With its stunning golden sands, lush countryside and excellent reputation; the coastal town of Benllech is a popular holiday destination.
Where the name originates isn’t clear, but general opinion is that it either evolved from a mutated form of penllech (head slab or rock) or ar ben llech meaning ‘on slate.’
Awards and Accolades
A European Blue Flag winner since 2004, Marine Conservation Society recommended – Benllech regularly appears in the top best beaches in Wales in various surveys/reports. It was also voted the 3rd best beach for dogs in the UK in a report by Sykes Cottage. And not forgetting the Tidiest Village on Anglesey between 1973-79!
Location:
Nestled between Red Wharf Bay and St David’s Beach; and looking out towards Penmon Point and the Great Orme – Benllech boasts vast yellow sands and clean blue water. The Wales Coast Path and Anglesey Coastal Path will take you through this beautiful village. Pentraeth and the fishing village of Moelfre are just a 15-minute drive away and deserve a visit.
Why visit Benllech?
Benllech’s reputation for cleanliness makes it perfect for walking, picnicking or sandcastle-building with the family and its clean, safe waters make it a great place for swimming, sailing, surfing, body-boarding or wind surfing. There are plenty of local businesses who can provide equipment/experiences for these water sports.
For additional security there is a life guarding service during high season. The beach is also an ideal location for sea fishing.
The rocky outcrops are a haven for wildlife and the rockpools home to crabs and starfish.
Dog-Walking: This is a very popular destination for dog walkers due to the vast expanse of beautiful sandy beach and stunning views. But it is important to remember that during the busy tourist season – 1st May to 30th September – the northern part of the beach is closed to dogs. Dogs are also required to be kept on a lead when on the promenade.
Parking: Short-term parking is available on the seafront and in the P&D car park. Please note, that in high season these may get full very early in the day.
Where to Eat:
Pebbles Bistro: Llanddwyn Bangor Road, Benllech. LL74 8TG.
Excellent Sunday lunch. Friendly staff and a lovely ambience.
Bay Café: Beach Road, Benllech. LL74 8SW.
Perfect for breakfast or afternoon tea – as near to the beach you can get without sitting in the sand.
Finney’s @ The Golden Fry: The Square, Benllech. LL74 8SN
Glorious fish and chips near a British beach. Need we say more? Eat in or take to a bench and watch the waves.
Beachcomber: Bangor Road, Benllech. LL74 8TF
This family-friendly bar and grill is the place for mussels, tapas and pizza. The Welsh brewed lagers are worth a try. When in Wales..
Beach Kiosks: Benllech Beach
You can’t go to the seaside without having an ice cream. Luckily there are several kiosks along the beach from which to purchase your favourite flavour.
Where to go?
Beaumaris Gaol & Court House: Steeple Lane, Beaumaris. LL58 8EP (6.5 miles away)
Take a fascinating journey back in time to learn more about this Victorian jail. An excellent tour by Roger!
Stone Science: Llanddyfnan, Pentraeth. LL75 8UL
If the Victorian era is too recent for you – head back 650 million years at Stone Science. This is a popular, family-owned museum housing one of the largest collection of fossils in Wales. Learn more about these fossils, crystals, minerals and rare geological artefacts. Study dinosaur models! As with all great museums – the gift shop is not to be missed.
Penrhyn Castle: Ffordd Llandegai, Bangor. LL57 4AT
A 19th century country house built in the style of a Norman castle, set in 60 acres of garden and woodland. Views of Snowdonia, the Great Orme and Puffin Island. Experience includes Victorian Kitchens, Railway Museum, Castle/Stable Café and shops.
Red Wharf Bay (Traeth Coch): LL75 8RJ
This large bay is a nature reserve with a plethora of birdlife. Come to spot purple sandpipers, shelducks, curlews and dunlins. Then relax in one of three restaurants/inns with spectacular views of the bay: The Ship Inn, The Tavern on the Bay and The Boathouse.