Morfa Bychan, usually known as Black Rock Sands, is a wonderful sandy beach with interesting rocky areas and caves. It is located close to the town of Porthmadog. A two mile stretch of sand is backed by an area of dunes which has been designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest.

Given its name, you might think that Black Rock Sands would be a dark place but that isn’t the case. The broad sandy beach feels bright, open and welcoming. There are views across the bay to Criccieth Castle and plenty of rock pools to explore. Unusually, you can park on the sand and if you need refreshments, there’s a cafe just 300 metres from the western end of the beach.

Black rock sands is a great place to stroll around and explore. You have to wade out along way to find deep water, making this beach fabulous for kids and dogs love it too! Just be careful if you explore the rocks and caves to the west as the tide comes in quite quickly and can cut you off from the rest of the beach.