On Anglesey, where the tide turns: A summer escape to Trearddur Bay

Summer days at Trearddur Bay rarely need much planning. They seem to fall into place all by themselves, and maybe that is what keeps people coming back, with life naturally slowing to the rhythm of the sea.

Here’s how we’d spend a few days in one of Anglesey’s most-loved seaside villages.

Take to the Water

Trearddur Bay is made for being on the sea.

Its sheltered bay and clear, shallow water make it one of the best places on Anglesey to try paddleboarding or kayaking, whether it’s your first time or you’ve spent years on the water. Early mornings are especially beautiful, when the bay is calm enough to reflect the sky and the beaches are your own.

For equipment hire, Blu Chameleon operates right in the village, with paddleboards and kayaks available throughout the summer.

If you’d rather head beneath the surface, Trearddur Bay is also one of North Wales’ most popular shore diving locations. Protected by rocky headlands, the bay offers gentle conditions for beginner and experienced divers alike. Beneath the water lies a surprisingly rich landscape of kelp forests, reefs and sandy seabeds, home to wrasse, lobsters, edible crabs, spider crabs, blennies and colourful anemones.

Walk to South Stack

One of the finest walks on Holy Island begins right from Trearddur Bay itself.

The coast path follows the shoreline west for around four miles, winding past hidden coves, rocky outcrops and dramatic cliffs before reaching South Stack Lighthouse.

As you leave the village behind, the coastline becomes increasingly rugged. Holyhead Mountain rises inland while the sea crashes against the rocks below, and every turn reveals another sweeping view across the Irish Sea.

The final approach to South Stack is unforgettable, with the lighthouse standing proudly on its island, which is connected to the mainland by a steep flight of steps.

Walk back the same way or catch the local bus into Trearddur Bay after a well-earned refreshment.

Visit the Lifeboat Station

Trearddur Bay’s RNLI Lifeboat Station has been part of village life since 1967 and remains at the heart of the local community.

If you’re visiting during one of the station’s open days, it’s well worth calling in to see the lifeboat up close and learn more about the volunteer crew who answer call-outs in all conditions around this stretch of coastline.

It offers a small reminder that while the bay is beautiful, these waters need to be respected.

Stay by the Sea

Arguably the hardest part of visiting Trearddur Bay is deciding where to stay.

For families or friends looking to spend long days on the beach before gathering together in the evenings, Traeth Atsain is perfectly placed just moments from the shoreline.

The first-floor living space makes the most of the coastal setting, with floor-to-ceiling glazing opening onto a balcony where the sea always feels close by. Colourful sofas gather around the fire beneath exposed beams, while the spacious kitchen and dining table invite slow breakfasts before heading to the beach and long suppers once everyone returns.

Downstairs, three beautifully finished bedrooms open onto sheltered outdoor spaces, including a private patio from the principal bedroom. After a day paddleboarding or walking the coast path, the freestanding bath offers exactly the sort of welcome tired legs appreciate.

If you’re celebrating with a larger group or simply looking for something rather special, Highground sits in one of the finest positions on Holy Island.

Originally built in the 1920s, the house looks out across the sea from almost every room, with direct access to the shoreline below. Mornings begin with breakfast in the spectacular kitchen as sailing boats drift across the bay, while evenings might mean fresh local lobster enjoyed outside before a session in the Welsh cedar sauna. From there, a short garden path leads directly to the sea for an invigorating dip before heading back to the warmth.

Inside, every detail has been carefully considered, from the huge Aga and handcrafted utility rooms to six luxurious bedrooms designed for gathering generations together. Yet despite its scale, Highground never loses sight of what makes this part of Anglesey so special: the sea is never more than a glance away.

Head to The Compass to get the most of our summer recommendations.