1. Enjoy wild, untouched beaches
For a small island, there are lots of things to do in Anglesey. The beaches are second to none, backed by woodland and topped with stunning mountain views of Snowdonia and beyond. Newborough Beach is one of our favourite beaches as you have to make a short trek through pine forests to the dunes, and its backed by a protected nature reserve. At the far end of the beach you’ll also find the stunning Llanddwyn Island with a picturesque lighthouse – an ideal spot for a picnic or drink at sunset!
South Stack is another of the best beaches in Anglesey, and you’ll find the most famous lighthouse on the island as well as the RSPB reserve. It’s a brilliant place to spot puffins, razorbills and guillemots during the summer months so bring some binoculars! You’ll also be treated to even more gorgeous views across the coast and cliff tops so you really are spoilt for choice when it comes to beach days.
2. It’s a wildlife lovers haven
Spotting wildlife is one of the most unique things you can do in Anglesey and you’ll often be able to spot different species just from walking along the coastal path. If you aren’t lucky enough to, then there’s always the opportunity to visit Puffin Island – an inhabited island and a Special Protection Area because of its 750 pairs of cormorants. The small boat leaves from Beaumaris and it’s only a short ride – sit back and revel in views of the mainland.
It’s not just birds that call the island home. Two types of dolphin regularly visit the island’s coast – the harbour porpoise and the bottlenose – plus, several species of turtle litter the coastline in summer. Seals have colonies around the island and are commonly spotted from the coastal paths, as well as killer whales on their migration from Scotland.
3. Explore over 125 miles of coastal paths
With over 125 miles of coastal paths on the island, you really are spoilt for choice when it comes to Anglesey walks. The Isle of Anglesey Coastal Path falls within a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) which covers 95% of the coast. It passes through a mixture of landscapes: from farmland to coastal heath, dunes, salt-marsh, foreshore, cliffs and a few small pockets of woodland.
Holyhead Mountain (the highest peak on the island) is another brilliant choice for Anglesey walks, as is discovering the sea arches at Bwa Gwyn, strolling to Penmon Point and exploring secret beaches such as Traeth Ynys y Fydlyn. Every year, a few avid hikers take on the mission of walking around the entire island, the path is well signposted throughout and it should take around seven to ten days.
4. Wander around picture-perfect towns
While much of the island’s attraction is anchored in its wildlife and landscapes, there are plenty more things to do in Anglesey such as exploring pretty towns. One favourite is Beaumaris, a small but buzzing seaside town based in the south east. The pastel coloured houses line the high street, where you’ll find lots of independent shops, cafes and pubs. A few favourites include The Little Chilli Shop, Beaumaris Antiques and Janet Bell lifestyle and gallery. It’s also home to a medieval castle, which dates back to 1284 and is a great excursion for an afternoon.
The ferry port, Holyhead, is the biggest town on the island and known for being the busiest ferry port in the UK. Enjoy a walk around the shops, eating in the gastro pubs or heading out for a walk at the country park. Sharing its name with the impressive bridges which connect the island of Anglesey to mainland Wales, is another charming town that goes by the name of Menai Bridge. Where ever you are in the town, you’re not far from impressive views with the mountains of Snowdonia National Park in the distance.
5. There’s a thriving foodie scene
The island was once known as the “Bread basket of Wales” due to its fertile land, and it still continues to make the most of its surroundings. You’ll find the freshest seafood straight from the sea, seasoned with delicious Halen Môn sea salt drawn from the waters of the Menai Strait. On top of all the fantastic things to do in Anglesey, there’s a a farmers market that’s not to be missed at Menai Bridge every month. Local food producers offer a selection of treats such as fresh fish, jams, bread and more. Best yet, in September, the whole place comes alive with the Anglesey Seafood Festival.
Locals are immensely proud of the community they have built on the island and will support their own industry wherever possible. In restaurants, you’ll find lots of seasonal menus with fresh fruits, vegetables, meats and seafood all from nearby butchers, farmers or fishermen. We’d recommend trying The Marram Grass Cafe in Newborough for relaxed dining in a rustic setting, The Oyster Catcher for dinner with sea views, Lobster Pot for divine seafood or Dylan’s Restaurant to tuck into local Menai mussels.
VIEW OUR PLACES TO STAY IN ANGLESEY >
Where to stay…
Places to stay in Anglesey
View our collection of places to stay in Anglesey, from idyllic country cottages to stylish boutique hotels.
Coastal Retreats
View our collection of self-catering homes, hotels and B&Bs across the UK & Europe, all within three miles of the coast.
Our favourite island escapes
From the wild coast of France to Italy’s warm southern seas, we’ve been out finding incredible places to stay where the journey is part of the adventure.