The best off season coastal towns to visit in North Wales

Although you tend to think of heading to the beach as more a summer activity, autumn is a good time to explore some of our beautiful little coastal towns in North Wales. As well as some great coastal walks, you can also get on your bike and enjoy a ride. Take a cycle along the coast, and then come and stay at our accommodation in Porthmadog. We love welcoming bikers and offer comfortable, relaxing rooms after a hard days cycling.

So where are the best off-season coastal towns to visit?

Abersoch

Abersoch is a great place to visit off season because it’s packed in the summer and it’s hard to move with all the people. The surf is great on the beaches of Abersoch and you’ll still be able to catch some great waves at this time of year.

Abersoch is a really pretty little village resort to visit and it’s becoming more popular out of season as cafes and restaurants are staying open longer, so take the chance to avoid the crowds and enjoy the atmosphere of the village.

Barmouth

Barmouth is in the south west corner of Snowdonia National Park and as well the beach there’s some lovely parts of the town to see. The old town is well worth a visit, with little slate rooved cottages nestled together on the side of a mountain.

Take a stroll along the harbour and feel the fresh autumn breeze before stopping at one of the many cafes, pubs and restaurants in the town.

Beaumaris

Beaumaris is little coastal town on the Isle of Anglesey. As well as some spectacular views of the Menai Straits, there’s a lovely mix of Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian architecture within the town and lots of the properties are painted in bright pastel colours. Beaumaris is best known for its castle; built by Edward I, which is well worth a visit. Take a stroll along the pier if it’s a bright, cold day but be sure to wrap up warm.

Caernarfon

It’s hard not to notice the massive castle looming over the waterfront in Caernarfon. With its polygonal towers it’s a sight to behold and it’s also a UNESCO world heritage site. 

The waterfront alongside the castle has been regenerated and is a place for a stroll. If the weather isn’t great, head into Galeri the arts, theatre and cinema complex.

You can travel to Caernarfon from Porthmadog on the Welsh Highland Railway which allows you to take in the views through the Snowdonia National Park on your way to the town.

Porthmadog

We might be biased but we think Porthmadog is a great place to visit out of season. As well as being the gateway to the breath-taking Snowdonia National Park, and a great location for walking, cycling, and motorbiking, our High Street is full of little independent shops and cafes, home to the famous Cawalader’s ice cream (because it’s never too cold for ice cream right?) and you can travel the Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railway across the valleys.

We’re just a stones throw from the magical Portmeirion village where you can visit the Italianate village and pick up some of the well-known pottery.