**Shell Island Crowned Wales’ Top Beach in Prestigious UK Guide**
A dazzling Welsh beach has captured the national spotlight after being named the best in Wales by The Sunday Times’ highly anticipated 50 Best Beaches guide. Shell Island in Gwynedd, renowned for its shimmering shoreline blanketed with seashells, has earned the top accolade among eight Welsh beaches recognised in this year’s rankings.
Every year, The Times and The Sunday Times unveil their definitive list of the UK’s most spectacular beaches. Now in its 17th edition, the respected guide invites Britons to explore the seaside wonders that define the nation’s coastline. This year’s selection was curated after an extensive tour by Chris Haslam, the chief travel writer for The Times and The Sunday Times. Dedicated to his craft, Haslam personally visited and assessed 756 beaches across Britain and Northern Ireland before finalising the list.
Reflecting on his experience, Haslam singled out Shell Island as “astonishing” for its beachcombing potential, painting a vivid picture of a coastline where countless varieties of shells, from delicate scallops to highly sought-after cowries, adorn the sands. He described arriving at Shell Island and being greeted by sweeping views of Eryri (Snowdon) to the north and the Llyn Peninsula to the west—views, he noted, that set the scene for a truly memorable visit.
“The beachcombing is astonishing,” Haslam remarked. “Perfect scallops, fragile tusks and razors, unblemished turitellas and, most prized by conchologists, tiny cowries.” He added, “I knew Shell Island was a winner when I parked up beside the dunes. I could see Eryri, the Llyn Peninsula and, right before me, a beach of sand glittering with seashells. I could have spent a very happy week camping here.”
Shell Island is uniquely situated on the North Cardigan Bay within the boundaries of Snowdonia National Park—a factor that has made it a popular escape for holidaymakers across the UK. While many flock to the site for its natural beauty—camping pitches are available for as little as £13 per night—others visit for the day to enjoy activities such as fishing, crabbing and boating. The island’s broad appeal to families and outdoor enthusiasts underlines its enduring draw during the warmer months.
The rigorous methodology behind the Sunday Times’ rankings offers insight into why Shell Island triumphed over hundreds of contenders. Beaches were scrutinised using an 11-point inspection framework that took into account everything from water quality and cleanliness to accessibility, car-parking, lifeguard services, the hygiene of amenities, and dog-friendliness. This comprehensive approach ensured only the very best of Britain’s mainland beaches were celebrated.
Shell Island was not the sole Welsh representative on the prestigious list. Seven more beaches from across North, South and West Wales received honourable mentions. These included Dunraven Bay in the Vale of Glamorgan, Three Cliffs Bay in Gower (Swansea), Saundersfoot and Whitesands in Pembrokeshire, Mwnt in Ceredigion, along with Aberdaron and Traeth Llanddwyn—both in Gwynedd. Their recognition highlights the diverse coastal beauty and recreational opportunities found throughout Wales.
The full list of winning locations shines a light on the often-overlooked gems of the Welsh coastline. Each has its own unique character, whether it’s the dramatic cliffs of Three Cliffs Bay, the golden sands of Whitesands, or the tranquil charm of Mwnt. These beaches continue to attract nature lovers, families, and adventurers year after year.
With more Britons looking for staycation options and natural escapes, the Sunday Times guide not only directs attention to spectacular seaside destinations but also encourages sustainable tourism within the UK’s boundaries. As Shell Island enjoys its newfound status, tourism across Wales is likely to see a boost, benefitting local communities and fostering a greater appreciation for the nation’s pristine and diverse landscapes.
Whether you’re a seasoned camper, a keen beachcomber or simply searching for a scenic day trip, Shell Island’s new accolade places it firmly on the must-visit map for locals and travellers alike. Its glittering sands are destined to draw even more visitors in the months to come, eager to witness first-hand what makes this corner of Wales so “astonishing”.