Things To Do
in Colwyn Bay
Colwyn Bay is a seaside town on the North Wales coast known for its broad sandy beach and long promenade. It sits in the Conwy County Borough, close to Llandudno and Conwy, offering a relaxed coastal vibe and friendly atmosphere. The town blends Victorian-era charm with modern seaside amenities, from cafes to strollable seafronts.
Outdoor lovers can easily reach coastal walks, nature reserves, and nearby castles and viewpoints.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your adventure with a refreshing walk along the stunning Colwyn Bay coastal path. Enjoy the fresh sea breeze and the picturesque views of the coastline and surrounding hills. Take your time to snap photos and soak in the beauty of the natural landscape.
After the morning stroll, settle down for lunch at a local café overlooking the beach. Spend your afternoon on the beach, building sandcastles or simply relaxing with a good book. You can also try out some water sports like paddleboarding or kayaking for an exciting twist.
As the sun sets, head to the Rhos-on-Sea Harbour for a scenic view. Enjoy a delightful seafood dinner at a nearby restaurant, sampling local specialties. Wrap up the day with a leisurely walk along the promenade, enjoying the calming sounds of the waves.
Catch the morning train to nearby Llandudno, a charming Victorian seaside resort. Start your day with a ride on the Great Orme Tramway for breathtaking views of the surrounding area. Once at the top, take a moment to explore the area and enjoy a coffee at the summit café.
Spend your afternoon exploring the lovely beaches of Llandudno and the iconic pier. Treat yourself to some traditional fish and chips for lunch, followed by a visit to the local shops for unique souvenirs. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the toboggan run on the Great Orme for thrills and spectacular vistas.
To conclude your day in Llandudno, find a spot along the beach to watch the sunset. Dine at one of the quaint restaurants lining the promenade, making sure to taste some Welsh delicacies. Head back to Colwyn Bay, reminiscing about the day’s adventures.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee or light breakfast | $3-6 |
| 🚆Local transport (one-way) | $3-6 |
| 🏠One-bedroom apartment (city center, monthly) | $900-1,400 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $40-75 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastal scenery and relaxed seaside vibe
- Easy access to nearby Welsh towns and castles
- Good value for money compared with larger cities
- Friendly locals and a welcoming, bilingual culture
- Limited nightlife within Colwyn Bay itself
- Some seasonal crowds during peak summer months
- Weather can be changeable and wet, like much of the UK
- A shorter list of large-scale attractions compared to bigger cities
Places to Visit in Colwyn Bay
Visit one of these nice places.
Stretch of golden sand and a long promenade ideal for sunrise and golden-hour photography with the bay as a backdrop.
Iconic seafront with views across the water and a classic seaside vibe; best in the early morning or late afternoon light.
Clifftop views and rugged coastline offering dramatic coastal imagery and sunsets.
Waterways and medieval backdrop—great for reflections and historic architecture shots nearby.
Food in Colwyn Bay
Colwyn Bay Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rich cheese sauce served hot over toast; a Welsh classic often found in pubs and cafés.
Must-Try!
A traditional Welsh soup/stew, usually featuring meat and vegetables, served with bread.
A Welsh delicacy made from seaweed (laver) often served with cockles and fried bread.
Cinnamon-scented Welsh teatime treats, perfect with tea or coffee.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal weekend market events with fresh produce, baked goods, and street-food stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Many people speak Welsh and English; a polite greeting in English is usually fine, but learning a few Welsh phrases is appreciated.
Wait your turn in queues, especially in shops and public transport; keep noise to a respectful level in public spaces.
Observe warning signs at beaches, stay away from unstable cliffs, and follow lifeguard guidance when swimming.
Safety
Tipping in Colwyn Bay
Ensure a smooth experience
In the UK, tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. If service charge is not included, a tip of around 10-15% in restaurants is common for good service. Rounding up a taxi fare is also common.
Cards (including contactless and mobile payments) are widely accepted; cash is still useful in small independent shops and cafes.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with long daylight hours, ideal for long coastal walks and water activities. Expect more visitors and busier promenades.
Lingering warmth early in the season, with colorful coastal scenery and fewer crowds. The sea can be brisk; bring a light jacket.
Mild compared to inland areas but wetter and windier. Shorter daylight hours; great for quiet seaside walks and atmospheric coastal photography.
Rising temperatures and blooming coastal flora; ideal for outdoor activities and photography with fresh light and clear skies.
Colwyn Bay at Night
Hiking in Colwyn Bay
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Iconic coastal hike offering panoramic views of Llandudno, the coastline, and open sea; accessible via short drive from Colwyn Bay.
Across the river from Conwy, a moderate hike with scenic landscapes and views of the castle and valley.
Long-distance coastal trail along the North Wales coast with varied viewpoints and photo opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Colwyn Bay by plane.
Major international gateway about an hour or more by car, with direct connections and frequent domestic flights.
Large international hub within a couple hours’ drive, offering extensive domestic and international routes.
Smaller regional airport serving limited flights, a reasonable option for some connections and regional travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A family-friendly seaside town with parks, beaches, and safe walking areas.
A common demographic, drawn by the relaxed pace, healthcare access, and coastal lifestyle.
A bilingual community with a mix of Welsh and English languages and cultural influences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and followed; local clubs and regional leagues contribute to community energy.
A popular sport across Wales, with local clubs and social events around the region.
Seasonal sport with local clubs and fixtures throughout the spring and summer.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Colwyn Bay.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most venues offer vegetarian options; look for veggie pies, veggie curry, and salads. When in doubt, ask staff to tailor a dish to your needs.