Morfa Dyffryn is a stunning, golden sandy beach, that runs for miles overlooking the waters of Cardigan Bay, conveniently situated between Harlech and Barmouth.
This sandy beach is backed by beautiful dunes. Both the dunes and the sea are wildlife havens. Dolphins can be seen feeding just offshore and the area is a designated nature reserve. The beach is famous for is naturist section. However, there is plenty of space on the beach and this section is clearly marked.
The beach at Morfa Dyffryn is stunning, remote and access to the stretch of sand means a walk from the car park. It is worth noting that this beach is one of the longest established nudist beaches in the UK. The section where “clothes are optional” is clearly marked and is located north of the parking area. The views are spectacular, both north to the Llŷn Peninsula, and south towards Barmouth and behind the rugged Rhinog mountains.
The beach has been used by naturists since the mid-1930’s.
The beach itself is often described as “enormous” and so there is plenty of room for everyone. Families with children often stay towards the southernmost end closest to Tal y Bont. The naturist section is 1km north of here.
The area is a designated nature reserve and a great spot for wildlife. It is managed by the Snowdonia National Park Authority.
There are no facilities on the beach itself, however, the nearby Dyffryn Seaside Estate has a small shop for all essentials and picnic goodies. There is also a pub serving food and drinks. The Fish and Chip shop is also handy. There are toilets and showers available here.
The Benar Beach car Park is £5 per day, however, when it’s quiet, you can sometimes park along the road for free.
Alternatively, the closest car park is at the Dyffryn Seaside Estate. To reach this, turn right at the toilets and turn left at the mini roundabout, past the shops and pub, through the gate to park on the grass area at the rear of the dunes. The Seaside Estate sometimes charge for access, but usually only in the high season.
There is access down to the beach along wooden boardwalks from both car parks and so it is easy for those with pushchairs and wheelchairs to access the sand.
Seasonal restrictions apply between 1st April and 30th September. Dogs should be kept on a lead at all times in the dunes that back the beach.
Observe the signs denoting the naturist section. Those wishes to be naked are keen to stick to the area set aside for them.
The west facing beaches along this section of coastline are more exposed to the Irish Sea and so tides can produce currents and rips. Care should be taken when swimming. Children should not dig the sand dunes in case they collapse.
Morfa Dyffryn dunes are unique even for sand dunes. They are described as “constantly shifting” and being reshaped by the wind. This creates specialised habitats for plants and animals. Within minutes of the beach, you can view wildflowers, butterflies and birds and in autumn, specialist fungi. They thrive based on the landholding water and are a feature of the seasonal landscape.
An array of wild orchid species thrive including the Marsh Helleborine, Northern Marsh-orchid and Early Marsh-orchid. In the summer the rare Green-flowered Helleborine can also be found.
The dunes also support significant populations of breeding birds, including Whitethroats, Skylarks Wheatears, Lapwings and Sedge Warblers. Choughs and Hen Harriers roosting in the reedswamp are a delight to spot.
Around the dunes are saltmarsh, grassland and seashore habitats that support an abundance of wildlife. Dolphins feed just offshore.
There is a beach break, however, the waves can be a little messy at times and there are a few rocks under the surface that you should be aware of. It is a good beach for little ones to mess about in the white water on body boards.
When the wind is right!
However, the waters should only be tackled by an experienced sailor. You can launch off the beach. Contact Gwynedd Council for more information on this.
The islands Ynys Gwylan Fawr & Bach are excellent dive sites and there are wrecks and reefs to explore along this stretch of coast.
Safest close to the shore.
The area as a whole is known for great fishing, however if you want to fish off the beach itself, head to the southern end. When the surf picks up there is a chance of a nice bass off the shore, especially between April and September.. It is also a great place for flat-fish. Look out for whiting, coalfish and a codling or two during the winter months.