We’ve said before (just once or twice!) how proud we are of the beautiful area we live and work in here at the Oakeley Arms. We’re lucky enough to be on the edge of the coast as well as a stone’s throw from the rugged peaks of Snowdonia. Well, as this week is Clean Coasts Week (13th – 19th May) we thought we’d celebrate some of our North Wales’ fabulous beaches and coastlines – all that are easily accessible from the Oakeley Arms.

Clean Coasts Week is an initiative organised by the Keep Wales Tidy organisation that helps to keep our beautiful beaches clean, clear of litter and naturally stunning. The charity works with local community groups and schools to organise events across Wales where volunteers will work to clear beaches of ugly and unsightly litter.

If you’d like to help, there is a local event at Borth-y-Gest, organised by the Friends of Borth-y-Gest. The event aims to clear up the bay and harbour at Borth-y-Gest (near Porthmadog), and is happening on Thursday May 16th. Starts 10am for two hours. Check out the Clean Coasts Week website for details of other events nearby.

And to celebrate Clean Coasts Week, here is our pick of the most beautiful beaches near the Oakeley Arms…..

• Harlech Beach – one of the area’s finest stretches of golden sands and framed by the stunning hills of Snowdonia to the east.

• Barmouth Beach – just a few miles from the Oakeley Arms, this lovely beach is at the heart of Barmouth town (a traditional seaside resort where you’ll find ice creams, rock and even donkey rides) and dominated by the high peaks of Cader Idris behind it.
  
• Black Rock Beach (nr Porthmadog) – this famous beach has been the setting for many photo shoots, music videos and films. The mile long sandy stretch of golden sand attracts lots of visitors during the summer months and is a popular beach for wind surfing and kite flying.

• Criccieth Beach – the pebbly beaches at Criccieth are dominated by the stunning historic castle that overlooks them.
  
• Borth-y-Gest (near Porthmadog) – just behind this pretty village you’ll find hidden coves, shallow rock pools and beautiful views across the Glaslyn Estuary.