Llanddona Beach: Worth the Tricky Journey?


Llanddona Beach

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.

Llanddona Beach Toilets and Café
The toilet block (left) and café at the rear of the beach

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.

Llanddona Beach
The beach offers spectacular views and scenery

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.

Dog Restrictions on Llanddona Beach

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

Are There Any Facilities at Llanddona Beach?

Yes, there is a toilet block and a seasonal café/kiosk that sells refreshments, which is surprising given the beach’s remote nature. They are both situated adjacent to the car park at the rear of the beach.

For something more substantial, you’ll have to make your way back up the hill to the village of Llanddona itself or make the drive to Beaumaris.

Is There Car Parking at Llanddona Beach?

Yes, despite its remote location, the beach boasts a recently resurfaced car park with parking for 20-30 vehicles. Currently, parking is also free, making the potentially stressful journey much more bearable.

Llanddona Beach Car Park
The car park is surprisingly large and has recently been resurfaced

Is Llanddona Beach Accessible?

The beach is not accessible for wheelchair users or those with limited mobility as the beach is backed by sand dunes and a rough pebbled section.

Is Llanddona Beach Dog-Friendly?

Yes. Even though seasonal dog restrictions are in place, the beach is so large (particularly at low tide) that all you have to do is head West and enjoy thousands of metres of interrupted dog-friendly sand for your pooch to enjoy.

Of course, if you visit any time outside of the summer months (May to September), you gain an extra half of the beach to enjoy with your furry friend as the restrictions are lifted.

What’s the Postcode for Llanddona Beach?

The nearest postcode for Llanddona beach is LL58 8UN.

Is there Lifeguarding Service at Llanddona Beach?

No, there is not. You enter the water and swim at your own risk.

What’s the Nearest Town to Llanddona Beach?

The nearest town is Beaumaris, where you’ll find a selection of shops, restaurants, and cafes. It’s about a 15-minute drive from the beach. It’s the perfect place to stock up on supplies before heading to the beach or refuel after a day in the sun.

How Busy is Llanddona Beach?

Despite being one of the most beautiful beaches on the island, Llanddona is often overlooked by tourists in favour of busier spots, such as Red Wharf Bay and Newborough Beach. As a result, it’s usually relatively quiet, even on sunny days.

Even during the summer holidays, there’s plenty of space to spread out and enjoy the beach without feeling crowded, especially when the tide is out.

Llanddona Beach Forest
There’s often miles of deserted beach in either direction, even in summer

Where Can I Find Tide Times for Llanddona Beach?

The easiest place to find tide times for Llanddona beach is on the Met Office website. You can find the tide times for Llanddona Beach here.

Joe Roberts

Joe is a keen runner and loves exploring new places to stretch his legs within North Wales. Particular favourites at the moment include Newborough Forest and pretty much anywhere in Snowdonia.

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