A mixture of sand and pebbles, Tefor beach has a wonderful backdrop with views towards the mountains of Snowdonia.
The area was once one of the major granite-producing regions in Wales, with Trefor’s quarry, known to locals as Y Gwaith Mawr meaning ‘the large works’, at one time the world’s biggest granite quarry. Today, the quarry is largely inactive although it does open occasionally to quarry rock for curling stones.
Trefor Quarry Railway which opened in 1865 brought rock from the quarry to the pier in the harbour, where ships would transport it all over Europe.
Today, the harbour is mainly used by pleasure boats, and the pier, which was once popular with anglers and divers, was demolished in 2018. Fishing is still possible from the breakwater with mackerel, shrimp, and whitebait to be found. Kids will enjoy crabbing too, and discovering what’s hidden in the various rockpools that are exposed during low tide.
Despite being protected by the surrounding headlands, strong winds still blow from the northwest side of the beach, making it a great spot for surfing. Caution is advised for the less experienced though, and with no lifeguard cover on the beach swimming is also not recommended, although there is an emergency phone line by the harbour.
For nature lovers, there’s plenty to explore in the surrounding area. Walk along the headland from where you might spot a seal bobbing out to sea. Alternatively, follow the circular route of the Wales Coast Path which starts in the beach car park and will take you through farmland on the National Trust reserve, past the ruins of the quarry, and gives you the opportunity to take in the spectacular views of Trwyn y Gorlech, a set of 5 cliffs with a 250 m sheer drop into the sea.
In summer, the coastal path comes alive with wildflowers including blue squill, sea thrift, and gorse, while the sea stacks provide nesting sites for shag and cormorant colonies. Choughs can also be seen performing aerial displays, swooping and diving over the path.
There are no cafes or restaurants near the beach and Trefor only has a village store, so if you’re planning on spending a day on the beach remember to pack a picnic.
There is a car park near the beach as well as public toilets, and access to the beach is suitable for the disabled.
