Newborough Beach and Llanddwyn Island Anglesey
Where a pine forest meets a vast sandy beach, with the magical tidal island of Llanddwyn offering ancient legends and stunning views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Access Llanddwyn Island
Newborough Beach and Llanddwyn Island Anglesey
Best Time
Access Llanddwyn Island
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Where a pine forest meets a vast sandy beach, with the magical tidal island of Llanddwyn offering ancient legends and stunning views.
"One of the only places in the UK where a forest meets a beach, truly a wonder!"
Check Tide Times First! :clock1:
Llanddwyn Island is only accessible at low tide. Plan your visit accordingly to avoid disappointment.
Arrive Early for Parking :car:
The main car park fills up quickly. Aim for an early start to secure a spot and avoid traffic queues.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Llanddwyn Island
Tidal island off Newborough Beach
A magical peninsula with ancient ruins, lighthouses, and stunning views of Snowdonia. Accessible at low tide.
Newborough Beach
Adjacent to Newborough Forest
Vast sandy beach with crystal-clear waters, backed by a unique pine forest. Perfect for walks and relaxation.
Newborough Forest Trails
Behind Newborough Beach
Explore miles of walking and cycling routes through a picturesque pine forest, often with wild ponies.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Llanddwyn Island
Parking and Access Tips
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Tide Times First! :clock1:
Llanddwyn Island is only accessible at low tide. Plan your visit accordingly to avoid disappointment.
Arrive Early for Parking :car:
The main car park fills up quickly. Aim for an early start to secure a spot and avoid traffic queues.
Wear Comfortable Shoes :athletic_shoe:
You'll be doing a lot of walking on sand and trails. Sturdy footwear is a must for exploring the beach and island.
Pack a Picnic :sandwich:
There are limited facilities. Bring snacks and drinks to enjoy during your exploration, especially for longer visits.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Tide Times First! :clock1:
Llanddwyn Island is only accessible at low tide. Plan your visit accordingly to avoid disappointment.
Arrive Early for Parking :car:
The main car park fills up quickly. Aim for an early start to secure a spot and avoid traffic queues.
Wear Comfortable Shoes :athletic_shoe:
You'll be doing a lot of walking on sand and trails. Sturdy footwear is a must for exploring the beach and island.
Pack a Picnic :sandwich:
There are limited facilities. Bring snacks and drinks to enjoy during your exploration, especially for longer visits.
Dog-Friendly Beach :dog:
Newborough Beach is a great spot for dogs, with plenty of space to run. Remember to check local guidelines.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning natural beauty of Newborough Beach and Llanddwyn Island, often calling it one of the UK's best beaches. The combination of forest, sand dunes, and clear waters, along with the historical charm of Llanddwyn Island, creates a magical experience. Some note that parking can be challenging and the walk to the island isn't suitable for all.
"Amazing location. We did the blue route through the woods then round to the light house and back via the beach. Route was easy to follow (well signed) and offered a bit of everything. Not suitable for buggies or wheelchairs but ok for children - 7+ or those who enjoy walking. The dog beach was perfect. Go early as it started to get very busy from 2pm."
Fi G
"Fantastic national park with an amazing beach front and forest with trails all over. A must see for any beach lover or hiker. Easy access and parking. The views are something to see! Well worth a visit more than once!"
Simon Eastwood
"Amazing place for a walk or relax on the beach. We walked from the car park where there is toilet facilities to the lighthouse. It's about 45 minute walk but amazing views on a clear sunny day. Only bad thing was getting out the car park takes far to long need a better system."
Tony Henry
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Newborough Beach and Llanddwyn Island are located on Anglesey. The best way to reach them is by car. Follow signs for Newborough Nature Reserve. The main car park is well-signed, but alternative parking options exist to avoid congestion.
Public transport options are limited. While buses may serve nearby villages, a car is generally recommended for easy access to Newborough and Llanddwyn Island.
From the A55, take the exit for Newborough (B4419). Follow the signs for Newborough Nature Reserve and the beach. Be aware that the main car park can get busy.
Yes, Newborough Forest has dedicated cycling routes, making it a great option for cyclists. You can cycle through the forest to reach the beach.
The main paths through Newborough Forest are generally accessible, but the sandy beach and the route to Llanddwyn Island may not be suitable for buggies or wheelchairs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is a parking fee for the Newborough Nature Reserve car park. The fee covers access to the beach, forest, and Llanddwyn Island.
The reserve is generally open year-round, but car park opening and closing times may vary seasonally. It's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
No, advance booking is not typically required for general entry. However, parking can be limited, so arriving early is advised.
Yes, toilet facilities are available at the main car park.
No, Llanddwyn Island is a tidal island and is only accessible for a few hours around low tide. Always check tide times before your visit.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can walk along the vast sandy beach, explore the pine forest trails, visit the historic Llanddwyn Island with its lighthouses and ruins, and enjoy stunning views of Snowdonia.
Llanddwyn Island is safe to walk on when accessible at low tide. Be mindful of the tide times and do not attempt to cross if the tide is coming in.
Yes, wild ponies are often seen grazing in the Newborough Forest and around Llanddwyn Island.
Newborough Beach is a Blue Flag beach, meaning it has excellent water quality and cleanliness. The water can be cold but is crystal clear.
Yes, swimming is popular at Newborough Beach, especially on warmer days. The clear waters are inviting, though can be chilly.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are limited food and drink facilities directly at the beach or on Llanddwyn Island. It's recommended to bring your own picnic.
You'll find more dining options in nearby towns and villages on Anglesey, such as Beaumaris or Rhosneigr, which are a short drive away.
Absolutely! Newborough Beach is a perfect spot for a picnic. Many visitors bring their own food and enjoy it with the stunning views.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the iconic lighthouses on Llanddwyn Island, the sweeping sandy beach, the unique forest landscape, and panoramic views of Snowdonia. Golden hour offers magical light.
Early morning and late afternoon (golden hour) provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A polarizing filter can enhance the blues of the sea and sky.
Drone usage may be restricted in nature reserves and coastal areas. It's advisable to check local regulations and obtain any necessary permissions before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look out for the wild ponies, which are always a hit with younger visitors! +1 Remember to pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as facilities are limited. While Llanddwyn Island is beautiful, the walk might be challenging for very young children or those with buggies due to the sandy terrain. 🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
The well-signed paths in Newborough Forest provide ample opportunities for longer hikes, while the beach itself is perfect for leisurely strolls. 📸 Photographers
+1 Capture the magical light during golden hour, especially as the sun sets behind the mountains. Don't forget to photograph the unique forest landscape and the wild ponies for a truly diverse portfolio. +1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Llanddwyn Island
+1 Visitors can explore the ruins of St. Dwynwen's Church, wander among the two ancient lighthouses, and enjoy breathtaking views across the Menai Strait towards the majestic peaks of Snowdonia. The island's unique character comes alive as the tide recedes, revealing pathways and creating a sense of secluded discovery. Access to Llanddwyn Island is dependent on the tide. It is only accessible for approximately two hours on either side of low tide. It's crucial to check tide times before your visit to ensure you can safely reach the island and return before the tide comes in.
The walk to the island from the Newborough car park is scenic, often taking you along the beach, offering a perfect blend of coastal scenery and historical intrigue. During your exploration, keep an eye out for the wild ponies that often roam freely in the area.
+1 The island's natural beauty, combined with its rich history and romantic legends, makes it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Anglesey. The views from the island, especially during golden hour, are particularly spectacular for photography. Newborough Forest: A Coastal Woodland
The forest is crisscrossed with well-maintained walking and cycling trails, catering to various fitness levels. These paths wind through the trees, offering shade and a sense of tranquility, often leading to stunning viewpoints overlooking the sea and Llanddwyn Island. The forest is also home to a variety of wildlife, including the iconic wild ponies that are a common sight grazing amongst the trees and dunes.
+1 The scent of pine needles and the sound of the sea create a sensory delight, making it an ideal location for a peaceful stroll or an active adventure. Families will find the forest particularly engaging, with many trails suitable for children. The forest acts as a natural buffer, protecting the beach and providing a unique backdrop that has captivated visitors. Beyond its scenic beauty, Newborough Forest plays a vital role in coastal conservation. The trees help to stabilize the sand dunes, preventing erosion and preserving the delicate ecosystem.
It's a place where the land and sea meet in a spectacular display of nature's artistry.
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