Quiet beaches in North Wales are easier to find than you might think. Away from the busy resorts, there are coves where the only footprints are yours and the only sound is the sea.
I'm Leon, an accredited celebrant and photographer based in Llandudno. Here are a few of the gentler stretches of sand, and how to keep them peaceful.
On Anglesey
Traeth Lligwy on the east coast is wide and open, with plenty of room even on a sunny day. Porth Swtan, also called Church Bay, faces west towards the evening sun. Porth Trecastell, near Aberffraw, is a small sheltered cove tucked between low cliffs.
On the Llŷn Peninsula
Traeth Penllech is a long, wild beach reached by a short walk, and Porth Ysgaden is a tiny rocky inlet where you can sit and watch the sea for as long as you like. Further along, small coves around the tip of the peninsula feel a world away.
When to Go for Peace
Early mornings and evenings are quietest, even in summer. Outside the school holidays, many beaches are almost empty midweek.
Check the Tides
Some coves shrink to almost nothing at high tide. Check Admiralty EasyTide before you go, and never let the tide cut you off around a headland. If you bring a dog, look for council signs, as some beaches restrict dogs in summer.
Beaches and Your Story
A quiet beach can hold the biggest moments: a guided proposal with Where Two Bloom, an elopement with Elope with Leon or a summer sunset with Twilight Ceremonies. Explore my storytelling experiences.
Anywhere Your Story Goes
North Wales is home, but you can choose anywhere for your experiences: elsewhere in the UK, or abroad.
Take nothing but photographs and leave the sand as you found it. When one of these coves feels like the place for your next chapter, plan your experience.