Porth y Santes

Getting to Porth y Santes from Holyhead means a short drive west towards the coast - nothing fancy, just a proper little Anglesey beach that doesn't get rammed with day-trippers. The beach itself is modest: golden sand, rockpools when the tide's out, decent views across towards the Irish Sea. Rocks break up the shoreline, which makes it interesting for kids hunting for crabs and starfish but means you won't get a long uninterrupted run of sand.

It's the kind of spot you'd visit if you're staying at one of the nearby campsites - Pengraig or Llain Ffynnon are practically on your doorstep, less than two miles away. Sandy Beach Caravan Park and Penrhyn Bay are also within easy reach if you're basing yourself on the island. The beach works well for families who want something low-key rather than a full day out. An hour or two of paddling and rockpool exploring, then you're done. Don't expect a café or lifeguards - you're relying on local knowledge and common sense here.

Walkers might find the coastal path more rewarding than the beach itself, and the scenery improves the further you venture from Holyhead. Summer weekends bring families, but even then it stays quiet compared to the honeypots. Worth a visit if you're in the area, but it's not the reason to come to Anglesey.