We're so lucky in Wales to have dozens and dozens of gorgeous beaches to choose from whenever we fancy a day out or evening walk along the beach. Across the country, we have everything from long sandy beaches with huge surfing waves to family-friendly bays and coves offering activities and facilities - and several hidden-away precious gems that can be a hassle to get to but are well worth the trip.
One such hidden-away gem of a beach is Penmon Point. Tucked away in the southeastern corner of Anglesey, this gorgeous largely-unknown spot offers incredible views of Puffin Island and Trwyn Du Lighthouse in one direction, Penmon Nature Reserve in another and the coast of Gwynedd and Conwy in another.
Unlike its neighbouring public beaches, Penmon Point is actually located at the far end of an aristocratic estate. To visit, you have to drive down a toll road, which comes with a small fee of £3.50 per vehicle, on the Baron Hill Estate founded by Sir Richard Williams-Bulkeley in 1618.
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As reported by our sister site NorthWalesLive, it is possible to walk down to Penmon Point - for free - however, the journey from the entrance to the toll road, just next to Penmon Dovecote, down to the beach is around a mile. As well as the beach, the Dovecote and nearby Prior and St Seiriol's Well are well worth a visit too.
The Priory is a historic monastery, with walls that are so old that they make the building one of the oldest-surviving Christian buildings in all of Wales, and St Seiriol's Well was built by the monks of Penmon and is traditionally believed to have healing powers.
From the entrance to Penmon Point nearby, you simply pay the toll and follow the road straight down. As you come over a small hill, you're met with incredible views out to sea and onwards to Puffin Island. The road itself is windy and tight in several places, though there are several crossing points. You'll find parking at the end of the route, offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
Penmon Point is a bit of a suntrap and can get a bit windy. The beach itself is entirely pebble-strewn ie. there's no sand. But what the Point lacks in golden sands it makes up for in incredible views all around. You'll find yourself transfixed at views of Penmon Nature Reserve in one direction, while across the water you'll see Trwyn Du Lighthouse and Puffin Island and to the south you'll see the coast of Gwynedd and Conwy.
There's several walking routes to follow or you can simply enjoy the beach and relax. Unfortunately, due to strong winds and dangerous tides, swimming at Penmon Point is not advised.
From here you can relax and take in the views, go for a gentle beach stroll or follow one of the walking routes along the Anglesey coastline. There's also a lovely café to visit, the Pilot House Cafe, which serves a wide range of food and drink - including amazing cocktails. It is worth noting that due to strong winds and dangerous tides, swimming at Penmon Point is not advised - which is probably for the best, given the cocktails!
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