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Anglesey

Porthdafarch Beach by Robert Thomas on Flickr.

Anglesey has a variety of breaks ranging from reef to beach and everything in between.

The Isle of Anglesey or Ynys M么n - from the Norse word 'Mon' is Wales' most northerly spot for surfing.

It either needs a massive south westerly swell or rare northerly swell to get it working but every dog has its day and there are some excellent breaks to be found, if you know where to look.

Winter time is the best time to visit and local knowledge is crucial if you wish to find those hidden coves, but here are some of the better known spots for you to try.

Aberffraw looking north towards the river

Aberffraw is one of the most southerly surf spots you'll come across on Anglesey.

It's nothing out of the ordinary and is an exposed beach that is generally better in winter and when the tide is high as it's protected from the wind.

Be careful if you're surfing here as there can be strong rips from the river mouth at the north west end of the bay.

Cable Bay

Heading north a few miles and you'll arrive at Cable Bay (Porth Trecastell).

The beach is small and fairly popular with water sport enthusiasts of all shapes and sizes, so expect to share waves with both kayakers and bodyboarders.

The ride is fairly short but the beach does hold good sized waves during big swells and offers some shelter from onshore winds.

The name reflects the beaches history - when underwater telegraph cables came ashore here from Ireland and America.

Nearby is Wales' largest Neolithic tomb - Barclodiad Y Gawres which is well worth a visit if you have time.

Broad Beach

A few miles to the north lies Broad Beach (Traeth Llydan) and Rhosneigr - the islands water sports hub, complete with surf shop.

Rhosneigr is one of the better spots on the island as it faces west and picks up any south westerly swell but is a fairly slow wave and suitable for learners.

Popular with kite and wind surfers the beaches here are dependant on wind direction for surfing but can be good during large swells.

Despite the nearby RAF Valley training base - the area is excellent for bird watching, particularly at Llyn Maelog - a reed-fringed lake frequented by little and great crested grebe.

Article written by Martin Aaron