The UK is blessed with hundreds of stunning seaside towns. Unfortunately, many of them become packed with tourists during the warmer months. Newquay in Cornwall is a perfect example. It’s undeniably beautiful and well worth visiting, but it can get extremely busy. Luckily for those looking for peace and quiet, there may be a better alternative, according to some visitors.
Nefyn is a small seaside town on the Llŷn Peninsula in north-west Wales. It has a population of just over 2,600 and offers a much slower pace of life. The beach there is wide, sandy, and surrounded by cliffs and green headlands. According to Visit Wales, it stretches for around two miles and is known for its calm waters and peaceful setting.
One TripAdvisor user wrote: “We used to go to Newquay every summer, but this beach is better and so much quieter. You can really switch off.”
Another said: “It’s one of the most relaxing places we’ve been to. A hidden gem with amazing views.”
At one end of the beach is Porthdinllaen, a small fishing village that can only be reached by foot.
It’s home to the famous Tŷ Coch Inn, a red-brick pub right on the sand that’s regularly named one of the best beach bars in the world.
The area is also known for its seagrass meadows, which according to the National Trust, play an important role in protecting marine life and absorbing carbon.
There’s also plenty to do nearby. The Nefyn & District Golf Club is perched on the clifftops and offers some of the most scenic golfing holes in the UK.
Those who love walking can also explore parts of the Wales Coast Path, while the Llŷn Maritime Museum tells the story of local seafaring history.
The town itself has a few small shops and cafes, but it hasn’t been taken over by big chains or commercial tourism. That’s part of its charm.
According to Visit Gwynedd, the beach is safe for swimming and there is a lifeguard service in summer.
While Newquay still attracts thousands of visitors each year, those who’ve been to both often say Nefyn is just as beautiful and much more relaxing.
The peace and quiet, however, does come at a price as there is nowhere near as much to do in Nefyn. The High Street is small and the town does not offer as many amenities compared to the much bigger Newquay.
But, for anyone looking for a quieter seaside escape this summer, Nefyn could be the perfect choice.
