The Best Beaches in North Wales for Your Family Photoshoot
North You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to beaches in North Wales. The real challenge is choosing one that suits your shoot (and your patience). Things like travel time, parking, crowds, and whether your toddler will immediately run into the sea all matter. Here are my top five, with the pros and cons.
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1. Newborough Beach, Anglesey- for the Dramatic Family
The ones who arrive with flowing dresses and at least one person who insists on climbing a dune “for the shot”. You’ll thrive here. You’ll also probably get lost in the forest, but that’s part of the charm.
Newborough is the Beyoncé of North Wales beaches; everyone wants her and she’s always busy. You’ve got dunes, pale sand, a huge forest full of red squirrels (Anglesey is the only county in Wales where red squirrels outnumber greys) , and Llanddwyn Island at low tide, complete with a historic lighthouse and views across to the Llŷn Peninsula. Grey seals often haul out around Llanddwyn too, so you might spot one if you’re lucky.
Cons:
Parking is… an experience. The entry lane is narrow, there’s a registration barrier, and the car park is famously pricey. Traffic through the nearby village can gridlock during peak season. If you choose this spot, go early, late, or outside school holidays and weekends.
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2. Harlech Beach, Snowdonia- for the Chill Family
If your family moves at the speed of a Sunday morning, Harlech is your place. Miles of sand, loads of space, castle views, and no one rushing you. Perfect for families who want to stroll, splash, and maybe have a little argument about who forgot the snacks for the picnic shots.
Harlech is huge with miles of golden sand, rolling dunes, and views of Harlech Castle. It’s one of the most beautiful long beaches in Wales and has multiple car parks nearby.
It does get busy in summer, but nowhere near the chaos of Newborough. If you want space to run around, this is your place.
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3. Porthdinllaen (Morfa Nefyn), Llŷn Peninsula- for the “We’re Basically On Holiday” Family
This is for families who treat every day out like a mini break. And you know someone will definitely suggest stopping at Ty Coch Inn “just for one”.
This beach is famous for the Ty Coch Inn, a pub right on the sand. You can literally get a drink mid‑photoshoot. It’s also home to grey seals along the northern coast, including small groups near Porthdinllaen. There’s also a seagrass restoration project here, which is brilliant for the environment and makes the water even more beautiful.
Cons:
The road down is a single track and can be awkward. Many locals avoid it entirely and arrive by boat. You can park further away and walk about half an hour, which is actually lovely if you’re not carrying tons of photo equipment.
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4. Porthor (Whistling Sands), Llŷn Peninsula- for the Nature Nerd Family
If your family gets excited about squeaking sand, spotting seals, and remote beaches that feel like a secret, this is your spot. You’re the family who brings binoculars, points at birds, and says things like “look at the colour of that water”. You’ll fit right in.
The sand squeaks when you walk on it, hence the name. It’s remote, golden, and usually quiet. Parking is free for National Trust members, and there’s a café where you might spot seals offshore.
It feels like a secret beach, even though it’s not. Perfect if you want a peaceful shoot without crowds staring at you.
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5. Trearddur Bay, Anglesey- for the Adventurous Family
This is for the families who can’t sit still. Someone will be in the water within five minutes. Someone else will be poking around rock pools. Someone will shout “look at this crab” far too loudly. If your family thrives on movement, this beach will keep you busy.
Trearddur Bay is smaller but great for swimming and snorkelling. The wildlife here is fantastic if you slow down and look. There are plenty of car parks along the coast, so access is easy.
It does get busy in summer, but it’s still worth it, especially if you want rock pools, clear water, and a bit of adventure.
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Why Beach Photoshoots Always Work
Beach shoots are atmospheric by default. You get movement, wind, waves, space, and light that changes every five minutes. And if you’re brave enough to get in the water? Even better. I’ll be right there with you, and yes, I do underwater photography too. If that isn’t quirky, I don’t know what is.
