The stunning UK beach with 'gorgeous sandy coves' and Caribbean-blue waters

If you’re dreaming of a beach with soft white sand, turquoise waters, and hardly a soul in sight, a spot in North Wales might just be the perfect escape. Tucked on the north-west side of the Llyn Peninsula, this sheltered cove is surrounded by low grassy headlands at Dinas and Graig Ddu, giving it a sense of privacy that feels almost hidden from the modern world.

Accessible either via a scramble down the dunes from one of the newest sections of the Wales Coast Path or a private farm track leading to the car park, Porth Iago has long been a favourite for locals and adventurous families alike. The farm track has occasionally been closed, so it’s worth checking ahead if you plan to drive. Once there, the beach offers soft white sand perfect for building sandcastles, shallow turquoise waters ideal for paddling, and rocky outcrops to explore. The northern rocks are even popular with anglers, who can catch bass straight from the shore. Overlooking the cove, an ancient hill fort lookout hints at the area’s long history, while modern visitors can simply relax. Dogs are welcome all year round, making it a hit with families and their four-legged friends.

As one reviewer on The Beach Guide noted, it’s "a gorgeous little sandy cove… great for sandcastles or splashing around." Another wrote: "Such a wonderful place to stay with the family."

Porth Iago has seen a resurgence in popularity after years of quiet, following its peak in the 1970s and the death of a member of the Ty Mawr farming family, who historically owned the surrounding land and a 30-acre campsite.

Today, the site has reopened on a smaller eight-acre footprint, catering to day visitors and coastal walkers. Site manager Chris commented: "Others have been returning here for 50 or 60 years."

Day visitors can park at Ty Mawr Farm for around £5, while coastal walkers pay a nominal £1 to cross the site.

While Porth Iago may be drawing a new generation of UK beachgoers, its remote location ensures a sense of seclusion. Visitors should bring everything they need, as there are no facilities and phone signal is limited.

Kayaking, canoeing, swimming, and paddling in the shallow waters are all on offer, but the emphasis here is on enjoying the natural scenery - sparkling sands, crystal-clear shallows, and the chance to spot local wildlife, from dolphins to baby jellyfish.

If you’re planning a visit, Porth Iago is around a four-and-a-half-hour drive from London, roughly three hours from Birmingham, about four hours from Manchester, and just over two hours from Liverpool.

From nearby Bangor, it’s less than an hour, making it a surprisingly reachable gem for anyone exploring the north-west Wales coast.