One of the more secluded bays along the Pembrokeshire coast, Traeth Llyfn Beach lies along the northwesterly coastline of Pembrokeshire. Its one of those “hidden beaches” which lies firmly off the beaten path so is a perfect candidate for those who want a little peace away from the crowds.
Nestled between the two old fishing villages of Porthgain and Abereiddy, Traeth Llyfn Beach is a stunning sandy cove with vibrant blue waters which is well worth a visit if you’re in the area. The out-of-the-way nature of this shoreline attracts wanderers, wildlife watchers and those seeking solace by the sea.
At low tide, a wide stretch of golden sands is unveiled at Traeth Llyfn Beach, giving plenty of space for beach games. Bring along a rugby ball or small bat and ball suitable for rounders, and you can easily waste a few hours here frolicking in the sunshine.
Remarkable towering slate cliffs back this beach creating a wonderfully sheltered space. When the sun is shining, this spot becomes a fantastic suntrap ideal for catching rays and soaking in the warmth. When there is a breeze in the air though, you might want to bring along a kite for an hour or two practising your kite flying techniques.
Its positioning along the Welsh coast is fairly exposed to the incoming seas, so be wary of powerful rip currents. Some do swim here but there are no lifeguards due to the remote location, so be very careful if you’re packing your bathers and planning a sea swim here.
The interesting cliff faces here result in fascinating rock pools around the edges of the sand, perfect for anyone who loves to search for starfish, sea anemones and even potentially a miniature octopus or two.
As you would expect from any secret beach, facilities here are non-existent. At Traeth Llyfn Beach, your nearest facilities are available at Porthgain and Abereiddy. Both coastal villages have car parks, public toilets and bus stops.
The North Pembrokeshire Fflecsi Bus scheme is available 7.30-6.30 Monday-Friday and 8.30-6.30 on Saturdays. This bus service covers the zone that connects the spectacular coast between Fishguard, St Davids and Broad Haven.
Abereiddy to the west has only a seasonal mobile ice cream van where you can pick up cooling refreshments and a mobile watersports centre offering coasteering sessions that take place in Abereiddy’s Blue Lagoon.
At Porthgain however, in the east, you will find public toilets and an art gallery along with a particularly popular seaside pub, The Sloop Inn, and a bistro, The Shed, where you can pick up freshly cooked fish and chips.
If you’re planning a visit, make sure to pay attention to the tide times as you may get cut off here at high tide. Make sure also to take into account how much time it will take you to get back to your car -there are no street lights along the coast path so you’ll need a torch if leaving at dusk.
If you’re torn as to where to park, bear in mind that Abereiddy now imposes a seasonal parking charge (around £5 for the day) during the peak summer season, whereas parking at Porthgain is free.
Access to Traeth Llyfn Beach is only via the Pembrokeshire Coast Path between Abereiddy and Porthgain. It is only around a 1km walk from Abereiddy so isn’t too far to stroll.
That being said, once you arrive at the beach entrance you’ll discover a very steep set of metal stairs, approximately 124 steps if you can rely on our counting! This staircase allegedly dates back to the Second World War when it was built there by prisoners of war.
Yes, Traeth Llyfn Beach is completely dog friendly all year round. If you’re bringing along your furry friend, bear in mind you might have to carry them home if you tire them out too much before making them take the climb back up those stairs back to the car!
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