Beaches to Visit this Autumn/Winter near Porthmadog

Yes that’s right, you dont have to read the title twice!! Porthmadog and the surrounding area play host to a collection of unique and interesting beaches which can be enjoyed all year round.

You won’t need a parasol or a bucket and spade for this excursion, but it is recommended you wrap up warm before exploring the stunning scenery and local surrounding area.

Harlech Beach

Where is it?
Ten miles south of Porthmadog, just across the Afon Glaslyn estuary

Approximate journey time: 20 minutes

What makes it so interesting?
This four mile stretch of golden sands offers breath-taking views of Snowdonia and the Llyn peninsula. On the northern side of the beach, you will find the Morfa Harlech National Nature Reserve, which is home to a selection of rare sand lizards that were recently re-introduced into the area.

In the autumn/winter months, the reserve becomes an important feeding grounds for wintering wades, see if you can spot any curlew, snipe of wildfowl. It is recommended you bring a pair of binoculars for this beach excursion.

Black Rock Sand Beach (Morfa Bychan)

Where is it?
Three miles west of Porthmadog, just past Porthmadog Golf Club

Approximate journey time: 7 minutes

What makes it so interesting?
Spanning across two miles, Black Rock Beach contains many rockpools and interesting caverns to explore. The beautiful sandy beach is surrounded by rock forms – although despite the name, the rocks aren’t actually black!

At the south-eastern point of the beach lies the mouth of the River Dwyryd, which is well worth a walk down to. It is then recommended that you head into the quaint village of Morfa Bychan and try one of their renowned fish and chip shops.

Criccieth

Where is it?
Five miles west of Porthmadog, a couple of minutes past Black Rock Sand Beach

Approximate journey time: 10 minutes

Why makes it so interesting?
Criccieth contains two Blue Flag Beaches which are separated by castle ruins placed on a rocky outcrop. Whilst both beaches are pebbly, the occasional stone underfoot is a small price to pay for this wonderous landscape. In the autumn/winter season it is recommended you visit the eastern beach, which boasts impressive views of the Welsh mountains and the Dwyryd estuary. At low tide the beach also reveals an array of rock pools.

Top tip: For a day trip, many holidaymakers visit both Criccieth and Black Rock Sand Beach as they are situated just a few minutes’ drive away from each other – so you can experience the allure of both these locations all on the same day!

Accommodation
If you’ve been inspired to visit one of these beautiful beaches, then visit our accommodation page to check availability and to find out more about staying in Porthmadog.