Just a stone’s throw from the lively UK seaside town of Llandudno, Angel Bay is a quaint beach where you’re almost certain to spot wild seals lounging on the rocks and frolicking in the waves. Its beauty is so captivating that it has even drawn Hollywood film crews to its shores.
If you’ve never visited before, it’s certainly worth adding to your travel itinerary. For those residing in Llandudno, reaching the bay is a mere 10-minute drive or a leisurely 40-minute stroll along the picturesque coastline. The bay is nestled within the Little Orme, a limestone headland that forms part of the Great Orme Country Park.
Parking is available nearby, and from there, it’s a brief yet moderately steep descent down a grassy trail to the viewing area overlooking the bay.
While direct access to the beach is restricted (both for the protection of the seals and safety considerations), the clifftop offers spectacular views. From here, visitors can observe the seals at a safe and respectful distance, reports Wales Online.
As per Llandudno.com, this location is home to some of the world’s rarest seals and is one of the prime spots to see grey seals in North Wales.
The seals are often seen basking on the rocks or playfully diving in and out of the waves. The colony is particularly active during the autumn and early winter pupping season, when lucky visitors might catch sight of adorable fluffy seal pups on the shore.
Locals point out that the presence of seals throughout the year makes this location particularly reliable and ideal for family outings, offering a high chance of spotting them.
Numerous reviews on Tripadvisor from past visitors corroborate this, emphasising that a visit remains worthwhile even outside peak season.
One reviewer shared their experience: “I’d seen Angel Bay listed on things to do when staying near Conwy and we decided to go and check it out as there’s meant to be seals on the beach below the cliffs.
“We drove and parked up on the road on the housing estate nearby and took the short 5-10 min walk to the cliffs overlooking the seals. I was shocked to see that they were actually there and a fair amount of them too.
“It’s free to see and totally worth it. You can’t get too close to them but you still have a good view and can hear them from above.
“The sign says the best time to go is during mating season (September – November) as this is when the beach can be seen to be covered with seals but it’s still worth going outside of this like we did as it didn’t disappoint.
“We could see them play fighting and swimming in the sea as well as hearing them make their funny noises.”
For those planning a coastal walk, Angel Bay forms part of a larger circular route around the Little Orme, offering spectacular views over the Irish Sea.
On clear days, you can even spot the Great Orme and Anglesey in the distance.
The path is generally easy to navigate but can become muddy after rainfall, so sturdy footwear is advised.
If you’re seeking a tranquil escape from the daily grind, this location is ideal for a peaceful stroll, where your companions are more likely to be seagulls and seals than fellow humans.
Just remember to respect the local wildlife, check the tide times (as seals are easier to spot at low tide when they haul themselves onto the rocks), and dress warmly.
This story originally appeared on Express.co.uk
