There’s something exciting about getting up close to a rockpool and taking a peek at what lives below the surface. You don’t know what you might find hidden among the seaweed and barnacle-covered rocks.
In a sheltered bay on the Llyn Peninsula is a tiny fishing village with some impressive rockpools, home to a variety of marine life. Nestled in a sheltered cove, Porthdinllaen features a handful of whitewashed buildings which sit right on the edge of the sand.
When the tide goes out several rock pools are revealed, home to anemones, crabs, fish, jellyfish and more. Children will love investigating all the nooks and crannies, discovering the other-worldly creatures which live there.
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Further away from the shore hidden under the water is the largest seagrass meadow in North Wales, home to a variety of fish. You may even spot a grey seal or two as the headland is a popular spot for local seals, while the cliffs provide the perfect habitat for various coastal birds.
Thanks to the sheltered waters, Porthdinllaen is a great spot for boating, kayaking, swimming and snorkelling. Or simply enjoy a paddle in the waves as you watch the local fishermen going about their business.
Rockpools aren’t the only reason to visit this tiny coastal village: it’s also where you’ll find one of the best beach bars in the world. The Ty Coch Inn is just a couple of steps away from the beach, and has incredible views across the bay.
The pub was named in a list for the top 10 beach bars in the world, alongside venues in France, Brazil, Thailand and the Caribbean. It was the only UK bar to make the list, but it’s easy to see why it made the list with its amazing beachside location.
For a small village Porthdinllaen has an interesting past. There were once plans for it to become a major port in the route from London to Dublin at the turn of the 18th century. In the 19th century it also had a flourishing shipbuilding and fishing industry.
Today, fishing is still a key part of life at Porthdinllaen and you can’t miss the fishing boats floating around in the bay. There's also a historic lifeboat station, while a section of the Llyn Coastal Path runs around the perimeter of the headland.
The nearest car park for visitors is at Morfa Nefyn, which is a mile away. Porthdinllaen can be easily reached on foot from there. The car park is operated by the National Trust, and costs £5 all day from April 1 until October 1, and £2.50 during the winter seasons. It’s £1.50 after 4pm all year round. The pay and display machines accept coins only and you can also pay online using PayByPhone, parking is free for National Trust members.
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