Beaches in North East Wales
We are lucky to have a stunning coastline that spreads across two of our counties of Denbighshire and Flintshire. The best way to explore the beaches is by foot and this is easily done by following the Wales Coast Path. Nothing beats a long walk along the coast with the sea air in your lungs and the soundtrack of the crashing waves in your ear.
Below is some practical advice on all of our accessible beaches in North East Wales.
Rhyl has four beaches – Rhyl West, Rhyl Central, Rhyl East and Splash Point. Everything you need to know about how to reach them and the crucial facilities nearby can be found here.
Barkby Beach is a hive of activity for boats and craft, where you’ll find Prestatyn Sailing Club and boat launching slipway. If you interested in using slipways and launching please contact our Harbour Department on 01824 708400.
There is no swimming in this area because of the vessels using the slipway, but the beach is ideal for enjoying yourself for building a sand castle or just enjoying the weather. East of the slipway and sailing club is where the dog friendly area starts again.
Central beach is the main beach in Prestatyn and is very popular with visitors. You can access the beach from the car parks at Nova East and Nova West. It’s also an area where our lifeguards are stationed during the season. It’s the only North Wales beach to be awarded the prestigious Blue Flag award.
If your planning on going for a swim remember to check the lifeguards flags to see if it’s safe, and find where is best to swim. If you’re not sure, you can speak to a lifeguard and they’ll be happy to help.
Other facilities at Central Beach include an outdoor shower, cafés and a play area.
At the western end of Prestatyn, Ffrith Beach has two zones. The first, Ffrith Beach West, stretches from the Golf Course to the entrance to Ffrith Beach Fun Parc. This area is marked by the sloping access from the promenade which makes it much easier for people to access the beach. This beach forms part of our dog friendly area and you are welcome to exercise your dog here at any time.
The area to the east of Ffrith slipway which starts from the Ffrith Beach Fun Parc East goes past Tower Gardens and up to the Nova West Car Park is a more popular area that leads you towards the main resort beach at Prestatyn Central. Dogs are restricted at Ffrith East from May – September.
About three miles to the east of the town, Gronant Dunes provide a quieter area for nature lovers to explore. This Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) is home to rare species such as the sand lizard, the natterjack toad and North Wales’ only breeding colony of little terns.
Talacre has a cheerful holiday vibe reminiscent of days gone by. Known for its long, golden beach backed by extensive sand dunes, it is popular with locals and visitors alike. The area around the beach and dunes is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and is home to rare species, including the natterjack toad. The iconic red and white Point of Ayr Lighthouse is a much-loved landmark, and though it was decommissioned in 1884, rumours persist that someone – or something – is still there. Dogs are allowed on the beach throughout the year.
The beach is a fantastic place to go but it can be dangerous. Check out the RNLI’s five top tips to keep you and your family safe.