Best Seaside Towns in North Wales: Coastal Gems to Visit in 2026
- Jet R.
- 4 hours ago
- 7 min read
North Wales is home to some of the most characterful seaside destinations in the UK. From traditional Victorian resorts and sweeping sandy beaches to historic harbour towns and dramatic coastal landscapes, there is plenty to discover along the North Wales coast.
If you are searching for the best seaside towns in North Wales, the right destination will depend on the type of break you are planning. Families may prefer wide beaches and classic seaside attractions, while couples might favour scenic walks, independent restaurants and historic surroundings.
Among them all, Llandudno stands out as one of the strongest all-round choices. Its combination of Victorian charm, two distinct beaches, the Great Orme, a famous pier, excellent attractions and convenient access to other North Wales destinations makes it an ideal base for exploring the region.
Here are some of the best seaside towns in North Wales to consider for your next coastal getaway.
1. Llandudno – The Best All-Round Seaside Town in North Wales
For a classic North Wales seaside experience, it is difficult to look beyond Llandudno.
Often described as one of the UK's best-loved seaside resorts, Llandudno combines elegant Victorian architecture with a beautiful coastline and a wealth of attractions. The town sits between the Great Orme and Little Orme, giving visitors an impressive natural backdrop as well as easy access to coastal walks and panoramic views.
Llandudno's famous promenade and pier are at the heart of the traditional seaside experience. The Victorian pier, originally built in 1878, extends into the bay and remains one of the town's defining landmarks.
Beyond the seafront, there is plenty to explore. Visitors can take the Great Orme Tramway or cable car towards the summit, explore the Great Orme Copper Mines, visit galleries and museums, or enjoy an evening performance at Venue Cymru.
The town also benefits from having two very different coastal experiences. North Shore offers the traditional resort atmosphere, while West Shore is quieter and particularly appealing for peaceful walks, watersports and sunset views.
Best for: Families, couples, first-time visitors, traditional seaside breaks and exploring wider North Wales.
Where to Stay in Llandudno
For guests looking for a comfortable and convenient base, Llandudno Great Escapes offers two distinctive accommodation options.
James Court Apartments provides seven individual one- and two-bedroom apartments in Llandudno. The collection includes six one-bedroom and one two-bedroom self-contained apartments, each designed with comfort and practicality in mind. Open-plan kitchen and living areas create a relaxed space for guests, while modern family bathrooms provide additional convenience.
For larger groups or extended family stays, Curzon Villa offers an impressive alternative. This detached Llandudno residence features 10 spacious bedrooms, including eight ensuite bedrooms. Two additional bedrooms share a Jack and Jill bathroom, making the property particularly well suited to families and groups travelling together.
Naturally, we recommend staying with Llandudno Great Escapes if you want luxury, comfort and convenient access to both the attractions of Llandudno and the wider North Wales coast.
2. Conwy – History Meets the Coast
Although Conwy is better known for its medieval heritage than as a traditional resort, it deserves a place on any list of the best seaside towns in North Wales.
The town's defining attraction is Conwy Castle, one of the most recognisable historic landmarks in Wales. The surrounding medieval walls, narrow streets and traditional buildings give Conwy a very different character from the larger resort of Llandudno.
Its location also makes it an excellent choice for visitors who want to combine history with coastal exploration. Conwy sits close to the coast and the Conwy Estuary, while Llandudno, Deganwy and other coastal destinations are nearby.
Conwy works particularly well for travellers who want more than a beach holiday. You can spend the morning exploring the castle and historic town before heading towards the coast for an afternoon walk or seafood dinner.
Best for: History lovers, couples, photographers and cultural breaks.
3. Colwyn Bay – Spacious Beaches and Family Days Out
Colwyn Bay offers a more relaxed coastal experience while retaining the traditional character associated with North Wales seaside resorts.
The town has a broad promenade and an expansive bay, making it popular for beach walks, family outings and watersports. Nearby Porth Eirias provides another focal point for enjoying the coastline.
One of the area's major attractions is the Welsh Mountain Zoo, which sits above the coast and provides panoramic views across the surrounding landscape.
Colwyn Bay is also conveniently positioned between Llandudno and the wider North Wales coast, making it a useful base for visitors who want to explore several destinations during one trip.
Best for: Families, beach walks, watersports and relaxed coastal breaks.
4. Prestatyn – Beaches, Walking and the Great Outdoors
For visitors who prefer a more active seaside escape, Prestatyn is well worth considering.
The town has several sandy beaches, with the promenade connecting Central, Barkby and Ffrith beaches. The coastline provides plenty of space for traditional seaside activities, while the surrounding area offers opportunities for walking and exploring.
Prestatyn is also notable as the northern endpoint of the Offa's Dyke Path, one of Britain's best-known long-distance walking routes. This gives the town particular appeal for walkers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Nearby Talacre Beach, with its dunes and distinctive lighthouse, is another attractive option for a coastal day out.
Best for: Walkers, families, outdoor enthusiasts and beach days.
5. Rhyl – Classic Family Seaside Fun
Rhyl is one of the best-known traditional seaside resorts in North Wales and remains a popular destination for family-focused holidays.
Its broad beaches provide plenty of room for seaside activities, while the surrounding area offers attractions and entertainment suitable for visitors of different ages. Visit Wales highlights Rhyl and Prestatyn for their wide beaches and family-friendly coastal environment.
Rhyl is particularly suited to visitors who enjoy the classic British seaside atmosphere, where the focus is on spending time outdoors, enjoying the beach and finding plenty to do during a family break.
Best for: Families, traditional seaside holidays and visitors looking for entertainment alongside the beach.
6. Abergele – A Quieter Coastal Escape
If you want to experience the North Wales coast at a slower pace, Abergele and nearby Pensarn offer an appealing alternative to the larger resorts.
Pensarn Beach provides a long stretch of coastline with views towards Gwrych Castle. The area has a more relaxed atmosphere, making it suitable for visitors looking for peaceful walks and open coastal scenery.
Abergele is also well positioned for exploring other parts of North Wales. Its location between larger coastal destinations means visitors can enjoy a quieter base while still reaching Llandudno, Conwy and other attractions relatively easily.
Best for: Peaceful breaks, walkers, couples and visitors who prefer a quieter coastline.
7. Rhos-on-Sea – Small-Town Coastal Charm
Rhos-on-Sea offers a more intimate seaside experience than some of North Wales' larger resorts.
The town sits along the Conwy coast and combines a coastal promenade with beaches, cafés and local attractions. Its position close to Colwyn Bay and Llandudno also makes it convenient for exploring the wider region.
For visitors who like the idea of a coastal base without the busier feel of a major resort, Rhos-on-Sea can be a good choice.
Best for: Couples, relaxed breaks, coastal walks and slower-paced holidays.
8. Abersoch – Beaches and Watersports
Further west, on the Llŷn Peninsula, Abersoch offers a very different type of North Wales seaside experience.
The former fishing village is particularly popular with beachgoers and watersports enthusiasts. Sailing, kayaking and surfing are among the activities that attract visitors to this part of the coast, while the surrounding landscape provides plenty of opportunities for scenic walks and exploration.
Abersoch can become busy during the summer, but its combination of beaches, boating and the rugged landscape of the Llŷn Peninsula gives it a distinctive appeal.
Best for: Watersports, beach holidays, active travellers and summer getaways.
Why Llandudno Comes Out on Top
Each of these seaside towns has its own strengths, but Llandudno offers perhaps the most complete package.
It has the traditional seaside appeal of a Victorian resort, but it is not limited to the beach. The Great Orme creates opportunities for hiking, sightseeing and wildlife encounters, while the promenade and pier deliver the classic coastal experience. There are also cultural attractions, restaurants, shopping and entertainment within the town itself.
Its location is another major advantage.
From Llandudno, visitors can easily explore nearby Conwy, Colwyn Bay, Rhos-on-Sea and other parts of the North Wales coast. The town also provides a convenient starting point for exploring the mountains and landscapes of Eryri (Snowdonia). Visit Wales describes the Llandudno and Colwyn Bay area as a destination where visitors can combine beaches, nature, castles and other attractions.
That combination makes Llandudno particularly attractive for a longer stay rather than simply a day trip.
Make Llandudno Your North Wales Base
If you are planning to visit several of the best seaside towns in North Wales, choosing the right accommodation can make the experience considerably easier.
Llandudno is ideally positioned for exploring both the coast and the surrounding attractions, while offering plenty to see and do within the town itself.
For couples, families and larger groups, Llandudno Great Escapes provides flexible accommodation options designed around different types of stays.
At James Court Apartments, guests can choose from seven self-contained one- and two-bedroom apartments, providing the flexibility of an apartment-style stay with open-plan living and kitchen areas.
For larger parties, Curzon Villa offers 10 bedrooms, including eight en-suite bedrooms, alongside two further bedrooms connected by a Jack and Jill bathroom. Its generous layout makes it particularly suitable for families, groups and multi-generational stays.
Whether you are planning a romantic weekend, a family seaside holiday or a group trip around North Wales, staying with Llandudno Great Escapes gives you a comfortable base from which to explore.
Final Thoughts
North Wales has no shortage of beautiful coastal destinations. From the family-friendly beaches of Rhyl and Prestatyn to the historic character of Conwy and the watersports appeal of Abersoch, each town offers something different.
But if you want one destination that combines classic seaside charm, natural scenery, attractions, culture and access to the wider region, Llandudno is a standout choice.
Its Victorian promenade, iconic pier, two beaches and dramatic Great Orme create a setting that feels quintessentially Welsh while offering everything you need for a modern coastal break.
So, when planning your next trip, put Llandudno at the top of your list, and consider making Llandudno Great Escapes your base for discovering some of the very best seaside towns in North Wales.
Quick Guide: Best Seaside Towns in North Wales
Seaside town | Best for |
Llandudno | Best all-round seaside experience |
Conwy | History and culture |
Colwyn Bay | Families and spacious beaches |
Prestatyn | Walking and outdoor activities |
Rhyl | Traditional family seaside fun |
Abergele | Peaceful coastal breaks |
Rhos-on-Sea | Relaxed seaside charm |
Abersoch | Watersports and beach holidays |
Planning a North Wales getaway?
Explore the accommodation options at Llandudno Great Escapes and enjoy a comfortable base for discovering Llandudno, the North Wales coast and the surrounding countryside.
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