Porth Ceiriad
A breathtaking, secluded sandy beach on the Llŷn Peninsula, famed for its dramatic cliffs and unique waterfall.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Porth Ceiriad
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking, secluded sandy beach on the Llŷn Peninsula, famed for its dramatic cliffs and unique waterfall.
"This is a fantastic spot to visit, the views are spectacular, and it is a very peaceful place."
🚗 Car Park Payment
Car park is £3, contactless payments accepted. Barrier is automatic on exit.
👟 Be Prepared for Steps
Significant descent and ascent to the beach. Pack light and wear good footwear.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Porth Ceiriad Beach
Llŷn Peninsula
An idyllic, secluded sandy beach framed by dramatic cliffs, perfect for a peaceful escape.
Waterfall Feature
Eastern end of the beach
Discover a charming waterfall cascading onto the sand, adding a unique natural spectacle.
Cliff Top Walks
Coastal path above the beach
Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline and sea from the well-maintained paths.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Accessing Porth Ceiriad
Best Time for Serenity
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Car Park Payment
Car park is £3, contactless payments accepted. Barrier is automatic on exit.
👟 Be Prepared for Steps
Significant descent and ascent to the beach. Pack light and wear good footwear.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Paradise
Perfect for dogs, with plenty of space and secure cliff paths.
🌊 Surfing Hotspot
Known for its waves, attracting surfers of all levels. 
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Car Park Payment
Car park is £3, contactless payments accepted. Barrier is automatic on exit.
👟 Be Prepared for Steps
Significant descent and ascent to the beach. Pack light and wear good footwear.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Paradise
Perfect for dogs, with plenty of space and secure cliff paths.
🌊 Surfing Hotspot
Known for its waves, attracting surfers of all levels.
🐚 Jellyfish Alert
Be mindful of jellyfish washed ashore, especially at low tide.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Porth Ceiriad is lauded as a stunning, secluded sandy beach with spectacular views and a peaceful atmosphere. Visitors appreciate its natural beauty, dramatic cliffs, and the unique waterfall feature. While the steps down to the beach can be challenging, most agree the effort is well worth it for the serene experience. The lack of amenities is noted, but the overall beauty and tranquility make it a highly recommended spot.
"Stunning sandy beach close to Abersoch. No amenities. Small car park (£3 contactless payments). Short walk along the cliff tops from the car park, then quite a way down some steps to the beach, but worth it. We had the whole beach to ourselves the day we visited."
Candie Grimbaldeston
"This is a fantastic spot to visit, the views are spectacular, and it is a very peaceful place (apart from the waves against the cliffs and beach).
It's only a few miles from Abersoch, and whilst it is a little off the beaten track, Google Maps will take you to the barrier for entry into the car park.
There is a £3.00 charge (payable in cash, pound coins preferred), i think there is now an option for touch and go card payments, but we paid by coins.
The barrier is automatic on exit, and there is no maximum time (although I don't think you can park overnight).
There are walks in both directions along the cliff tops, or a nice gentle walk down to a real gem of a beach. Good footwear on the beach as there were hundreds of small jellyfish washed up by the tide.
This place was very quiet, and is well worth the effort to find. Stunning location 👌 👏"
Rich C
"This beach is incredibly beautiful. Probably one of the best I’ve been to in the UK. If you like your beeches secluded, surrounded by a bit more wilderness then buildings then this is for you. We stayed Cim Camping and it was such a great walk down from here. It was August, clear blue skies and we swam in the sea for tens of minutes, it was beautiful. The rock formations are also incredibly interesting. The walk down is not for the unfit and packing light is key due to the steps."
Adam Lowndes
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Porth Ceiriad is located on the Llŷn Peninsula, a short drive from Abersoch. Google Maps will guide you to the car park entrance.
Yes, there is a small car park with a £3 charge, payable by contactless payment. The barrier is automatic on exit.
The walk down to the beach involves a significant number of steps, making it challenging for those with mobility issues. Packing light is recommended.
Overnight parking is generally not permitted at the Porth Ceiriad car park.
Abersoch is the closest major town, offering amenities and a vibrant atmosphere.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no direct entrance fee for the beach itself, but the car park has a £3 charge.
Porth Ceiriad is a natural beach and is accessible at all times. The car park has its own operating hours, typically from dawn till dusk.
No, booking is not required for Porth Ceiriad beach. It's a natural attraction.
While generally open, be aware of tide times and potential jellyfish presence.
Contactless payment is available, though cash (pound coins preferred) was historically accepted.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Enjoy swimming, surfing, sunbathing, exploring rock formations, and walking along the cliff tops.
Porth Ceiriad is a natural beach with no amenities like toilets or shops. Visitors should come prepared.
Yes, it's a great spot for swimming, especially on calmer days. The water can be invigorating!
You might spot various seabirds and marine life. Jellyfish are common, especially after tides.
Absolutely! The Wales Coast Path offers stunning walks in both directions from the beach.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the dramatic cliffs, the sandy expanse, the waterfall, and the panoramic sea views from the cliff tops.
Golden hour (sunrise and sunset) offers beautiful light. Midday can be harsh but still offers dramatic cliff shots.
Drone usage regulations can vary. Always check local bylaws and ensure you fly responsibly and safely.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto can capture distant sea birds. A sturdy tripod is useful for low light.
The waterfall, interesting rock formations, and potential for rainbow waves offer unique shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be aware of the steps down to the beach; packing light and perhaps using a carrier for very young children is advisable. The car park is convenient, and the lack of amenities means packing all essentials like snacks, drinks, and sun protection is key. The natural beauty and the chance to spot marine life can be very engaging for kids.
🐶 Dog Owners
The cliff top paths provide excellent walking routes with stunning views, and the beach itself is perfect for dogs to explore. Just be mindful of other visitors and ensure your dog is under control, especially if they tend to run off.
🏄♀️ Surfers and Watersports Enthusiasts
+2Consider checking surf reports before you go and renting gear from Abersoch if needed. The beach's natural beauty provides an incredible setting for a day out on the water.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Surfing and Watersports at Porth Ceiriad
+2Local surf schools and rental shops in nearby Abersoch can provide equipment and lessons. It's advisable to check local surf reports for the most up-to-date conditions before heading out. The beach's sandy bottom generally makes it a forgiving spot for beginners, but always exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.
Beyond surfing, the clear waters can be inviting for swimming, especially during warmer months. The dramatic cliffs also offer a stunning backdrop for any watersport activity, making Porth Ceiriad a visually rewarding destination for enthusiasts.
Exploring the Llŷn Peninsula from Porth Ceiriad
+1Visitors can embark on walks towards Abersoch or explore other hidden coves and beaches dotted along the peninsula. The landscape is a mix of rugged cliffs, sandy bays, and rolling countryside, providing diverse scenery for hikers and nature lovers.
Nearby Abersoch offers a charming village atmosphere with shops, cafes, and restaurants, providing a perfect place to refuel after a day of exploration. The peninsula's remote feel and stunning natural landscapes make it a popular destination for those seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle.
+1The Unique Landscape and Geology
The beach itself is a beautiful expanse of sand, often described as idyllic and spectacular. The presence of a waterfall cascading onto the sand adds a unique and picturesque element, making it a memorable sight for visitors.
Rock formations along the beach and coastline are also noted as being incredibly interesting, inviting exploration and offering opportunities for photography. The interplay of land and sea creates a dynamic and visually engaging environment.
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