Traeth Ysgaden

A sweep of golden sand backed by dunes - that's Traeth Ysgaden, a proper beach that doesn't get rammed with day-trippers the way some of the bigger Pwllheli strands do. The name means 'herring beach' in Welsh, though these days you're more likely to find families and walkers than fishing boats.

It's a straightforward affair. You get sand, sea views across Cardigan Bay, and enough space to actually find a quiet spot even in summer. The dunes behind offer a bit of shelter if the wind's up, and there's something satisfying about the lack of commercialisation - no arcades, no ice cream vans, just beach. The walk down is easy enough, making it decent for families with younger kids who aren't ready for serious coastal hikes.

Historians might appreciate that this stretch of coast has proper maritime heritage - the herring fishing here was serious business once - but this isn't a museum piece. It's a working beach for people who just want to be by the sea without the fuss.

If you're based at one of the camping spots nearby - Tyn Ddol or Glampio Coed are both within easy reach - it makes sense to include this in your rotation of local beaches. Not the most dramatic coastline in Gwynedd, but genuine and refreshingly unpretentious. Allow a couple of hours if you're serious about a swim or a long walk along the shore.