Porth Buarth-y-mor

The Welsh name translates to 'beach of the sea gate', and once you arrive at Porth Buarth-y-mor near Ty Croes, you'll understand why - it's a proper wild coastline with dramatic rock formations that jut out of the sand like forgotten sentries. The beach itself is modest in size, backed by rough grass and accessible via a short walk from the car park, but what makes it worthwhile is the raw, windswept character of the place. You won't find ice cream vans or organised beach clubs here.

It's the kind of spot where families with older kids who don't mind getting salt spray in their hair will have a genuine time - rockpooling is possible at low tide, and there's enough space to throw a ball around without feeling crowded. Walkers tend to prefer it because the beach connects to a decent coastal path with views across the Menai Strait towards Snowdonia on clear days. The downside? Weather can turn nasty quickly, and on grey Anglesey days - which are frequent - it can feel rather bleak.

There's no admission charge and no facilities at the beach itself, so bring what you need. Allow 90 minutes to two hours if you're combining rockpooling and a walk. If you're based at Y Fronydd or any of the caravan parks within five or six miles, this is worth a morning trip. It won't keep you entertained all day, but as a change of scenery from the busier Anglesey beaches, it's solid.