
Wales Coast Path Colwyn Bay
A coastal walk with varied scenery, from urban promenades to quieter stretches, punctuated by the A55's presence and the charm of the Welsh Mountain Z...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Quieter paths, beautiful light

Wales Coast Path Colwyn Bay
Best Time
Quieter paths, beautiful light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A coastal walk with varied scenery, from urban promenades to quieter stretches, punctuated by the A55's presence and the charm of the Welsh Mountain Zoo.
"The path offers coastal beauty, but be prepared for the A55's presence and limited beach access."

🎧 Noise-Cancelling Headphones
Bring headphones to enjoy your walk near the A55, making the experience more pleasant.
🚶♀️ Coastal Defense Awareness
Be aware that coastal defenses can limit direct beach access points along the path.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Llanddulas Coastal Stretch
Towards Llanddulas
Escape the A55 noise for a more peaceful walk with beautiful coastal scenery and a welcome break from urban bustle.

Raynes Jetty Views
Near Raynes Jetty
Experience the dramatic coastline, though be mindful of the proximity to the A55 and its associated noise and fumes.

Welsh Mountain Zoo Penguins
Welsh Mountain Zoo
A delightful detour to see the charming penguin parade, offering a fun family-friendly experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Coastal Views (and the Road Noise)
Timing is Key for a Peaceful Stroll
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎧 Noise-Cancelling Headphones
Bring headphones to enjoy your walk near the A55, making the experience more pleasant.
🚶♀️ Coastal Defense Awareness
Be aware that coastal defenses can limit direct beach access points along the path.
🐧 Zoo Penguin Parade
Don't miss the adorable penguin parade at the Welsh Mountain Zoo for a fun family moment!
☕ Tides Bistro Refreshments
Stop by Tides Bistro in Llanddulas for a bite to eat and refreshments.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎧 Noise-Cancelling Headphones
Bring headphones to enjoy your walk near the A55, making the experience more pleasant.
🚶♀️ Coastal Defense Awareness
Be aware that coastal defenses can limit direct beach access points along the path.
🐧 Zoo Penguin Parade
Don't miss the adorable penguin parade at the Welsh Mountain Zoo for a fun family moment!
☕ Tides Bistro Refreshments
Stop by Tides Bistro in Llanddulas for a bite to eat and refreshments.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Wales Coast Path section near Colwyn Bay offers mixed reviews. While some appreciate the coastal views and the option to visit attractions like the Welsh Mountain Zoo, many find the proximity to the A55 noisy and fumes overpowering. Limited beach access due to coastal defenses is also a common point of contention, though the stretch towards Llanddulas is generally considered more pleasant.
"The Colwyn Bay end of this section of the path isn't all that pleasant due to the close proximity of the A55, and one point close to Raynes Jetty you feel like you're walking on the A55's pavement so the noise and fumes are a bit overpowering. Once you get towards Llanddulas you move away from the road so it's a much more pleasant walk. One of the downsides of this walk is that whilst you're following the beach for miles there are limited access points due to the coastal defences. I appreciate that these defences are necessary and need to be there but they are an inconvenience if you want to walk of the sand for a while. The Tides Bistro at Llanddulas offers refreshments if you need them but unfortunately the public toilets at Llanddulas are no more."
Mr Sloth
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can access the Wales Coast Path at various points in Colwyn Bay. Many start their walk from the town itself, or you can join it at different points along the coast, such as near Raynes Jetty or further towards Llanddulas. Consider parking in Colwyn Bay and walking east towards Llanddulas for a more scenic experience away from the immediate A55 noise.
Yes, public transport options are available. Buses run along the coast road, providing access to different starting and ending points of the path. Check local bus timetables for routes serving Colwyn Bay and Llanddulas.
Parking is available in Colwyn Bay town center. For those walking towards Llanddulas, there might be limited parking options closer to that area, but it's advisable to check local parking regulations.
While some sections might be suitable for cycling, the Wales Coast Path is primarily designed for walkers. Check specific signage and local advice for cycling suitability on the Colwyn Bay stretch, as it can be narrow and have coastal defenses.
Colwyn Bay has its own train station, making it a convenient starting or ending point for your walk. You can also consider nearby stations like Llandudno Junction for alternative access.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Wales Coast Path is a public right of way and is free to access. There are no tickets or entry fees required to walk the path itself.
The Wales Coast Path is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can access it at any time, though daylight hours are recommended for safety and enjoyment.
No booking is necessary for walking the Wales Coast Path. It's an open access trail, so you can simply turn up and start your walk.
Generally, no special permits are required for walking the Wales Coast Path. However, if you plan on any organized events or specific activities, it's always best to check with the relevant authorities.
For attractions like the Welsh Mountain Zoo, it's often best to check their official website for ticket prices and booking options. You can usually purchase tickets online in advance or upon arrival.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The terrain varies. Near Colwyn Bay, you'll find stretches along the promenade and beach, but also sections close to the A55. Towards Llanddulas, it becomes more natural coastal path. Be prepared for some paved areas and potentially uneven ground.
Public toilets at Llanddulas are no longer available. You may find facilities in Colwyn Bay town center or at the Welsh Mountain Zoo. It's advisable to use facilities before you start your walk or plan stops accordingly.
Along the coast, you might spot various seabirds. If you visit the Welsh Mountain Zoo, you'll see a wide array of animals, including their famous penguins.
The Wales Coast Path is generally dog-friendly, but always keep your dog on a lead, especially near roads and wildlife. Be mindful of other walkers and any specific local by-laws.
The walking time can vary greatly depending on your pace and how often you stop. A rough estimate for the Prestatyn to Colwyn Bay run was mentioned as leg 3, suggesting it's a significant stretch. Plan for at least a few hours for a comfortable walk.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Tides Bistro at Llanddulas offers refreshments and food. You'll also find various cafes and restaurants in Colwyn Bay town center.
While direct beach access can be limited by coastal defenses, there are often benches or grassy areas along the promenade or slightly inland where you can enjoy a picnic.
The Welsh Mountain Zoo usually has its own cafe or snack bar facilities for visitors.
Most cafes and restaurants in Colwyn Bay and Llanddulas will likely offer vegetarian options. Vegan choices may vary, so it's advisable to check menus or ask staff.
Delivery services might be limited directly on the path due to its nature. It's best to plan your meals or pick up food from establishments in Colwyn Bay or Llanddulas before or after your walk.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for scenic coastal views, especially during sunrise or sunset for dramatic lighting. The stretch towards Llanddulas offers more natural beauty. Don't forget to capture the unique coastal defenses and any interesting wildlife.
Early mornings and late afternoons, known as the 'golden hours,' provide soft, warm light that enhances coastal landscapes. Sunsets can be particularly spectacular.
Drone usage is subject to regulations. Always check the latest rules and guidelines from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and any local restrictions before flying a drone in the area.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for landscapes and details. A wide-angle lens can capture expansive coastal scenes. Consider a polarizing filter to enhance skies and reduce glare on water.
While difficult to capture sound visually, you can convey the proximity of the A55 by including elements like the road infrastructure in your shots, perhaps juxtaposed with the natural coastal environment.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Solo Walkers & Runners
🚗 Day-Trippers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the A55 Influence
While this can be a downside, it also highlights the importance of planning. Consider starting your walk further east towards Llanddulas, where the path moves away from the road and offers a more peaceful environment. Bringing noise-cancelling headphones can also help mitigate the impact of the traffic noise, allowing you to focus on the sea views.
This section serves as a reminder that not all coastal paths are pristine wilderness. It's a blend of urban infrastructure and natural beauty, offering a different kind of coastal exploration. Appreciating the quieter sections and managing the noisier ones is part of the adventure.
Coastal Defenses and Access
Many users have pointed out that while you are walking along the beach for miles, the coastal defenses create limitations on where you can easily step off the sand and onto firmer ground. This can be an inconvenience if you wish to explore different parts of the shore or simply take a break from walking directly on sand.
When planning your walk, be aware of these defenses. They are a prominent feature of the landscape and will shape your experience. While they might restrict spontaneous detours onto the beach, they also underscore the dynamic relationship between human engineering and the power of the sea.
A Detour to the Welsh Mountain Zoo
A particular highlight, as seen in TikTok videos, is the 'Penguin Parade.' This charming event provides a fun and engaging spectacle for visitors of all ages. It's a great way to break up a day of walking or to entertain younger travelers.
While not directly on the coast path itself, the zoo is a well-known landmark in the area and can be easily incorporated into a visit to Colwyn Bay, offering a different perspective on the local attractions.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit