
Porth Dafarch
A stunning, sheltered sandy cove on Anglesey's Holy Island, offering clear waters and dramatic coastal scenery.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Quieter parking & calmer seas

Porth Dafarch
Best Time
Quieter parking & calmer seas

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning, sheltered sandy cove on Anglesey's Holy Island, offering clear waters and dramatic coastal scenery.
"It reminded me of Cornish beaches, crystal clear water and beautiful scenery. You could almost imagine you were abroad!"

π Free Parking Alert!
Free parking is available on the road, but spots fill quickly. Arrive early!
π Delicious Beach Bites
Don't miss the 'Licensed to Grill' burger van for heavenly surf and turf!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Porth Dafarch Beach
Holy Island, Anglesey
A stunning sandy cove with clear waters, reminiscent of Cornwall or even the Mediterranean. Perfect for swimming and relaxing.

Coastal Path Walks
Surrounding Cliffs
Explore breathtaking cliffside trails offering panoramic sea views and dramatic wave action.

Coasteering Adventures
Porth Dafarch Launch Point
Experience thrilling jumps and exploration along the rugged coastline.

Ancient Settlement
Near Porth Dafarch
Discover remnants of Iron Age hut circles and ancient dwellings, offering a glimpse into history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds at Porth Dafarch
Essential Beach Day Prep
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
π Free Parking Alert!
Free parking is available on the road, but spots fill quickly. Arrive early!
π Delicious Beach Bites
Don't miss the 'Licensed to Grill' burger van for heavenly surf and turf!
π Pack for the Breeze
It can get windy near the cliffs, so bring a jumper or windbreaker.
πββοΈ Summer Lifeguard Cover
RNLI lifeguards are on duty during summer for added safety.
Tips
from all over the internet
π Free Parking Alert!
Free parking is available on the road, but spots fill quickly. Arrive early!
π Delicious Beach Bites
Don't miss the 'Licensed to Grill' burger van for heavenly surf and turf!
π Pack for the Breeze
It can get windy near the cliffs, so bring a jumper or windbreaker.
πββοΈ Summer Lifeguard Cover
RNLI lifeguards are on duty during summer for added safety.
πΊοΈ Explore the Coast
The Anglesey Coastal Path offers stunning views.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Porth Dafarch is consistently praised as a stunning, tranquil beach with a Mediterranean or Cornish feel. Visitors love its clear waters, beautiful scenery, and lack of commercial crowds. While parking can be challenging, the free access and good facilities make it a highly recommended spot for a peaceful beach day or coastal exploration.
"Well equipped beach, great for some body boarding and coastal walks. Cold shower, toilet and water fountain available. Not that many parking spots but we arrived quite early. One of my favourite beaches in the Uk now after visiting! Thanks for the burger van Licensed to Grill for our surf and turf and lamb burgers- utterly heavenly after a refreshing swim in the sea. π€©"
Josie Zhang (Jiusi)
"A little gem tucked away on the coastline, surrounded by rocks and cliffs. No crowds or commercial tourism, just a tiny beach with a Mediterranean feel, or perhaps closer to Cornwall."
Lucca T.
"Came across this beautiful cove after calling at South Stack Lighthouse. Enjoyed a short walk on the cliff path and marvelled at the sight of the waves crashing on the rocks. Added benefits of free parking ( it was extremely quiet when we visited on a showery windy Sunday in September) plus public toilets...but these are locked later in the day."
Stephen Treseder
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
π πΊοΈ Getting There
Porth Dafarch is located on Holy Island, near Holyhead. You can reach it by car, with free parking available on the road adjacent to the cove. It's a scenic drive through Anglesey's coastal roads.
While specific bus routes can vary, it's generally best accessed by car for convenience. Check local bus timetables for options to Holyhead and then consider a taxi or a longer walk.
The best strategy is to arrive early, especially during peak season or on sunny days, as parking spots are limited and fill up quickly.
Yes, Porth Dafarch is well-marked on most GPS devices and online maps. The postcode LL65 2LS can be used for navigation.
Porth Dafarch is close to South Stack Lighthouse and the RSPB South Stack Reserve, offering opportunities for birdwatching and further exploration of the coastline.
π« π« Tickets & Entry
No, Porth Dafarch beach is free to access. Parking is also free, though spaces are limited.
Porth Dafarch is a natural beach and is accessible at all times. However, public toilets may have restricted hours, often locking later in the day.
No booking is required for Porth Dafarch beach. It's a public beach open to everyone.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions, but visitors are encouraged to respect the natural environment and follow any local guidelines. Dogs are usually allowed but check local signage.
RNLI lifeguards operate at Porth Dafarch during the summer months, providing an added layer of safety for swimmers and families.
π« π§ Onsite Experience
Porth Dafarch offers public toilets, a water fountain, and often an ice cream van. Cold showers are also available.
Yes, it's a great family beach with clear, inviting waters perfect for swimming and playing. The sandy cove is sheltered.
Activities include swimming, bodyboarding, kayaking, paddleboarding, diving (popular launch spot for shipwrecks), coastal walks, and exploring ancient settlements.
Absolutely! The cove, cliffs, and sunsets offer stunning photographic opportunities. Aerial views are also spectacular.
Yes, Porth Dafarch is a popular and well-equipped venue for coasteering, offering exciting jumps and coastal exploration.
π½οΈ π½οΈ Food & Dining
While there are no permanent restaurants, an ice cream van is often present, and the 'Licensed to Grill' burger van is a local favorite for delicious burgers.
Yes, Porth Dafarch is an ideal spot for a picnic with beautiful views. Remember to take all your litter with you.
The 'Licensed to Grill' van offers popular items like surf and turf and lamb burgers, highly recommended by visitors.
The nearest significant dining options would be in Holyhead, which offers a range of pubs and restaurants.
Reports suggest that ice creams are reasonably priced, offering good value.
πΈ πΈ Photography
Sunsets are particularly stunning, casting a beautiful light across the bay. Early mornings can also offer softer light and fewer crowds.
The sandy cove itself, the rugged cliffs, the crashing waves, and the ancient hut circles all make for great photos. Aerial shots are also impressive.
Drone footage of Porth Dafarch has been captured, showcasing its beauty from above. Always check local drone regulations before flying.
Yes, the renowned Welsh landscape painter Sir Kyffin Williams created a painting titled 'Storm, Porth Dafarch,' highlighting its dramatic beauty.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the coastal landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife or distant wave shots. A polarizing filter can enhance the sea and sky.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
π¨βπ©βπ§ Families with Kids
πΆββοΈ Hikers & Coastal Walkers
πββοΈ Watersports Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Porth Dafarch Coastline
For the adventurous, coasteering is a popular activity here. This adrenaline-pumping pursuit involves navigating the intertidal zone of a rocky coastline, combining swimming, scrambling, and cliff jumping. Porth Dafarch's varied terrain makes it an excellent launch point for guided coasteering tours, offering a unique way to experience the coastline's raw power.
Don't miss the chance to explore the ancient settlement and hut circles located near Porth Dafarch. These Iron Age remnants offer a fascinating glimpse into the area's prehistoric past, with earthworks and stonework still visible. It's a chance to connect with history while surrounded by stunning natural scenery.
Porth Dafarch: A Beach for All Seasons
Beyond swimming, the beach is a hub for activity. It's a popular launch spot for divers heading out to explore nearby shipwrecks, showcasing the underwater appeal of the area. For those who prefer to stay on land, the beach is well-equipped with toilets and a water fountain, and a local burger van often provides delicious refreshments after a dip in the sea.
Even outside of peak summer, Porth Dafarch retains its charm. The surrounding cliffs offer stunning coastal walks, and the dramatic scenery can be particularly captivating during stormy weather, as captured by artists. It's a versatile destination that offers something for everyone, from sunbathers to adventurers and history enthusiasts.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit