Red Wharf Bay: A Scenic Coastal Gem on Anglesey

Explore the expansive sandy shores and rich wildlife of Anglesey’s tranquil Red Wharf Bay, a coastal haven steeped in history and natural beauty.

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Red Wharf Bay

Red Wharf Bay, also known as Traeth Coch, is a large sandy bay on the east coast of Anglesey, Wales, nestled between the villages of Pentraeth and Benllech. Famous for its expansive sandy beach revealed at low tide, diverse birdlife, salt marshes, and sand dunes, the bay offers a tranquil nature escape with rich wildlife habitats and striking limestone features. The village on its western shore provides charming dining options with stunning bay views.

A brief summary to Red Wharf Bay

GB
Duration: 1 to 4 hours
Free
Outdoor
Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Local tips

Visit at low tide to experience the full expanse of the sandy beach and explore the abundant rock pools.
Bring binoculars for birdwatching, especially to spot waders like oystercatchers and purple sandpipers.
Dine at one of the three local restaurants in the village for stunning bay views and fresh local fare.
Walk or cycle along the Anglesey Coastal Path linking Red Wharf Bay with Pentraeth and Benllech.
Respect the protected habitats by sticking to marked paths and avoiding disturbing wildlife, especially in salt marsh and dune areas.

Getting There

Bus

Take the local bus service from Bangor or Holyhead to Benllech, with a journey time of approximately 40 to 60 minutes. From Benllech, a short taxi ride or a 30-minute walk along the Anglesey Coastal Path leads to Red Wharf Bay. Bus services run regularly but check schedules for seasonal variations. Tickets cost around £5–£8.
Car

Driving from the Anglesey mainland, Red Wharf Bay is accessible via the A5025 road. The journey from Holyhead takes about 30 to 40 minutes. Free parking is available near the village, but spaces can fill during peak times. Note that narrow rural roads may require cautious driving.
Walking / Cycling

For active travelers, the Anglesey Coastal Path connects Red Wharf Bay with nearby villages Pentraeth and Benllech. Walking or cycling between these points takes roughly 1 to 2 hours depending on pace and route. Terrain is mostly flat with some uneven coastal paths, suitable for moderate fitness levels.

Red Wharf Bay location weather suitability

Any Weather
Rain / Wet Weather
Clear Skies
Mild Temperatures
Windy Conditions

Discover more about Red Wharf Bay

Geographical Setting and Natural Beauty

Red Wharf Bay, or Traeth Coch in Welsh, stretches along the east coast of Anglesey between Pentraeth and Benllech. The bay opens into the Irish Sea and features a vast sandy beach that extends nearly 2.5 miles, revealing an impressive expanse of fine sand at low tide. The shoreline is bordered by salt marshes and sand dunes, which create a unique coastal habitat. These dunes are rich in shell fragments, fostering lime-rich soil conditions that support distinctive flora such as the pyramidal orchid.

Wildlife Haven and Ecological Significance

The bay is a designated nature reserve attracting a wide variety of waterfowl and wading birds, including oystercatchers, shelduck, purple sandpipers, curlew, and dunlin. The adjacent Pentraeth Forest, skirting the bay’s eastern edge, is notable for its red squirrel population, once the last refuge for this species on Anglesey until recent reintroductions. Limestone formations such as Castell Mawr Rock and Bwrdd Arthur plateau provide important refuges for gulls and rare limestone flora, with Bwrdd Arthur recognized as a Site of Special Scientific Interest for its unique plant life.

Historical Layers and Cultural Heritage

The bay’s Welsh name, Traeth Coch, meaning "red beach," is believed to derive from a Viking battle in 1170 that left the sands stained with blood. Archaeological finds, including Scandinavian arm-rings dating to around 900 AD, hint at the area's rich Viking connections. Historically, Red Wharf Bay was also served by a railway branch line used for transporting quarried stone, notably for the Admiralty Arch in Holyhead, underscoring its past economic importance.

Village Life and Visitor Experience

The village of Red Wharf Bay lies on the western shore, offering visitors a welcoming spot to enjoy local hospitality. Three notable restaurants—The Tavern on the Bay, The Ship Inn, and The Boathouse—provide excellent dining with panoramic views over the bay. The Anglesey Coastal Path connects the village to Pentraeth and Benllech, inviting walkers and cyclists to explore the scenic coastline. The beach is dog-friendly year-round and offers rock pools and a slipway for fishing boats.

Events and Recreational Activities

Red Wharf Bay is home to the annual Anglesey Offshore Dinghy Race, a challenging 14-mile sailing event organized by the local sailing club. The bay’s wide sandy beach and calm waters also make it popular for sailing and birdwatching. The surrounding natural environment encourages peaceful walks, wildlife spotting, and photography, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Conservation and Landscape Protection

The bay and its environs are part of an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, reflecting the commitment to preserving its ecological and scenic value. The salt marshes, dunes, and limestone habitats are carefully managed to protect their biodiversity. Visitors are encouraged to respect the natural environment, helping to maintain the bay’s tranquil and pristine character for future generations.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Borth Wen

3.7 km

Sheltered sandy cove on Anglesey’s southern shore, blending coastal beauty with historic charm and natural tranquility.

Tŷ-Gwyn Menhir

7.4 km

Discover the ancient Tŷ-Gwyn Menhir near Menai Bridge, a prehistoric standing stone steeped in druidic mystery and Welsh heritage.

Glan-y-môr

8.0 km

Explore Glan-y-môr, a historical landmark in Menai Bridge, where rich heritage meets stunning natural beauty for an unforgettable experience.

Ynys yr Eglwys

9.6 km

Discover the serene charm and rich heritage of Ynys yr Eglwys, a peaceful island gem beside the iconic Menai Suspension Bridge.

Hen Eglwys Llanfihangel Ysgeifiog

10.5 km

Explore the evocative ruins of Hen Eglwys Llanfihangel Ysgeifiog, a medieval Welsh church steeped in history and nestled in tranquil Anglesey countryside.

Ogwen Gatehouse

11.9 km

Historic Ogwen Gatehouse welcomes you to the breathtaking landscapes and rich heritage of Snowdonia’s Ogwen Valley.

Walk Snowdonia

15.5 km

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Snowdonia National Park with Walk Snowdonia, your premier tour operator for outdoor adventures.

Caer Leb (Prehistoric Castle Enclosure)

15.8 km

Explore Caer Leb, a prehistoric fortified enclosure with water-filled ditches that reveal ancient defensive ingenuity on scenic Anglesey.

Bryn Gwyn Standing Stones

16.7 km

Discover the towering Neolithic Bryn Gwyn Standing Stones, ancient sentinels of Anglesey’s prehistoric past and ritual heritage.

South African War Memorial

19.4 km

A wheel-headed Celtic cross honouring 173 Caernarfonshire soldiers lost in the Boer War, unveiled in 1904.

Caernarfon War Memorial

19.9 km

A dignified stone pillar in Castle Square honoring Caernarfon’s fallen heroes from the World Wars and beyond.

CARN / Oriel Pendeitsh

19.9 km

Discover contemporary Welsh art and culture in Caernarfon’s inspiring Oriel Pendeitsh gallery, a vibrant creative hub above the Tourist Information Centre.

Royal Welch Fusiliers Museum

19.9 km

Explore the Royal Welch Fusiliers Museum in Caernarfon, where history and heritage of Wales' brave soldiers come alive in an engaging and interactive setting.

Caer Rufeinig Segontium / Segontium Roman Fort

19.9 km

Step back in time at Segontium Roman Fort, where history and stunning landscapes come together in Caernarfon.

Caer Rufeinig Segontium / Segontium Roman Fort

Caernarfon Castle

20.0 km

Explore Caernarfon Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases medieval architecture and offers stunning views of Wales' beautiful landscapes.

Unmissable attractions to see

Stone Science

5.5 km

Explore 650 million years of Earth's history at Stone Science, Anglesey’s family-owned museum of fossils, minerals, and interactive geological exhibits.

Lligwy Burial Chamber

6.5 km

Explore Lligwy Burial Chamber, a monumental Neolithic tomb with a colossal 25-tonne capstone, revealing ancient burial rituals on scenic Anglesey coast.

Din Lligwy

6.9 km

Explore Din Lligwy, a captivating Romano-British village ruin on Anglesey showcasing ancient stone huts, ironworking workshops, and sweeping coastal views.

Cytir Mawr

7.0 km

Explore the breathtaking natural beauty of Cytir Mawr in Menai Bridge, a serene nature reserve perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike.

Castell Aberlleiniog

7.2 km

Discover the tranquil ruins of Castell Aberlleiniog, an 11th-century castle nestled in the scenic countryside of Anglesey, open year-round for free exploration.

Beaumaris Gaol and Court

7.7 km

Step into Victorian justice at Beaumaris Gaol and Court, where history, legend, and harsh realities of the past converge in Anglesey.

Beaumaris Castle

7.9 km

Discover the majestic yet unfinished Beaumaris Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning views and rich medieval history on Anglesey’s coast.

Plas Penmynydd

8.0 km

Discover the ancestral home of the Tudor dynasty on Anglesey, where history, heritage, and charity come together in a charming Welsh manor.

Beaumaris Pier

8.1 km

Historic Victorian pier with stunning Menai Strait views, crabbing fun, year-round café, and boat trips to Puffin Island on Anglesey’s scenic coast.

Plas Cadnant Hidden Gardens

8.2 km

Explore a hidden horticultural paradise with waterfalls, rare plants, and tranquil woodland walks on Anglesey’s historic Plas Cadnant estate.

Pili Palas Nature World

8.3 km

Explore tropical butterflies, exotic animals, and adventure playgrounds at Anglesey’s family-friendly Pili Palas Nature World.

Anglesey Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

8.5 km

Explore Anglesey’s stunning coastal landscapes, rich history, and vibrant wildlife within this protected Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Anglesey Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

Garth Pier

8.8 km

Historic Victorian pier offering panoramic Menai Strait views, charming kiosks, and a year-round café in scenic Bangor, North Wales.

Trwyn Penmon Point

9.3 km

Rugged coastal beauty and iconic lighthouse at Anglesey’s eastern tip, with stunning views of Puffin Island and rich maritime heritage.

Trwyn Du Lighthouse

9.4 km

Historic lighthouse guarding Anglesey’s eastern coast with striking black bands and a legacy of maritime safety since 1838.

Essential places to dine

The Tavern on The Bay

1.8 km

Seaside gastropub and live music venue offering stunning views, quality food, and warm hospitality in Red Wharf Bay, Anglesey.

The Boathouse

1.8 km

A charming Welsh seafood restaurant nestled by the scenic Red Wharf Bay, offering fresh coastal flavors in a warm, welcoming setting.

PEBBLES BISTRO

3.2 km

A family-run bistro in Benllech serving high-quality local British cuisine with warm hospitality in a cozy setting.

Harry's Bistro

6.5 km

Historic Henllys Hall’s charming bistro with stunning Menai Strait views, award-winning desserts, and relaxed, refined dining on Anglesey.

Torna a Surriento

9.0 km

Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality await you on Bangor’s scenic Garth Road Pier promenade.

Theodore's

9.2 km

A warm, intimate restaurant in Menai Bridge serving modern British and European dishes with local Welsh ingredients and heartfelt hospitality.

Freckled Angel

9.3 km

Discover British tapas with a global twist in a bright, relaxed setting overlooking Menai Bridge’s scenic straits.

Sosban

9.3 km

A Michelin-starred intimate dining experience in Menai Bridge offering bold, locally inspired tasting menus in a converted butcher’s shop.

Dylan's Menai Bridge

9.5 km

Seaside dining with stunning Menai Strait views, fresh local seafood, and a welcoming family-friendly atmosphere in the heart of Menai Bridge.

Mike's Bites

9.7 km

A beloved Bangor café serving hearty all-day breakfasts with vegan options in a relaxed, casual setting on the A5.

Garden Hotel & Cantonese Restaurant

10.2 km

A family-run hotel and authentic Cantonese restaurant opposite Bangor train station, blending comfort, culture, and convenience in the town centre.

Tŷ Golchi

12.5 km

Cozy breakfast restaurant in Bangor offering fresh, generous meals and a family-friendly atmosphere with a charming outdoor play area.

Ty'n Rhos Restaurant

14.6 km

A tranquil fine dining retreat near Caernarfon, offering exceptional Welsh cuisine in a charming countryside setting.

Gors Bach Inn

15.3 km

Experience authentic Welsh hospitality and traditional cuisine in the charming heart of historic Caernarfon.

Bwyty Blondin Restaurant

17.6 km

Casual dining with hearty breakfasts and friendly service nestled in the historic Penrhyn Quarry adventure hub.

Discover unbeatable discounts on clothing, beauty, and more at The Original Factory Shop in Bangor’s Menai Shopping Centre.

The Original Factory Shop (Bangor North Wales)

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Ship Inn

1.9 km

A charming coastal pub in Red Wharf Bay offering hearty Welsh dishes, warm service, and stunning bay views in a quirky, rustic setting.

The Breeze Hill

3.1 km

Historic pub and award-winning dining with stunning views over Benllech Bay on the Isle of Anglesey.

Beachcomber Bar & Grill

3.2 km

Charming Mediterranean-inspired grill and bar just steps from Benllech beach, offering fresh local flavors and a wide selection of spirits.

The Benllech

3.2 km

A traditional coastal pub in Benllech offering hearty British fare, local ales, and a lively, welcoming atmosphere near the beach.

Yr Owain Glyndŵr

3.3 km

A welcoming, dog-friendly coastal pub in Llanddona offering classic British fare and local ales in a warm, community-focused atmosphere.

The Kinmel Arms

6.1 km

A lively nautical-themed pub in Moelfre offering hearty meals, local ales, and a vibrant coastal atmosphere.

Bold Arms

7.8 km

Historic Welsh pub and inn in Beaumaris offering local ales, hearty fare, and a lively, welcoming atmosphere steeped in tradition.

George & Dragon, Beaumaris

7.8 km

Historic 15th-century gastropub in Beaumaris offering cozy charm, diverse menus, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

The Bull's Head Inn, Beaumaris

7.9 km

Historic 15th-century inn in Beaumaris blending timeless charm with modern comfort and classic Welsh hospitality.

Four Crosses, Menai Bridge

8.6 km

A family-run pub in Menai Bridge offering quality ales, hearty food, and stunning mountain views in a relaxed setting.

Pilot Boat, Dulas

9.2 km

A welcoming coastal pub in Dulas, Anglesey, offering hearty fare, friendly service, and scenic charm near the Welsh shoreline.

The Victoria

9.5 km

Historic Welsh pub and restaurant offering hearty fare, cozy rooms, and scenic views in Menai Bridge, Isle of Anglesey.

Patricksbar.com

9.6 km

A lively, authentic Irish pub with a spacious beer garden and warm hospitality in the heart of Bangor.

Tafarn Y Glôb

9.6 km

Experience authentic Welsh hospitality and local ales at Tafarn Y Glôb, a cozy pub in the heart of Bangor, open daily from afternoon to midnight.

The Mostyn Arms

9.6 km

A cozy traditional pub in Bangor offering excellent Guinness, lively sports, and a warm local atmosphere on Ambrose Street.

Nightclubs & after hour spots

Trilogy Nightclub

9.8 km

Experience Bangor’s vibrant nightlife at Trilogy Nightclub, where diverse music rooms and lively weekend parties create unforgettable nights.

Academi

9.8 km

Bangor’s beloved student nightclub, offering vibrant music, a welcoming atmosphere, and a central role in university social life.

Wellman's Sports & Social Club

10.5 km

Llangefni’s vibrant social hub with lively entertainment, spacious dance floor, and a welcoming community atmosphere.

Club 147

23.3 km

Llandudno’s energetic nightclub and sports bar offering electronic beats, pool, and a lively social scene in the town centre.

Broadway Boulevard

24.3 km

Llandudno’s largest nightclub, Broadway Boulevard pulses with vibrant music, themed events, and a lively party atmosphere in the heart of town.

Albert Vaults

30.0 km

Experience authentic Welsh hospitality at Albert Vaults, a charming pub in Anglesey with a vibrant atmosphere and exceptional drinks.

The Buffs

30.1 km

A welcoming social club in Holyhead offering lively nights, friendly faces, and a true taste of local nightlife on Cambria Street.

Clwb Llyn Bach

42.6 km

Discover the lively spirit of Clwb Llyn Bach, a top pub in Porthmadog offering great drinks, vibrant events, and a friendly atmosphere.

Bentley’s Sports Bar & NightClub

42.9 km

Experience Towyn’s vibrant nightlife at Bentley’s Sports Bar & NightClub, where music, dancing, and great vibes come alive every weekend.

Bryn Arms

44.0 km

A cozy pub in Gellilydan offering hearty homemade meals, lively events, and charming gardens for a welcoming Welsh experience.

Black Rock Beach Club

44.4 km

Experience the ultimate beachside retreat at Black Rock Beach Club with delicious grilled dishes and breathtaking coastal views.

Ellis's Bar

45.7 km

Discover the lively nightlife at Ellis's Bar in Rhyl, a vibrant spot for cocktails, music, and unforgettable moments.

Hidden Nightclub

45.7 km

Discover the vibrant nightlife at Hidden Nightclub in Rhyl, where electrifying music and an energetic atmosphere create unforgettable nights out.

Victory Club

45.8 km

Rhyl’s last members-only club, offering traditional real ale, live music, and a welcoming community atmosphere steeped in 70 years of history.

The Tiki Room

45.8 km

Rhyl’s vibrant tropical-themed nightclub with dual music floors offering modern beats and 80s classics for lively weekend nights.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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Red Wharf Bay: A Scenic Coastal Gem on Anglesey

A brief summary to Red Wharf Bay

Local tips

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Getting There

Bus

Car

Walking / Cycling

Red Wharf Bay location weather suitability

Unlock the Best of Red Wharf Bay

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Red Wharf Bay

Geographical Setting and Natural Beauty

Wildlife Haven and Ecological Significance

Historical Layers and Cultural Heritage

Village Life and Visitor Experience

Events and Recreational Activities

Conservation and Landscape Protection

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Borth Wen

Tŷ-Gwyn Menhir

Glan-y-môr

Ynys yr Eglwys

Hen Eglwys Llanfihangel Ysgeifiog

Ogwen Gatehouse

Walk Snowdonia

Caer Leb (Prehistoric Castle Enclosure)

Bryn Gwyn Standing Stones

South African War Memorial

Caernarfon War Memorial

CARN / Oriel Pendeitsh

Royal Welch Fusiliers Museum

Caer Rufeinig Segontium / Segontium Roman Fort

Caernarfon Castle

Unmissable attractions to see

Stone Science

Lligwy Burial Chamber

Din Lligwy

Cytir Mawr

Castell Aberlleiniog

Beaumaris Gaol and Court

Beaumaris Castle

Plas Penmynydd

Beaumaris Pier

Plas Cadnant Hidden Gardens

Pili Palas Nature World

Anglesey Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

Garth Pier

Trwyn Penmon Point

Trwyn Du Lighthouse

Essential places to dine

The Tavern on The Bay

The Boathouse

PEBBLES BISTRO

Harry's Bistro

Torna a Surriento

Theodore's

Freckled Angel

Sosban

Dylan's Menai Bridge

Mike's Bites

Garden Hotel & Cantonese Restaurant

Tŷ Golchi

Ty'n Rhos Restaurant

Gors Bach Inn

Bwyty Blondin Restaurant

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Ann's Pantry

Janet Bell Gallery & Lifestyle Store

Pretty Things Of Beaumaris

Echo Beach

The Exchange Beaumaris

Sanctuary of Scents Anglesey

& Mrs Jones

The Nut House

M Jones a'i Fab Antiques

Pip & Darcy

Merlin's Cave Antiques, North Wales