Located in North Wales’s Llŷn Peninsula is one of the UK’s most unique beaches, Porthor. Known by some as ‘Whistling Sands’, this beach has one rather strange feature, where the sand sounds like it’s whistling under your feet. One of only two beaches in Europe where this phenomenon can be found, Porthor, known to locals as Porth Oer, is truly a must-visit destination.
Walking holiday specialists Mickledore have highlighted that Porthor is particularly loved by visitors for its rare sound, breathtaking views, and easy access. The experts add: “Porthor’s gentle ‘song’ is rare and beautiful. It turns a simple walk into something magical. Where else can you step on the sand and have it sing back to you?”
Alongside its singing sands, Porthor offers stunning views of the small islands of Dinas Bach and Dinas Fawr, where grey seals are sometimes spotted.
It’s also in a great location for those walking along the Wales Coast Path, serving as a perfect starting point for walks to Mynydd Anelog, another location that offers outstanding views.
Those wanting to experience the ‘whistling sands’ for themselves must visit when the conditions are just right. Visit on a dry day, walk above the high tide line, and either shuffle your feet or step lightly, and that’s when may you hear the squeak or whistle.
Visitors to the beach have left rave reviews on TripAdvisor, with one writing: “This was our favourite beach on Llyn. Perhaps more of a ‘squeak’ than a whistling beach but sure enough if you walk across the sand bare foot you’ll hear it! Dramatic location, crystal clear waters, lovely soft squeaky sand!”
While another wrote: “What a lovely sandy beach, great car park, lovely views with rock pools and a cave for the children to explore. Could hear the sand whistling under our feet, well worth a visit.”
A third, who sadly didn’t get to experience the ‘whistling’, added: “Beautiful beach well worth a visit. Lovely coffee and cake served in the cafe. Sand was quite wet so I didn’t get the whistling experience.”