Llandudno West Shore Beach

West Shore Beach is a gem hiding in plain sight. It’s not an inaccessible cove; it’s right there, in Llandudno, yet it’s nowhere near as popular as the North Shore. Big mistake because West Shore is by far the better beach.

Yes, there are stony parts as well as soft sand but as long as you have suitable footwear (or tougher feet than us) it’s a great place for paddling. The water remains shallow for some way out, especially at low tide, so kids can cavort in relative safety, although there is no lifeguard at this beach.

That said, serious swimmers may prefer a beach where you don’t have to wade so far out before you can front crawl without your knees grazing the seabed.

Dog restrictions are in place from 1 May until 3o September. They are not allowed on the main part of the beach between the two groynes but there is year-round canine access to each of the far ends.

Because it’s quieter, there’s a wildness to West Shore, emphasised by the view of the Great Orme hulking over the bay. You don’t get typical seaside amusements here but there is a small play area, a petanque court of sorts, and an absolutely fabulous cafe, the West Shore Beach Cafe which serves superlative rarebits and has much more to offer than simple sandwiches and ice lollies.

The views across the estuary and over to Anglesey are stunning on a clear day. In fact, the walk along the coast to Deganwy is a lovely one to take in the scenery. Watch out for stray golf balls whizzing past. Keep on going to Conwy if you have the stamina.