Ynys Llanddwyn Coastal Walk, Anglesey

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Difficulty: Easy

Length: 5.76 km (3.58 miles)

Approx. duration: 2h-2:30hrs

Parking: Paid (Google Maps)

Dogs: Yes – but are not allowed on the western section of the beach from 1st May to 30th Sept.

From Perthi Holiday Cottages: 1-hour drive

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Llanddwyn Island lighthouse and cross

One of Wales’s most iconic coastal walks, this route explores the sweeping sands of Newborough Beach and the atmospheric headland of Ynys Llanddwyn, home to the ruins of St Dwynwen’s Church and rich in natural and cultural interest.

You’re in the right place if you’re looking for a scenic, low-level coastal walk with wide views and a strong sense of place. Tide times are important here, as the headland becomes inaccessible at high tide.

The walk leads across open beach and along the headland of Ynys Llanddwyn, where the ruins of St Dwynwen’s Church sit dramatically against the backdrop of sea and sky. Dedicated to the Welsh patron saint of lovers, the site adds a quiet sense of history and atmosphere to the walk.

On clear days, there are beautiful views back towards the mountains of Eryri, creating a striking contrast between coast and peaks. The surrounding landscape is also known for its wildlife, with Welsh ponies often seen grazing freely and the occasional red squirrel spotted in nearby woodland.

Careful planning is essential, as access to the headland depends on tide times. The narrow approach roads can also become busy at weekends and during school holidays, so allowing extra time is advised. Parking is available for a small fee, payable by cash or card.

“This place is stunning but the traffic getting through the village in high season can be a real pain — go early or come out of season and it’s a completely different experience. The views back across the sea to Yr Eifl are one of the reasons I keep coming back, along with the wild ponies and the chance of spotting a red squirrel in the woodland nearby. One of those walks that genuinely stays with you.” — Delyth, Perthi Holiday Cottages

Our 17th-century cottages sit just above Beddgelert, with walking routes straight from the door.

Step-by-Step Walk Guide

Numbered steps with photos to help you follow the route.

From the Ynys Llanddwyn and Newborough Beach car park, follow the blue waymarker signs to begin the walk.
Take the first left after leaving the car park which takes you towards the beach.
Make your way along the beach towards Llanddwyn headland which you can see in the distance to the West.
Aim towards the sheltered noticed board and go through the gate directly behind it on the left which takes you on a path around the headland.
Follow the circular path which takes past the ruins of St. Dwynwen's Church, a row of cottages and lighthouse.
Once back at the notice board re-trace your steps along the the beach for a very short while until you see a clear opening into the woods (pictured).
Follow the path uphill into the woods.
Follow the Coastal Path way markers which guides you through the forest parallel to the beach.
The next coastal path waymarker guides you away from the beach for a short while before turning parallel to the shoreline again, taking you all the way back to the car park.

17th-Century Cottages in Beddgelert

Rated 4.98 on Airbnb from over 300 guest reviews

Ty Hebog historical barn conversion exterior at Perthi in Beddgelert Cosy log burner interior at Ty Hebog cottage Luxury king size bedroom with original historic character at Ty Felin water mill

Stay in a converted water mill, a historic barn or a mountain lodge on Delyth’s family farm above the village — with wide Eryri views and walking routes from the door.