Porth Y Cwch

The tiny beach at Porth Y Cwch is exactly what its name promises - a cwtch, that untranslatable Welsh word for a cuddle or cosy nook. You'll find it on Anglesey's quieter southwest coast, a short drive from Ty Croes, tucked between low cliffs that shield it from the worst of the wind. It's a proper pocket handkerchief of a place, maybe fifty metres of sand and shingle at high tide, which means you need to time your visit right or you'll be paddling through rockpools instead.

What makes it worth the detour is the isolation. This isn't Newborough or any of Anglesey's busier beaches - you might share it with a handful of locals and the occasional dog walker. The walk down is brief but steep, with concrete steps and handholds, so it's fine for most ages but not ideal if you're managing a pushchair. The rocks at either end are worth exploring, especially when the tide's out and you get proper coves to investigate.

If you're staying at one of the caravan parks within five miles - Plas, Bodfan Farm, or Shoreside - this makes a cracking morning or afternoon break from the main holiday. An hour here is about right; bring a packed lunch if the weather's decent. Free to access, obviously. Go early on a weekend or midweek if you can, because even a handful of people changes the feel of a place this small. Best from May through September when the water's marginally less freezing.