Porth Simdde (Samddai)

The rocky cove at Porth Simdde catches you off guard if you're not looking for it - a proper Welsh coastal pocket tucked away near Pwllheli, all dark stone and tide pools when the water's out. There's no visitor centre, no café, no facilities beyond what nature provides, which is precisely why it works. The beach itself is small, maybe 200 metres across at high tide, framed by low cliffs that have that weathered, ancient feel you get along this stretch of Cardigan Bay. Walkers use it as a loop destination from nearby paths; families with younger kids might struggle with the rocky approach and lack of facilities, but teenagers tend to find it refreshing - zero crowds, actual geology on display, no ice cream vans in sight.

It's the kind of place you'd pair with a camping trip at Treheli Farm or Tyn Ddol, both within easy striking distance, rather than visit as a standalone attraction. You could easily spend an hour here picking through rock pools or just sitting on the stones watching the light change. Time your visit for low tide if you want to maximise the beach space, and bring proper shoes - the rocks are slippery when wet and genuinely sharp in places. Free access, naturally, and no crowds to speak of even in summer. Worth the detour from Pwllheli if you're after something with real character rather than the manicured beach experience.