you arrive at the car park.

What Activities are on Offer at Llanddona Beach?

There’s plenty to do at Llanddona Beach. While it might lack some of the rock pools found at similar beaches along this stretch of coastline, it more than makes up for it in terms of space and scenery.

There’s plenty of space for beach activities, such as beach cricket, volleyball, or even just sunbathing with a good book. The beach is also an excellent spot for walks, with stunning views in every direction. You can walk for miles before you reach Red Wharf Bay and the Anglesey Coastal Path drops down onto the beach for a stretch before heading back up toward Pentraeth Forest.

Lastly, this beach is excellent for watersports, such as kayaking, paddle boarding, surfing, kitesurfing, and windsurfing. You can also enjoy a lovely swim, just be careful of the strong currents and watch out for rip tides.

Llanddona Beach Dog Restrictions

Llanddona is one of the few beaches on the island with seasonal dog restrictions. From 1st May to 30th September, dogs are prohibited from the Eastern half of the beach (the end closest to the headland).

The image below shows you how and where the restrictions are in place. However, bear in mind that this bird’s-eye view of the beach is taken from the sea, not land, so flip it around in your head to get a sense of where you need to go.

However, Llanddona Beach is so vast that the dog restrictions don’t really have that much of an impact. It’s only the stretch close to the car park and beachfront that are covered by the restrictions. So upon arrival, simply head left (West) from the car park until you stop seeing the no dogs signs.

Llanddona Beach FAQs