Stunning UK beach with golden coves and Caribbean-blue waters
- UK Hidden Gems
- Sep 5
- 2 min read
If you’re dreaming of soft white sand, turquoise waves and barely another person around, there’s a hidden cove in North Wales that could be the perfect escape.
Sitting on the north-west side of the Llyn Peninsula, this hidden gem is sheltered by grassy headlands at Dinas and Graig Ddu, giving it a private, almost secret feel.
You can reach the cove either by walking down the dunes from one of the newest parts of the Wales Coast Path or by driving along a private farm track that leads to the car park. This beach has been a much-loved spot for locals and adventurous families for years.
It’s worth noting that the farm track is sometimes closed, so checking before you go is a good idea.
Once you arrive, you’ll find soft sand perfect for sandcastles, shallow clear waters for paddling, and rocky outcrops waiting to be explored.
The rocks to the north are also popular with anglers who often catch bass from the shoreline.
Looking over the bay, you’ll spot the remains of an ancient hill fort, a reminder of the area’s long history. Families with dogs will be glad to know pets are welcome all year round.
One review on The Beach Guide described it as "a gorgeous little sandy cove… great for sandcastles or splashing around." Another visitor wrote: "Such a wonderful place to stay with the family."
After a quieter spell, Porth Iago is becoming popular again. In the 1970s it was at its busiest, but after a member of the Ty Mawr farming family who owned the land passed away, the area became less well known.
These days, the campsite has reopened on a smaller scale, with around eight acres set aside for visitors, while the wider site is still popular with walkers. Site manager Chris said: "Others have been returning here for 50 or 60 years."
Day visitors can park at Ty Mawr Farm for about £5, while coastal walkers are charged a small £1 fee to cross the land and reach the cove.
Despite its new wave of visitors, Porth Iago has kept its peaceful feel thanks to its tucked-away location. The lack of facilities and poor phone signal mean it’s best to come prepared and bring everything you’ll need for the day.
Remember - LeaveNoTrace!
As with anywhere outdoors, kindly keep these areas pristine and wild by taking all trash with you. The amount of complaints we have seen since the pandemic is crazy. It's really not that hard to take your rubbish with you!
Litter tends to spread, so if you see any and are able to pick it up and dispose of it outside the hidden gem, it will help keep the area tidy.
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